MAY 15, 2020 - JUNE 19, 2020 Home & Garden Issue
LOW-COST, COMPASSIONATE
SOLUTIONS for
Animal Welfare Direct Mailed to the Following Areas:
Argyle - Canyon Falls - Harvest - Robson Ranch
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ArgyleLivingMagazine.com
Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray
Administration
Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran
Writers & Editor Steve Gamel Brooke Ezzo
Advertising
Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com
Production
Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene
Photography
Your Candid Memories 469.583.2819 yourcandidmemories.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 www.murray-media.com Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 argyle Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Some articles
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information that has been misrepresented
Get Outside And Work
ON THE GARdEN N o matter where we turn, restrictions are being placed on us. We shouldn’t stand within six feet of each other. We can’t be in a waiting room or restaurant with more than 10 people. Until recently, we couldn’t go to the hair salon or pump out a few reps at the gym. I’m not suggesting any of those restrictions are wrong. In an era that none of us — including our government — has ever experienced before, we should be careful until this nasty coronavirus is behind us. Not just four ourselves, but for our friends, family, and neighbors. But as the calendar flips to May and then June and July, one thing that we all can stand to do more of is get out in the garden. Mow the lawn. Plant some pretty flowers. Clean some of the excess garbage out from below the shrubs!
and lawn maintenance, but I can tell
I bring this up because gardening, at its core, is something that can be very soothing to us emotionally and spiritually during these crazy times we live in — and now is as good a time as any to appreciate everything that gardening gives us. As we wrote in one article, gardening is relaxing and can be very therapeutic. And if we do it right, it can turn any space into something beautiful and functional.
restrictions to get used to.
I can’t say that I’m the world’s leading authority on gardening
you that getting out there with Scott
and the kids — or even by myself — has helped me recenter and focus on controlling what I can control.
The rest, as they say, will take care of itself — albeit with a few more
Here are a few inspirational quotes
about gardening and life. And thank you for reading our latest issue!
“Gardening adds years to your life and life to your years.” — unknown author “Flowers are restful to look at.
They have neither emotions nor conflicts.” — Sigmund Freud
“God Almighty first planted a garden. And indeed, it is the purest of human pleasures.” — Francis Bacon
to the magazine. Advertisers and its
agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may
be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2020 Murray Media Group
4 | ARGYLE LIVING
| May 2020
Sincerely, Kelly Murray Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com
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HOmE &
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
GARdEN IssUE
LOOK FOR THE ICON
ASK THE EXPERTS On the Cover is 2 team members from Texas Coalition for Animal Protection
19
Gardening with Complete solutions
25
dentistry with Country Lakes Family dental
37
Travel with Terri Guthrie
SPONSORED SENIORS 26
The Real Estate station
29
Turner Massey Realty
33
The shops at Highland Village
FEATURED ARTICLE
20 Low Cost, Compassionate solutions For Animal Welfare
ARTICLES 06
Living In Isolation
08
Garden Trends For 2020
11
Cloth Face Coverings For Children during COVId-19
14
Inside Community and Education
16
Foodie Friday dFW: seven Mile Cafe
22
Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree
EDITOR’S PICK
12 Local Resident Answering The Call www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com
34
Argyle Business Association
38
Grieve End Of spring sports season May 2020
| ARGYLE LIVING | 5
Living In
ISOLATION by Jean Eisenmann | photo courtesy of Jean Eisenmann
W
e Texans are a social bunch. It’s in our DNA to mix and mingle, gather and party, and use any excuse to have a good ol’ time...together. When differing circumstances – from measles to a veritable pandemic – arise that force us to isolate ourselves from socialization we don’t fare too well. I’m just one example.
to do things to myself that I haven’t done
since college. Like pedicures. You thought I was going to say something else, didn’t you?
My fingernails have whittled down to
uneven stubs, so I have a better chance
of picking up a paper clip with my teeth. Now I can relate to how a declawed cat
feels. So I visited the nail care section of a drug store, thinking I would try some
press-on nails that were already painted
and ready for some paper clip action. The shelves were nearly empty, so everybody
had the same brilliant idea that they stole from me. I had my choice between devil red or silver with each nail covered in
rhinestones. I decided that I really don’t have an immediate need to use paper clips just now, but I’m thinking about adopting a cat. Toilet Paper
Shopping Before the Covid-19 pandemic
Aisle 15), and all those foot-long loaves of
found an excuse to shop. Nearly every day.
soft and warm within – made me salivate.
wiped. Counting out squares of the stuff
my mouth. It’ll come out in the wash.
And then there’s the tug of war game,
I was one of those women who always
Just the veritable smell of a retail store
was uplifting; a mix of shoe suede, purse
leather, fabrics, and female bonding. Why can’t they come out with an air freshener comparable to that? Who needs that
vanilla cookie scent? ...Okay, there’s room for both. The female bonding between
shoppers over a pair of ‘new arrival’ shoes was my nourishment. Now I’m starving. Speaking of starving....
tanned bread – crusty on the outside but
The toilet tissue shortage has left me
Thank goodness for the bandana covering
has become a pastime. It used to be golf.
