Argyle Living Magazine February 2017 by Murray Media Group

FEBRUARY 2017

ADVENTURES

FOR SPRING BREAK

THE PERFECT END

TO A RECORD SETTING YEAR

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIME TO

MAN UP Direct Mailed to the Following Areas: Argyle - Canyon Falls - Harvest - Robson Ranch

BEFORE IT WAS

COOL

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 3

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Argyle Community Events Argyle ISD Events

Contents Table of

Featured Stories and News

Father & Daughter Snow Fall Winter Ball March 3rd at AMS from 7-9pm

(For more info contact aisptafundraising@gmail.com)

Argyle Education Foundation Gala

March 4th at Robson Ranch

(contact Amy at information@supportargyleisd.org)

AISD Spring Break March 13th - 17th

6th Annual Glenn Garcelon Foundation Golf Classic April 2nd

(More info visit GlennGarcelonFoundation.org)

Liberty Christian Events President’s Day Student Holiday February 20th

Pg 20 On the Cover starting from the left: Connor, Jennifer, Ty, Kaelyn and Halston Homeyer

TEA Accountability System

Record Setting Year

Makeover of the Month

High Performance Levels

A D.I.Y.er Before it was Cool

Making Social Education Fun

Adventures for Spring Break

Inside Education

Hay Fever

Argyle & Liberty Signing Day

Inside Community

It’s Time to Man Up

First Career Day at AMS

Missions Week

February 27th - March 3rd

Spring Break

Ask the Experts

March 13th - 17th

From Your Editor

Fun Things to Do

Sidelines

Nutrition

Marth 18th from 12 - 5pm with special guest Dude Perfect

Body and Soul

Dental

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

Real Estate

Gardening

Cinnamon Creek, Events Center Grand Opening

6 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

Kindness

“A Heart Energized by

“

A Message from The Community Editor

“Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” – Mark Twain

indness of the heart is the universal language that is comprehended

beyond the boundaries. In today’s

hustle and bustle, it is too easy

to move through the day disconnected from

but my sarcastic banter with the doctors, made

my father roar with laughter and enlightened

an inner joy in his heart that I argue is just as remedying.

I see those around me that have allowed

people and circumstances to remove kindness

from their loving hearts. It’s physically painful for me to witness as it’s only a matter of

our capacity as humans to be kind and caring

time before the heart hardens and atrophies.

of February, we are reminded of Valentine’s

perceive and understand.The long-term impact

ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

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

Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne

Contributors

Steve Gamel Susan Neuhalfen

Advertising

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

Production Art Director Liz Wallace

Graphic Designers

towards the hearts of others. In the month

A hardened heart dulls a person’s ability to

Day and American Heart Health month. To

of focusing on negative behavior is apparent.

Scott Young 972.899.3536 ScottYoungPhoto.com

our own faults, undervalue

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.

me, these are summed up by kindness to each other and kindness to self !

It is one reason many of us are so clear about

I try to tell our boys that

our personal worth at times,

raised and taught they can

to others and have trouble

in this world where they are

underestimate our value

be anything, to be kind is

receiving

everything. We live in a time

compassion and kindness.

that doesn’t always accept us

In reality, we are people

for who we are and how we

who possess an innate need

look. I want to encourage my

boys to accept themselves, embrace their mistakes as lessons, and stay committed

to self-kindness no matter

what. Being kind to self is

compliments,

Kathryn Flores,

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

equally important as being kind to others.

In the past month, I’ve spent a significant

amount of time worrying and thinking about

the human heart due to my father’s heart condition. From a medical perspective, the doctors rely on research, medicine and science

to “fix” his heart. As his daughter, I take great

for one another. We were

intended for human words, touch,

and

compassion.

And this isn’t a call for grand,

overwhelming

gestures and sacrifice. It’s simple kindness, extending hospitality and a warm welcome.

As we give to others, we strengthen ourselves. As we receive from others, we allow them to grow. Being kind to someone can be simply

saying, ‘no worries, take care next time’, and

pride in tending to his heart with kindness,

will always be remembered by that person.

his spirits. The medicines may open my Dad’s

jackpot. At the very least, it just may warm a

laughter, stories and memories that energize

You never know. You might have hit the

arteries which allow the blood to flow at ease,

weakened heart.

Caroline Brock Stephanie Hansen

Photography Letters

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. © 2017 Murray Media Group

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 7

GETS AN The New TEA Accountability System for Schools

by Susan Neuhalfen

he Argyle Independent School District as well as many schools in Texas got their first taste of the new school accountability rating system recently which grades schools on a scale of A-F. This new system, which was touted to simplify the process, has caused an uproar across the state by schools that feel the grades simply don’t reflect an accurate overall score for their school. The

84th

Legislature

passed

HB2804,

changing the Texas school accountability system

so that each campus would be graded on five

“subjects” known as domains. Those grades were

then combined for an overall GPA of the school. The domains are as follows:

Domain 1: Student Achievement In alignment with the 60X30TX plan, 60% of

Texans aged 25-34 should possess some form of

post-secondary credential. In order to keep with this plan, an “A” rating in Domain I requires that

60% of students taking the STAAR exam score at a Postsecondary ready level or higher.

