MAY 2016
ROCKY HAIRE is the Right Person in Your Corner...
Every Time
Argyle - Canyon Falls - Harvest - Robson Ranch
Remembering
“Tita” Emma
Shaffer
Liberty Christian School 6th grade class released yellow balloons during lunch in memory of Emma “Tita” Shaffer
(Above) Emma “Tita” Shaffer photo courtesy from Go Fund Me
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 3
EAGLE
May 30th Memorial Day May 31st AHS Graduation at 6pm at UNT Coliseum
June 6th - 9th Argyle ISD Softball/ Tennis Camps
June 13th-16th Argyle ISD Math Camp
at Hilltop Elementary Cafeteria
June 13th
Metroport Meals on Wheels Golf Tournament
11am Trophy Club Country Club www.metroportgolf.com
4 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 5
Liberty Christian Events
Contents Table of
Featured Stories and News 10 13 16 18 19
Memorial Day May 30th
Baseball/Softball Banquet May 22nd at 5pm
May 25th
Pg 20
Senior Splurge Liberty Christian Graduation May 27th at 7pm
Warrior Strong Athletic Camp (K - 6th) June 13th - 17th
Congrats Class of 2016 Want to feature your school’s or organization’s event? Contact us at artwork@murray-media.com
Argyle Boys Golf #22Kill Inside Education Mayor’s Corner
20 Rocky Haire
Last Day of School and Awards Day
May 24th
No Place Like Home Plate
On the Cover from left to right: Baby Langston, Logan, Andrea, Harlan, Jett, Gavin, Rocky, and Rodney Haire
Photos from Argyle
02 38
Remembering Emma Black Diamond Affair
23 26 27 28 29 33 34 36 37
Fighting Inflammation Argyle ISD News Social Media & Teens Hilltop Chess Club Text Free Awareness Custody in Texas Hitting the Bullseye Caleb Murdock Skip Townsend Honored
Ask the Experts 07 08 09 12 22 24 25 30 32 35
From Your Editor Nutrition Tutoring Dr. Matt Business Coaching Sidelines Real Estate Restaurant Review Gardening Style
ArgyleLivingMagazine.com
THE SHADOW A Message from The Community Editor
“B
e on your guard; stand firm in faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
tested on several levels to which I can completely
understand and empathize with both sides of each situation. There really was no “right” on
either side, so in that instance, it has been a There is a difference between character, the daily internal character-check. While I feel essence of who we are and persona. Early on in like my moral strength is strong, empathetically life, we learn that when we are being watched has stepping back and reflecting has personally been a direct correlation to our social behavior. We a new process of character growth. Those of tend to be on our best behavior as a child, when us that lead through and lean on character are we know an adult is watching focused on creating value and that most definitely ages and contribution rather than appropriately upward as an winning. We value openness adult. However, this is far from and inclusion and ache for making us a better person. the ability to reach outward We’ve all heard the saying, and upward. “be kind even when no one As a consultant, I try to is watching.” In my opinion, help businesses craft missions what makes us a better person or statements that are is a question of character…it’s actionable. Living our values our moral or ethical strength. every day is an important Kathryn Flores, Character is, indeed, who we Community Relations and aspect of character in action are when no one is looking. Advertising Consultant as well as maintaining a Argyle Living & Lantana Living There is powerful distinction solid reputation. One of Kathryn@murray-media.com between character, the essence 214.734.5783 the reasons we are more of who we are, and the external civilized when we know we personality we have created to cope with our are being watched is due to concerns about our everyday life. To me, this is clearly visible reputation. Reputation is defined as the quality through authenticity verses image. Character or character that other people attribute to us; it’s has trust and compassion as foremost guiding the surface layer. It’s our carefully crafted profile principles, while image is often concerned with fear and self-interest. It is only natural to slip on Facebook; it’s the recommendations that are into a gray area between the two but it is my posted on our LinkedIn profile. Every action belief that character will pull you through it. we take, no matter how small, has our character It’s easy to feel like one episode will stain your whole life. It doesn’t have to if you learn to be resilient and keep moving forward. People really can come back, even from big mistakes…it’s called grace. Those of us so attuned to who we are and the passions of our being, want to be treated with kindness and compassion above all else. However, as the darkness of ‘image’ creeps in, as it always will in this world of self-gratitude and affluenza, we are tested. Recently, I was
stamp on it. Character, on the other hand, is who we are in the boardroom as well as in our living room. We have reason to be proud when both
reputation and character are a mirror image of
each other. We will all have opportunities in life
to uphold both character and reputation. And
Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton
Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne
Contributors
Steve Gamel Susan Neuhalfen
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
sometimes, we may have to choose one. Abraham Lincoln simplified it all for me: “Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing.”
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 7
Nutrition
Dear
Annette,
THE BOTTOM LINE IS EAT WHOLE, ORGANIC, REAL FOODS. • Eat lots of plant fiber especially green vegetables and leafy greens. • Eat healthy fats like nuts, seeds, olive oil, coconut oil, sardines, salmon and pasture raised eggs
Everything I read today says sugar is poison. Is it really that bad?
• Eat animals that have been grass fed—
A
• Eat one to two servings of fruit a day
little sugar is not bad, but we are all eating way too much of it. Remember sugar comes in many forms, snacks made from wheat flours, rice and potatoes all convert quickly to sugar. The average person is not aware of how much sugar they are really eating. Our ancestors ate small amounts of sugar. Your grandmother’s apple pie was often a Sunday treat mixed in as part of a whole food diet. Our grandparents ate meals at home that they cooked themselves from whole, unprocessed foods. Also, your grandmother’s pantry was not filled with snacks and processed foods. We have gone from eating as little as 10 pounds of sugar a year per person in the 1950’s to 150 pounds a year! This statistic is startling. We started eating “low fat”, which was unfortunately high sugar. Many people are eating large amounts of gluten free items that are also high sugar. Diabetes is an epidemic even among children. We are all getting fatter. All
this sugar is throwing our gut microbiome off and making us very sick from a host of chronic conditions, food allergies and sensitivities, asthma, heart disease, cancer, diverticulitis, gerd, dementia, and the list continues. Artificial sugars and dyes in our foods kill the healthy gut microbiome. It is that gut microbiome that protects us from all the chronic diseases. We know that 70% of our immune system is gut microbiome. Too much sugar kills the gut microbiome and we get sick. Good gut microbiome feeds on plant fiber and good fats and probiotics. Our grandparents made pickled foods and preserves, they had real fat yogurt, not yogurt full of sugar and artificial flavors, and it was naturally full of probiotics. Trust me, if you are squeezing your yogurt out of a tube it is not full of probiotics. So, yes, sugar has become a major problem.
4 ounces is a large enough serving • Eat small amounts of complex carbohydrates, no more than 20% - 30% of your diet. • Have a treat! A piece of cake or an ice cream cone for example, but no more than once a week. Real, unprocessed sugar from honey, maple
syrup, raw cane sugar in small amounts as a treat
once a week is not bad if the rest of the diet is
healthy. This is not what the average American
is doing. They are eating highly processed diets. Sugar has become the opiate of the people.
Sincerely yours, Annette Doody, Savory Bistro Owner and Wellness Coach
2
Getting
STEPS Ahead
Joshua Power, Head Instructor The Tutoring Center-- Flower Mound
CONGRATULATIONS!
I
&
t’s nearly summer, and your family has finished another school year! With hard work, they’ve made great strides
all school year long, and now summer is finally here. As you are planning your kids’ busy summers, you want them to have the right amount of fun, but you don’t want to diminish the progress they’ve made during the school year.
Tutoring
Making the Most Out of Your Summer
Brieanna Casey, Head Instructor The Tutoring Center-- Bartonville Studies have shown that when students are
away during the summer, they regress rapidly, and are more likely to fall behind in school
during the following fall term. For instance,
say your son has just finished the third grade, he might be operating at a 3.8 level by the end of the school. (The score is determined by grade level, and number of months; e.g. a third
grader at April, the 8th month). However, as
the summer months go on, he might regress to
a 3.7 by the fall. In September, when he begins the fourth grade, he will need to be operating
at a 4.0 level, but instead, he’ll be operating at a disadvantage. This feeling of being behind can
create an overwhelming uphill battle-- not a fun place to start the new year. As a result, he may quickly begin falling further. One way to combat this occurrence is to keep an active mind during the summer. There are many cost effective ways to keep an active mind during the summer that revolve around you and your schedule, such as weekly private tutoring, summer school, day camp, and attending learning centers-- all of which come highly recommended by teachers and parents alike. When making this important decision, weigh all of the options, by researching not only which programs are most effective, but also which programs fit your individual child’s needs, while also balancing finances and scheduling. However, the problem many parents face with these academic programs, is that they cannot find a good fit, generally due to financial or scheduling constraints. When that’s the case, there are always a few less formal ways to keep your students’ minds active and engaged.