Leaving the House I placed my keys in a bell jar by the front door to keep them from getting dusty.
Sometimes I get into my car that’s parked in the garage, sit in the driver’s seat and just start the engine. Vroom Vroom,
I’m tooling along, deciding in my mind
Eating In
where to stop first. A grocery store is not
I don’t know about you, but during these
of those lately. It’s so low on my travel
days of isolation I’m eating my feelings. Did you know there are 25 varieties of Oreos? I’m on number 11. For three
years I had all but given up bread, rice and potatoes and ate pretty healthy.
A pandemic hits and I’m on a feeding
frenzy. Normally I’m not a dessert lover, but apparently during social isolation I
become a sweets Floozie. Good to know.
foremost on my list. I’ve seen enough
agenda that it’s listed after Blockbuster, and they’re not even around anymore.
when the family is down to one role and the house has three bathrooms. Can I
count that as a workout? I fantasize about the emotional reunion once my arms
wrap around my chosen TP. Like the blue
bears in the commercial I envision myself caressing the roll, sighing contentedly
over the softness as soothing music plays. Is this the same stuff I used to throw onto the back seat, tear open once home
and shove into the cabinet under the bathroom sink?
The other day, while in the middle of my
This isolation period will pass, and
this same game. With my father’s car when
learned. I will continue to be high
“travels,” I remembered that I used to play
hopefully we all will emerge with lessons
I was 12!
maintenance, shop ‘til I drop, love (but
Physical Maintenance
life’s pleasures is dining out with friends.
refrain from) junk food, and believe one of
Okay, some say I’m high maintenance.
But the new part of me will have a much
on your body either plucked, trimmed,
smallest things that I used to take for
every other week? These days I’m forced
longer covet toilet paper.
The key items visible from all directions
What’s wrong with having something
deeper sense of gratitude for even the
friends from Frito-Lay missed me all these
colored, glued, waxed or polished about
granted...with one exception. I will no
in a grocery store are junk food. My old
years (I swear I heard them call me from 6 | ARGYLE LIVING
| May 2020
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May 2020
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Home & Garden Article
GARdEN
TRENdS FOR 2020
8 | ARGYLE LIVING
| May 2020
by Brooke Ezzo
www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com
P
eople have been gardening since the beginning of time. For some parts of the country, it is how they make their living. For other parts, it is a sustainable way of living. Gardening can be very therapeutic as well as pleasing to the eye. It can turn any space into something beautiful and functional. This year has turned out to be a very eyeopening experience for us all. We have witnessed businesses closing and the comfort of convenience interrupted. The supply and demand scale for certain items has been thrown off, and many people have retreated to learning how to grow and make household necessities themselves. The lack of certain foods in the grocery stores and practicing social distancing has led many people to start their own home gardens. If you don’t have a green thumb but want one, here are some easy gardening trends for 2020 to get you started. verTiCAL GArdeninG
Herbs are something everyone loves to have on hand. Fresh basil, cilantro, parsley, and mint can easily been grown using vertical gardening. Growing plants and produce vertically also reduces the carbon footprint, improving the quality of air. This type of gardening can maximize space. Create an herb garden in your kitchen, a lettuce tower on your patio, or construct wood planters on your back fence. The sky is literally the limit when it comes to vertical gardening. COMPOSTinG Instead of having to go out and buy gardening soil from the stores, starting your own compost is free and comes with many benefits. When you compost wasted food and other organics, you are basically eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers. Composting enriches your backyard soil, encourages the production of beneficial bacteria and fungi, and
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absorbs water. Giving your garden a steady source of moisture and nutrients. rePUrPOSinG With the slow reopening of our communities and businesses, finding ways to repurpose household items in your garden saves time and money. Plus, repurposing never goes out of style. Some ideas are classic like pails and wooden crates, and some can be more creative. Old drawers can be constructed into a 3-tier flower tower, a chandelier could be painted and hung on a patio for flowing plants, or an old picture frame could be used for succulents and vertical gardening. It’s a nice combination: spring cleaning and purposeful gardening. GArden TO TABLe Many of us love and live by this term. So why not take this season to ensure that some of your favorites are coming from your own backyard. The growing season is not over yet. There is plenty of time to
put some seeds in the ground or in your vertical planters. To round out the end of May, some great produce to plant now includes black-eyed peas, cantaloupe, cucumber, eggplant, green beans, lima beans, okra, peppers, pumpkin, sweet corn, sweet potato, squash, and watermelon. Peppers, okra, and squash tend to grow like crazy in North Texas, and don’t forget most of your produce can be canned or frozen for later use. There is a lot of value in learning basics of backyard gardening and planting foods that can sustain us. As we have witnessed the last few months, there isn’t always a guarantee that what we need, when we need it, will be in the stores. There is a peace that comes with gardening and growing your own food, and we hope you find it!
