Lake Cities Living Magazine March 2017 by Murray Media Group

MARCH 2017

Teaming Up Against

DISTRACTED Keeping the SPRING

IN YOUR STEP Kitchen Design

TRENDS

DRIVING

Corinth - Hickory Creek - Shady Shores - Lake Dallas

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 3

4 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| MARCH 2017

LCCC ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET The Lake Cities Chamber of Commerce held their annual awards banquet, honoring the community leaders of the Lake Cities. The following members received awards: Member of the Year: Corinth Police Chief Debra Walthall Business of the Year: PointBank Citizen of the Year: Mike Drozd Scholarship Recipients: Riley Steward, Kyle Anderson and Sarah Vetters

Photography by Yvonne Estes Photography

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 5

LakeCitiesLiving.com

Better

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne

TOGETHER

Contributors

Steve Gamel Susan Neuhalfen

“Measuring life by what others do for us may disappoint us...but measuring life by what we do for others will add more meaning to our life.” ~ unknown

Advertising

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

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Stephanie Hansen Photography Eric Priddy 817.907.7040 EricPriddy.com

Letters

Lake Cities 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 Lake Cities Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Lake Cities Living is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2017 Murray Media Group

s I sit down to write this letter, I am genuinely moved by the quality of people that I encounter and work with inside our community. As someone that doesn’t reside in Lake Cities, I can say it’s a true honor to work to advance the community and local business. Working with the business owners featured on our cover has been a privilege. These owners have been enthusiastic from day one to help spread positivity and enrich our community. Also, the relationships that have been created with law enforcement, school administrators, faculty and students throughout these initiatives are invaluable to me. The fulfillment that comes from projects that help others and promote unity and well-being is immeasurable. Upon reflection of each monthly issue, I revisit each story and the many encounters that make up my monthly journey. From chamber coffees, ribbon cuttings to individual meetings, I learn so much about the hearts of our citizens and their tireless

efforts that drive this community. The dedication that people possess and live out in their daily lives and professions is remarkable. When Lake Cities Living was first introduced to the community, I recall Kelly Murray telling the Lake Cities Chamber of Commerce members that “this magazine belongs to Lake Cities, we are just here to tell your story.” I understand her words and their sentiment more each day. So here we are again, telling more of the Lake Cities’ story. Business owners, school district leaders, student leaders, law enforcement, and many others come together to be “Better Together” and advance positivity and enrichment for the betterment of our Lake Cities.

Don’t Drive Distracted.

Driving Wise, Saves Lives

Sincerly, Meredith McNair

Community Relations and Advertising Consultant Lake Cities Living & Argyle Living meredith@murray-media.com 817.291.7582 6 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| MARCH 2017

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

On the Cover starting from left is Mark Tucker, Scott Fly and Kevin Pyle

FEATURED: Teaming Up Against Distracted Driving

YOURSELF

LIFESTYLE

08 Getting a Running Start

24 Summer Sleep-Away Camps

10 Nutrition with Savory Bistro

26 Real Estate with So Simple Homes

11 Legal Advise with Haire Law Firm 12 Fitness with Jesse James

Business Spotlight

FAMILY

29 Painting the Town with

19 Edit This with Steve Gamel

EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PICK: Lake Dallas Elementary Wins Rather Prize

28 Gardening with Complete Solutions

13 Insurance with The Reese Agency

14 Be in the Know

Flower Mound Paint

20 20 Questions with Scott Head

Photos from Lake Cities

23 Dentistry with Kristina Makie

05 LCCC Annual Awards Banquet

Find out which camps are within driving distance

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 7

Getting a

Yourself

Running START by Susan Neuhalfen

unning has its advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, it’s hard on the body. It jars joints and causes tight hamstrings. On the other hand, it’s a very quick way to lose weight and a great motivator. It is also addictive, and once that addiction is discovered by a runner, the euphoria is unmatched. For those just starting to run, it can be intimidating. Luckily thousands

before have taken the time to create

the best equipment available to make learning to run easier than ever.

several apps entitled “Couch to 5k” for the beginning runner. Many are free and some work better than others depending on the type of phone used. A few recommended include: Run5k,

Here are a few first steps to make that transition to running:

5k Runner, C25K, 5k Coach, Total

Couch to 5K Apps

(including makeup schedules for those

Couch to 5k. These will give the runner schedules

GPS Watch - Heart Monitor It’s important to keep an eye on heart

rate which is why a good Fitbit, Apple, Garmin or Polar watch will not only monitor heart rate it will sync with

many apps to keep track of your runs. For a more accurate reading, there

are watches that come with a heart

rate monitor that straps around the

Signing up for a run is a great way

runs missed), monitor running activities

upper torso.

to motivate yourself and there is no

and motivate the runner to reach his

better motivator than a 5k (3.1 miles).

or her goals. After accomplishing the

There are also headphones with heart

Unlike a 1 mile fun run, it’s just long

5k, the runner will then graduate to a

enough to be a challenge. There are

general running app.

monitoring including Jabra Sport

Pulse and Bragi Dash, but they aren’t cheap, ranging from $150 to $250.