A favorite activity of mine is board or card games which require the use math or reading/writing skills, such as:
Argyle RESIDENT
Monopoly Empire for math Boggle for spelling Scrabble Slam for spelling There are many such games that are not only educational, but also fun family activities. Google for more comprehensive lists. When there isn’t time for a sit-down activity, install a few apps on your tablet or mobile device, such as math or spelling flashcards, Words with Friends , Hanging with Friends , or any number of math, memory, or other puzzle apps and games available today. And if your student’s a little older, feel free to quiz them on other subjects, like their states and capitals, their periodic table, or historical facts and figures! Summer learning doesn’t have to be a drag, but skipping summer retention activities can make starting the new year much more difficult. Make the most of your summer, and get a few steps ahead in the fall! Best of luck to you and your child on keeping an active mind this summer. Follow our blogs online at Bartonvilletx.tutoringcenter.com/blog , and feel free to join in on the discussion on Facebook
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 9
more time listening and meeting people instead
IN BASEBALL, BUSINESS AND LIFE,
of always being too intense about the game.”
Mike Munoz, who spent 12 seasons in the
majors echoed Van Poppel’s sentiment.
“I always tell my guys there are two reasons
to play ball - to make money and have fun,” said Munoz, who is now a pitching coach for younger
T
by Susan Neuhalfen
he Argyle Chamber of Commerce welcomed former Major League Baseball pitchers Todd Van Poppel, Mike Munoz, Argyle Coach Ricky Griffin and Liberty Coach Johnny Isom for a breakfast at the Lantana Golf Club to speak to local business leaders about success on and off the field.
business there aren’t a lot of people that want to do more than earn a paycheck. You do, however, have those who want to win. “If you do have people with that winning mentality, place them in revenue generating positions,” said Munoz. “They will thrive and your business will thrive.” One question from the audience came from a mother of two The retired players were athletes asking how to placed on a panel in keep her kids loving the front of the audience game without burn and asked to answer out. Van Poppel was the same questions the first to answer: pertaining to “In the south we baseball, business play all year round and life. and that’s not good,” All agreed that Van Poppel pointed the same leadership out. “The game values, discipline and has to be fun. Don’t Former MLB pitcher Mike Munoz hard work that athletes worry about them falling put into baseball should be behind by not playing, they’ll put into business, too. Coach Isom catch up.” took it a step further and equated business to Van Poppel also stressed that staying active hitting statistics. through cross training would keep the kids from “Things don’t go well every time you get up to damaging their bodies from overuse. Munoz bat,” said Isom. “Sometimes you aren’t successful agreed and pointed out that the fact that so and same goes for business. That teaches you many athletes are getting surgery as early as life lessons.” high school is proof that we’re pushing them too All agreed that relationships were the most young and their bodies need to rest. important thing when it came to business. Van When asked what advice they would give Poppel went on to say that he’s found if you want to a younger version of themselves, each had a to be successful you can’t make your business different answer. Coach Griffin, who grew up about the bottom dollar, you have to focus on in a much more rural Frisco, said he would tell relationships, not just with clients, but with himself that there is always someone better your employees as well. Coach Griffin took that than you are at what you do. He said that once thought full circle and back to baseball. he got outside of a (then) very rural Frisco, he “To be successful, I have to know my players,” learned that the hard way. He emphasized that said Griffin. “The most important thing is that you should never be content with your best and I want the players to feel they can talk to me.” always push harder. Todd Van Poppel who played in the majors When asked about his transition from the major leagues to business, Munoz discussed the for 14 seasons with several teams including the fact that he had been brainwashed by 12 years in
Texas Rangers, had a different answer.
whether he liked him or not. He’s found that in
down,” said Van Poppel. “I wish I had spent
the big leagues to work with the guy next to him 10 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
“I would tell myself that life is short, slow
players. “I tell them they aren’t making any money yet, so they may as well have fun.”
Everyone on the panel agreed that balance
was the most important thing for them now
and putting Christ first was the key to making everything else work.
Munoz said that in his marriage, baseball
was a tool at first. He would be out of town
for most of the month and when he came back, things would get off scheduled and off sync
for everyone. Putting Christ at that the center of the marriage helped him balance his time management in retirement. Van Poppel made it clear that he put Christ first, family second
and that put everything in perspective for him. Argyle coach Griffin had the same perspective but pointed out that during his days in the majors, it hadn’t always been that way.
“In the mindset of time management, my
‘want tos’ have changed,” said Griffin. “My wife
has made a lot of sacrifices for me. My players
know that Thursday is date night and they’d better hurry up because I’m locking up early.”
Coach Isom pointed out several times in
the conversation that Christ was at the center of his life.
“Whenever I get off balance,” explained Isom.
“I get centered on Christ.”
In the end, all agreed that though their major
league careers gave them great insight, and
they wouldn’t want to trade those memories, but what’s important to them all now (in order of importance) is God, family and then
business. If that business happens to be baseball, that’s even better.
photography by Helen Chouinard Above photo from left to right: Johnny Isom, Mike Munoz, Todd Van Poppel, Ricky Griffin
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 11
Dr. Matt
Catching Dr. Matt is a practicing dentist and owner of Country Lakes Family Dental www.CountryLakesDental.com
O
Rays
nce again, summer is upon us, and as the season beckons with poolside leisure and outdoor recreation, we dutifully apply layers of sunscreen as we catch some rays while, in the dental world, our concern is for another type of rays, namely x-rays. Though the concern is legitimate, the archaic understanding of x-rays may not be as rational as previously presented. With the advent of digital radiology in dentistry, the risks presented from dental x-rays have been significantly reduced. To understand the risk of dental radiographs,
it is best to have some knowledge of how radiation affects the body. First, x-rays produce energy in the form of ionizing radiation that at certain levels is capable of disrupting chemical bonds. On a cellular level, this energy is capable of breaking specifically paired bonds in our DNA such that when reformed incorrectly, can result in the induction of cell mutations, chromosome aberrations, or even cell death.
12 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
Now, the sound of all this may initially
seem alarming, but there are several factors at play when it comes to DNA. DNA itself was
initially thought to be a very stable compound, but the Nobel Prize winners, Tomas Lindahl, Paul Modrich and Aziz Sancar, have shown that
DNA is highly unstable, but is surrounded by a
swarm of proteins that work to monitor, repair,
such as exposure time, frequency, and dose. The low dose and low frequency of exposure from
modern digital x-rays are such that DNA damage
is very unlikely because of the high activity
of DNA repair. As an analogy, the chances of
getting sunburn while walking from the parking lot to your dental appointment is comparable
to damaging your cells while receiving routine dental x-rays. Another analogy I like to use for
larger radiographs like our digital 3D conebeam
x-ray is that the exposure of this x-ray type is similar to the radiation of a plane flight, and
though sometimes concerns are raised about radiation from this diagnostic tool, I have found
that if I offer a patient a free international flight, they rarely ask me about the radiation risks.
Nonetheless, it is still important to consider
risk factors on an individual basis. When taking
into account considerations such as previous radiation exposure, pregnancy, or a past history of
cancer, it is important to always consider limiting x-ray exposure and using barrier devices such as lead aprons.
If you are concerned, have your dentist
and discard damaged DNA.
educate you on the types of equipment available
Damage to cells is dependent on several factors
and happy smiling!
How is this related to dental radiology?
and your own risks. Enjoy those summer rays,
Argyle Boys Golf Claims SECOND-STRAIGHT
Class
4A State Title by Steve Gamel
L
To all of those who have supported these boys all year, our team would like to sincerely thank you for making this possible photo courtesy of Argyle ISD
ast year’s long-awaited state championship clearly wasn’t enough for the Argyle boys golf team. The Eagles made it two in a row on April 26 when they shot a two-day score of 605 – outlasting second place Texarkana Pleasant Grove by nine strokes – to repeat as Class 4A’s best at Onion Creek Club in Austin. It was the program’s fifth consecutive trip to the state tournament. “To all of those who have supported these boys all year, our team would like to sincerely thank you for making this possible,” Argyle coach Brady Bell said in a press release from the school. Bell added, “Another great day to be an Eagle.” The latest golf crown is Argyle High School’s third state title this school year. The volleyball team captured its first crown in November, followed by the girls basketball team in March. Since 2013, Argyle has won state titles in football, girls basketball (2), boys golf (2), volleyball, and baseball. The golf team had previously finished second at state in 2013 and 2014. Last year, the Eagles had a six-stroke lead over Fredericksburg going into the second round and never let up en route to an easy win. This year’s title run was led by Tommy Parker and Alex Isakson, who each shot a 70 on Day 2 for a total score of 145 apiece. Logan Diomede shot a 160, Luke Griggs added a 161 and Will Blake shot a 163. According to the Denton Record-Chronicle, Argyle avoided some controversy when officials overturned a previous decision to disqualify Blake’s second-day score because of a scorecard issue. Bell argued the call, and it was eventually overturned. Regardless, Parker and Isakson’s scores would have been good enough to overcome the disqualification and hand Argyle the state title even if the disqualification had stood. It was a solid performance for the Eagles, who only returned two of their five-man squad from last year’s state title run. Perhaps one of the toughest to replace was then-senior Lance Roden, who shot a 151 at state last year. But the key to Argyle’s success in recent years has been its consistency up and down the lineup. Argyle dominated this year’s Region II golf tournament – its fourth-consecutive regional championship – to clinch a spot at state this year. From there, the Eagles were once again considered the team to beat. Behind Argyle and Pleasant Grove, Decatur finished third at 622 while Monahans rounded out the top four with a team score of 625.