To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow. -Audrey Hepburn May 2020
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10 | ARGYLE LIVING
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ace F h t Clo
Coverings
For
CHILdREN duRING
COVId-19
There is a “right way” to wear a cloth face covering? Place the cloth face covering securely over the nose and mouth and stretch it from ear to ear. Remember to wash your hands before and after you L A u T wear it and avoid touching IR V VISITS it once it’s on your face. LE AVAILAB When back inside, avoid R CALL FO touching the front of the dETAILS face covering by taking it off from behind. Cloth face coverings should not be worn when eating or drinking and wash the cloth face coverings after each wearing.
by Dr. Rebecca Butler, Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics
T
he CDC now recommends cloth face coverings be used when in public places. Recommendations change daily as we learn more and more about how this virus behaves and spreads throughout our communities.
When do children need to wear cloth face coverings? Children under the age of 2 years old should not wear cloth face coverings. Children should wear cloth face coverings in areas they cannot avoid coming within six feet of people (i.e. doctors’ offices, pharmacy, grocery store, etc) However, there are other places where children do NOT need to wear a cloth face covering: •
•
At home, assuming they have not been exposed to anyone with COVID-19. Outside, as long as they can stay at least 6 feet away from others and
can avoid touching surfaces like tables, water fountains, playground equipment, or other things that infected people might have touched.
DO NOT forget to address fears in your children. Children who are old enough to follow the news may be afraid, for example, that they or their parents are going to die. Talk with children about any fears they have or frightening news they have heard. Remember to take a breath. Reach out to others for help if possible. When feeling overwhelmed or stressed out, try to take just a few seconds to answer these questions for yourself:
Is your child scared of wearing a face covering? Here are some ideas:
•
Does the problem represent an immediate danger?
Look in the mirror with the face coverings on and talk about it.
•
How will I feel about this problem tomorrow?
•
Put a cloth face covering on a favorite stuffed animal.
•
Is this situation permanent?
•
Decorate them so they’re more personalized and fun.
•
Show your child pictures of other children wearing them.
•
Practice wearing the face covering at home to help your child get used to it.
Stay safe, maintain sanity, and reduce stress for yourself and your children as often as possible. This unfortunate situation is new and scary for all of us. Try implementing several different coping mechanisms to find what works well for you and your family to keep everyone happy and healthy both mentally and physically.
940.455.7200 | www.LantanaPediatrics.com
74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226
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Local Resident
ANSWERING THE CALL by Brooke Ezzo
courtesy of dida Finch
A
fter receiving a phone call from her oldest daughter about the lack of masks at the hospital where she worked due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Dida started her research and hit the ground running. Harvest resident Dida Finch is a self-taught seamstress. A few years back, she wanted to make Dorothy and Toto costumes, so she sat down and taught herself how to sew. Now, she does embroidery and alterations and has her own T-shirt business.
One way she learned her craft was by
started receiving large orders. She has
to make the pattern, and then sewing it
departments, post offices, doctor offices,
deconstructing a scrub cap, learning how back together. She has been making scrub caps for her daughter, Adair, and those in the medical field for a few months now.
This superpower has come in handy since
the day Adair called and asked if her mom could sew masks.
“I reached out to several hospitals and
doctor offices to talk through what was
Dida’s Quick Action to Answer Her Daughter’s Call Started a Domino Effect needed and what the CDC said was going to be okay,” Dida said. “Then I formulated
what mask, based on those specifications, was going to work and started sewing.” Dida said she has been nonstop ever
since. Once word was out that she was making masks, she almost instantly 12 | ARGYLE LIVING
| May 2020
been donating masks to local police and essential workers.
“We have made donations to the
Children’s Hospital, non-profits, and Meals on Wheels,” Dida said. “We have had a
lot of nursing homes and rehabilitation centers reach out to us, as well.”
With the amount of orders coming in, Dida was going to need help. Luckily, a few
neighbors had reached out to see how they
could assist her. One neighbor came up with the idea to start a Facebook group to keep messages and orders all in one place. And the Harvest Mask Makers began.
Dida’s quick action to answer her
daughter’s call started a domino effect of
others wanting to get involved. Within the Harvest Mask Makers group, they have
groups sewing masks in Denton, Flower
Mound, Coppell, and Colleyville. It is like a large assembly line.
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“We have people running to get masks,
people are cutting, people are sewing, and people are dropping off materials,” Dida
said. “I have kits of 10 for people to pick up to sew and materials for others to cut.”
The masks being made for frontline and
essential workers are sewn together using
100% cotton. They have two layers, and one
layer open for a filter. They can be put on by elastic bands or tied around the head.
