MAY/JUNE 2021 THE HOME ESSENTIALS ISSUE
Carnival Custom Painting
PAINTING A
CLEAR PICTURE
OF EXCELLENCE
Corinth - Hickory Creek - Shady Shores - Lake Dallas
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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEWISVILLE, TX PERMIT NO. 977
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TABLE OF
Contents LAKE CITIES PHOTOS 19 Lake Dallas High School Prom 26 Guyer Senior Prom ARTICLES 08 10 Hot Backyard Decorating Tips 10 Inside Community and Education 13 5 Things To Try 14 Shane Smith 15 Years As A Firefighter 15 In Memory Of Dylan Dorrell 20 Walk The Talk 22 An All-The-Way Mindset 24 Newspaper Steve Sportswriter of the Year
29 100 Going On Sixty 30 Chico To The Rescue
PAGE
16
PAINTING A
CLEAR PICTURE
OF EXCELLENCE Cover Image Clark Pittman, Owner of Carnival
Custom Painting in Flower Mound
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Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray
Administration
Happy Home I know y’all are going to think I’m off my rocker here, but now that the calendar has already flipped to May, I’m thinking about summertime, and that trusty Home Depot jingle from the TV commercials is stuck on a loop in my brain. As Home Depot likes to say, “how doers get more done.” Or maybe it’s “Dream it. Do it.” Whatever the case may be, it’s May. And before you know it, it’ll be June. That means it’s time to get outside and start following through with all of those home improvement projects you’ve been adding to your Pinterest boards all winter. With the smell of sunshine in the air comes that feeling of excitement as we dream of all the home design and decor possibilities — inside and outside, of course — to refresh our homes and give us that oasis we’ve long dreamed of. No matter the size of your project, this issue is chock-full of design ideas and local connections to help get you started. No offense to our friends at Home Depot, but we happen to know a few design and home improvement pros who are small business owners right here in Denton County. If you need a name, just let us know — we’ll throw you five or six! Within the pages of this month’s magazine, you’ll find an article with 10 Hot Backyard Decorating Trends to help you get excited to start your updates. If that doesn’t inspire your creativity, check out our 5 Things to Try, where we showcase some of Denton County’s finest cocktails. Hey, if you’re going to dream about making changes to your happy home, you might as well have a cool drink to sip on. Thank you so much for picking up a copy of this month’s magazine.
Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran
Editor & Writer Steve Gamel
Writers
Caylie Howard, Diane Ciarloni Jade Kensington, Jean Eisenmann Leena Duwadi, Rebecca Beer
Advertising Inquiries
sales@murray-media.com
Production
Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Cayla Thompson Fernando Gomez
Photography
Miranda Longoria Photography Your Candid Memories Photography What’s That Guy’s Name? Guy T Photography
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 Inquiries Call 972.899.3637 or email editor@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028
Lake Cities Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Some articles and/or content may be sponsored by advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Lake Cities
Livings 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. © 2021 Murray Media Group
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HOT
BACKYARD DECORATING TIPS
1. USING YOUR BACKYARD AS AN OFFICE Many people have found themselves moving their office space to their home in the past year. It can be draining looking at the same four walls day in and day out, not to mention the distractions that come from having your home also function as your office. You might find a change of scenery much more appealing by taking the office outdoors to a serene backyard. Just add a functional wooden desk and connect your computer to a hotspot. You might find that some fresh air will do a world of difference. 2. ADDING A PERGOLA With the summer months fast approaching, it’s safe to say that Texas is about to start heating up. So that you are able to enjoy the peace and beauty of the outdoors during those scorching summer months, it might be a good idea to look into adding a pergola 8 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | MAY 2021
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to your outdoor oasis. The added shade will allow relief from the sun so that you are able to entertain and relax outside all summer long. 3. CREATING A GARDEN OF FOOD TO ENJOY Not only is it super convenient to have food ready to eat growing in your backyard, but
it can also be extremely beautiful. The different vibrant colors of the vegetable and fruits add a positive and joyful appearance. You can also dress up your garden by adding raised garden beds and beautiful pots to decorate your outdoor living space. 4. BORROWING A VIEW Do you ever wish that you had more yard to admire? Sometimes, we have bigger
dreams than what our actual space will allow. This is where borrowing a view comes
into play. If you have a neighbor that shares your love for a beautiful outdoor space, you could create a doorway or fence leading from your yard that makes it appear that your yard goes on far longer than it actually does.