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 13
C.E.S.
COMPLETE EXTERIOR SOLUTIONS
Now Merged Into One
Come Visit Our New Showroom! 972.539.8258 CompleteSolutionsDFW.com 4401 Long Prairie Road, Suite 400 Flower Mound, TX 75028
We appreciate you supporting small business by shopping local.
WINNER
BEST OF DENTON COUNTY
2016 MURRAY MEDIA GROUP
Committed to Community Excellence.
by Susan Neuhalfen
22
veterans per day commit suicide. That is a very real statistic to those suffering from PTSD as well as our wounded warriors. Currently, more veterans are lost to suicide here in the United States than to combat overseas.
In 2004, Marine Michael Jernigan was struck by a roadside bomb while serving in Iraq. He had 45% of his cranium crushed and lost both of his eyes in addition to other injuries. Over 30 major surgeries and sixteen months later, he went home to Florida which he equated to “hitting a brick
16 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
wall.” He knew he needed help and he knew The HCC Fellowship is a 12 week, full-time program. The classes are taught by many SMU others did, too. Jernigan was asked to be in HBO’s Alive Day professors from the Cox School of Business and Memories: Home from Iraq, a documentary the Caruth Center of Entrepreneurship. Political produced by James Gandolfini where he met 3rd leaders, including retired U.S. Army Lieutenant generation Marine Jacob Schick, who was severely Colonel Allen West, serve as mentors for the wounded in Iraq in 2004. Schick introduced program. They must also serve with non-profit him to Andy Nguyen and Judd Rogers, the organizations. Don Nguyen, Deputy Director and brother founders of Honor Courage Commitment, Inc. of Andy, relayed a story of a Marine who came a non-profit organization focused on through the program to start his own veteran empowerment. personal training business. At the same “What I’ve seen is that a lot time he was in the difficult process of of these guys lose their purpose,” VETERANS dealing with disability claims for his said Mark Roy, the Commandant PTSD. By the time he’d graduated the of the Marine Corp. League PER DAY program, he went in a different direction in Denton County as well as a COMMIT and took a job with a medical sales board member of Honor Courage SUICIDE company. Two years later he came back Commitment and #22Kill. “Our job and donated his first disability check is to help them adjust to civilian life and find a to #22Kill. He was at a point where he was new purpose.” financially sound and didn’t need it. Roy, a retired Lt. Colonel in the Marines, “This story exemplifies the post traumatic has been instrumental in sending veterans into growth that we believe every veteran has the the Honor Courage Commitment fellowship potential for,” said Nguyen. “It would have been program which is three part: 1) taking formal easy to sit at home and collect disability checks education classes with college credit; 2) being from the government but he chose to invest mentored and learning to be mentors themselves; in himself.” and 3) serving community service within the The HCC Fellowship is a business and DFW area. entrepreneurship program that requires a
22
veteran’s full commitment. It also requires the funds to help these veterans stay afloat while in the program. It is through Honor Courage Commitment, that the #22Kill initiative was born. #22Kill was created to help raise awareness about veteran suicide and the struggles that veterans face after transitioning from the military to civilian life. Probably the most well-recognized symbol of #22Kill is the Honor Ring. #22Kill Honor Rings are black bands worn on the right index finger, the trigger finger, by veteran advocates or “Battle Buddies”. The black rings symbolize the commitment to all veterans, past and present, and are made of Tungsten or Titanium. The rings may be worn by anyone, it is not just meant for veterans. It is black to “black out” the trigger finger as many suicides happen with guns. As an ambassador of #22Kill, Mark Roy was given a box of rings to distribute for donations to the group. He said it didn’t take him any time to bring back an empty box and ask for another. “I was named the first ambassador for #22Kill,” said Roy, proudly. “I’ll bet I’ve ringed a thousand people.” #22Kill was at the grand opening of Rock and Brews in the Colony earlier in May to “ring”
Kiss members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. Comedian D.L. Hughley, Cuba Gooding, Jr. and Donald Trump are among other celebrities sporting their Honor Rings both on and off camera. All proceeds from the rings and other #22Kill merchandise go to various veteran suicide prevention organizations as well as Honor Courage Commitment. All merchandise is available online at www.22kill.com. Other things that have raised awareness include the #22Kill Push-Up Challenge where people challenge others to do 22 push-ups via video and then donate to a veteran’s charity. On
June 11 #22Kill will host a 22k Hike in Grand Prairie, TX to benefit #22Kill. All participants
must be at least 16 years old and carry an American flag on the hike.
The goal, according to Schick, is to raise
enough money to put 22 people through the
HCC program every 12 weeks and to also
continue to raise money for other veterans
organizations to help these veterans realize their potential. Nguyen agrees.
“Even though the VA labels them as disabled,
they can’t let that define them,” said Nguyen.
Photos courtesy of #22kill, featured below is Paul Stanley & Gene Simmons of KISS receiving their Honor Rings.
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 17
Thank You for Your Service! Golden Eagle Teacher Excellence Award Winners Announced The Argyle School District has announced the 2015-2016 Golden Eagle Teacher Excellence Award winners for each of the four schools in the area: Pam Moore - Hilltop Elementary (1st grade) James McNair - AIS (music) Kimberly McCage - AMS (social studies) Pam Arrington - AHS (business education) Teachers were nominated by students and parents and chosen by a panel of judges. These four teachers will now be interviewed by the judges and the over-all “Lisa M.Z. Teacher of the Year” will be announced in June.
Youngest Astronaut to Walk on Moon Speaks to Liberty Christian Students Astronaut Charlie Duke, the 10th of only 12 Americans to ever walk on the moon, spoke on April 20 to faculty, parents, and all of Liberty’s students about his faith and his travel to the moon and back. The 80-year-old, who was the youngest to ever walk on the moon at 36, presented a slideshow with videos and more than 2,000 pictures he took while on the excursion. “My journey started with a dream,” he said. “Hold on to your dreams.” Duke served as lunar module pilot of Apollo 16, April 16–27, 1972.
Argyle High School Wins Regional UIL Argyle High School won the UIL Region 2-4A academic meet held on Saturday, April 23 at Texas A&M Commerce. AHS is advancing a total of 17 students to the State UIL Meet which will be held May 23-25 at the University of Texas in Austin. Those students will be competing in Number Sense, Calculator, Science, Math, Computer Science, Literary Criticism and Editorial Writing.
Liberty Christian inducts new National Honor Society Members The Liberty Christian National Honor Society held its spring student-led induction on April 12 and welcomed 38 new sophomores, juniors,
18 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
and seniors to the organization. New inductees received a certificate of membership and recited the NHS pledge: “I pledge myself to uphold the high purposes of the National Honor Society to which I have been selected; I will be true to the principles for which it stands; I will be loyal to my school, and will maintain and encourage high standards of scholarship, service, leadership, and character.” Congratulations to the new members of Liberty’s National Honor Society: Tyler Baran, Grace Bridges, Jonathan Clemons, Cole Collins, Sierra Cothes, Cole Croce, Caroline Crow, Audrey Earley, Grace Giddings, Jordan Gledhill, Lily Gresham, Braedon Gunn, Cole Hawkins, Lauren Hunter, Kennedy Irwin, Brittan Jobe, Caroline Joyner, Cameron Keller, Lisa Kim, Kate Kosub, Josiah Liszewski, Bree Lucarelli, Julia Mayhew, Raelee McDonald, Corey McMann, Riley Mears, Avery Portz, Kalli Psaromatis, Elizabeth Reneau, Matthew Reneau, Anna Sitzes, Jacob Taylor, Mitchell Taylor, Morgan Taylor, Sawyer Weed, Courtlyn Wellborn, Kevin Wissink, and Peyton Wohnoutka.
Argyle ISD Superintendent Wright’s Contract Not Renewed The Argyle Board of Trustees has decided not to renew the contract of Superintendent Dr. Telena Wright beyond the two years remaining on her current agreement. As the district is expected to double in size by 2022, the Board believed the schools would be better served by a Superintendent with experience in dealing with the challenges of a fast growth district. “The Board maintains deep admiration and gratitude for our current leadership,” writes Brian Ratcliff, President of AISD Board of Trustees in a statement to the press. “But we also recognize the need to prepare now for a future filled with as many successes as the past two decades - and that will take a new superintendent with the unique experience of managing fast growth and infusing our culture in to a new generation of Eagles.” Wright will continue to lead the district while the Board continues its search for another Superintendent.