The involvement from the community
has been a huge help and very humbling at the same time. Dida said it isn’t just
her generation that has stepped up but
Selflessly Donating Masks, and as of Early May, The Group Has Made Over 8,600 Masks! teenagers who are also recognizing the need and lending a helping hand.
Dida’s teenage daughter, Reigha, and
several others sew about 50 masks a day.
She said it’s incredible to see selflessness from everyone involved.
“Our country is going through this
devastating time, but it’s about more than just one person,” Dida said. “I feel like we
have become desensitized, and we forget how these rising numbers really affect our communities, our churches, and states.” Dida said that for her, it is about helping
someone and keeping others healthy. She
believes her neighborhood, Harvest, is like
a huge family. And the sense of community has been heightened even more.
“Hopefully this causes the country to get closer,” Dida said. “Hopefully, it brings people together to help others.”
The Harvest Mask Makers are selflessly
donating masks, and as of early May, the group has made over 8,600 masks!
If you would like to donate, or learn how to make a mask, visit www.Facebook. com/CDFinch4.
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May 2020
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Inside Community DONATING TO MISSION MOMS
Mon.-Fri. in May | 4 - 6pm Harpool Middle School GYM 9601 Stacee Ln. • Lantana, TX 76226 Mission Moms is continuing to serve Denton County local children by providing meals every Saturday. To help their efforts, donations of non-perishable, pre-packaged foods are greatly appreciated. Including pancake mix, peanut butter and jelly, ramen noodles, chips, fruit cups, rice, beans, pasta and sauce, canned vegetables, boxed potatoes, and any canned goods. For other ways to get involved or to donate visit, www.MissionMoms.org.
COMMUNITY SUGAR COOKIE KITS Looking for something fun to do at home with the kids? Try a sugar cookie kit! Sharayah offers a kit that includes fresh baked themed sugar cookies, 3 Royal Icing colors, and 3 bags of sprinkles. Try a “Bored in the House” themed kit, or Spring cookies. Boxes start at $20 and can be ordered through Facebook, www. Facebook.com/SharayahAubrey.
photo to the right courtesy of Kathryn Flores
Inside Education
photo courtesy of Sharayah Clementz
LIBERTY CHRISTIAN STUDENT EARNS GOLD SEAL Several Liberty art students participated in the Texas Art Educators Association Visual Art Scholastic Event (TAEA VASE) this past February. A few medaled with a perfect score and went on to State: Kiley Fernandes, Colin Park, and Reagan Neale. Out of approximately 28,000 works of art submitted, Reagan received Liberty’s first Gold Seal achievement for her sculpture! Congratulations!
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CONGRATS, CLASS OF 2020!
Mon., May 18 | 5pm | Texas Motor Speedway 3545 Lone Star Circle, Fort Worth, TX 76177 Argyle ISD will host graduation ceremonies at Texas Motor Speedway. To ensure all health precautions are met, family and friends will remain in their vehicles while parked on the TMS infield and watch the broadcasted event from the 12-story-tall video board. Congrats, Argyle High School Seniors!
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NINE SPUR RANCH
216 Pecan Acres Ln. • Argyle, TX 76226 Thanks to Shishana Rourke and Nine Spur Ranch, an outside activity for you and your family while practicing social distancing rules is here! Set up a free private tour and come see unique animals and feed the goats. The Ranch has horses, miniature horses, a water buffalo, goats, and a half zebra-half donkey! Set up your tour by contacting Shishana on Facebook, www.Facebook.com/NineSpurRanch. Free admission, but donations are appreciated. photo to the left courtesy of Shishana Rourke
ACHIEVEMENT OF EXCELLENCE AWARD
photo courtesy of Kelli McKinney
Congratulations to the Town of Argyle for receiving the Municipal Clerk’s Office Achievement of Excellence Award for 2020! This award recognizes the excellence in the effective and efficient management of resources and engagement from a Municipal Clerk’s Office. Thankful for our Town!
GALA FROM HOME Due to recent events, the Argyle Education Foundation’s biggest event of the year has been cancelled but they have transitioned from an on-site Gala to a “Gala From Home.” They are asking Argyle families to share photos or videos about all the things they love about their teachers. Post on social media with the hashtag #AEFSupportsTeachers. To learn more about this campaign visit, www.SupportArgyleISD.org.
VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN Congratulations to Sonali Gandhi for earning her spot as Argyle High School’s 2020 valedictorian! And the same sentiment extended to J.T. Robertson on earning the salutatorian position. These are incredible accomplishments and the community is very proud! photo courtesy of Pam Arrington
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May 2020
| ARGYLE LIVING | 15
Foodie Friday DFW: Seven Mile Café
SEVEN
MILE CAFÉ The Highland Village location is the
second here in DFW. Owners Kevin and
Josi Klingele created the original location in Denton in 2011 after realizing they wanted to create a place where they
could enhance the community’s dining
landscape by offering their own unique
take on breakfast foods, delicious coffee options and (of course) their top-of-the-
line service. A few years ago, they opened the doors of their Highland Village
location and have been satisfying the
breakfast and lunch needs of our local community ever since!
a fan of the classic, but their California version is an awesome twist!