Advantage: This rates all of the students on the same level with the STARR exam.

Disadvantage: This only accounts for one test and not the overall school experience.

Domain 2: Student Progress Domain II measures each student’s scale score

on STARR this year versus last year. Students

who maintain the same level of proficiency as the

year before are designated as having met expected growth. Those who gain a proficiency level are designated as having accelerated growth. Schools

get one point for expected growth and two points for accelerated growth with zero points for below

expected. Scores for this domain are then tallied for each student.

Advantage: This rates all the students on the same level with the STARR exam.

Disadvantage: Again this doesn’t take into account

overall progress - just one test. This only rates math and reading exams because they are the only ones that are tested every year.

8 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

Domain 3: Closing the Gaps This domain examines how well each campus is doing in terms of student achievement for their economically disadvantaged students. Schools in Highland Park and other wealthy areas don’t qualify for this. In Argyle, these students make up a small percentage of the school. That doesn’t stop the state from leveraging 20% of the grade on those few students. Advantage: If your school is primarily low income, there is a greater chance for a better grade simply by virtue of the number of students. If your school has no low income students it does not affect that school. Disadvantage: If your school is not primarily low income, 20% of your grade is based on a performance of a very small percentage of students. i.e. At Argyle Middle School, 20% of their grade will be based on the scores on 43 students out of a possible 600. So the state is telling them that they need to focus 20% of their resources on 43 students?

Domain 4: Postsecondary Readiness

35% of the school’s grade is dependent upon this domain, which is basically the attendance and dropout rates. At the elementary and middle school levels this will take into account chronic absenteeism. At the high schools, it will take into account attendance, dropout rates and graduation rate. It will also examine the percentage of students who graduate ready for college, industry credential or appropriate CTE course or the military. Advantage: It gives schools more incentive to work toward less absenteeism and dropout rates. Disadvantage: For schools (elementary, intermediate and middle) that allow students a week off for vacations or mission trips, it works to

their disadvantage. Schools have to have a 98% attendance to get an A.

Domain 5: Parent and Student Engagement This section will rate community and student

engagement but final measures have not been

determined by TEA. It was not used for the preliminary test.

Schools in the area were given a preliminary

look at what their scores would be. Because of the problems with the STARR test this

year, schools were not able to get an accurate overall rating.

Here are Argyle ISD’s scores: Domain 1: Student Achievement

Domain 2: Student Progress

Domain 3: Closing Performance Gaps

Domain 4: Postsecondary Readiness

Domain 5: (not used for current test) “Each school is much more than one test,”

said Argyle Middle School Principal Scott Gibson. “This doesn’t take into accountability

things like extra-curricular activities, and all of the things that make up a great school.”

The Argyle School Board agrees with Gibson

and has issued a resolution calling on the Texas

legislature to repeal the A-F rating system. According to the Texas Association of School

Administrators, over 150 school districts across the state have asked the legislature to repeal this new accountability rating system.

A-F ratings systems can also negatively impact

neighborhoods and property values, affecting residents whether or not they have children in schools. Though this was only a preliminary

rating, educators are hoping the system is

revamped before the ratings count beginning in August of 2018.

“This is a political battle and our kids are

caught in the middle of it,” said Gibson.

Sidelines

by Steve Gamel

REASONS WHY BEING AN EXTROVERT

CAN MAKE YOU A BETTER WRITER

am a textbook extrovert. If there is an after-hours mixer, seminar or networking event where I can spread my wings and meet new people, sign me up! I live to be in a crowded room — doesn’t bother me one bit.

But I’m a writer, too? How is this possible? The common perception always has been that writers are introverts – not extroverts. Right? We’re supposed to have quiet, low-key INTROVERTED personalities. All we want is a quiet room with a cup of coffee to churn out our next novel or freelance article. Writing is our way to be great storytellers without ever having to make eye contact. Extroverts (that’s me!!) are social butterflies interested in everyone and everything around them. Sure, we need our quiet time, too, but for the most part we thrive off social interaction. With all that going on, extroverts can’t possibly be good writers! Wrong. While introverted writers are flat-out amazing at what they do, I’m also a firm believer that successful writers can be somewhere in between or full-blown, happy-go-lucky extroverts. In fact, there are quite a few perks to being an extroverted writer.

Below are four reasons why being extroverted can make you a better writer:

Extroverts pull inspiration from anywhere and anyone ... There’s inspiration all around us, and it’s easiest found when we are not living behind a computer screen. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found great story ideas while having a conversation with someone at a networking mixer, charity event or even at my son’s baseball games. Extroverted writers are great at character development and utilizing authentic dialogue. We’re highly descriptive, and all of that translates to our writing and being able to tell a story in ways you never thought possible.