We are also entering mosquito season so
MAYOR’S CORNER by Mayor Peggy Krueger
S
pringtime is upon us, and with that said, this time of year brings with it the potential for extreme weather events. If you have not already, I would encourage everyone to sign up for Code Red offered to residents living in the Argyle Fire District. The emergency service district has implemented
the Code Red weather warning system that will inform you of severe weather warnings developing and approaching in your area. The system will
automatically call homes or business located in the direct path of the approaching storm.
remember the four Ds: • Drain standing water in your yard and neighborhood to cut mosquito breeding sites (old tires, flowerpots, and clogged rain gutters) • Dusk and Dawn are the times of day you should try to stay indoors (this is when mosquitoes are most active) • Dress in long sleeves and pants when you’re outside, and spray thin clothing with repellent • Use DEET (diethyltoluamide). It should be an active ingredient to look for in your insect repellent. The Argyle Police Department, along with other various agencies, will be participating in a full-scale exercise for emergency response in Argyle, Texas. This event will be held on Wednesday, June 29, 2016 from 9:00 AM – 12:00PM at the Argyle High School at 191 S US 377. All of our local first responders will test their capabilities to handle a crisis. This drill will involve local and regional agencies from fire, police, EMS to Emergency Management and our local hospitals. Each group will work together in a chaotic crisis environment to improve their capabilities and test their response. The Texas Department of Transportation along with Jacobs Engineering will be holding a public meeting (open house format) on Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at Hilltop Elementary School from 5:00 pm. to 7:00 p.m. to address the proposed improvements
for US 377 between FM 1171 and Crawford Road. We encourage anyone with an interest to attend. The Town Council at their April meeting approved a Master Development Plan (MDP) application as part of our Form Based Code for the Waterbrook development located at the southeast corner of HWY 377 and FM 407. The MDP shows a mix of retail, commercial and 287 single family residential lots within 105.4 acres. There are approximately 23 acres designated for commercial uses that include retail, restaurant, office, and personal services. The MDP shows approximately 191,000 s.f. of useable commercial/retail space, with approximately half of that being designated for a grocery store. The MDP also designates 24.41 acres (23.16%) of open space throughout the development which includes civic spaces, plazas, landscape buffers, and the floodplain/lake areas. As a reminder, the Argyle Police Department will begin active enforcement on the “Hands Free” ordinance beginning Sunday, May 1, 2016. WHEN IN TOWN, PUT IT DOWN! Don’t forget to check out our new web site. I think you are going to love the ease of using. You can sign up for personal emails or texts on everything going on in Argyle. Have a great May! Peggy
Argyle RESIDENT MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 19
ROCKY HAIRE
is the Right Person in Your Corner...
Every Time by Steve Gamel
W
hile looking back on his legal career, Rocky Haire pointed to one instance of gross injustice that not only pushed him into personal injury law, but helped shape how he defended those clients going forward. The incident was quite a few years ago, but he remembers it as if it were yesterday. Haire – then a criminal defense attorney – had just been told about the sad case of a man who was struck and killed by a pickup truck pulling a horse trailer as he walked across the parking lot to the grocery store. It was a freak accident, and a story that tugged at the Argyle resident’s heartstrings even more so when he learned the victim’s wife witnessed it unfold from their nearby vehicle.
20 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
At the wake shortly thereafter, an insurance adjustor showed up with flowers and a check for $15,000.
“But there was a $20,000 policy on the truck, so they were trying to shave $5,000 off and
showed up at a time when she would be most vulnerable,” Haire said. “That really impacted me. I realized these people are
bullies. Some of them are good people, but others are just evil. That pushed me more than anything.”
Haire added, “When I was in law
school, if you had told me I would end
up a personal injury lawyer, I would have
laughed at you. I didn’t think I wanted any
part of that.”
Oh how things change.
Haire eventually opened Haire Law Firm, with
a focus on personal injury and a heart for people who simply
need someone they can trust when life takes an unexpected – and perhaps tragic – turn.
Haire Law Firm has offices in Denton and Dallas – their
Denton location is located off Teasley Ln. and I-35 – and provides
skilled representation to clients and their families seeking fair compensation for injuries caused by the fault of another. Haire
works with countless lawyers on each project, and has spent 18 of the last 20 years tirelessly working personal injury cases.
Examples include everything from 18 wheeler accidents and
automobile accidents to hit and run cases, airplane crashes, slip and falls due to unsafe conditions, and nursing home abuse.
Because of its compassion and Rocky’s dedication to honest,
Christian values, the firm is seen as the leading law firm for personal injury in North Texas.
We can’t stress enough that at the heart of that success is the
belief that every client the Haire Law Firm works with deserves
to be treated with respect and compassion while having someone who is trustworthy, knowledgeable, and knows their way around a courtroom in their corner at all times.
“I always thought personal injury lawyers were cheesy, and I
never wanted to be like that,” Haire said. “They get on TV and tell
Sponsored Content
when in actuality, they don’t know their way around a courtroom.
photography by Scott Young Photography
you how powerful they are and what a great trial lawyer they are,
A lady had been hit by a commercial truck and was paralyzed
I’ve seen it. I’ve tried well over 100 cases and these guys have
maybe done 10. Some are presenting an image that’s not accurate.” Haire proved how different he intended to be with one of his
very first clients.
as a result of her injuries. Haire said the insurance adjustor
offered the lady – who was previously making $6 an hour at her job – $100,000.
For someone who was used to making so little money, Haire
all the power and it’s the little people that end up getting hurt because they haven’t read the back of the Monopoly board. They don’t know if they will be OK financially.” He added, “I’ve always been a fan of the underdog.” To further drive that point home, here are some client testimonials on the Haire Law Firm website: “The staff is so friendly & helpful. I really felt like they cared about me & I was not just a client or a number to them. They made me feel like family.” – C.P. “Mr. Haire wouldn’t put up with their nonsense. Took my case to court and won big time!” – B.G. “The other big firm I tried to hire didn’t call me back. I called Rocky and he was ON IT the same day. Then he totally won my case for me.” – G. Sparks. While he looks imposing – and perhaps a bit cheesy – in his own TV spots, everything Haire says and does he is able to backup with action. He is also still the same Texas-bred guy who prefers to get to know his clients on a personal level while developing strong relationships. He’s also a good family man. He and wife, Andrea, have six kids (Logan, Rodney, Harlan, Jett, Gavin and Langston), the majority of whom go to Liberty Christian School. When Rocky isn’t at work, he’s busy spending time with his family. When Argyle Living reached out to possibly schedule an interview, the first thing he said after hearing “Mr. Haire” two or three times was, “Stop calling me Mr. Haire. Call me Rocky.” Much of that is because of his humble beginnings. Before law school, Rocky was a door-to-door salesman in college and learned quickly that not only did he have a gift for gab, but he could do so with anyone. “I don’t know why, but I am just as comfortable talking to the President of the United States as I am with a homeless man on the street,” Haire said with a laugh. “Some of the neighborhoods we were focusing on when I was in college were lower income neighborhoods. I talked to all of them, and I think they could tell rather quickly that I liked them and didn’t judge them.” Haire parlayed that compassion and street smarts into a successful run through law school. He started off in criminal defense and civil litigation, and even though there wasn’t much money in it at the time, he was doing whatever work was necessary to help others – while still making enough to keep the lights on. “I loved the idea of giving people a second chance,” he said. But it wasn’t until personal injury came along that he truly found his professional calling. And as a result, people from all walks of life continue to trust the Haire Law Firm. Specifically, Rocky. “You have to attract the business because there’s not a lot of personal injury work out there,” Rocky said. “You have to work for it. But bottom line, I just want to do what’s right. My clients trust me. They know I will take care of them and they want me in their corner.”
couldn’t blame the victim for feeling like $100,000 was one heck of a first offer. She almost took the deal, but first ran it by Haire, he said.
“We got her over $6 million,” Haire said. “She didn’t know, and
those are the things I realized. These insurance companies have
To contact Haire Law Firm for your free case evaluation, call 972.394.3000 or visit www.hrj-law.com MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 21
Business Coach
AMAZING Your Customers: First Things
F I R S T I
f you’re a business owner, you’ve undoubtedly been advised to “wow your customers” with off-beat or even gimmicky ideas designed to make doing business with your company memorable. I’m not arguing against finding ways to “wow” customers so that they buy (more) and become the source of testimonials and referrals. But there’s an important first step that cannot be overlooked if you truly want to amaze your customers.
Customers have a variety of expectations that must be met in order for them to be satisfied. The challenge for businesses is that these expectations are both unspoken and spoken.