We love getting the Pancake Sampler
with a House Pancake, a Cinnamon Roll
Pancake (topped with cinnamon, pecans and a sweet cream cheese glaze), and
a Berry Bliss Pancake drizzled with their sweet cream cheese glaze and topped
with blackberry coulis, fresh blueberries and strawberries, and a vanilla anglaise (this one is Kevin’s favorite).
While those are two of their more popular menu items, Seven Mile offers around 50 to 60 menu items, so it’s not hard to find
We love ordering the Eggs Benedict
something that appeals to you on their
The California Benny made with bacon,
If you’re a coffee connoisseur, you’ll geek
Sampler with The Original Benny and
avocado and grilled tomatoes. I’m always
menu!
out over their huge coffee bar. They take
their coffee very seriously. In fact, Seven Mile Cafe partners with Stumptown Coffee out of Portland, Oregon to ship in their incredibly fresh coffee. After all, you can’t have great breakfast foods without amazing coffee to go with it, right? Kevin invites anyone who hasn’t been to Seven Mile Cafe before to come join them. You’ll love their scratch-made dishes, their incredible service, and the entire dining experience. Can’t wait for you guys to try them out!
*During COVID-19 shutdowns, Seven Mile Cafe is open for carry-out and FREE delivery within a 5-mile radius. You can easily place your order at www.sevenmilecafe.com.
972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022 16 | ARGYLE LIVING
| May 2020
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photos courtesy of Seven Mile Cafe - Highland Village Facebook page
E
very time we visit Seven Mile Cafe in Highland Village, we’re reminded how much we absolutely love their customizable breakfast and lunch menu. No matter what your preferences or dietary restrictions are, Seven Mile Cafe has something on their menu that can work for you!
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LANDSCAPE RENOVATIONS Where Do You Start?
T
by PJ Kratohvil, Owner of Complete Solutions
hese are crazy times we are living in! We hope this month’s article finds everyone well and trying to rebound from all the Corona craziness. I think the last month or two have really allowed people to take a look at their homes inside and out – evaluating what needs to be done and contemplating ideas. If you’ve come to the realization that it’s time to upgrade your patio and living space, here are a few thoughts that might help answer some of the initial questions.
Are we looking for a covered or uncovered space? Having a cover over your space really allows for more useable time throughout the year, no matter the weather conditions. Being able to step out your back door into your outdoor living space is always a plus. Sometimes a good balance of covered as well as uncovered patio space is the
answer – just ensure you’re investing in a vision that’s going to fit your family’s needs the best.
Do we want a full kitchen space built out or simple grill, bar scenario?
Having the ability and an adequate
amount of counter space to grill out during the week or entertain on the
weekends, can greatly enhance your
outdoor experience. Putting in a side
burner, extra storage, or even a fridge can all add to the usability and convenience
Gardening: Ask The Expert of the space. You don’t have to go huge, super luxurious, or over the top with it – just build to suit your needs. And most importantly, make it functional for you. We’d really like a kitchen as well as a fireplace with seating space, but how big of an area do we need? Fireplaces, fountains, fire pits, and other features to your patio space not only creates interesting destinations but also brings people together enabling you to enjoy the space that much more. Once you’ve gotten your patio footprint together, it’s always important to balance
your hard space with a combination of turf and landscape areas. Much like the patio itself, landscaping could definitely be a do-it-yourself task, but sometimes design and installation are better left to be thought through by a local professional. We get calls and visit homes on a daily basis where people have put together a space only to find out it’s not large enough. It doesn’t offer the function or privacy they had envisioned, or better yet, they have given their ideas to a “patio builder” who doesn’t necessarily specialize in layout/design. Now, they need to manipulate what they’ve already paid for into something more usable.
INTERIOR: 972.539.8258 | EXTERIOR: 214.735.1363 | COmPLETESOLuTIONSdFW.COm
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May 2020
| ARGYLE LIVING | 19
LOW-COST, COMPASSIONATE
SOLUTIONS
For Animal
Welfare
by Steve Gamel photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)
I
t’s no secret we live in a pet-loving culture. Everywhere you turn, that bond between humans and animals is unmistakable, whether it’s the little girl parading her new puppy through the neighborhood, a businessman taking time from his crowded schedule to play fetch in the park with his golden retriever, or the elderly lady at the bus stop with two kittens curled up patiently inside her oversized purse. Even when we take that long-awaited family portrait, the pets are always included – because they’re family, too.
“Our tagline this year is lowest cost, best care. We really have focused on customerserviceandhoning in on letting people know thatwehavecompassionate, caring vets,” Stacey said.