Extroverts write about anything ... To piggyback off my first bullet point, extroverts often can write about any topic and thus become more well-rounded writers. Even if a particular writer isn’t a pro at understanding legal jargon or writing about the latest and greatest real estate trend, they are willing to learn it. They are extroverted enough to seek out the right people and put themselves in situations they aren’t used to. When I first got into writing, all I did was write about sports. Now I write about a variety of topics, and it’s helped me get Edit This off the ground. I feel like being

extroverted made me that well-rounded writer I need to be.

Extroverts grow their client lists organically ... What professional writer out there couldn’t handle few more clients? Networking and being visible in the community are at the heart of what I do. It’s where I can tell my story, meet people and hear their stories. A bigger client list means more opportunities to write — hence more opportunities to perfect my writing. Extroverts are conversational by nature, so we’re easy to talk to. Business opportunities evolve organically in those settings mentioned above because potential clients have a chance to get to know you while having that warm and fuzzy feeling that they are truly being listened to. Most people prefer to do business that way.

Extroverts educate other writers ... What better way is there to improve your writing and be a more engaged member of the world around you than by helping educate other writers? Everyone has to start somewhere. I know I did, and I have leaned on a lot of great writers over the years. Extroverted writers want to do speaking engagements at those networking events I mentioned above. They want to share their knowledge, and even their shortcomings. They are more inclined to educate students or take younger writers under their wing. That mentoring process not only makes the people you are educating better writers, but it can make you a better writer, too.

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 9

o say that Liberty Christian Cross Country runner Elizabeth Reneau has had a good year would be an understatement. Monumental, extraordinary or life-changing might be better adjectives.

The Perfect End to a

Following a great season, Elizabeth qualified for the Nike South Regional race in November along with seven of her teammates. Coach Tyler Curbo, a graduate of Liberty Christian, has taken his cross country runners to this race in The Woodlands for the past six years. This year’s meet brought in 1,600 runners from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. In order to qualify for the nationals, the top 200 runners at the regional meet enter the championship race, which qualifies the top five individuals for the Nike Cross Nationals. “She had had a season where we knew she would be close,” said Coach Curbo who has been the head distance coach for seven years. “We knew that she was capable, it was just based on what she ran.” Elizabeth won fourth place. She was the first student in the history of Liberty Christian to qualify for nationals. This meant she was one of the top five fastest individuals in a five state area. “I started counting the other runners in the last 600 meters and I knew I could make it,” said Elizabeth. “It was really exciting.” Elizabeth won an all-expense paid weekend to Portland, Oregon, to train and race at the Nike Headquarters, and the chance to compete against the best runners in the Coach Tyler Curbo & country at nationals. The coach Elizabeth Reneau was invited as well. “This was the experience of a lifetime,” said Elizabeth. “You can’t imagine that you’re really there.” To hear Coach Curbo describe the facilities and the track at the Nike Headquarters, it was like a paradise for athletes. Knowing that you’re stepping in the same footsteps as some of the greatest runners was exhilarating. “I got to go to the coaches’ clinics and came away very inspired,” said Coach Curbo. “Being around people at this level, who are as passionate about the sport as I am, was a really cool experience.” Elizabeth stayed in a dorm-like atmosphere with the other runners and enjoyed training as well as playing pingpong and getting to know the other athletes. She really enjoyed spending time with such a diverse group of girls coming from all over the country, all walks of life and all were very honored to be there.

RECORD SETTING YEAR 10 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

by Susan Neuhalfen

In addition to the other runners and coaches

were Olympic athletes that mingled among them. They came to the dinners, signed autographs and

spoke to the crowd, but it was casualness they displayed that impressed both Coach Curbo and Elizabeth the most.

“We see them in Rio and then here they are

normal people hanging out and talking about their

favorite coffee shops,” laughed Elizabeth. “It’s really

encouraging to see that you could be a real person and still be really fast.”

In addition to the experience of a lifetime,

Elizabeth got a lot of great gear from Nike and

placed 44th overall. When asked what she would do differently over 2016, she said she had no regrets from the past year.

“This experience has made me love running

even more than I thought it would,” said Elizabeth.

Elizabeth won an all-expense paid weekend to Portland, Oregon, to train and race at the Nike Headquarters “It has made all the work and accomplishments

worth it.”

She’s been running for a long time but in

the 9th grade she committed completely to the

sport, dropping soccer, so that she could get really competitive.

“I knew this was going to be the sport for me,”

said Elizabeth. “I definitely want to run in college.”

College is still over a year away for this Junior,

but does plan to run next year and hopefully again qualify for the Nike Cross Nationals. She does believe that training is actually more mental than physical, but she keeps her priorities in line.

“Glorifying the Lord through your running is

the ultimate thing,” she reminds us. “It’s not all about you.”

Coach Curbo agrees.

“To run fast isn’t our goal,” said Coach Curbo.

“Our goal is for the kids to grow up and mature and

photos courtesy of Tyler Curbo

grow qualities and characteristics that glorify God.”