Let’s cover the unspoken expectations first. Unspoken requirements exist either because the requirement is such a basic aspect of an industry that it falls into the why should I have to point out the obvious? or because customers don’t know how to communicate an expectation that is relevant to a successful transaction. Unspoken requirements typically reflect customers’ desire for convenience, respect and usability. e.g. My hotel room must be clean when I check into it. Customers don’t voice them because they assume that the vendor gets that these are necessary conditions for conducting business with us. A business must meet unspoken expectations without fail, or the dissatisfaction can be intense. However, delivering on spoken needs is where real value is created. These are the aspects of your product or service that customers have told you they expect to receive in exchange for their patronage. More importantly, their satisfaction with your business will increase or decrease proportionately with your ability to deliver on these spoken requirements. Spoken requirements generally align with three basic quality attributes: the amount of time it takes to do something; the absence of defects or rework; and perceived value for the cost. Of course, you have to have a system in place to identify exactly what your customers expect from you in order to measure and manage the quality attributes that are directly linked to increasing customer satisfaction in your business. Doing those kinds of things well is a necessary condition for “wow”-ing customers. Said another way, doing something terrific for your customers that is unexpected or unusual cannot, by itself, overcome lapses in meeting the spoken requirements that represent a far larger body of the customer experience with your business. So do first things first: be exceptional at meeting the spoken and obvious unspoken requirements of your customers. That will carry your business very far. Once you’re confident you can deliver on your brand promise every time without fail, then invest time in amazing your customers with unique touches and demonstrations that they would never think to ask for because they’re already receiving such good value from you. by Art Locke, Focal Point Coaching, ArtLockeCoaching.com
22 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
FIGHTING
INFLAMMATION the Forgotten Ingredient in Heart Disease
For more information contact our Denton or Flower Mound locations: Dr. Steven Mottl Denton Heart Group 940.382.8080 dentonheartgroup.com
D
espite all of the recent advances in medications and treatments, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in this country. In fact, more Americans will die this year of heart disease than ever before. The challenge is predicting who will suffer the deadly heart attack. What can you do to help lower your heart attack risks? Lets take a look at what causes atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, which is the most common cause of heart attacks and stroke. There is a misconception that if the cholesterol level is normal, the risk of a heart attack is low. That is not always true. Cholesterol is only one of the ingredients used by
Sponsored Content
the body to form a plaque on the artery. Really, the process starts with inflammation. Chronic inflammation that lasts for several months causes injury to the arteries. This injury leads to an inflammatory response, similar to what happens with a cut on the skin. As the healing process occurs, cells ingest cholesterol particles that stick to the artery walls, this forms a cholesterol rich plaque. More commonly known as an atherosclerosis. Rupture of these plaques
risk of a heart attack. The focus is on eating fresh plant-based foods, fresh vegetables and fruit. Remember, an avocado a day keeps the doctor away. Eating more white meats and seafood instead of red meat and pork is what leads to heart attacks and stroke. Heart disease requires both cholesterol and inflammation. How does inflammation occur inside the body? There are several conditions that result in higher levels of inflammation, such as skin diseases, joint diseases and intestinal disorders. Diabetes and cigarette smoke also damage the wall of the arteries. For most Americans, food is a major culprit for inflammation. The western diet has lead to higher rates of several diseases such as strokes, cancer, dementia and, of course, heart disease. Particularly red meats, pork products, processed carbohydrates (sugar, flour and all the products made from them), and the excess consumption of omega-6 vegetable oils like soybean, corn and sunflower that are found in many processed foods. The Mediterranean diet is an excellent dietary guide to avoid harmful foods, and, in fact, the Mediterranean diet is one of the few diets that has actually been shown to lower your
lowers body inflammation. Get rid of the butter and use olive and coconut oil. Eat more healthy fats such as nuts and olive oils. Consuming foods that are high in Omega-3 such as fish or fish oil, chia seed and flax seed help balance against the damaging effects from Omega-6. Several other foods have natural anti-inflammatory properties such as ginger and turmeric. Lastly, do not forget about exercise.
30
minutes 5 days per week at an intensity that causes you to breath heavy and break a light sweat. 1 in 5 people will die from a heart attack. Healthy living through diet and exercise will lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. Today is a great day to start!
3333 COLORADO BLVD. • DENTON, TX 76210 • 940.382.8080 Physicians are employees of HealthTexas Provider Network, an affiliate of Baylor Scott & White Health.
Sidelines
by Steve Gamel
Bicyclists Aren’t Bad People, But They Do Need To Move
T
he intent of this column isn’t to upset the masses by any means, but what is up with the hoard of bicyclists in Argyle on Sunday mornings? There must be 10 or 15 of you, and you hog the center of the road and hold up traffic – every time. Yep, I’m part of that growing motorcade of disgruntled drivers behind you on Brush Creek Road. Do you see us, yet? Sometimes, I don’t think you do. My family and I always run late to church on Sundays – which I admit has nothing to do with you bicyclists. It’s totally our fault. But the stress of making it there on time is compounded by the inevitability of being stuck behind you. If we leave with time to spare, we catch you on Brush Creek Road. If we are excruciatingly late, the slowdown instead happens on Crawford Road – both one-lane roads in each direction.
24 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
Each time, there’s really nothing we can do but
stay on our side of the street, and to park in one
Now, I fancy myself as a pretty level-headed
When we stand in line at the movie theater for
sit and wait. Can you feel my frustration?
and rational guy, so I’m not going to be one of those people who gets violently angry. Not once
parking spot instead of hogging two of them. a big premier, we don’t take up the entire lobby.
Even my 9-year-old son says this when we get
have I honked my horn or tried to cut you off.
stuck behind you, “Geez Daddy, how come they
use their bikes on public roads. I understand
kid’s got a point.
I recognize that cyclists do have the right to how this is a wonderful hobby and workout
can ride their bike in the street and I can’t?” The My mother always said not to complain unless
method that I probably should have tried out for
you can add in a solution. Here’s mine, ride in a
this computer.
towns like Argyle, are enticing for bicyclists
perspective’s sake before sitting down in front of I also contend that for the most part, bicyclists
are courteous, safe, and law-abiding citizens. But in appealing to your sensibilities, must you take
straight line. Roads, especially those in smaller because they aren’t as traveled as city streets. But these roads were designed for cars – not bikes.
There’s no need to take up the entire road.
up the entire road?!??!
There’s room for all of us.
including those right here in Argyle – taught us
guys. But you do need to move.
When we took Driver’s Ed, we were taught to
Until next time, I’ll see you on the sidelines.
I mean, in grade school our teachers –
to walk in a single-file line down the hallways.
Bicyclists aren’t bad people. You really aren’t,
Real Estate
The Housing Market to
“Spring Forward” this Year!
by Cassandra Homer, RE/MAX Elite 940.584.0800
This Year is Different! The
demand
for
housing
has
stayed
consistently strong as mortgage rates have remained near historic lows. According to real estate blog, Keeping Current Matters, the
current buyer demand is 3x stronger than it was last year at this time.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR)
recently published a report that said the top 10
O
ur clocks aren’t the only things changing around here! In the majority of the country, the
housing market will soon be “springing forward”. Much like tension in a spring, the inventory shortage in the market is what has been holding the market back.
dates sellers had listed their homes in 2015 all
It seems that many potential sellers believe
that if they wait until spring to sell their homes, that they’re doing what’s in their best
interest and, traditionally, they would have been right…
Buyer demand typically has seasonality to
it. It historically slows down in the winter months,
especially by
Sellers who act quickly and list their homes
now could really benefit from the additional
exposure, before the flood of more buyer competition hits the market in the next few months.
The Take-Away
in
If you are thinking about selling your home in
freezing
estate professional and evaluate the opportunities
those areas of the country
impacted
fell within April, May or June.
temperatures and conditions.
2016, it’s the perfect time to sit down with a real in your market. We’re ready, are you?
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 25
Argyle ISD
NEWS
Photos and news courtesy of Pam Arrington of Argyle ISD
Tennis Sophmore Has Solid Season AHS Sophomore Matt Haynek under the Coaching direction of Coach Lance Gibson has had a solid season. Matt knew he would have to perform his very best in early competitions to qualify for the state tournament. Coach Gibson said, “Matt’s serve was especially strong at the Regional Tournament.” “He has a second serve that’s nearly as difficult to return as his first serve.” Coach Gibson also stated that Matt is extremely competitive during matches, however he also has a calm confidence. Coach Gibson said that Matt is wise beyond his years about finding his opponent’s weaknesses and exploiting them. But said what he enjoys the most about coaching him is his sportsmanship and what a quality person he is. “He never shows up his opponent....he is classy from start to finish, win or lose.” “I’m honored to be his tennis coach and look forward to watching him meet the challenges at state head on.” stated Coach Gibson. Matt Haynek will play in the State Tournament held at Texas A & M University May 16th and 17th. Picture
26 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
below is of Coach Gibson and Matt Haynek. Second Picture is of Matt Serving.
Science Class Appreciate Johnny Stallings Learning Garden Coach Sutton’s Science class at Argyle High School has spent the past month making compost for the Johnny Stallings Learning Garden. His students have been bringing in leftover food scraps, newspaper clippings, pieces of cardboard,
etc. to add to buckets. Their class also added red wiggler worms to the soil. They learned how the worms eat the trash, and produce nutrient rich compost for the garden. On Friday since it was Earth Day, his class decided to celebrate by tending to their compost and appreciating our beautiful planet.
AHS Students Visit Hilltop for P.A.L.S. Program AHS Seniors J.C. Chalk and Hannah Davis visited Hilltop Elementary this morning to visit
with the P.A.L.S. students. The students were very excited about the visit. We are so proud of our AISD students and enjoy seeing them give back to others in our district.