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We love our pets; they are an extension
little as $25. Spay and neuter services can
intentioned pet owners simply cannot
70-80 percent cheaper than a vet clinic.
of us. But all too often, good and well-
afford the most basic veterinary care such as spay and neuter services, vaccinations, and even dental care.
It’s a scenario Stacey Schumacher has
seen play out once too many times over the years, which has led to euthanasia
and overpopulation at animal shelters. So she created a non-profit called the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP),
a low-cost alternative that partners with
full-service veterinary clinics and animal shelters while at the same time filling a void for animals who
range between $35-$65, which is roughly They offer wellness kits where customers can have all shots, microchipping, and
spay and neuter services for as little as
$135. For a kitten, the same wellness kit
can run as low as $85. Both kits essentially cover everything a puppy or kitten would need in its first year of life. TCAP also
works with several animal shelters in the
area to provide spay and neuter services onsite to help service pets owned by
customers who are unable to transport their pets to a TCAP location.
Beyond that, if TCAP
deserve quality care at a price their owners can afford.
“We started at one night a
week in one location in
2002 and have
grown so much
since then,” said Stacey, who as
TCAP’s founder and Executive Director
photographed above is Stacey Schumacher
veterinarians notice
“it’s not our goal to take business from veterinary clinics,” Stacey said. “We see it as a partnership because we’recomingalongsidethem and offering the basic stuff everyone needs. And if need be, we refer out for specialized care.”
has proudly watched
her nonprofit grow to include
seven locations. “What we do in terms of services is very limited, but we do a lot
of it, and the vets we employ are subject matter experts.
“What overwhelms most pet owners is the
cost factor. They love their animals, but the cost is sometimes unattainable.”
TCAP, which is heading into its 17th year,
is upfront that they aren’t trying to replace full-service clinics. They specialize only in spay and neuter services, vaccinations, heartworm testing and prevention,
microchipping services, and dental work
such as routine cleanings, tooth extraction, and antibiotics. The level of care is equal to what you can find at vet centers but at
a fraction of the price. For example, a full
set of vaccines could cost a pet owner as www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com
anything that
concerns them about a pet –
old or young
Stacey led the Hopkins County Animal Protection League in Sulphur Springs to
– from a health
open a low cost spay and neuter clinic in
they will always
the program in East Texas, Stacey then
standpoint,
the mid 1990s. Based on the success of
refer a customer
founded TCAP. Their locations are in
to a local
veterinarian’s office
for a more detailed
evaluation.
“It’s not our goal to take
business from veterinary clinics,”
Stacey said. “We see it as a partnership because we’re coming alongside them and offering the basic stuff everyone
needs. And if need be, we refer out for specialized care.”
Stacey has always had a soft spot for
animals. After working at a pet rescue in
high school, she realized her dream was to
Denton, Allen, Burleson, Fort Worth, Hurst, Weatherford, and Garland. Stacey said that in 2018 alone, TCAP spayed and neutered roughly 55,000 animals, and they go to great lengths to make sure everyone who walks through their doors – on two legs or four – has a great experience. “Our tagline this year is lowest cost, best care. We really have focused on customer service and honing in on letting people know that we have compassionate, caring vets,” Stacey said.
help not just animals but also to help the
people who love them. It all started in her
hometown of Sulphur Springs where there was no spay and neuter program. Stacey took it upon herself to rent a van every month and transport animals from her
mother’s house to a low-cost clinic in the
Dallas area. After work, she would gather them back into the van and transport them home.
940.566.5551 www.TexasForThem.org 713 Sunset St. Denton, TX 76201
May 2020
| ARGYLE LIVING | 21
SHERIFF’S W I T H
S H E R I F F
T R A C Y
WE ARE ALL ESSENTIAL
W
e are all essential! We find ourselves in uncharted scary times. The COVID-19 virus is proving to be a challenging adversary for all of us. Law Enforcement during this time is being presented with difficulties never experienced in most of our lifetimes. Those of us responsible for detention facilities are certainly concerned. We are not only responsible for the well-being of those we lead but with the health and safety of inmates in our care.
We are then asked to identify “essential
what is going on in the world outside our
essential” home. It doesn’t take long to
schools closed, and friends worried about
personnel” and send those deemed “nonunderstand that everyone here is essential to maintaining a successful operation.
It gives you an opportunity to really look
at many different areas of your operation and get a much clearer picture of how
walls. Watching businesses being closed, jobs. I’ve seen communities affected in ways I probably never really thought
HIRING If you are interested in a career in Law Enforcement, join our family and be a part of a great organization. Detention Officer I positions start at $38,752.00 per year. Visit our website to apply. www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/dentoncounty
“community” really means.
I’m witnessing heartache and triumph.
not just the commissioned people in the
do and, at the same time, the best. I’m
contributions of everyone.
to their name and uphold the oath they
It has given me an opportunity to evaluate
I’m seeing some of the worst man can
organization but also the sacrifices and
watching as our public servants live up have sworn.
employee, and this tragedy has given
This virus will not defeat us; we will
I then applied this to my observations of
many other challenges. My hope is we will
me a much better picture of their worth.