The Right Shoes

Take Your Mind Off It

Find a Mate

Don’t just go to a shoe outlet and buy a

The point of listening to something is to

To take running in a more social direction, there are plenty of running clubs in the area, most are free or minimal cost. There are even some that meet at local bars and after a run have some pasta and a pint. Some local clubs include the North Texas Striders and Denton Area Running Club. Search the internet and find one that fits your style.

comfortable running shoe. Go to a shoe store that specializes in running shoes.

Let the specialist watch you run or walk.

Runners may run on their toes, the outside

of the feet, their heels…it varies, and there are shoes designed specifically for how you run. The right shoe can mean the

difference between sore hips and ankles or feeling great. While you’re at it get

take your mind off the run and put it into a positive state. Design a playlist with songs that mimic the beats per minute (BPM) of the run. There are several websites that will help determine the beats per minute and help find songs that fit that timing or push you to go faster.www.bpmdatabase. com or www.songbpm.com are just two

some good running socks.

examples. www.rockmyrun.com is a free

A Good Place to Run

perfectly timed run music.

Running around the neighborhood

looking at the same houses gets boring. Finding a good trail is a great motivator. Luckily many new neighborhoods are

building these trails with better scenery

app with playlists designed by DJs for Podcasts and books are available if you prefer something other than music. The app Zombies, Run narrates an

There are plenty of other hacks out there to make running easier. Start with these basics and then work into exactly what is needed to make running a great go-to sport that fits your schedule. Remember, it’s never too late to start a great new habit like running.

adventure story in which you outrun

than the neighbor’s house. Also there are

hordes of hungry zombies while

“running trails near me” and there will be

is also The Walk, a James Bond-type

doesn’t work, others will.

with the runner.

many parks around with trails. Google

collecting things for the mission. There

plenty. Also, don’t get discouraged. If one

adventure story that progresses in pace

Two members of our art team, Liz and Caroline, are enjoying the Zombies, Run app.

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 9

Spring Yourself: Nutrition

Keeping the

in Your Step

ear Annette: Spring is coming and I would like to have more energy to enjoy it. What would give me a good energy boost? Dear Reader: Good for you for striving for optimal health and energy. There are two ways to approach this: • Take away things that steal energy • Add things to spark energy Sounds easy and simple enough but how do we do this? Top five things that rob us of energy: • A poor diet is the number one culprit. Sugar can give us a high for a short period but then drops us like a rock. • Movement is vital for energy. • Sleep is how we rebuild to have energy. Plan on 7-8 hours per night. • Clutter robs us of energy. Getting rid of clutter around us reduces stress. An uncluttered home, car, and

work space help many people feel

less stressed and increases energy. • Negative emotions can certainly

rob us of energy. We cannot digest our food properly when we harbor emotions such as anger

shellfish can be the some of the best sources for minerals from your diet. • Daily walk can be a huge energy booster. Movement is key to energy. • Water is a must for energy. Start each day with some lemon and water. Try drinking a glass of water every three hours throughout the day. • Relaxation gives us energy. Find a little time to relax especially before meals. • Gratitude is vital for energy. Starting each day being grateful for simple things in your life gives you energy. It is also key to proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.

or resentment.

What are the top five things we can add for energy? • Minerals are the spark plugs for the body. Nuts, seeds, grains, beans,

Sincerely Yours, Annette Doody

Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach

www.thesavoryteam.com

ADJUSTORS DON’T HAVE YOUR BEST INTERESTS AT HEART

hat’s the big deal? You got your leg broken in an 18-wheeler wreck and the adjuster is very nice and wants to “make it right”.

Same deal with the adjuster in the case where the dog attacked your neighbor’s kid.

And the adjuster in the case where your aunt fell at the pizza place.

it’s VERY hard to turn that decision around, even for the best lawyers.

Legal Advise :Yourself

The adjuster who was initially so nice to

your aunt? They’ve decided it was her fault for not looking where she was going.

This happens all the time. When they see you’ve retained a lawyer who knows the law with regard to traffic accidents, dog

attacks and slip & fall cases, they are much

The dog attack? Now the nice adjuster

more likely to consider your lawyer’s trial

neighbor’s kid was provoking the dog,

case law used to establish liability in your

says there’s a witness saying your

reputation and listen to the statutory and

so…unfortunately, they won’t be paying

favor. You win. BOOM.

NOW THE NICE ADJUSTER SAYS THERE’S A WITNESS SAYING YOUR NEIGHBOR’S KID WAS PROVOKING THE DOG

Make the call to us. If we can’t help you, we will tell you why. It’s more likely we can and will help you. Either way, the

consultation is totally free. 940.484.5555. You want to handle it yourself and bypass paying an attorney. Understandable. But when the 18-wheeler’s insurance carrier tells you the rear end collision was

unavoidable because the roads were slick,

any of the $9,000.00 hospital bill that’s

now your responsibility. Buh bye. Again, the liability carrier has made a liability decision that will likely take a jury trial to undo.

by Rocky Haire, owner of Haire Law Firm 972.394.3000 • hrj-law.com For Free Case Evaluation!