8. MAKING YOUR SPACE ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY The desire for more low-maintenance and sustainable yards is growing every day. With people’s busy schedules, it’s not always feasible to keep on top of taking care of outdoor plants. You could consider adding in more pollinator plants that are attracting more birds and bees – such as lavenders or plants that have berries. These plants don’t take much effort, and they also give back to the environment. 9. FIRESCAPING
5. CREATING THE MOOD YOU DESIRE If you aren’t looking to create a more livable and entertainable outdoor space, you
might consider transforming your backyard oasis into a place that will enhance your mood. You could add bright colors to create a joyful presence, or you could even look into creating a beautiful and relaxing waterfall to add tranquility to your life. 6. IT’S TIME TO PLAY With so many families choosing to place their children in at-home learning, it can be
With the outrageous number of wildfires that have taken place around our country in recent years, it’s understandable that people might want to take safety precautions by adding fire-resistant landscapes. By adding plants that have moist leaves closest to the house such as coral bells and low-growing sages, it helps to protect your home from damage.
hard to help children find a way to release all of that pent-up energy from staying inside
10. ADDING SIDE GATES
artificial turf or even multipurpose concrete pads for a small basketball court. Another
A new pandemic-approved addition is to add a side gate to your backyard living space. By adding a side gate, you can feel safe in having friends and family come to join you in relaxing in the comfort of your updated outdoor living area. With a side gate, your guests can avoid walking through the privacy of your home and can easily just go straight through to your backyard.
all day. You could choose to create an outdoor fun space for your kids by adding in fun option if you have trees is to add a hanging swing from the branches. 7. EXPANDING TO THE FRONT
With the recent social distancing that we’ve put in place, you might have found yourself missing the interactions of your neighbors and friends. By making your front yard more livable, you will be able to interact with friends while also having your own space. You could add a beautiful fire pit or create a front patio with rockers and lounge chairs to enjoy the company of your friends and neighbors. www.LiveLocalMagazines.com
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INSIDE COMMUNITY
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ANNUAL LCEF MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT DENTON COUNTY MRC AWARDED Denton County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) has been selected as a 2021 MRC Program National Recognition Awardee for Community Response in COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts! This is an incredible honor and would not be possible without the amazing volunteers that stepped up for our community. We can not thank them enough! If you’d like to join Denton County MRC, sign up at mrc.dentoncounty.gov/. photo courtesy of Denton County, TX social media page
INSIDE EDUCATION
Save the date for the 20th Annual Lake Cities Education Foundation Memorial Golf Tournament will be at Oakmont Country Club again this year on June 7! The format is a four-person modified scramble, and awards will be given for the low gross team, longest drive, closest to the pin, hole in one, and more! To register go to lcefgolf.golfreg.com/.
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LAKE DALLAS HIGH VALEDICTORIANS Lake Dallas High School has announced its top 10 graduates from the Class of 2021! Megan Dillard earned the school’s valedictorian ranking, while Allie Robinson earned the school’s salutatorian ranking. The remaining students in the top 10 (listed alphabetically) include Jake Belcher, Michael Brown, Addison Buesing, Jaya Dhadda, Casee Harl, Garrett Henderson, Gillian Stinson, and Aiden Wooldridge. photo courtesy of Anthony Tosie Megan Dillard
Allie Robinson
TAEA STATE VISUAL ARTS SCHOLASTIC EVENT Congrats and great work by two Lake Dallas High School students who competed virtually in the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) State Visual Arts Scholastic Event! Mai Tran earned a superior rating becoming a state medalist and Tru Duy earned an excellent rating. photo courtesy of Lake Dallas ISD social media page Mai Tran
Tru Duy
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VOLUNTEERS PLANT 20 TREES Keep Lake Dallas Beautiful volunteers planted 20 trees in less than 90 minutes! You can see the difference this made by visiting City Park and Community Park. Shout out to the Keep Lake Dallas Beautiful supporters, volunteers, and sponsors including, Lake Dallas ISD students, City Council members, and Adopt-a-Shop volunteers. photo courtesy of The City of Lake Dallas, TX social media page
LAKE DALLAS BUSINESS ORDINANCES Lake Dallas City Council members recently voted to suspend provisions to the City’s sign ordinance. The goal of this is to help local businesses better advertise in an effort to overcome this year and last year’s hardships like loss of revenue due to COVID-19 and Texas’s recent winter storm. You can read the full details in Lake Dallas’ fact sheet and what this means for businesses by going to www.lakedallas.com/524/Fact-Sheets.