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 11

Before

OF THE MONTH LYNN MOON FREE MAKEOVER

Are you ready for a whole new look? Just email us at cloud9salon@cloud9salon.com and tell us why you or someone you know deserves a makeover. We’ll select one lucky winner from our entries to receive the full hair and make-up treatment. ENTER TODAY!

Lynn is a warrior in her own right. A selfless

woman, she has spent much of her adult life helping our soldiers through fundraising and

program development. As a young Army wife, she worked tirelessly to raise money for young

soldiers and their families. She created a dental program for them and served on numerous

boards helping spouses of those serving overseas,

collecting items for care boxes over the holidays. She has since been a dedicated volunteer for Wounded Warriors. She serves on the board of 9 charities, is a Rotarian, a member of Argyle Chamber of Commerce and an active member of her church. Lynn’s heart and home are always open. Now that she is starting a new business, we felt she deserved a new look for 2017. She is truly a beautiful woman, inside and out. Hair by April April used beige and copper tones for the hair color to create a cohesive look with her skin tone and eye color. With the cut she did something short and sassy to fit her fun personality.

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

12 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

After photography by Caroline’s Creative Captures Makeover and clothes provided by

214.415.4806 www.cloud9salon.com

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 13

Nutrition

Dear

Annette,

Sincerely Yours, Annette Doody

Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach

www.thesavoryteam.com

I see ads for super greens. What are they and why are they important?

Dear Reader:

What a great question. There are many ads for special nutrient foods. There is also a lot of misinformation about them. First super foods in general are foods that have the highest nutrient density. We know that plants and seeds are usually the most nutrient-dense foods. Kale and wheatgrass, for example, are usually rated the highest for nutrient-dense foods. There are many super greens that are not included in these ratings as they are not usually a part of our food supply. These greens are from various sources such as the ocean. In health food isles there are many protein powders and mixtures labeled super greens. You can get these greens usually in supplement form. It is important to use a product free of mercury and other toxins. Stores like Whole Foods and Sprouts do a good job with finding organic sources. These super greens are extremely dense in nutrients and can be a great part of a spring â&#x20AC;&#x153;tune upâ&#x20AC;?.

An example of such amazing green foods are:

SPIRULINA A blue-green algae freshwater plant. To date, there are over 1,200 peer reviewed studies on its health benefits. Helps remove heavy metals from the body Eliminates Candida Lowers blood pressure Reduces cholesterol Boosts energy Promotes weight loss Boosts immune system

CHLORELLA Chlorella is another blue green algae with high concentration of chlorophyll High in protein Detox Immune support Promotes weight loss Slows oxidation of aging process Energy-boosting

MORINGA Known as horseradish tree. Promotes healthy blood sugar levels Fights inflammation High antioxidant Supports brain health Promotes healthy liver enzymes

Super greens are yet another example of super nutrients the earth provides. Adding super foods to your diet can offer a great boost in energy and overall health. It is important to consult your primary care physician about all supplements before taking them.

14 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

Body and Soul

SLEEP•EAT•EXERCISE WORK•PLAY•REPEAT A

s we enter 2017, let’s face it, as a rule, resolutions fail. A study performed by Scranton University states that only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s goals. Why? Most often, goals are too lofty, forcing us to change a behavior our brains just don’t have the power to overcome. We all have habitual responses to certain events programmed in our brains, altering those neural pathways is not as easy and individually possible as resolution makers think. This year, I challenge you to focus on what you

can and will do. Find activities that make you smile and that enable you to find joy while progressing

towards healthier habits. In taking smaller, but

intentional and scheduled steps toward fitness, you can alter your brain’s neural pathways toward permanent With

new

progress. neural

pathways, your brain

can react differently to situations, and over

time, you may choose

exercise to ward off stress rather than less positive

choices.

Therefore, in 2017, I challenge you to make

To create a new habit of exercise, it is

exercise a priority, an intentional activity. Let’s

important to identify common obstacles to

not force ourselves into unrealistic goals, knowing

physical activity that can prevent us from being

that when life gets busy and hectic, our brains

intentional in setting our daily schedules. Often,

will fall back into those normal stress reactions

both time and injuries get in the way of allowing

and drop those exercise intentions. This year,

us to stay on the pathway to exercise or fitness

let’s focus on making

goals. At S2S, our mission is to help you find a

exercise

regular

way to overcome these obstacles. Knowing that

part of our routine,

each person has different needs and abilities, it

something

that

is our goal to accommodate you WHEREVER

happens on repeat, so

you are and to help you accomplish your fitness

that we miss it when it

goals WHATEVER they may be.