Second Grade Participates in “The Great Mail Race” Mrs. Ryan, a second grade teacher at Hilltop Elementary received a letter from a second grade class in Ashburn, VA a few weeks ago inviting her class to participate in “The Great Mail Race.” Mrs. Ryan shared the letter and information with her second grade team and they all decided it would be a great activity to do as a second grade project. The letters include facts and information about their classrooms, school and state. The idea behind the project is to get schools from all 50 states involved. Each one of Mrs Ryan’s students chose 2 states, so they were able to cover 40 states. Mrs. Ryan stated “The kids really had a blast working on the project and when they delivered the letters to Hilltop Principal Ms. Pels to mail they were so excited.” In Mrs. Ryan’s classroom they have a large US map on the wall so they can start tracking all the different places their letters start coming back from. *I have attached a copy of the instructions for the project that you can pull from - See attached The picture below is of Mrs. Ryan’s Class delivering the letters to Mrs. Pels to be mailed.
A I D E M L A I : SOC
s olved n e e T & ted & Inv
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.
ca
u Get Ed
Sponsored Content
Here are some of the most popular social networking sites used by teenagers:
Google +
Tumblr
SnapChat
Meetme
Ask your teen to show you how these sites are used. Express interest and have them teach you something about social media. This educates you and creates a space to bond with your teen. Please talk to your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
940.455.7200
www.LantanaPediatrics.com
74 McMakin Road, Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226
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.
WINNER
BEST OF DENTON COUNTY
2016 MURRAY MEDIA GROUP
Committed to Community Excellence.
They Keep on Playing Those
MIND GAMES
@ Hilltop by Susan Neuhalfen
O
ne of oldest clubs that is in every yearbook is
joined the club. The seasoned players know the drill
4TH GRADE
divide by groups. First and second grade play each
Silver: Will Hodson
when they enter the cafeteria after school. The students
Gold: Kaiden Miller
other, while the third and fourth graders play against
Bronze: Ryder Simms
those in their same grade. They use chess clocks and
One other award is handed out for the Bonus Point
do their best to get at least two matches under the belt
Winner. Throughout the season, players receive bonus
Three other adults serve as advisors during the
being all-around good people and players. The Bonus
during each practice.
points for being good sports, helping to clean up and
the Chess Club. Back in the day, it was usually
Monday afternoon matches and some graduates
same people who were in the Rocket Science Club. At
tournament time, as it is at the end of April every
in Argyle, Ball believes it is because it gives kids an
Chess Club is not only cool, it’s co-ed.
tournament is played in the standard “Swiss System”
other clubs, teams, and organizations. In an area known
Elementary School is mind-boggling. 68 boys and
with no eliminations. Each player earns one point for
skills and play chess games against each other. That’s
The player with the most points at the end of the five
Hilltop guidance counselor Michael Ball has been
year, here is a list of the first, second and third place
Point Winner this year was 2nd grader Sydney Lessley.
made up of five or six boys, and almost always the
of Hilltop return to help out as well. When it’s
Hilltop Elementary, however, it’s a different story. The
year, things get even more competitive. This two-day
The mere size of the Chess Club at Hilltop
chess tournament format. Players play in every round
girls gather every Monday after school to test their
a win, half a point for a draw and zero points for a loss.
more than 10% of the student body.
rounds is the winner. Of the 68 kids competing this
running the Chess Club for 11 years. When asked
winners by division/grade:
Ball said it’s been that way as long as he can remember.
Gold: Korbin Ogdie
each fall which he also coaches. The thing he enjoys
Ball. “It’s always been well received and we’ve always
Bronze: Cort Williams
as people. He believes there are a lot of life lessons that
Players range from first graders to fourth graders
Gold: Drighten Miller
This year, 15 kids who had never played chess before
Bronze: Jack Shannon
whether the club has always had a lot of participants, “This year’s club is probably the biggest,” points out
had somewhere between 40 and 68 kids playing.”
and Mr. Ball starts off the novice group with lessons.
1ST/2ND GRADE
When asked why he thinks chess is so popular
opportunity to shine in a different way than many for its competitive sports, it’s a game of minds. Most of
the kids involved in chess club are very competitive and intelligent and they enjoy the challenge.
“Chess is intense,” notes Ball. “Anyone who might
try to tell you otherwise, simply doesn’t know very much about chess.”
Several of Ball’s chess prodigies have gone on to do
extremely well in the UIL Chess Puzzle competition
Silver: Ryan Edwards
the most about Chess Club is watching the kids grow
3RD GRADE
can be learned through chess.
Silver: Presley Harper
He recalled a student who was new to Hilltop several
years ago. He was quiet, introverted and had been
through a lot in his young life. When he joined the Chess Club, he joined a group that had been playing for several years and they were strong players. Coming
in as a novice that spring, he worked hard and won the chess tournament. Ball described it as something out of
a movie—a magical finale to his first year. In hindsight, Ball said it served as a significant turning point in his life and a huge boost to his self-esteem.
“For me, teaching those lessons along the way is far
more important than the game itself,” said Ball. “Don’t
get me wrong, I love chess, but there are some things in life that are way more important. Events like that are certainly good reminders of that.”
Mr. Ball also holds Kingdom Chess Camp every
summer. For six years he has held several weekly camps
to help players take their games up a notch or two. Kingdom Chess Camp runs from 9am until noon and
is held at the Argyle United Methodist Church and is
open to students in grades 2-8. Some basic knowledge of chess is desired. All kids attending will receive a camp t-shirt, chess notebook and a hot lunch. Each session will focus on different parts of the game.
Session #1 | June 20-24
Strategies, Tactics, Forks, Pins, Skewers And More
Session #2 | July 11-15
Openings, Ending, Bughouse And More
Session #3 | July 18-22
Tournament Week-Play A Different Tournament Daily
28 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
One Simple Fact Remains:
WE ARE STILL DISTRACTED by Susan Neuhalfen
I
n the split second it takes to look down at one text message while driving, everything could change. The National Safety Council reports that cell phone use while driving leads to 1.6 million crashes each year. 1 out of every four car accidents in the United States is caused by texting and driving.
Four people lost their lives in Argyle a few weeks ago and police suspect distracted driving. Four people; each with parents, each with siblings, each with friends; and two communities of families and friends, devastated. This isn’t a time to place blame. We’ve all done it. That doesn’t mean it won’t happen. It does, however, mean that as a community we need to come together to do what we can to stop it. Argyle had already passed a hands-free law making it illegal for drivers to use a hand-held cellphone or electronic device while driving and many surrounding towns are following suit. Local government is doing its part. Now it’s time to do ours.
Most new cars come with the technology to sync to our phones. We are able to talk, text and listen hands-free without ever taking our eyes off the road. This same technology allows us to check messages in our cars. With a simple verbal command our messages are read and we are able to respond verbally as well. One simple fact remains: WE ARE STILL DISTRACTED. Maybe you haven’t taken your eyes off the road, but your mind is somewhere else. McKanie McNamara is a senior at Arlington High School and knew two of the victims from Champion Cheer, a facility owned by her aunt, Jennifer Graham. After learning of the accident, McKanie worked on a way to channel her emotions toward a more positive goal. She started #textfreefortita as an opportunity to remind folks that distracted driving kills. “I changed the screensaver on my phone so that whenever I look at it, I think twice about using the phone,” she said. “I also use the hashtag #textfortita to remind others.”
phone is preprogrammed with the numbers you need and that you may reach those numbers with a verbal command. 2.
NEVER read or manually text in the car. According to the CDC, 8 people per day are killed and over 1500 injured by texting and driving. “Driving While Intexticated” is now considered more dangerous than driving drunk. Use a hands free device that will read messages to you and verbally reply. Otherwise, don’t answer until you are safely parked.
3.
Lead by example. Got a text while driving? Show the others in the car that you will not be distracted. If the alert bothers them, explain that you don’t text while driving and you don’t believe anyone should. That sets the standard for whomever is riding in your car, including your kids who may be driving already or will be driving one day. It also puts your friends on notice to not do the same when you are riding with them.
’S
EDITOR
PICK 2016
Here are some steps we can take as a community to help put a stop to distracted driving: 1. Make it hard and fast rule not to use the phone unless it’s important. Many people take the time in the car specifically to make calls. If you do have to make calls, make sure the
4.
Put your phone on Do Not Disturb. That way you may focus until you get to your destination.
5.
Let technology be your conscience. There are apps that can keep you from texting while driving and some specifically designed for parents to control their teen’s phone. Cellcontrol, Drive Safe Mode, Live2Txt, TXTShield, Text Limit & AT&T’s Drive are just a few of the apps available to keep your honest. Find one that is right for you.
You can’t control the other driver, but you can control yourself and your phone. Plan ahead and do whatever you need to do to drive distractionfree. There is no text, no email, no Facebook post or Tweet worth a life. Start today changing your driving habits and others will follow.
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 29
Restaurant Review
Easy Street Cafe
ts a E yJ
n n a Gr
Shh! Granny J has a secret.