A WILDCAT IN NEED Guyer senior and varsity baseball player Mitch Lucero was hospitalized with various health issues, mostly related to liver complications. He was released, but his condition got increasingly worse since then, and was eventually admitted to Children’s Dallas hospital. As of now, it is unknown when Mitch will be well enough to be released. A GoFundMe has been created to help the Lucero family with the medical costs www.gofundme.com/f/helping-mitch-and-the-luceros-takes-a-village. photo courtesy of Mitch’s GoFundMe
DISD NAMED BEST COMMUNITY FOR MUSIC EDUCATION Denton ISD has been honored with the 2021 Best Communities for Music Education designation from the NAMM Foundation for the 14th consecutive year! This award is given to districts that demonstrate outstanding efforts to provide music access and education to all students. Research into music education continues to demonstrate educational, cognitive, and social skill benefits for children who make music, which is why Denton ISD continues to put an emphasis on music education. Great job everyone!
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Things 5TO TRY TEXAS PEACH TEA Elm Fork Taphouse & Kitchen, Hickory Creek Here’s another taphouse that also makes incredible cocktails! The Texas Peach Tea at Elm Fork Taphouse is a must-have. This cocktail consists of Western Son peach vodka, simple syrup, iced tea, and is garnished with a lemon wedge. This drink will go great with any meal you order and will have you feeling relaxed.
LAVENDER LEMONADE The Brass Tap, Roanoke The Brass Tap may be known for beer, but they have delicious cocktails as well. The Lavender Lemonade consists of butterfly pea flower-infused Drumshanbo Gin, lavender house-made simple syrup, Tempus Fugit Liqueur de Violettes, and fresh lemon juice. This refreshing cocktail will have you daydreaming you’re at the beach!
BLACK CHERRY VODKA BASIL MULE 940’s Kitchen & Cocktails, Denton Take a seat at the lofty, warehouse-style space of 940’s and enjoy a Black Cherry Vodka Basil Mule! This cocktail contains Zodiac Black Cherry Vodka, basil simple, ginger beer, and lime. This drink pairs perfectly with their Short Rib Mac n’ Cheese and is the ideal spot for date night! CUCUMBER JALAPENO MARGARITA Oak Street Drafthouse, Denton Oak Street Drafthouse is a fun, unique spot to enjoy some drinks and food! They converted a historic house into a drafthouse and they have a large, dogfriendly back patio with ping-pong. The Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita is a must! This drink consists of cucumber vodka, Triple Sec, sour, spicy agave, jalapeno, and lime.
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JACK ROSE Yellow Rose Steakhouse, Flower Mound Yellow Rose Steakhouse is fine dining in a casual atmosphere and you’ll get that with the Jack Rose cocktail. This cocktail is made with apple brandy, house-made pomegranate grenadine, and fresh lemon juice. The house-made pomegranate grenadine alone will have you drooling for more! MAY 2021 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 13
SHANE SMITH 15 YEARS AS A
FIREFIGHTER
T
by Jean Eisenmann | photos courtesy of Shots by Sheri
he Lake Cities Fire Department serves and protects the towns of Corinth, Hickory Creek, Lake Dallas, and Shady Shores. Within the department, there are three fire stations providing fire, rescue, and emergency medical services to its citizens. As first responders, these heroes have made a commitment to protect life and property from fire and other disasters. Often, they are first on the scene when road collisions, collapsed buildings, and other devastating emergencies strike. They may face danger yet take these risks willingly and with compassion. Firefighting can be very rewarding, and that’s why so many have chosen it to be their lifelong career.