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 11

Yourself: Fitness

to experience during the future years,”

Making Fitness Part of Your

Retirement Planning

etirement planning. There are a lot of moving pieces for which to plan – family, finances, insurance,

living arrangements, travel. But what about health and fitness? Planning for a healthy life now helps ensure an enjoyable retirement later. Ray and Reesa Hall began working out a year ago with a personal trainer. At first, they were looking for that extra push, more than just a gym membership, that would help them remain consistent with a workout. That’s exactly what they found, but as they continued their fitness plan, they began to realize the long-term benefits.

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| MARCH 2017

“Whether it’s weight loss or gaining muscle mass, those physical changes allow you to feel physically better than you were prior to working out,” said Ray. “Since we have been working out, we realize how important it is to be physically in good shape to enjoy our future years.” The Hall’s fitness plan became an investment in the future. They quickly realized that a healthy body now would help them live a healthy life in the future. No matter if they decided to fully retire, scale back or travel the world, the one thing they knew for sure is that their health and fitness play a large role in retirement. “We are hopeful that our physical abilities do not hinder any activities that we want

Ray explains. “We believe a continuous workout plan increases our odds to do what we wish to do later in life.” Planning for a healthy retirement is just as important as financial planning. After all, how relaxing or fun is retirement going to be if you’re not healthy enough to enjoy it? A fitness plan of regular exercise that includes a healthy diet, and cardiovascular and muscle strength benefits everyone, no matter the age.

The Hall Family

by Jesse J. Leyva, Outlaw Bootcamp & Jesse James Fit www.OutlawBootcamp.com www.JesseJamesFit.com

BE READY FOR THE STORM

t is spring time, which in North Texas means thunderstorms and hail. While we can’t completely stop hail from damaging your property, you can potentially reduce the damage that a storm might cause.

•

Here are some tips on handling what mother nature will certainly throw at us this year.

Know your deductible! If the repairs are below your deductible amount, do not file a claim. This will help you avoid future rate increases. Keep an eye on the weather. If strong storms are approaching move your vehicles to shelter as well as anything else that can be damaged by hail or wind such as patio furniture.

Be Proactive

What to do after a storm

•

Determine if there is significant enough damage to meet your home or auto deductible. If you have a question call us.

•

Make a list of damages. Inspect your car from all angles. Look over your siding, gutters, fence, and air conditioning units. Do not climb on your roof. Leave that to the professionals!

Have your roof inspected. Repairing your roof as problems are found will make your roof less susceptible to damage and large claims. Roofing companies will often offer free roof inspections to build a relationship with you. Contact The Reese Agency at 940-387-2181 to get recommendations of reputable businesses.

Insurance :Yourself •

Contact the claims hotline number listed in your policy or online. They will guide you through the process of filing a claim.

•

Make sure that your roofing or repair company is local, licensed, bonded, and insured. If you have any questions call The Reese Agency and we will give you a list of companies that you can trust to do your home or auto repairs.

Call the team at The Reese Agency for a free policy review and home quote at 940387-2181 or at dave@reeseagency.com. Remember, we answer the phone and look forward to providing you the best customer service possible. by Dave Reese The Reese Agency (Farmers Insurance at Oakmont) 940.387.2181

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 13

KNOW

Be in the

Family

INSIDE COMMUNITY

CITY OF CORINTH EASTER EGG HUNT Join the City of Corinth on Saturday, April 8 from 9am-12pm at Corinth Community Park for an amazing Easter celebration! There will be a petting zoo, bounce houses, face painters, pony rides, food trucks and, of course, an Easter egg hunt for kids up to age 10. The hunts will be divided by age groups. Bring your camera to take pictures with the Easter Bunny!

GLENN GARCELON GOLF CLASSIC

The 6th Annual Glenn Garcelon Foundation Golf Classic will be on Sunday, April 2 at Tour 18. Shotgun start 1pm. In addition to great golf, participants will be treated to a wine pull, raffle, prizes and a delicious dinner. The Glenn Garcelon foundation benefits brain tumor patients and their caregivers. Participants may register at https://glenngarcelonfoundation.givezooks.com.

OAKMONT WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SPRING TEA

LCFD OFFERING CPR CLASSES

Oakmont Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club will be celebrating spring with

The Lake Cities Fire Department is now offering CPR,

Global Spheres, 7801 I-35 E South, Corinth, Texas.

Individuals can register for $35 per person. Classes are

their Annual Tea on April 22nd from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at

Cost will be $30.00 per person which includes a variety of teas and four courses. Children over 4 are welcome for $20 (an age appropriate menu will be served).

Tickets may be purchased by calling 940.497.1760.

First Aid, and AED training classes to the public.

limited to 8 students per session and will take place at Fire Station 1, which is located at 275 Main Street

in Lake Dallas. For more information or to schedule a class, please contact Adam Scott at 940.886.6494.