WE ARE
of. I’m getting a better idea of what
each individual contributes to your team.
I have always known the value of each
M U R P H R E E
endure and learn from it as we have so
come out on the other side of this better for having gone through it. I hope as Americans that we end up with a clear understanding that if we are to maintain our way of life and live our American dream, we must realize that we are all essential. Take care of yourself, take care of your family, and take care of each other!
940.349.1600 | 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 • DENTON, TX 76205 | DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX 22 | ARGYLE LIVING
| May 2020
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May 2020
| ARGYLE LIVING | 23
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DEALING WITH
THE dELAy T
by Dr. Matt Artho, Owner of Country Lakes Family Dental
his year has been a great trial for our country and communities as we all individually made sacrifices for each other. As we approach Memorial Day, I would like to extend my gratitude for all those who together make great sacrifices for our freedom. With the recent events, it is likely that many faced the situation of delaying their dental care. Our current understanding in dentistry and healthcare in general is that a preventative approach is the best approach, as most dental disease does not improve but only worsens over time. When faced with having to put off dental care, it is even more crucial to address concerns earlier than later, and your dentist will appreciate your proactiveness. Why the concern? Let’s consider the progression of dental disease. When it
comes to tooth decay, it is first observed through routine exams in what is considered incipient decay; one of the few instances that can be reversed with good habits and fluoride use. If the decay spreads within the tooth, it requires repair with a filling. At the point where the decay spreads to the point of pain, this could indicate it has contacted the pulp or nerve of the tooth. At this point, debridement of the pulp is necessary to remove the bacteria during a root canal procedure. Left unchecked further, the tooth could deteriorate beyond restorability, requiring an extraction, or worse, an oral infection could spread from the tooth to the bone
Dentistry: Ask The Expert
causing facial swelling, nerve damage, airway obstruction, and systemic complications due to bacterial spread through the body. Scary, right? Though not my intent to sound an alarm, this is typically your dentist’s concern when attempting to encourage a proactive approach. A similar “horror story” can be true for gum disease, as well. Plaque along the gum line results in gingivitis that can be alleviated with a routine cleaning. In periodontitis, bacteria that finds its way beneath the gums requires a deeper cleaning. Unchecked, this bacteria can cause inflammation and infection, leading to bone loss around the tooth and eventually tooth loss, not to mention potential systemic diseases from bacteria that manages its way into the bloodstream.
Though frightening tales, indeed, these are real biological responses to oral disease that are best prevented in early stages. The good news is, there are treatments to treat these anomalies at all stages. So, if you have put off your dental care, get back in touch with your dentist knowing they will be waiting with open arms. Happy Smiling!
940.455.7645 | COUNTRYLAKESDENTAL.COM | 74 MCMAKIN RD., STE. 200 • BARTONVILLE, TX 76226
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May 2020
| ARGYLE LIVING | 25
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Argyle Business
ASSOCIATION by Brooke Ezzo
Development, David Hawkins, to continue bringing it to fruition.
The concept was to create a resource not quite like a chamber but a small group
sponsored by the town to support local
businesses, similar to the one that exists in Highland Village.
“We met with the leaders of the Highland Village Business Association and got
their input,” Haley said. “As well as some influential Argyle business owners and leaders in the community.”
For a business owner, the opportunity
to participate in a business association
T
he importance of having a business association in our area is that it can create networking opportunities and raise awareness about our local businesses. An association can create resources for business owners and give them a platform to engage as our town continues to grow. Haley Pittman, EDC Marketing Technician, said the idea for a business association was brought up last year. Once she came on board this past November, she has been working with Interim Town Manager, Jeff Howell, and Director of Community
34 | ARGYLE LIVING
| May 2020
has many benefits. The ability to bounce
around ideas and entrepreneurial advice is priceless. Long time business owners can share resources and teach others
how to navigate expectations from the community. Associations hold special
events for their members, giving them chances to meet with fellow peers.
“At first, we had set out a launch plan that included a mixer event at the
end of April,” Haley said. “Just as we were gearing up to announce and
start promoting the Argyle Business Association (ABA), COVID-19 hit.”
The impact of the virus has varied from business to business throughout the community. Although the plans for the ABA have been delayed, Haley said they have shifted gears to address the business owners’ needs in other ways. “We are working on an advertising campaign to support local businesses, since many of them have had to shut their doors or change their services during this time,” Haley said. “It has been wonderful to open up a line of communication with our business owners in a more centralized way.” Haley said the association is working hard to pick up right where it left off once officials are able to start planning for the official ABA launch. The goal is to make sure all business owners know the support from the town and community is there.
SMALL GROUP SPONSORED BY THE TOWN TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES
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OUR TOWN CONTINUES TO GROW
“When we do, any business located within our town limits can join for free,” Haley said. “That means
everyone from corporate offices to home-based businesses.”