One such example is Shane Smith, who recently celebrated 15 years with the
Lake Cities Fire Department. A perfect
example of duty and dedication, Shane admits, “This is what I’ve always wanted to do since I was a boy.” And he’s been doing it for 17 years, beginning with graduation from the fire academy and
obtaining his EMT-
Paramedic license,
the highest ranking in EMT training.
For the past two years, Shane has held the
position of Driver/Engineer,
living the ultimate dream – driving the fire truck. Still, this is a very technical position that requires him to know the vehicle
inside and out and make sure every fire
apparatus on the truck is in working order.
The duty schedule consists of three shifts of 24 hours on and 48 hours off. Therefore, the firehouse is a firefighter’s second home where they not only work their shifts but eat and sleep, too. Trust in each other abounds, not only when duty calls but in their day-to-day routines. “You could leave a $100 bill on the table for days, and nobody will take it,” Shane said with a grin. “But don’t leave a pint of
Assistant Fire Chief Chad Thiessen said, “Quite simply, Shane is compassionate and kind to people, and we are glad to have him.” Whenever he retires, Shane and his family plan to travel more in their RV. Firefighters may retire at any age, but he is in no hurry to even consider leaving his ideal profession. After reflecting a moment, he remarked, “I hear the country’s oldest active firefighter retired in 2011 — at the age of 77.”
on the highway. For Shane, “The hardest shift I’ve ever had was during February’s ice storm.” Working non-stop, they
In addition to his career, Shane
step into his role. So I need to know his
and his wife, Amy, have been married nearly 30 years, and
14 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | MAY 2021
“He truly is a great individual who puts service before self.”
Emergency medical services
station are carried out, such as washing
responsibilities, too,” Shane explained.
“He constantly demonstrates great leadership and mentorship.”
(EMS) make up the biggest part of the job for these Lake Cities firefighters, followed by fires and wrecks
handled over 100 calls, with the chiefs even helping to run those calls.
the fire truck. “If the captain’s off duty I
Fire Chief Michael Ross shared some of the firefighters’ thoughts on Shane:
Bluebell ice cream in the freezer or it’ll be gone!”
Shane is also responsible for seeing that
the daily activities performed around the
their daughter Haley recently graduated from UNT. “My fellow firefighters are like family, too,” Shane reflects. “We’re a brotherhood and always have each other’s backs.”
does have a personal life. He
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E R U T C I Pain E P C R N A E E L CL EXCEL OF A g n ti
’s at Guy at’s Th h W y b graphy | photo
Name?
|
n nman n Eise a e UY T J G y b Y BY H P A R G PHOTO
W
e’ve all experienced some dark days since COVID-19 first cast its shadow last year. Since its onset, the home has become the nucleus of our daily lives more than ever, assuming the multiple identities of haven, workplace, daycare center, school, and entertainment hub. The more we are confined to the house, however, the more we notice how many home improvements could – or should – be made. You want popcorn in your home theater room, but not on the ceiling. Grease stains on the kitchen cabinets rival their original wood stain, and your 80s wallpaper is giving you flashbacks of that entire decade. So, who ya gonna call?
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Look no further than Flower Mound’s Carnival Custom Painting, a premier full service residential painting contractor standing by to conquer all your paintrelated challenges. Once they work their magic in or outside of your home, you’ll never call another painting company. They’re that good.
It’s plain to see why Carnival is a leader in customer satisfaction. “I’m more in touch than my competitors,” Clark explained. “I’m never more than 15 minutes away from any of my clients.” Clark and his crew develop then cultivate relationships.