INSIDE EDUCATION MEDALS ABOUND FOR LDHS ART DEPARTMENT

32 Lake Dallas High School art students submitted a total of 50 pieces of artwork to the Regional Visual Art Scholastic Event. 39 student works scored a Superior rating of 4 and received regional medals, and 12 student works scored an Excellent rating of 3. As a double medalist and double state qualifier, sophomore Kyrstin Lake will attend the State VASE competition on April 29th in San Antonio. (pictured to the right is “Beautiful Mind” by Kyrstin Lake)

LDHS BAND MEMBERS DOMINATE REGIONS

89 Falcon Band Members participated in 110 separate events at the Region UIL Solo and Ensemble contest on Saturday, Feb. 25. Fifty soloists received Superior Rated Class 1 rankings, five received Superior Rated Class 2 rankings and two received Super Rated Class 3 rankings. Of those who received Superior Ratings, 30 solos and all 6 ensembles were certified to participate at the UIL Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest in late May.

LAKE DALLAS

ISD EVENTS Lake Dallas Middle School Open House March 21st

Special Olympics Track Meet March 22nd - 23rd Students from LDHS, LDMS and SSE will compete in the Special Olympics Track

LDISD LOVES THE BLUE Lake Dallas Independent School District (LDISD) is selling LD Green Loves the

Blue T-shirts as a fundraiser for Corinth

Police Department Officer Tepfer, who was hospitalized with a medical emergency.

All proceeds from the shirts will go to the officer and his family.

Shirts are $10 each $15 doubles your

donation. Go to www.ldisd.net/BackTheBlue to order your shirts today!

HONOR BAND RECEIVES AWARD The Lake Dallas Middle School Honor Band earned the coveted Sweepstakes Award at the Region 2 UIL Concert and Sight Reading Contest held at Denton Ryan High School after all six judges assigned the band a First Division (Superior) rating. The LDMS Symphonic Band 1 earned a First Division (Superior) rating for Concert Contest but narrowly missed the Sweepstakes Award after earning a Second Division (Excellent) rating for Sight Reading Contest.

Meet at Carrollton-Farmers Branch 9am-2pm

STAAR Testing March 27th - 31st

LDMS STUCO Chick Fil-A night (Corinth location) March 30th MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 15

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month

DISTRACTED

DRIVING

onths ago, a small group of business owners came together to

discuss a way to unite

our community by supporting local causes. After successfully sponsoring the Lake Cities Backs the Blue initiative in September, they are back with another great cause. With the cooperation of our local school administrators, Mark Tucker, Allstate Insurance agent, Kevin Pyle of Pro Care

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Collision and Scott Fly, General Manager of Toyota of Denton have joined forces again to put distracted driving on the forefront in the Lake Cities area. After several months of planning this special program, it is finally scheduled to reach our local high schools to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.

by Susan Neuhalfen

Teaming Up Against

While all three of these businesses do many things “under the radar” to benefit the Lake Cities Community, this is one initiative that they feel needs to be front and center for all residents. Distracted driving has become a major public safety issue in North Texas as well as across the country. That is why law enforcement and

ALLSTATE INSURANCE

PRO CARE COLLISION

Mark Tucker 3572 FM 2181

Kevin Pyle 2751 Old Alton Road

(across the street from Chicken Express)

(at the corner of Old Alton and Swisher)

community leaders across the Lake Cities

“I met the Berry family and was so moved

are reminding drivers that anything that

by their story,” said Tucker. “My wife and I

takes your attention away from driving is a distraction. “We already have so much traffic and construction in the area you really have to be devoted to paying attention,” said Corinth Police Lt. Jimmie Gregg. “Eating, putting on makeup, texting and even adjusting the radio—anything that takes your mind off driving is a distraction.” Kevin Pyle, owner of Pro Care Collision said that cell phones are a major cause of what they are seeing in their shops right now. “People just aren’t paying attention,” said Pyle. “We have a lot of fender benders, typically younger drivers, looking at their

Sponsored Content

photography by Eric Priddy Photography

phones instead of the car in front of them.” Toyota of Denton GM Scott Fly has witnessed this first hand. “I saw a young teenage girl run off the road - a one car accident - on Teasley about a year ago and we went down to help her,” said Fly. “When her friends arrived, the reality of seeing their friend knocked unconscious was sobering. I’m thankful she was okay. The outcome could have been much worse.” Mark Tucker was chosen to represent Allstate at WE.org day back in August. He presented a check to a family profoundly changed by a distracted driver and it has since become his passion.

TOYOTA OF DENTON Scott Fly 4100 South I-35 E Frontage Rd.

are helping them start their nonprofit and spread the word about their OLIE campaign.” On April 18th, Lake Dallas High School and Guyer High School will host the

Distracted Driving programs for their

upperclass students. The students will learn important facts and dangers related to distracted driving.