With new neural pathways, your brain can react differently to situations, and over time, you may choose exercise to ward off stress rather than less positive choices.

recent article published in Sports Medicine

is not there. Have you ever tried to go 24 hours without sleep or food?

suggests that those of us who habitually exercise

Physical activity can become just as noticeably

who are new to exercise.

make it necessary.

will exercise more in the face of stress than those

missing as those other imperative activities if we

by Meredith S. Tittle PT, DPT, OCS

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

940.241.1215 • s2sperform.com s2sperform

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 15

16 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

The Era of

DIGITAL DENTISTRY

e all know kids have an enigmatic fascination with video games. It is an ongoing encounter of countless hours of precious youth spent within a digital universe. When I used to teach, it was the popular response that my students wanted to “invent video games” when they grew up. As an adult, even I often wish I could replace those formative years of gaming with productive pastimes like learning another language or studying market trends, for example. However, I recently attended a continuing education course to train on equipment currently employed in our office. As I learned the processes for operating this machine to take digital impressions, digitally design crowns, and then fabricate them in the office within half an hour, I thought to myself, I am so glad I played video games. You see, the digital age of dentistry is upon

a digital impression to design a crown only to

CBCT x-rays to measure the precise amount of

implant in a way that would allow, in some

us. As a dentist, I am capable of taking our 3D space needed to place an implant, digitally plan that implant to engage optimum bone while avoiding anatomical structures, integrate it with

fabricate the crown and seamlessly restore the

circumstances, to replace a tooth in a single day. This type of technology is just short of beaming a tooth into the mouth.

Dr. Matt

With digital impression, we are capable of digital designing orthodontic and Invisalign treatments so that the final proposal of a patient’s smile can be predicted before beginning treatment while allowing progress tracking throughout. Digital bite scans can be used to determine areas of offset occlusion or bite patterns. Functional 3D x-rays can determine abnormal jaw opening and closing patterns, or evaluate restricted airways. Intraoral cameras are capable of using decay detection to discover decay within the tooth before an actual cavitation occurs. With these advances in dental technology and more, only time will tell what is in store for making dental care more predictable and more comfortable. Who knows? Your child’s hours of video games may pay off with a future as bright as their smile. Happy gaming and happy smiling! by Dr. Matt who is a practicing dentist and owner of Country Lakes Family Dental www.CountryLakesDental.com

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 17

Are The Norm For All-Region Bands

by Susan Neuhalfen

HIGH PERFORMANCE LEVELS

rgyle Middle and High School students had a whirlwind day and a half participating in the UIL Region 2 Clinic and Concert held at Argyle High School in January.

Students from several surrounding areas auditioned to be

part of the exclusive bands. Both Argyle schools dominated their respective bands with the number of students represented. Students arrived Friday afternoon by bus to Argyle High School to begin their practices with their guest directors. Most of these students had never played together before and they were all under the direction of a musical conductor that was new to them. They practiced until 9:30 p.m., were bussed back to their schools, and arrived the next morning at 8:30 a.m. to start practicing again. Each band spent twelve hours with guest directors learning four pieces of music that they performed on Saturday afternoon. The guest conductor for the middle school students was Jason Tucker, Director of Bands at Rice Middle School in Plano. The guest conductor for the high school symphonic band was Keith Bearden, retired Associate Director of Bands at Texas Tech. For the concert band, the guest conductor was John Zastoupil, who currently serves as the Director of Bands at Missouri State University. Out of the 96 spots available, Argyle Middle School had 36 students make the band and 7 alternates, doubling the number of any other school in the area. Additionally, they earned 6 of the 14 available first chairs. At the high school level, Argyle High School had 48 make the region band. In comparison to the other schools that auditioned, Argyle had 27 more students make the region band 18 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

than the next highest competitor.Â

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 19

Argyle Resident Jennifer Homeyer was a

BEFORE

it Was Cool by Susan Neuhalfen

20 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

efore HGTV and the DIY network, Jennifer watched her family build two houses from the ground up and remodel otherÂ homes they lived in. Though she was young, she learned a great deal from her parents, who took the time to explain the many things that went into building and remodeling homes, and involved her in the process.

“I’ve always been very hands-on when it

Again, they became the go-to place for

from that process. We learned what to do and

said Jennifer. “Every house we’ve owned,

over 75 colors of granite and marble on the lot

Many of their clients start from the website.

comes to working on our personal homes,” we’ve remodeled.”

So when Jennifer and her husband, Ty, were

looking for a business to

contractors, DIYers and homeowners, having to choose from. Instead of going to Dallas to

Their website is like an activity book for adults.

right here to visit their

style quizzes, design perspectives and an “ask

find granite and marble, clients were staying shop on 377 just across

call their own, something

from The Smokehouse in

relating to flooring and

Denton. They also have

home remodeling seemed

Plus in May of 2008 with

the stores to employ many,

is more of the hands-on type with the design, busy between their businesses and their three

kids, Halston a senior at Arygle High School, Connor, a sophomore and Kaelyn who is in

their 10,000 square foot showroom on Colorado

many more people than when they started.

8th grade at Argyle Middle School. It’s hard

latest flooring. Builders and contractors no

provide better quality material for a better

was a registered nurse and her husband had a

Design District because the same selection

an in-house designer to work a custom job for

license all these years, she feels that her purpose,

near the Golden Triangle Mall with all of the

longer had to send customers to the Dallas could be found at Carpets Plus in Denton. In

addition to the great selection, customers got the personal attention they needed through working with Jennifer and her team. Before long, the Homeyers found themselves

doing

Because they are such a big store, they can

to believe that just a few years earlier Jennifer

price, and, when needed, they can also provide

corporate job. Though she has kept her nurse’s

any kind of client.

while similar, is still very important.