“A full two-thirds of my business is Impressing and delighting residents in repeat customers, and the other third and around Flower Mound since October are referrals from satisfied clients,” he said. 2000, Carnival also paints the towns of Argyle, Bartonville, Corinth, Loyalties extend beyond the Hickory Creek, Lake Dallas, customer, though. A few crew Lewisville, Shady Shores, “SAY WHAT members have been with and most of Denton. Carnival for at least 12 years, YOU’RE GOING They have your home some for 18. The crew chief TO DO AND covered, offering has stood by Clark since THEN DO WHAT virtually all paint-related the beginning. There are no YOU SAY.” services, from complete sales representatives, for Clark exterior painting to interior maintains that, “A salesperson painting of walls, ceilings, and simply must sell, sell, sell in order to trim. Services also include wallpaper be paid. They put their sales goals before removal, drywall texturing, popcorn all else. Consequently, customer service is acoustic ceiling removal, and cabinet diminished or neglected altogether.” conversions. Be assured that all their Before the scope of each job is work comes with a deep commitment to established, Clark himself visits the excellence in both services and products, location. His main goal is to understand such as high-quality Benjamin Moore, the client’s expectations and align them Sherwin Williams, and Kelly Moore paints. with the steps to meet – and likely exceed Owner Clark Pittman became the first – those expectations. You can be assured franchisee of (founder Steve Long’s) that his detailed written proposal will Carnival Custom Painting those 20include an explanation behind each plus years ago. Seeing this as a great sectioned scope of work and its pricing, opportunity to work directly with the along with complete paint and material community, Clark made that leap from specifics so that you know you will be successful software sales to helping receiving the quality you expect families fulfill their wishes to improve and deserve. their homes inside and out. As vice president, his wife, Dina, is also very active in the business and maintains the financial side.
Typically, jobs begin on a Monday and should wrap up by the weekend. From onset to completion, Carnival’s talented team of professionals follow a detailed, systematic 8-step process customized to each project. This gives you the least invasive and most positive painting experience. Throughout each project’s duration, Clark stops by to ensure everything is going well and that the client is satisfied. Predictably, they are. You can’t gloss over the plain fact that painting your interior walls is a simple way to refresh and update your home, and stunning interior paint projects are Carnival Custom Painting’s specialty. They’re passionate about updates that reflect your personality, greatly improve your living environment, and generate renewed pride in your home. If those reasons weren’t enough, paint can increase your home’s value and appeal and won’t break your budget.
Clark and the crew stand behind their high standards of excellence — in their products, their commitment to customer service, and the confidence that their customers will be thrilled with the results. Explaining his philosophy, Clark says with conviction, “Say what you’re going to do and then do what you say. It’s easy, it’s simple, and it makes all the difference.” If all that doesn’t paint a clear picture of why you should choose Carnival Custom Painting, just let them show you.
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LAKE DALLAS
HIGH SCHOOL
PROM photos courtesy of Lake Dallas ISD
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THE TALK by Diane Ciarloni | photos courtesy of LC Run Walk Group
D
on’t worry if you happen to telephone Grace Ward in Corinth and think you latched onto a poor quality cell signal. You didn’t. What sounds like a case of static is simply the electrified excitement in Ward’s voice as she discusses her newly established Lake Cities Run Walk Group.
“IT’S A WHOLE NEW ADVENTURE FOR ALL OF US, AND YOU NEVER KNOW WHERE AN ADVENTURE WILL TAKE YOU.”
Ward is a long-time, dedicated runner who’s lived in Corinth for over 30 years. She was a fitness trainer years ago, but the income for that role tended to be more toward the lower side of the scale. The alternative was to search for a “real” job. She walked through the doors of Southwest Airlines and stayed for more than 20 years in Workforce Planning as a Senior Business Consultant. However, her passion and heart always remained in helping others find health and fitness. Then came COVID-19. “Southwest offered a Voluntary Separation Packages (VSP) to help the company avoid
photos to the left is Grace Ward and group members at various Meet-Ups 20 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | MAY 2021
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photos to the right are group members at various Meet-Ups
“THE LAKE CITIES AREA IS KNOWN FOR BEING SAFE AND FUN, AND THIS IS JUST A WAY TO ENHANCE THAT ELEMENT.” furloughs,” she explained. “I took it in support of my Southwest Family. What next?” It didn’t take long for Ward to answer that question. Her brain had sheltered a dream for 30 years. Now, she decided, was the time to pull out the scattered fragments and put it together. “I have a lot of energy, and I’m passionate about motivating people,” Ward said. “Seeing people connect with one another is exciting! So, in January, I started Lake Cities Run Walk Group. It’s free. No membership or fees. It’s 100-percent all-inclusive, with men and women from 18 to 65-plus. It has only been four months, and we already have almost 450 members. The entire concept was based on providing a platform that allows people to walk and/or run safely, to connect with each other and enjoy our Community. The Lake Cities area is known for being safe and fun, and this is just a way to enhance that element.” This is strictly a free-style group. No pressure. It’s okay if you don’t want to walk with the entire group. It’s fine if you don’t want, or feel you can’t, walk the full route. You choose the pace, and there is absolutely no judgment — just praise and encouragement for what you did. “There wasn’t much activity the first month,” Ward recalled. “I think people were just hanging back, waiting to see www.LiveLocalMagazines.com
what would happen. And, it was pretty
cold. Then we had snow in February and many lost electricity. I needed to come
up with some motivators to get people out and moving around. I put together
a distance and consistency challenge in
February, and the members were out and
posting pictures in the snow. It was great.” She added, “Then, we did a spring
scavenger hunt with four different routes — one for each city. We had so much fun, and it brought so many of us together. There will be many more contests and
challenges to keep people motivated and having fun throughout the year.”