LDHS students have worked hard in preparing a “Shattered Dreams” simulation, a staged accident warning students of the dangers of texting as well as drinking and driving. Their upperclass students will witness this accident reenactment and then hear the Berry family’s story. Students will get the chance to meet members of the Berry family as they’re invited to take the pledge against distracted driving and receive a OLIE bracelet to wear. “Yes the students need to hear this message, but not just for their driving,” said Pyle. “They need to remind their parents when they’re driving to stop the distractions, too and set the example.” In addition, Pyle, Tucker and Fly all agree that the most important thing to do is to set the example. When distractions come up, don’t take your ears, eyes or mind off the road. “That text isn’t worth it,” said Fly.

The Berry Family Story The Berry family was returning from a vacation when a distracted driver hit them head on, killing the parents and leaving two of the three children paralyzed from the waist down. They were taken in by their aunt, uncle and cousins who have started the OLIE campaign to combat distracted driving. Tucker and his wife even accompanied the Berry family to the capitol in Austin to talk to legislators about House Bill 62 and Senate Bill 31. These bills are both coming up for a vote in the next session and would make using a handheld wireless device while operating a motor vehicle a misdemeanor for first time offenses and, a criminal offense for some repeat offenders. MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 17

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Edit This :Family

How My Son & His Juicy Juice Helped Me

BEAT

WRITER’S BLOCK S

o there I was trying to crank out an article when I realized how little I had accomplished.

Four hours later – just me and a

blank computer screen. Oh the joy

I’m not the drawing type, but how could I say no to that cute face?

Before we could start, though, Jackson

knocked over his cup of Juicy Juice on my desk. There wasn’t a lot of juice to spill,

In that instant, as we sat cleaning the last remnants of his juice, my thoughts came alive.

Here are some more tips I’ve learned over the years: • Freewrite. • Find your sweet spot. What’s the best time of day for you to write? • Give yourself time. • Stay calm. Getting upset never helped anyone.

but he quickly ran to get a towel and came back so we could clean everything up.

• Change the scenery (coffee shop, library, your outdoor patio).

every day. It’s the bane of my existence,

In that instant, as we sat cleaning the

• Play with your kids.

limits. Writer’s block can strip you of

came alive.

• Brainstorm ideas with a coworker or friend.

of writer’s block.

Writer’s block happens to me, oh, almost and the havoc it creates knows no

last remnants of his juice, my thoughts

your creative juices, turn your brain into

“Oooh, Jackson!” I said, “Sit here while

mush – and honestly, make you feel like a horrible writer.

I was in pretty deep. But just as I was

about to turn my eyelids inside out, my

5-year-old son, Jackson, quietly walked

up to my desk and climbed up on my lap. “Are we going to work on something, Daddy?”

“No buddy,” I said sadly. “Not now, anyway.”

“Well, let’s draw a rainbow fish for my teacher.”

Daddy writes down a few quick thoughts!” Writer’s block be darned, I was going to

write everything down as quick as I could

before they disappeared into nothingness. I lived to write another day! And Jackson’s teacher got a rainbow fish out of the deal.

• Eliminate distractions. • Fold laundry (can’t believe I just wrote that, but occasionally it has helped me). • Just keep writing. Even if it means working on a slightly easier project.

I shared this story with you today to show that while writer’s block can be a royal

pain in the you-know-what, we all have

more control over it than we think we do. Sometimes all it takes is to step away and draw a rainbow fish.

by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 www.edit-this-npsteve.com

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 19

Family

20 QUESTIONS with Lake Dallas Athletic Director

SCOTT HEAD by Steve Gamel

o say Lake Dallas athletic director Scott Head is a lifer in the Lake Cities community

would be an understatement. He

was the Falcons’ baseball coach from 1991 to 1998 before spending two

years as an assistant principal in the

district. In 2000, he took over as the athletic director.

“I love the people and this community,”

Head said. “A lot of things have changed, but the people haven’t.”

In a recent interview with Lake Cities

Living, coach Head was gracious enough to play an old-fashioned game of 20

Questions, where he dished on everything from why being the athletic director for

Lake Dallas ISD is the greatest job ever to how long his “honey-do” list is at home.

Lake Cities Living: Why did you become an athletic director?

SH: Well I got out of coaching and spent

time as an assistant principal. They asked me to be the AD and I loved the idea. I

enjoy the camaraderie with the coaches

and being around the kids. I love the highs and lows of the season, especially the

highs. There’s nothing better than seeing

the enjoyment on the kids’ faces when they win a big game or win a district title. 20 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| MARCH 2017

Lake Cities Living: You used to be the baseball coach at Lake Dallas. Do you miss it? SH: Sometimes I do. But I have fun with the new coaches and talking about what we used to do and how things work now. I try to point them in the right direction as best I can. Lake Cities Living: If you could coach any sport besides baseball, what would it be and why? SH: I’d enjoy being a fishing coach – just hang out at the lake all day. Lake Cities Living: What is your favorite sport to watch? SH: I like football and softball. Softball is fun to watch and it doesn’t drag out. Football is exciting, too. You just never know what’s going to happen. Lake Cities Living: I’m sure you have off time. What do you do during the summer to keep busy? SH: It’s all about doing the family thing. Both my girls are out of the house, so I spend a lot of time with my wife doing

things. In the summer, I’ll just sit on a

bucket and catch my daughter’s pitches or work on her hitting. Things really haven’t changed.