Houzz, Pinterest, magazines or just ideas in

people,” said Jennifer. “Now I’m in the business

“Some people come in with pictures from

their heads,” said Jennifer. “From there, with the customers’ particular

bargained for. “The

recession

design

new

at home.”

hit

If a client wants Carpets

Plus to handle a full

necessity, taking on jobs

in-house

remodel, one of Jennifer’s

found ourselves, out of that entailed more than

designers

will

meet with the customer

just flooring,” said Jennifer.

and then go out to the

“Before we knew it, we

house to measure and

everything

picture exactly what will be

from providing materials

done with the space.

to full remodeling.”

who is going to be involved from our cabinet maker

contractors, designers, DIYers and the general

to the electrician to the carpenter and the

their projects done.

the job as close to estimate as possible and to

public to provide whatever is needed to get the

“Our goal is to appeal to all buyers.

Customers can come in and buy the material

plumber,” said Jennifer. “Our goal is to keep produce beautiful, quality work.”

Making sure the job stays on time and

or they can meet with one of our in-house

within budget is all part of their process,

said Jennifer. “We can do as much or as little as

prides the most.

designers and we’ll do everything for them,” a client needs.”

Just five years ago they found themselves

starting a second business, Stonemeyer Granite.

Carpets Plus Home Renovation Design Center 2303 Colorado Blvd. • Denton, TX 76205 www.carpetsplustx.com (940) 382-4340

“We’ll bring everyone

To this day, they work

with custom homebuilders,

asset—their home.”

spaces

the store in 2008, so we

doing

of helping people improve their most precious

and improve their lives

shortly after we bought

were

I used to be in the business of healing

style and functional needs,

even

more work than they’d

Sponsored Content

She credits Ty with being the retail guru, as

products and installation. They certainly keep

They have grown both

the go-to place for flooring

favorite products to a portfolio.

cut countertops for all of

shop

their clients.

the intention of becoming

our expert” section. Users can even save their

he has been in retail for over 25 years, while she

fabrication

the premises to custom

They bought Carpets

There is a virtual room designer, lifestyle and

like a perfect fit.

in the area. They stocked

what not to do.”

too. But it’s the personal touch that Jennifer “We had one of the big box stores do a

remodel for us a long time ago before we owned

this business,” said Jennifer. “We learned a lot

Stonemeyer Granite 1230 Fort Worth Dr • Denton, TX 76205 www.stonemeyergranite.com (940) 227-6950 FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 21

22 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

FUN

Making Social Education

hatever happened to good old-fashioned etiquette?

The folks in Argyle take that sort of thing seriously which is why Argyle Nights has been such an important part of the community and the school for several years. Argyle Nights is a special cotillion of sorts, exclusively for sixth graders at Argyle Middle School. It takes place over the course of four nights and provides a great experience for kids to not only learn how to dance but many other etiquette-related issues that today’s society takes for granted. Each night has a theme and the students are split into two groups. One group attends dance lessons, while the other goes to etiquette class. Halfway through the evening, they switch. Everyone comes together at the end of the night for treats and some dancing. The three themed nights consist of:

by Susan Neuhalfen

Country & Western Dance lessons - Two-Step, Cotton Eyed Joe, Funky Cowboy (line dance) Etiquette lessons - Making a good first impression, introduction, handshake, etc. Hip Hop Dance lessons - Hip Hop routine Etiquette lessons - Common courtesies, addressing adults, opening doors Red/Black Revue Dance lessons - Waltz Etiquette lessons - Compliments, electronic etiquette

dinner is served, giving the kids a chance to try out their new etiquette lessons. Each student is then assigned a dance parter for each dance to try out their new dance moves. Argyle Nights Co-Chairs Jen Burns and Ginger Ratliff say it is the parent volunteers that make this whole thing work. They do everything from decorating the gym, to teaching the lessons to providing the treats at the end of the night. It that it makes for a great memory for the kids as well as a wonderful learning experience. “It’s a really special event for the kids,” said Ratcliff. “It’s something they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.”

This all leads up to a semi-formal dance at

Robson Ranch. The gentlemen, dressed in suits and ties, stand outside on the red carpet and

await the ladies’ arrival via car to offer their arms and escort each into the building. A formal

“It’s something they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.”

photos courtesy of Tammy Tubbs FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 23

Nearby Family Fun

Adventures for Spring Break by Susan Neuhalfen

or those planning on staying in the area for Spring Break or if you you’re just looking for some weekend adventure options, here are some great family fun ideas that keep you close to home:

ADVENTURE ALTITUDE PARK altitudedenton.com This is incredible for kids of all ages. 30,000 square feet of foam pits, gymnastics tumble tracks, a kid zone, basketball dunking lanes, dodge ball and more. It’s right across from Golden Triangle Mall so if you’re kids are a certain age, you may drop them and go shopping.