This is all well and good. But why
share their struggles — many times appearing defeated. I could always see the Warrior in them. The Warrior they could be in just a few months. I knew they could do it. I just needed them to know they could — if they would just step out that door.” Ward overflows with passion and enthusiasm for the project that draws together Lake Dallas, Hickory Creek, Corinth, and Shady Shores. “I don’t know how much it’ll grow or how far it’ll go, but the core will always be the four Lake Cities. It’s a whole new adventure for all of us, and you never know where an adventure will take you.”
does Ward do it? After all, she must
Ward made a Facebook post on April 24, sharing the following quote:
with contests, challenges, and social
“Work Your Hardest.
invest a considerable chunk of her time media. Why?
“Why not?” she answered. “Why wouldn’t I want to give back to my community?
While working as a trainer, people would
Dream Your Biggest. Be Your Greatest.” That about sums her up. MAY 2021 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 21
NOMINATE US! June 9
July 7
AN
ALL-THE-WAY
MINDSET
“
W
by Jay Marks
hen I was in the Army, I spent some time in the famed 82nd Airborne Division. As a paratrooper we had a motto of “All The Way”. It was the mindset of everyone in the division that you would go all the way and then some. So when we passed an officer, we would salute and say the phrase “All The Way” and they would reply with “Airborne”. I loved that and have kept it as my personal mantra ever since.” “Now that I have been in real estate for almost 28 years. I have seen a lot of different real estate markets. We are in one of the most aggressive markets I have ever seen. I’ve sold real estate during times of war, the housing crisis, and all types of economies, but this is really tough. How we have managed through the pandemic and this currently wild market is focused work. We went back to the basics. We connected with people at a high level. We doubled down on our brand, our relationships, and providing high-level service.”
the team got a call from a client who
“At Jay Marks Real Estate we showcase a problem-solving mindset. We have done everything from arranging rides to closings to creating a virtual home buying process called BuyAHouseFromHome.
Ever the community supporter, Jay’s
com. We have continued to impress clients with a level of service you can’t find anywhere else. For example, one of our agents, Nina Boyd, sold five homes 100% virtually — not only coordinating a showing via FaceTime, but also doing the same with various designers and contractors so that the clients’ needs were met. Last year,
hurt his back while moving. Within an
hour, our team had four people lending a helping hand.”
“A lot of realtors may have said, ‘call Ace the plumber or Mike the electrician.’
However, we coordinate repairs for them because we have always believed that each client matters, and every home matters. It can be stressful buying or
selling a home. We take care of people and meet their needs privately. People matter, and we recognize that.”
Foodie Friday DFW and Denton County
Giving video series are still going strong as well. With Foodie Friday, they’ve
doubled down on encouraging people to continue to support local restaurants by
dining in or ordering food for takeout or delivery — whatever is necessary to help keep businesses in motion.
“It’s been a crazy time, but we were
prepared because we always go ‘All The Way’”, said Jay.
972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com | jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 3212 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 300 • Flower Mound, TX 75022
22 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | MAY 2021
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MAY 2021 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 23
Steve NEWSPAPER
SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR by Mark Miller | photo of family by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com) & photo of Steve with wife courtesy of Steve Gamel
A
s much as Steve Gamel has always loved covering and writing about high school sports, it’s the personal connections with players, coaches, parents, and other writers that are most important to him.