Food chain restaurants aren’t always the best. Flower Mound and Highland Village now have a lot of breakfast choices but my favorite is at 190 West Main Street in Old Town Lewisville called the Easy Street Cafe. This restaurant is family owned and operated. Grandma is the cook with her grandkids and family members doing all the wait service. It’s like stepping back in time with a very quiet atmosphere and an old-fashioned feeling. They are mostly busy on Sunday morning. Grandma cooks up breakfast any way you like it, just like out on the range. Ask for potatoes with onions—it’s the best! Don’t be timid. Try it! It’s old, but great! Your North Texas Restaurant Critic-signing off.
30 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
972.420.8737
190 W Main St #108 • Lewisville, TX 75057
Fill a Bag of Books for $5 Argyle ISD Libraries will hold its first ever
Donation Book Sale on Saturday, May 21st
from 10 am to 1 pm, which will be held at Hilltop Elementary Cafeteria. This sale features former library books and all funds
2012 when he was just 13 years old.
The day featured guest speakers Emily Jones,
the Texas Rangers Reporter from Fox News as
his bronze palm. Bronze palms are awarded
vs. students basketball game. All proceeds
beyond those required for his Eagle Scout, and
staff then took part in an annual tradition, the staff
Memorial Fund.
Book prices are extremely low, with a special of “Fill
Thank You for Your Service!
a Bag with Books for $5”. Everyone is welcome.
AHS Graduate Selected for Elite Race Argyle
High
School
Troop 771 Rank Advancements Announced at Court of Honor
Boy Scout Troop 771 celebrated the
Kelsey
Landrum has been nominated to participate in a 15 hour race around Mont Blanc. Out of over 56,000 runners worldwide, Kelsey has been
chosen as one of the 50 finalists and, if selected, she will have the opportunity to represent both
accomplishments of the entire troop and
advanced two boys to the rank of first class and four boys to the rank of second class.
Scouts who earned their second class rank
advancement
include
Alex
when a scout earns five additional merit badges successfully demonstrates scout spirit, leadership and stays actively involved in his troop for three months after becoming an Eagle Scout.
In its May Court of Honor,
graduate
Dawson Fuller, an Eagle Scout, also received
well as radio personality George Dunham. The
raised money for the Alex Betzhold
will benefit Argyle ISD Libraries.
Those who earned the rank of first class
include Jared Pavlica and Gabriel Graves.
Gomez,
Jack
Williams, Gabriel Graves and David O’Neal.
Argyletx.com Up and Running The new Arygletx.com user friendly website is
open for business. Now users may create a login for the site or use their Facebook profile to log
in. From there they may choose the modules, features and keywords that they’d like to see
most often, including calendars, news items and
emergency alerts. They can also create posts on
site or sign up for email updates. Argyle residents are encouraged to log in and personalize www. argyletx.com for their use.
North and South America. The competition
is now up to a public vote and the top three
candidates from the Americas will be chosen. Voting may be done online at http://races.asics. com/us/en-us/beatthesun/vote and people may vote once per day.
Voting continues through May 20.
Argyle Sets a Knock Out Record Argyle ISD had over 400 students from
Argyle Schools, along with parents and
community members, participate in a “Knock Out” game held on May 6th in an attempt to set a world record. They wanted to beat the
Dallas Mavericks’ Guinness Book World Record
but fell short of the 702 participants. They did, however, beat Recordsetter.com’s record and
vowed to try again next year. The 3 on 3 game
took place at the new outdoor basketball court built and dedicated in memory of Argyle student Alex Betzhold at Argyle High School.
“What great meaning we take from seeing
the joy that this court will bring to many in our
community,” said Mary Betzhold, who lost her son Alex to an undiagnosed heart condition in
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 31
Gardening
Top SUMMER PLANTS to Update Your Garden Beds with
W
by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions
arm air and rain, cold air and wind, tornadoes and sunshine……. it’s that time of year again where things are day-to-day and you never know what tomorrow’s weather has in store. We do hope everyone is staying safe and getting out to enjoy the sunshine in between. It seems our landscape season is in full swing already, with the lack of that last cold snap, everyone has decided to go ahead and get things in the ground. Most of our summer annuals have started to come in and are looking great along with native grasses, perennials and other Summer selections. Check out our 2016 Top 10 Summer Plant List as you’re getting ready to update the beds in the next few weeks and let us know if you have any questions. • Green Cloud Sage: Great summer selection, very low maintenance, heat tolerant and
32 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
stays fuller than other varieties (not as leggy) • Red Yucca: Great native selection has good character, very low maintenance • Salvia: Does well year around, good color comes back year after year • Penta: Outstanding option for a north Texas annual, good color and very heat tolerant. • Muley Grass: Good texture, native to the area, great movement and color. • Agave: Great focal point, heat tolerant, all-around good character planting. • Abelia: Good color, heat tolerant, low growing option. • Dwarf Fountain Grass: Great frontline option, works well around rock or annual plantings, great movement. • Loropetalum (Diamond): Great contrast planting, pretty low maintenance once established.
• Savanna Holly: Good option when you’re looking for some height, heat tolerant, low maintenance. If you stick with things that are local/native to our area you will have a lot less stress when it heats up this summer and should notice a decrease in your irrigation bill at the same time. As always, if you’re looking to hire your work out give the local guys a shot first and remember to check their portfolio to ensure they can deliver on what’s being promised. As the saying goes: “You get what you pay for and if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
CUSTODY
IN TEXAS by Charla Bradshaw, KoonsFuller Family Law
O
Sponsored Content
ver the last thirty-five years, what is commonly referred to as “custody” has evolved into the creation of what is now called “Joint Managing Conservatorship”. Joint managing conservatorship was created in 1979 and was further improved and specified in 1987. It means that some, or all, of the primary rights to a child may be shared by the parents. There is also a presumption in Texas that joint managing conservatorship is in the best interest of the child.
The most important and sought after right is the right to establish a child’s residence, the parent with this right is commonly referred to as the “primary parent”. When a judge or jury decides which parent will be the primary parent, the court must also decide whether to restrict the child’s residence to a geographical area, and if so, identify the geographical area. Interestingly, a court can only restrict a child’s residence, not a parent’s residence. Parents can also agree that neither parent will be the primary parent. If this is the circumstance, the parents must designate a general area for the child’s residence and determine which school the child will attend. The Texas Education Code allows a child to attend a school in the district in which either parent resides. However, the parents must decide which parent (or both) will live in the designated geographic area. If parents cannot agree on who will be the primary parent, the courts will often appoint a third party professional to perform a custody evaluation. The custody evaluator must have certain credentials and form a written report at the end of the evaluation since they are making a recommendation to the court on which parent should be the primary parent. The evaluator may also render recommendations as to the visitation schedule, amongst other things, or even order a psychological evaluation of one or both parents. Custody evaluations and psychological
evaluations can be expensive, however, they can also aid the court in making decisions. In addition to the issue of the primary parent, there are other important parental rights and issues that must be dealt with as follows: 1.
The right to consent to medical, dental, and surgical treatment involving invasive procedures.
2.
The right to consent to psychiatric and psychological treatment.
3.
The right to receive child support.
4.
The right to make decisions concerning the child’s education.
5.
The possession schedule for each parent.
A common area of disagreement is over the medical rights of the child. For example, the parents must decide how they will handle the right to consent to invasive medical procedure decisions, and to psychological and psychiatric decisions. Parents will sometimes even agree to name tie-breakers for these decisions should they be unable to agree themselves, such as the child’s primary care physician. The same is also true for educational decisions. Overall, the best thing parents can do for their child is reach an agreement. Parental decisions that are best for a child can be painful decisions for the parents but often necessary. After twenty-three years of practicing family law, I have seen many parents who were able to put their child first, even when it meant making such painful decisions... I admire all of them for stepping up and doing right by their child.
www.koonsfuller.com Southlake
181 Grand Avenue Suite 225 Southlake, TX 76092 (817) 481.2710 (817) 481.2637 fax
Denton
320 West Eagle Dr. Suite 200 Denton, TX 76201 (940) 442.6677 (940) 442.6671 fax
Principal Office in Dallas
Starting from left to right: Ella Stoops, Morgan Bradford and Karlie Hetner
Hitting the Bullseye Builds Confidence for Kids at Hilltop photo courtesy of Sharon Bradford On the left: Morgan Bradford recieves her trophy from Burnie Kessner, Archery Coordinator at Texas Parks & Wildlife Department “The thing about archery is that while you’re part of a team, you’re really working to beat your last score,” she said. “The minute those kids hit the target, it builds self-esteem.” As both Coach and Physical Education teacher, Coach Wittmis has headed up the Hilltop Archery program for the past five years, which has grown from roughly 40 to now over 120 kids. Archers start as early as Kindergarten and go through the 5th grade under Wittmis’ guidance, some making it all the way to the national competition in Louisville, Kentucky. Witmiss starts the kids by teaching archery during physical education class using the National Archery in Schools Program (NASP) which is the standard used for tournaments. However, Witmiss stresses that the more competitive archery program happens after school. In the after school program, kids sign up just like any other sport. They practice three days a week at Argyle Intermediate School from October until the national competition in May. They adhere to the NASP rules so that the kids are well disciplined to the program. There is never any running around or messing around. “Safety first” is the catch phrase heard the most around practice. However, Coach Witmiss never misses a chance to make it fun. During some practices they hit balloons, or dollar bills (first one to hit the dollar bill, keeps it) just to make it fun. Because of the sheer number of kids, Witmiss has
by Susan Neuhalfen
A
rchery is one of the few sports that may be classified as an individual sport as well as a team sport. On one hand, a player is competing against other individuals as well as trying to best his or her last score. On another hand, this same player may be competing as part of a team against other teams. Either way, it’s a sport unlike any other and no one knows that better than Hilltop Elementary’s archery coach, Joan Wittmus. four other parents BAI certified (Basic Archery Instruction) to help.