WINKIDS winkids.net During Spring Break there are outrageously fun camps for children ages 2 1/2 and up for 3 hours or all day. Kids will have fun making friends, getting exercise and learning new skills in this super kid-friendly sport center.

ESCAPE ROOMS HQ escaperoomshq.com Escape Rooms HQ is a one-of-a-kind fantasy entertainment facility where players race against the clock to solve all of the clues to escape their mystery room. Your team will be charged with solving a series of codes, locks and puzzles that

reveal clues to enable the escape. This is especially

good for older kids and fun for the whole family.

SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS ARLINGTON sixflags.com/overtexas Since we never know what the weather will be like that would be the first thing to check to

before heading to Six Flags, but this park is huge and has a happiness factor to suit both young

and old. There are lots of rides to please everyone from kiddie rides to serious roller coasters.

CINNAMON CREEK RANCH cinnamoncreekranch.com

ZERO GRAVITY THRILL PARK gojump.com

It’s the new bowling! Bring the kids for a fun-filled day of archery. There is so much to do here and the great instructors are happy to help the newcomers get the feel of the bow and arrow. It’s perfect for the whole family whether they are new to archery or practiced veterans.

For the older kids looking for some serious

LEGOLAND Grapevine Mills Mall dallasfw.legolanddiscoverycenter.com For kids who love Legos, it’s a no-brainer. There are three rides, 10 Lego build and play zones, a 4D cinema and a mini-city all to explore. It’s geared toward younger kids but is enjoyable to parents, too. Tickets online can be cheaper and they have group discounts as well.

24 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

thrills, there’s this: bungee jumping, a 16-story

FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS fortworthstockyards.org Take a trip back in time.

The Fort Worth herd cattle

drive comes through twice an hour and there are lots of shops, dining, museums and history to be seen.

For extra fun, take the

Grapevine Vintage Railroad there and back.

TRINITY FOREST ADVENTURE PARK trinitytreetops.com This is a seven-acre combination obstacle course and zip line park for people 6+ that has over twenty zip-lines as well as cargo nets, rope

bridges, and other obstacles spread out over six

courses. Go at your own pace, as long as you don’t take longer than the three-hour time limit.

free fall, a sky-coaster that glides 100 feet off

SANDY LAKE AMUSEMENT PARK sandylake.com

into the air at 70mph and being strapped to a

Though not as big as Six Flags, Sandy Lake

in just seconds. We’re talking 4Gs of force. Talk

including thrill rides as well as kiddie rides and

the ground, a rocket ride that sends you straight

165-foot propeller with speeds up to 60 mph

Amusement Park has something for everyone

about your wild rides…

paddle boats. You can picnic with the family

ZONE ACTION PARK Zoneactionparkdallas.com

and bring a friend or two to enjoy the day while staying pretty close to home.

There are go-karts and putt-putt golf as well

COYOTE DRIVE IN LEWISVILLE coyotedrive-in.com/lewisville

nothing fancy, but it is fun. Groupons are

Take the kids and experience the drive-in movie

as two floors of games and fun inside. It’s sometimes available.

theater at the Coyote Drive-In in Lewisville.

ANIMALS AND AQUATICS

CHILDREN’S AQUARIUM AT FAIR PARK childrensaquariumfairpark.com

DALLAS ZOO dallaszoo.com

Specifically designed for children, it has eye level interactive exhibits and is very educational for the young ones.

The zoo is always fun and there’s plenty for the kids to see and do. The Keeper Encounters and

MUSEUM FUN

for a behind the scenes look. There’s even a guide

PEROT MUSEUM perotmuseum.org

with CityPass if you’re planning on going to the

When you think of museums you think quiet and sometimes boring, but NOT the Perot Museum. This is anything but boring and the kids will love it. There are lots of interactive things to do and it’s great learning for everyone. Even the building is radical.

Training Demonstrations are always interesting to Pokemon Go on their website. You can save Perot and other locations as well.

FORT WORTH ZOO fortworthzoo.org The oldest zoo in Texas, this is so much more than just a zoo. There’s the Yellow Rose Express Train, a carrousel, a petting zoo, the Play Barn

playground and climbing area, a shooting gallery

for kids, rock climbing and much more. This is an all-day adventure.

DALLAS WORLD AQUARIUM dwazoo.com Much like the zoo, it’s hard to go wrong with a trip to the aquarium. It’s educational, it’s fun and it’s cool to see sharks.

THE DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDENS dallasarboretum.org The Arboretum is beautiful in and of itself with breathtaking gardens at every turn. For the kids there is the Rory Meyers Adventure Garden for Children overlooking White Rock Lake. There are over 150 individual kid friendly activities, and the children’s garden features The Texas Skywalk, The Moody Oasis, a Walk in the Clouds, and more.

MUSEUMS OF HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE THE SIXTH FLOOR MUSEUM AT DEALEY PLAZA jfk.org If there’s one thing we’ve learned from social media, it’s that people don’t know their history, so let’s change that with our kids. Teach them about what happened on that fateful November day before social media does. In addition to historical information, there are special exhibits as well.