“I DIDN’T GET INTO THIS TO WIN AWARDS, BUT THERE IS VALIDATION IN IT - AND IT FEELS REALLY GOOD.” 24 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | MAY 2021
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“AS MUCH AS I LOVE SPORTS WRITING, I DIDN’T WANT TO BE A ONE-TRICK PONY. I WRITE BLOGS, ONLINE CONTENT, FEATURES ABOUT BUSINESSES, ETC. I THINK THAT’S MADE ME A BETTER WRITER.” They are what has allowed him to tell the
Affectionately known as Newspaper Steve,
etc. I think that’s made me a better writer,”
smiles on readers’ faces, feel like he’s part
The Lewisville News in 1997 while still
coming out this fall. “I’ve written about
best stories over the past 24 years, put of a community, and become better at
his craft. They are also a big reason why he is continually honored with writing
awards. The most recent one was in March when the Texas Girls Coaches Association named him as their 2020-2021 Division I
Sportswriter of the Year for his passionate coverage of girls and boys athletics. Gamel will be honored at a special ceremony on July 12 in Arlington.
“I didn’t get into this to win awards, but
there is validation in it — and it feels really good,” Gamel said. “I’m thankful for the
TGCA and honored that so many coaches
Gamel began his writing career with
in college. He’s gone on to cover sports
for several outlets, including the Denton Record-Chronicle. He’s been to state
championships in numerous sports and chronicled countless athletes who have gone on to play professionally.
Along the way, he expanded his writing
prowess to anything involving the written word. He currently owns his own writing and editing business called Edit This
and routinely writes and edits for Murray Media Group and numerous other
magazines, newspapers, and smallbusiness owners.
threw my name in for consideration.
“As much as I love sports writing, I didn’t
doing a good job.”
online content, features about businesses,
It makes you feel like you’re
want to be a one-trick pony. I write blogs,
said Gamel, who has a book for writers pretty much everything, and I can’t get enough of it.”
The latest honor from the TGCA was
another in a growing list of awards — for
sports writing and his other creative works. He’s been recognized by the Associated
Press Sports Editors and Texas Associated Press Managing Editors. With Edit This, he’s been honored by Best of Denton County voters for the past four years.
“I love doing what I do,” Gamel said.
“I’m passionate about storytelling, and
I’m passionate about learning something new today that’s going to make me a
better writer tomorrow. The awards are
amazing, too. I couldn’t be more thankful and honored.”
“I’VE WRITTEN ABOUT PRETTY MUCH EVERYTHING, AND I CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF IT.” www.LiveLocalMagazines.com
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100 GOING ON SIXTY by Jean Eisenmann | Birthday & Warren Fata photo courtesy of Debbi Fata, Proclamation photo Courtesy of Town of Hickory Creek
his turning 100. As devoted citizens, for
several years he and wife Rose served as election judges overseeing the voting booths. Warren also became part of
the Hickory Creek Planning and Zoning Commission for several years. And he held a city council seat, serving from 2004 to 2006.
“It was a very interesting time in my life, and I enjoyed it very much,” Warren commented.
Sadly, his wife fell ill, and dedicating his time to caring for her became his new commitment.
His life unfolds like a program on the
History Channel. Warren was a valuable
asset during nearly all four years of service in World War II. Though he desperately wanted to serve overseas and made
several attempts at being deployed, his
country needed him most in Boise, Idaho, repairing bomber planes. In fact, he was
commissioned to Washington, D.C. to be part of the team that inspected the Enola Gay at Andrews Field in Maryland!
“That was one of the highlights of my
H
ave you ever met a pistol? No, not the weapon, but someone whose personality can be summed up using that term. A person described as a ‘pistol’ displays great enthusiasm and positive energy. It’s a compliment to one who is outgoing, social, and the sort you don’t easily forget. Undeniably, Warren Fata is a pistol.
life,” Warren remarked.
After the war, Warren returned home to Chicago and landed a job in a machine shop, which blossomed into a 36-year
career. When the company was sold in
Warren is also a centenarian. A beloved citizen of Hickory Creek for over 25 years, Warren was born in Mount Union, Pennsylvania 100 years ago on March 4th, 1921. His father relocated the family to Chicago in 1930. Warren loved the city, but he visited Texas in 1994 to see his son Roger, who had made the wise move to the Lone Star State. A year later, Warren himself was a Texan.