“It really took off about the third year,” said
Witmiss. “But the growth isn’t just here, it’s like that all over.”
In fact, the state tournament has a virtual
tournament in December to qualify teams to
compete in Belton in the spring. After the virtual elimination, the state has over 2,000 archers
competing while the national tournament hosts close to 12,000.
At this year’s state tournament, Hilltop had 68 kids competing
“I don’t just teach archery, I help these kids to develop confidence.”
34 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
and one of the teams placed 2nd in the state. The top 12 scorers will now go to
the national competition in
Louisville. The
12
students are comprised of
the top 4 boys, top 4 girls
and the other competitors
in order of top scores. Morgan
Bradford placed 3rd at state and will
be competing in the nationals. Her mother
signed her up in the first grade just to give her something to do after school.
“The first time she shot, she shot straight
into the floor,” said Sharon Bradford about her daughter in the first grade. “I signed her up for
archery and the better she shot the more I saw her confidence build.”
Pam Hetner signed her daughter Karlie up for
the same reasons. Now Karlie will also compete at the national competition.
“She’s had an up and down year but coach really helped her relax and have fun,” said Hetner. “No matter what, she never wanted to quit, she just loves Coach Witmiss.” One thing all the parents and kids can agree on, is that Coach Witmiss is one incredible and inspirational coach. “Coach Witmiss creates a team atmosphere,” said Sharon Bradford. “It’s a supportive environment, no best this or top that. It’s all about cheering each other on.” George Varrallo, grandfather to 4th grader Ben Nichols says that the coach’s influence has been great for his grandson. “She does great with these kids showing them sportsmanship,” says Varrallo, who is excited about his road trip to Louisville with Ben. “He loves being part of a team and he’ll cheer his team on every time.” As for the coach’s feelings about going to the nationals, she says she thinks their chances are better than ever. She also says she couldn’t ask for a better group of kids. “This is the most qualified team we’ve had compete to date,” says Witmiss about the 12 students going to the national tournament. “We have some top shooters that are on a whole different level this year.” Witmiss talked about one 5th grader who has been training very hard this season. She said he wasn’t one to show a lot of emotion, but after his latest practice he shot (as they say) “all bananas” meaning in the yellow on the target. Coach said he was grinning ear to ear. “I don’t just teach archery, I help these kids to develop confidence,” says Witmiss proudly. “When I see those smiles, it makes it all worthwhile.”
Suit Guy:
Style by Jonny Willingham, Your Suit Guy 903.372.1428
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.
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.
But that doesn’t mean men should let down his garment
guard. What a guy wears says a lot about him, from his self confidence to his 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 guys needs in their closet:
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
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
skin tone.
great
with
any
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.
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 35
Argyle Middle Schooler is
RAISING THE BAR in Pole Vaulting by Susan Neuhalfen
Y
ou’re never too young to set goals—just ask Argyle Middle School pole vaulter Caleb Murdock. Caleb saw an example of a goal setting page from former Argyle High School track star Spencer McCloud that his mother posted on Facebook and decided he needed to write his own goal sheet as he started his first year of pole vaulting. Not only did it help him achieve his personal best, it helped him set a few records along the way. “He wrote down his goals at the beginning
of the season and he reached every goal on his sheet,” said his mother LaRhonda Murdock
who had shown him the Facebook post. “He even made a second goal sheet just for the district meet.”
Caleb with Coach Tommy Ledford photos by LaRhonda Murdock Caleb was already a well-rounded athlete,
playing football, wrestling and golf, when he
decided to follow in the family footsteps and try pole vaulting this year. His father was also
a well-rounded athlete, holding high school 36 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
records in football and golf but when it came to going to college, he was offered a scholarship for pole vaulting. His father, Caleb’s grandfather, was also a pole vaulter. Caleb was a natural. He had a few pole vaulting lessons two or three years ago but he wasn’t able to clear the bar. When he started under the supervision of Coach Tommy Ledford at Argyle, he had never competed nor had he had any experience except for those few lessons years ago.
Coach Ledford suggested the Murdocks
get outside instruction and Caleb has not only enjoyed it, he has benefitted greatly from it.
“He made it look easy from the first day,”
remembered Coach Ledford. “He had a higher jump than the 8th grade district champion.”
In the 2016 Track and Field District Meet at
Bull Memorial Stadium in Bridgeport, he took 1st place in Pole Vault and set a new personal record clearing 10’6.
That won him a gold
medal for UIL. He also reached his personal
best by jumping 11 feet though because it wasn’t recorded, it won’t be in the books just yet.
Caleb’s next goal sheet will be to qualify for
the Junior Olympics this summer in Humble, TX. Coach Ledford is confident that he will do well. However, other qualifying meets such as
the TAAF Summer Games of Texas fall during other sports such as football camp, and he’s not
quite ready to give up his starting position. Either way, Caleb and his parents look at this as a great learning experience and will remain that way.
“We don’t want to pigeonhole him into
one sport at 13 so we’re letting him make his
choices,” explained his mother. “ We don’t believe
in losing. You’re either winning or your learning.”
Argyle
Honored GIRLS COACH SKIP TOWNSEND
by UIL
T
he accolades keep rolling in for Argyle girls basketball coach Skip Townsend.
Townsend, who led the Lady Eagles to their
second straight state title in March, was one of 15 people to earn the University Interscholastic
League’s Sponsor Excellence Award in April.
photography by Greg Royar
Winners were selected for their contributions in the areas of athletics, academics, and music.
by Steve Gamel
“I feel that competition and athletics play an important role in the educational setting,” Townsend said in a press release provided by Argyle High School. “It teaches life lessons about success, failure, winning, losing and how to have the character to handle both.” Townsend is not one to seek the limelight, but his success over the last 43 years – 36 of which he has spent as a girls basketball coach – is hard to overlook. Townsend won his eighth state title, and second at Argyle, this year when Argyle topped Waco La Vega. According to the school’s press release, he has coached 15 all-state players, three high school All-Americans, and three players who went on to become professional athletes. He was tabbed as coach of the year by the Denton Record-Chronicle and, in March, was given the same award among 4A coaches by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches. Townsend was also named the 1A-4A coach of the year by the Texas Girls Coaches Association. The latest award only adds to that trophy case. Other winners of this year’s UIL award were: Kenneth Brown (Boys Ranch) Jill Wilkinson (Midway) Mark McGahey (Keller) Margo Reeder (Ballinger) D’Lyn Morris (Lockney) Susan Mathews (Magnolia) Jennifer Adams (Big Spring) JJ Jonas (Salado) Roumaldo Guerrero (La Feria) Amanda Drinkwater (Flower Mound) Bryan Buffaloe (Houston Clear Lake) Cindy Callaham (Ropesville Ropes) Anna Coppedge (Canton) Blake Sandford (Early) Per the press release, each of the 15 winners received $1,000 and a symbolic memento from the UIL in recognition for their efforts. MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 37
Black Diamond
Affair
photo courtesy of Susan Piel
A NIGHT AT THE RANCH
Argyle ISD supporters gathered at the Circle R Ranch on April 16 to support the Argyle Education Foundation’s Fund a Teacher campaign. The 11th annual Black Diamond Affair—A Night at the Ranch, presented by iTeach Texas—was a roaring success. Nearly 350 were in attendance at the event which included an auction and dinner followed by music by George Dunham & the Bird Dogs along with Craig McDaniel. There were armadillo races and rollo roper contests as well as a mechanical bull for guests to ride. Robert Burns, outgoing AEF Board President, was honored with the Adele Foster Award, for his many years of service and dedication to AEF and AISD. Judson Clark, AEF Vice President, Development, reported that over $220,000 was raised to support the initiative to hire “above and beyond” teachers, while final numbers are expected to be higher. Two years ago, the Argyle Education Foundation started the Fund a Teacher campaign, to help fund those “above and beyond” staff opportunities. It allows the district to hire teachers and staff that are above and beyond what is state mandated. It would also allow for additional subjects to be taught at any of the Argyle schools. The final goal is to raise $240,000 to fund four teachers in 2016-2017. For more information, please visit www.SupportArgyleISD.org.
photo courtesy of Gina Bunnell
photo courtesy of Mickie Hirschhorn
photo courtesy of Jennifer Pakebusch
photo courtesy of Laura Chaney
photo courtesy of Gina Bunnell
photo courtesy of Jennifer Homeyer
photo courtesy of Gina Bunnell
38 | ARGYLE LIVING | MAY 2016
photo courtesy of Marla Hawkesworth
photos courtesy of Julie Farris
MAY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 39