Lake Cities Living: People say you have

an incredible sense of humor. Do you buy into that?

SH: Like my dad used to say, if you’re not laughing and having fun, then you need to find something else to do. I like to

harass coaches and find things to

laugh about. If I don’t have someone laughing, then I’ve failed.

Lake Cities Living: What is the one thing you don’t

like about

your job?

SH: My biggest

thing is select sports. The

coaches tell these kids that they

need to play just one sport, and it drives me nuts. These kids should have pride in all sports, and by playing one sport, it takes away from Lake Dallas being a perennial power. It just hurts.

Lake Cities Living: Now for even more off the wall questions. If you had to Karaoke

one song in front of a packed gym,

SH: I’d have to say football coach Michael

SH: Oh, I’d have to say Friends in

and talk about everything. We can vent,

what would it be? Low Places.

Lake Cities Living: If you had to fight a

Young. We can shut the door and laugh

and vent some more. He’s a good release for me. He’s fun to talk to.

bear or a lion, which one would you pick

Lake Cities Living: What is your favorite

SH: A lion. I could climb a tree and the lion

SH: I don’t like to dress up. Coach Young

SH: Anything my wife tells me to do. Lake Cities Living: I hear you and Superintendent Gale Stinson are great friends? Do you think she would have as interesting a life if you weren’t in it?

and why?

Halloween costume and why?

SH: Well she would tell you she would,

couldn’t come get me. One good punch

has a Halloween party, so whatever he

be around.

and I’d run like crazy.

dresses up as is good for me.

Lake Cities Living: What is your

Lake Cities Living: If you had a million

SH: Blue

SH: I’d give a lot to making sure we have

Lake Cities Living: What is your

give to lots of charities, and after that I’d

favorite color?

favorite holiday? SH: Christmas

Lake Cities Living: What is your favorite food?

SH: Mexican food. Hands down. Lake Cities Living: Who is your favorite coach at Lake Dallas and why?

dollars, what would you spend it on?

an indoor facility for the high school. I’d

save up and get a beach house – just fish

but I just don’t think so. She’s great to

Lake Cities Living: What would you say is your worst trait, personally and/or as a coach/AD? SH: Delegating. I still like to be hands on, but there’s a lot of things I could delegate. I’m getting better.

and play golf.

Lake Cities Living: If you couldn’t coach

Lake Cities Living: Who is funnier, you or

or be an AD, what profession would

SH: Oh, me. Hands down!

SH: I’ve always wanted to own my own

Michael Young?

Lake Cities Living: What is your least favorite chore around the house?

you be in? bait shop. All you have to worry about is catching minnows. MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 21

Family

Lake Dallas Elementary

WINS by Susan Neuhalfen

the 2017 Rather Prize

ake Dallas Elementary School won the 2017 Rather Prize at the SXSWedu in Austin, Texas, this month. Created by journalist and Texas native Dan Rather this is the second annual Rather Prize awarded to the school with the best idea to improve education in Texas. The winning idea came from teacher Katie Landaverde.

“This will let our kids explore the interests

Community leaders agree that a program

could choose anything from crocheting

Lake Dallas is an elementary school that

This concept is to create morning workshops for Lake Dallas Elementary students that are taught by Lake Dallas High School students, community members, and teachers. Students will attend morning seminars on the topics that interest them. The goal of this program is to provide many opportunities for students at an early age to explore their different passions and future careers.

teach and better master their

to acting and even computer

programming, just a really wide range of fields they might be interested in.”

In addition it gives the older students the opportunity to

subjects. It also gives community

members the chance to teach the younger generation based on their experiences.

like this will make a huge difference.

is diverse in both makeup and income levels and this will help the students

to prepare for 21st century careers. The program will also foster collaborative relationships between

the younger and older

generations as well as the

school and the community.

“It’s a phenomenal opportunity

In addition to bonding with the younger

to take that time before class starts and

to serve as role models.

LDISD Superintendent. “It gives the kids

“I think Katie’s idea is fantastic,” said

own interests.”

kids, this is an opportunity for both groups

Principal Jennifer Perry. “It allows us to

pique their interests,” said Gayle Stinson an opportunity to learn and grow in their

focus on several of the core values that we

It also brings hands-on learning to

success. It involves the community,

up their day from a one-teacher classroom

and most of all, access for every student.”

Lake Dallas Elementary will receive a

as a campus feel are critical for student

subjects that the students love, changing

student engagement, student leadership

to something different and fun.

$10,000 cash award from the Rather Prize to implement the idea and another ten thousand dollars in support from Rice

University. The award was presented by Rather and Rice University student Martin Rather.