The Argyle Business Association will offer programming to connect local businesses
with town officials, as well as network amongst themselves.
OPPORTUNITIES AND
RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT
OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES
“This means luncheons, coffee events,
etc.,” Haley said. “In addition, we expect for the program to grow into a space
for more communication and support
between the town and our businesses.” Especially in the time we are in currently,
and as businesses start to slowly reopen, it is important for us to continue to support local.
Until the official launch, Haley has created Argyle’s online business directory, and
there is a form for business owners to join the ABA through the town’s website. Visit, www.ArgyleTX.com and find the directory under the Economic Development tab.
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May 2020
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Travel: Ask The Expert
HAWAII A Paradise You Can’t Miss by Terri Guthrie
H
awaii is truly a unique paradise and a great destination for a family vacation! It consists of eight main islands: Kahoolawe, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Niihau, Oahu, and the Big Island of Hawaii. It is the widest state from east to west, as it spreads across the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
If you’ve never been to Hawaii, you need to add it to your bucket list. I would suggest starting with Oahu. It is a great island to begin your Hawaiian experience! Oahu is home to the state capital, Honolulu. Highlights of the city include the International Market Place, the dormant volcano, Diamond Head, and the crown of the city, Waikiki, a beautiful iconic beach with world class dining and nightlife. West of Honolulu is Pearl Harbor, site of the WWII’s 1941 bombing attack and home to the USS Arizona Memorial. On the southeast coast is Hanauma Bay, a marine embayment formed within a tuff ring. It is one of the most popular
tourist destinations on the Island and is spectacular for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Lyon Arboretum is a 200-acre botanical garden located at the upper end of Mānoa Valley. Much of the Arboretum’s botanical collection consists of a lowland tropical rainforest with native flowers, numerous trails, and lovely water features. It’s always fun trying to pronounce Hawaiian words. This alphabet consists only of 12 letters. In1822, it was adapted from the English alphabet by American missionaries who printed a Bible in the Hawaiian language. So make plans soon and enjoy our 50th state. Aloha!!!
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May 2020
| ARGYLE LIVING | 37
GrieveEnd D
by Steve Gamel
of spring sports season
enton County players, coaches, and fans were all holding out hope that somehow — someway — the coronavirus pandemic would not mark the end of the high school spring sports schedule for this school year. Even if they weren’t able to resume until May, or even June, at least they could salvage something from this year.
Sadly, those hopes were dashed last month when the University Interscholastic League announced that they were canceling everything for the remainder of the school year. The unprecedented move came mere hours after Gov. Greg Abbott announced that all Texas schools should remain closed to in-person learning. The spring sports schedule, which includes basketball, soccer, track and field, softball, baseball, and others, had been suspended since March 16.
The original plan was to reevaluate on May 4, but a final decision had to be made sooner. The Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools also canceled the remainder of its 2019-20 athletics schedule. “It seems unfair that our Argyle baseball seniors don’t get the chance to lead us back to Austin,” Argyle baseball coach Ricky Griffin said in a heartfelt Twitter post on April 17. His team was hoping to win its third straight Class 4A state title but won’t get that chance. “I know it’s not the season they were hoping for, but each one of them has a special place in my heart. They have been a huge part of pushing this program to where it is. I love them.” Griffin wasn’t the only coach or player voicing their devastation — especially for the countless seniors who learned that they have competed for the last game as a high school athlete. “#COUGARNATION you’ll forever be my whole heart,” The Colony softball star Jayda Coleman said. “Argyle. Over the last four years, you gave me memories that’ll last a lifetime while allowing me to grow up,” Argyle senior Alex Gonzales said on Twitter. “Sad to see my senior year and my time in red and black end so soon. Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way. I’m grateful to call this amazing town home. “To our 13 seniors: Thank you for all you’ve given to our program,” the Guyer girls track and field Twitter account said in a statement. “We’re heartbroken for everything you didn’t get to finish. It’s been a joy to watch you wear a Guyer uniform with 38 | ARGYLE LIVING
| May 2020
pride over the past four years. We know you’re going to do great things! Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat!” The Hebron softball team agreed. “Lots of emotions with this announcement. Zeb, Casey, Ira, Nat, Sheridan and Dani, you may have played your last game in a Hebron uniform, but you will forever be a Hawk.” The UIL said in a news release that it had been working on scenarios to resume sporting events. But without schools in session, activities would have to follow suit. According to the Dallas Morning News, at least 10 other states’ high school sports governing bodies, including that of athletic hotbed California, had already canceled their remaining sports events for the 2019-20 school year by April 5. “Our highest priority during this challenging time is ensuring the health and safety of our students and communities and making progress in the containment of COVID-19 in Texas,” UIL executive director Charles Breithaupt said in a news release. “We are now turning our attention to the 2020-2021 school year.” www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com