Debbie have given him two grandchildren
1986, Warren had achieved the level
living in Arizona.
Still vital and articulate, every morning
son Warren, but spends a lot of time with
filled the gas tank, shopped for groceries,
“My dear wife, Rose Ruth Maul Fata, passed away in 2008,” Warren reflected, with a sadness that only the loss of one’s soulmate can evoke. “After that, life has never been the same.”
4.5 miles away, and Warren drives to and
yard,” Roger said of his dad. ‘He
Yet, life is good. Their union produced Warren and Roger. Roger and his wife
Clark presented him with a proclamation
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and five great-grandchildren, all
of vice-president.
“Before the pandemic I’d see them a
Warren begins his day reading the Bible.
couple of times a year, so I’m looking
He still drives, pays bills, attends church,
forward to doing that again,” Warren said.
and enjoys his coffee and sweets.
He resides in Hickory Creek with eldest
“One day, dad got the car washed and
Roger and Debbie. They live in Corinth,
and spread three bags of mulch on the
from pretty much every day.
The citizens of Hickory Creek hold Warren in high regard as a valuable resident
and dedicated volunteer. Mayor Lynn
on behalf of the town commemorating
wondered why he felt tired!”
Warren’s words of advice: “Love thy neighbor, go to church, and thank God for every day.”
And his key to longevity? “Maybe eat one grapefruit every morning.”
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CHICO TO THE S
RESCUE
by Diane Ciarloni | photos courtesy of Hickory Creek Police Department
gt. Jon Causseaux, a nearly 13-year veteran with the Hickory Creek Police Department, is always proud of his K-9 partner, Chico. But there was a recent afternoon when Causseaux’s chest swelled to maximum proportions.
A call came into Hickory Creek from Denton. A 12-year-old autistic boy was missing in a heavily wooded area. A 2 ½-hour search using a helicopter and drones failed to locate him. The seriousness of the situation increased by the minute since darkness wasn’t far away, and there was also a body of water in the area. People living with autism also harbor a pronounced attraction to water, so finding him before he wandered too close to the pond was imperative.
Scout’s Explorer program while in high school led him to law enforcement.
After serving in the Marines, he landed a job with the Denton jail. Then, after
more training, he applied to both the Hickory Creek and Little Elm police
departments. Accepted by both, he chose Hickory Creek.
“I’ve always hated narcotics on the
street,” Causseaux revealed. “I also
love my job and have a deep-seated
desire to help people. I wanted to do everything I could to help get rid of
the drugs. And, after thinking about it, I figured the most effective way to do that was with a dog. I put together a
canine program plan, pitched it to the chief, and he agreed.”
Chico, a native of the Czech Republic,
was purchased by the state of Mississippi. But early on, their canine program was
canceled. Chico, through no fault of his own, was unemployed.
“He had training fundamentals,”
Causseaux said. “But I didn’t even have
that much. Dogs like Chico need a high prey drive and a desire to pursue and capture. Chico has that, and we just transitioned it to drugs.” The Denton rescue team needed Chico. “Tracking is Chico’s absolute favorite thing to do,” Casseaux said. “Chico smelled a piece of the boy’s clothing as soon as we got to the search area. He took off. All he needed was five minutes, and the boy was back with his parents. I’m always proud of what this dog can do. But that was the best.” Causseaux isn’t exaggerating when he says the handsome two-year-old loves tracking. He once tracked an escaped inmate in Mississippi for three miles, and he tracked a car until he literally passed out. Causseaux grew up in Lake Dallas and Hickory Creek, born into a family involved
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in public service. Four years in the Boy
He added, “We don’t want aggressive dogs or dogs that bite just to bite. I’m
Chico’s whole world. I even hand-feed
him, and everything he wants or needs
comes from me. That’s a big responsibility, and I take it seriously.”
The training never stops. It’s ongoing
— at least 16-hours every single week.
One result is Chico and the Sgt. are now
certified as a dual-purpose team, working in both apprehension and narcotics.
Word of Chico’s talents has spread far beyond Hickory Creek. As a result, he and Causseaux are called out almost weekly to assist other agencies.
In this case, Mississippi’s loss was definitely Hickory Creek’s gain.
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