“In an age where we spend a lot of time focusing on accountability and testing I

think this is a really important opportunity for us to focus and get back to the root

of education and helping kids learn what Martin Rather, Katie Landaverde and Dan Rather 22 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| MARCH 2017

they want to learn,” said Landaverde.

photo courtesy of Ron Oliveira, Oliveira Public Communications

This will introduce the students to a wide variety of subjects, therefore expanding their interests and jumpstarting their day with an energizing topic that they want to learn.

of their choice,” said Landaverde. “They

DENTAL INSURANCE

The Good, the Bad,

AND THE UGLY

ost of the patients in my practice carry dental insurance. The insurances my office currently accepts are strictly

PPOs (Preferred Provider Organization) that

provide a yearly maximum benefit of typically $1,500-$2,500 annually. One interesting fact about this number is it hasn’t changed since the late 1970’s. If it had, most policyholders would have approximately $10,000 to work

with annually. What this means is the insurance company will pay up to the maximum benefit

amount on the policy holder’s behalf per year. After this number is reached, services are no

longer covered and must be paid out-of-pocket until the renewal date. Policies often carry a

deductible; the amount the insured must pay

out-of-pocket in order for the insurance benefits to kick in. Preventive services such as basic

cleanings, exams, radiographs, sealants, and fluoride are usually covered at 100%.

There are restrictions on how often these

services can be rendered and policies can vary from plan to plan. Most other services like

fillings, crowns, root canals, and extractions are

Dentistry :Family non-covered services, it is important to note

that having insurance can help lower your outof-pocket expenses for dental services when

compared to not having insurance and seeking the same treatment, even after you’ve maxed out of benefits. This is because you are still

eligible for the lower negotiated rates within the contract.

Remember, the patient, as a client of the

insurance company, wields more power with

representation governing their policy than the

office staff does on their behalf. Most all dental offices accept dental insurances as a service to

covered at a percentage.

their patients. Working with dental insurance

It’s important to note that in cases where

and requires increased expenses for the

services are denied or not covered, this does not mean the services are not beneficial or

necessary. Remember, most dentists are in the service of trying to help their patients achieve

companies is oftentimes tedious, frustrating,

practice in lower reimbursement rates, claim denials and payment delays, and manpower leading to increased payroll costs.

optimal dental health. Insurances care little

about this and are a profit-driven, billion-dollar industry for a reason.

Through the multitude of confusing frequency clauses, waiting periods, and covered and

by Kristina Mackie, DDS Loretto Family Dentistry, PLLC lorettofamilydentistry.com 940.498.2290

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 23

Lifestyle

SUMMER

Sleep-Away Camps THAT ARE WITHIN DRIVING DISTANCE by Susan Neuhalfen

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to start planning for summer and in addition to the family vacation, it may be time to start sending the kids to sleep-away camp. It could mean a little R&R for you and a little responsibility lesson for them. Here are some sleep away camps within driving distance that offer various adventures for your kids. All of these camps listed are co-ed and not sport or tech specific (though there are plenty of those, too).

Camp Balcones Springs - Marble Falls, TX

zip lines, archery, riflery and wake

Christian camp for kids 7-17 Activities include watersports,

integrity with lots of activities available

1, 2 and 3 week camps available.

swimming, culinary arts, paintball,

boarding. 1-2 week camps available.

available. Over 70 different activities include baseball, archery, basketball,

Camp Kiowa - Gainsville, TX

crafts, cooking, horseback riding,

campkiowa.com

performing arts, sailing and more.

near the Colorado River.

Camp that teaches about joy and

Camp Longhorn - Burnet, TX

hiking, horseback riding, zip lines.

for kids ages 6-17. Activities include

campiscool.com

Camp Champions - Marble Falls, TX campchampions.com

Character building camp for kids

ages 6-18 on the shores of Lake LBJ.

Over 30 activities available including archery, rock climbing, ropes and waterskiing.

Camp Cho-Yeah - Livingston, TX cho-yeh.org

Christian-based camp for kids ages 6-16. Activities include paint ball,

marksmanship, Lego Mindstorms,

survival skills, science, woodworking,

camplonghorn.com

Located on Inks Lake, this confidence building camp emphasizes participation instead of competition.

horsemanship and more. Camps

Three separate camp areas with 2-3

available with discounts for siblings

include sailing, waterskiing, canoeing,

Camp Lonehollow - Hunt, TX

and more.

ranging from 1 week to 6 weeks

week camps available. Activities

and friends.

kayaking, fishing, horseback riding

Located in the Hill Country, Camp

Lonehollow prides itself on teaching

Lone Star Leadership Academy

skill and character to kids ages 7-16.

educationinaction.org

ratio and 1, 2 and 4-week camps

participants travel to:

They have a 1-3 staff to camper

For outstanding 4th-8th graders,

Dallas/Fort Worth (4th-6th graders) Austin/San Antonio (5th-7th graders) Houston/Galveston (6th-8th graders) Students visit significant Texas sites while having fun and developing leadership skills for a week. In order to participate, a student must maintain an overall average of 85 or higher and receive a recommendation from an educator. Interested applicants should print an application and take it to a teacher to add the recommendation. Deadlines are fast approaching and camps fill fast.