DALLAS HOLOCAUST MUSEUM AND CENTER FOR EDUCATION AND TOLERANCE

dallasholocaustmuseum.org

This is truly a moving experience featuring displays such as an actual boxcar used to transport Jews during WWI. There are also other exhibits regarding the history of life before and after the war for the Jewish people.

FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 25

AHS Science Teacher Wins UIL Sponsor Excellence Award

Liberty Christian Students Score At Spelling Bee Liberty Christian Lower School students placed

The 2017-2018 Argyle Cheerleading Tryouts Are Underway

Argyle High School science teacher Kimberly

in the top 25% at the Association of Private Schools

Here Are Important Dates To Note:

Excellence Award winner by the University

competed against more than 100 students across the

Kass has been recognized as a 2016 Sponsor

International (ACSI) Spelling Bee, where they

Interscholastic League (UIL). She is one of only 15

Dallas/Fort Worth area.

February 24

Kass has been teaching for more than 30 years.

Cade Miller, Sienna Morris, Sarah Jane Sheldon, and

March 6-8 5-8:30pm High School Gyms

Tryout Clinics

team state champions, six individual science state

Thandi Gwelo, Sarah Smithey, and Ashley VanVickle;

March 9 5pm High School Gyms

Mock Try-Outs

in the UIL Academic State Meet.

McClellan, Antonio Simone, and Blake Werner.

a panel of judges from nominations submitted

list of grade-level words for three months outside

across the state.

assignments in class.

educators in Texas to receive this award this year.

Spellers included 3rd grade students Madi McGraw,

Registration Packet Due (turn into main office at your campus)

During this time, she has coached 10 science

Brielle Thompson; 4th grade students Chloe Appling,

champions and led 38 students to top six placements

and 5th grade students Anna Claire Kristynik, Kai

To prepare for the bee, students studied an extensive

March 10 9am-12pm High School Gyms

Varsity Try-Outs

The winners of this award were selected by

of school, while also completing regular spelling

March 10 12pm-4pm High School Gyms

Middle School Try-Outs

school

principals

and

superintendents

Liberty Christian Softball Team Makes Blankets For Critically Ill Children The Liberty Christian softball team began its

season this year in a new way by helping Project Linus, an organization that has delivered more than

six million blankets to children with cancer and other critical illnesses.

Softball team members who participated include:

Cassandra Huang, senior; Peyton Wohnoutka, junior; Taylor Scalzi, junior; Gracie Arthur, sophomore; Catherine Price, sophomore; Meredith

Gordon, sophomore; Erin Brown, sophomore;

Ainsley Cindric, sophomore; Ryan Gallegos, freshman; Peyton Sanderson, freshman; Taylor Skaggs, freshman; and Hannah Taylor, freshman.

“I am excited about our upcoming season with

this amazing group of girls,” said Coach Smith.

“This service project fulfilled one of our goals,

and I am very proud of the girls’ level of initiative and commitment to our team.”

26 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2017

“These students were amazing, and they represented

For middle school questions contact thalk@argyleisd.

Liberty Christian like the champions they are,”

com, kbaum@argyleisd.com. For questions about JV

Karina Smith.

contact ltruebenbach@argyleisd.com

exclaimed Liberty teacher and spelling bee sponsor

contact elemish@argyleisd.com. For varsity questions

ARGYLE SCHOOL PRIORITY DAY photos by Pamela Arrington

ocal Council members joined the Argyle ISD School Board and Administrators to tour Argyle Intermediate School and Middle School. The visitors had an opportunity to see first hand what is taking place in the classes and hear a message and updates from AISD Superintendent Dr. Wright. FEBRUARY 2017 | ARGYLE LIVING | 27

Hay Fever

pring has sprung and allergy medications and tissue boxes are filling your shelves. I am sure you are tired of hearing about and suffering from one of the most common ailments, hay fever.

It may be hard to distinguish colds, seasonal allergies, and more serious infections. Hay fever symptoms are usually cold symptoms such as:

Congestion or sinus pressure • Runny nose • Itchy, watery eyes Scratchy or sore throat • Cough • Swollen, bluish-colored skin beneath the eyes Reduced sense of taste or smell One way to tell the difference in a common cold and seasonal allergies is the duration of symptoms. Cold symptoms typically last 7-10 days and then gradually resolve completely. We may get several different cold viruses in a row that can prolong symptoms and confuse the picture even more. Seasonal allergy/hay fever symptoms persist for months and can sometimes be complicated by sinus infections and contribute to poor quality of life. With cold viruses your child may experience fevers, body aches and pains that are more characteristic of a viral infection.

How do we help our children who may suffer?? The best way to combat hay fever is to avoid the particular allergen but, at certain times of year, that may be impossible. Having allergy testing done to determine specific triggers can be helpful in avoidance therapy. This is not always possible so here are a few things you may do if you know your child is allergic:

Prevention