Pine Cove - Tyler, TX, Columbus, TX pinecove.com

A Christian-based camp for 2nd-12th grades that is located in both Tyler, TX and Columbus, TX. They also have Camp in the City, a day camp program held in area churches all over Texas as well as other states. Activities include paintball, wake boarding horseback riding, dancing, ropes courses and more.

Sky Ranch - Van, TX skyranch.org

Christian-based camp for Kindergarten through 9th graders. Many area schools visit this camp during the year and the kids love it. Activities include swimming, rappelling, horseback riding, zip lines, water slides and more.

Texas A&M University Sea Camp Adventures - Galveston, TX tamug.edu/seacamp

This is a serious hands-on marine adventure camp where kids learn marine biology, marine science, coastal photography, vet-med, marine engineering and more. Overnight camps for ages 10-18 & day camps for ages 4-11. Though most camps are located in Galveston, there are also camps in the Hill Country and Costa Rica. MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 25

Lifestyle: Real Estate

Kitchen

DESIGN TRENDS T

he kitchen is the heart of the home, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where big decisions are made, where delicious meals are cooked, where friends gather, dinner guest linger after dinner, homework is completed, and it is an extension of the gathering area of your home. White is here and will be a timeless statement for cabinets, while gray is a close runner-up. Darker wood cabinets are being replaced with lighter counter parts. Materials are getting mixed in the kitchen. Contrasting colors and styles are combined to create a more unique space. For example, mixed marbles and metals in a space can help highlight gray wood tones. Decorative lighting Bold and oversized lighting choices are popular choices. Decorative lighting is key in the kitchen and adds dramatic flair as well as functionality, especially over a kitchen island. Transparency Switch out some cabinet doors with glass doors. It can help you extend visual boundaries while also allowing home owners to display some of their favorite

26 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| MARCH 2017

things and add more personalization to a space. More drawers, less doors Having plenty of kitchen drawers can add more functionality in storage. Homeowners are showing preferences toward more drawers over extra cabinets. Bold hardware can then be added to the drawers to add more design appeal. Counter-depth fridges For small to modest-size kitchens, remodeling is often a game of inches. Counter-depth refrigerators sit flush with adjacent cabinetry and countertops, freeing up just a bit more space while creating a streamlined look. Not sure where to start or how you should budget for your kitchen to ensure you are not outspending the sales prices of recent homes? Then reach out to for a complimentary consult to determine your next steps. SoSimple Home keeps the focus on you, right where it should be. Our custom craft real estate plans take even the smallest details of your vision and brings them to life! We are elevating experiences and crafting simplicity in real estate.

by Lori Lesnansky & Team, SoSimple Home-Keller Williams www.sosimplehome.com lori@sosimplehome.com

MARCH 2017 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 27

Lifestyle: Gardening

It’s Time to Get Your

LAWN IN SPRING SHAPE

Your first pre-emergent should have been down a few weeks ago. If not, don’t waste time back-tracking

eady or not, with the Bradford pear

If things weren’t cleaned up in late fall,

We consider ourselves to be “small” local

trees starting to turn and dogwoods

then get it all cut back, reshaped and

in full bloom, spring is definitely

ready for that spring growth. If you haven’t

business, only servicing a few hundred

upon us. We’re focusing this article on

taken the time to remove the old mulch

information that should be helpful in the

before adding new for the last couple

preparations of your own lawn/landscape.

growing seasons, then do so this year.

Such a mild winter could have you looking at a lawn full of weeds about now. If so, and you’re not ready to call the chemical company just yet, then let’s get to work! For some immediate results find a point and spray post-emergent (add some color so you can track what you’ve covered as you go). Your first pre-emergent should have been down a few weeks ago. If not, don’t waste time back-tracking, stick with the spray treatments (most retail sprays

Make sure you cultivate the bed soil and add fertilizer while it’s exposed. Our soil can get hard over the course of a year. Turning it over and allowing the oxygen/ nutrients to really penetrate is always a good idea. Consider your plant needs, sun exposure and soil conditions when choosing a mulch. Color typically dictates

of unlicensed, illegal and uninsured maintenance workers has at least tripled. We encourage everyone this year, especially in our competitive Lantana and Argyle markets, to try and see past the benefit of the immediate cheap price and look into the future of our communities. There are hundreds of knowledgeable, tax paying local businesses that do great work, while also giving back and investing

many other benefits to consider than

in our communities.

just aesthetics. We could write 10 pages on spring

bi-weekly basis) and consistent bagged

landscape prep. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer

mowings. As the grass starts to turn, train

then you’ve probably already got a plan in

it to a conservative watering schedule,

place. If not, get on it or call a professional

consistent chemicals, and mowing. It’s

before you walk outside, notice everything

simple but the consistency is KEY. Do this

is overgrown, and it’s too late to cut it back

and you will see results.

without damage.

| MARCH 2017

past 6+ years. In that time, the number

what direction people go, but there are so

are going to be recommended on a

28 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

lawns a week and having done so for the

Please consider supporting those who support our community.

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com