Lantana Living Magazine January 2020 by Murray Media Group

JANUARY 17, 2020 - FEBRUARY 21, 2020 Fitness Issue

A FUNCTIONAL

ALTERNATIVE WAYS

TO GET YOUR HEART RATE UP

TAX TIME

IS COMING

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T MISS OUT!

FEATURED ARTICLE

32 A Functional Fitness Routine Built For Everyone ASK THE EXPERTS

EDITOR’S PICK

06 AThatCommunity Helps www.LantanaLiving.com

Fitness with Jesse James Fit

Edit This with Steve Gamel

Dentistry with Country Lakes Family Dental

Gardening with Complete Solutions

Legal Advice with Balmos Law

Organizing with Cloud Nine Organizing

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 5

A COMMUNITY

THAT HELPS by Brooke Ezzo

hey say that to raise a child, it takes a village. Lantana resident Alysia Bell is grateful for hers.

After her daughter Adalyn started missing milestones around seven months old, Alysia and her husband, Justin, took Adalyn in for testing.

Two and a half years later, they had answers. Adalyn, Addie as they call her, was

diagnosed with a condition called EhlersDanlos Syndrome, a connective tissue

disorder that affects all muscles in the body. “She uses a walker and a wheelchair to get around, “ Alysia said.

North Star made accommodations for her

the kids in the program both physically

class. Over the last three years, North Star

They have inclusion time with other pre-K

and treated her like any other child in their has continued to do this for Addie, making adjustments for her anyway they can to help her thrive.

“For working parents, this literally saved us from having to quit our jobs,” Alysia said. The weight of that statement is hard to

and academically ready to start school.

classes so that Addie and her friends get as much interaction as possible.

“Since Addie started the program, she

went from barely being strong enough to use her walker to walking almost the full school day!” Alysia exclaimed.

feel without understanding the gratitude

Addie can cut, count to 10, and sight her

teachers in their lives who continue to

wouldn’t necessarily be grateful for, but

Alysia and Justin have for the staff and help Addie navigate this world.

name. These may seem like activities you for the Bells, these are major celebrations.

The pieces continued falling into place

“When you have a child with special

olds — she wants to do everything herself.

that started at Adkins Elementary in

what’s best for them and what to focus

playing with her older sister, watching

with special needs.

Addie is like a lot of other “normal” 4-year-

for the Bells in the form of a new program

A typical day for the toddler includes

Lantana — a full-day program for kids

her favorite show, Boss Baby, and playing

“They can start when they are three, and it

with her dolls. But between the extensive physical and speech therapy and having

two full-time jobs, the Bells were going to need some help. her village.

North Star Academy in Lantana took

Addie in when she was one — with no questions asked.

“Normal 1-year-olds are starting to walk,

they go above and beyond for all of

incredible staff at the Academy volunteers daily to pick her up and drop her off, wheelchair and all.

“The teacher at North Star that picks her

up is named Rocky,” Alysia said. “She’s the most patient, caring person.”

not sit up on her own.”

work together alongside therapists to get

| JANUARY 2020

so many areas.”

Star Academy knew pick-up arrangements

Addie’s teachers at Adkins, Mrs. Lueck,

6 | LANTANA LIVING

breath and know that Addie is thriving in The Bells believe every teacher is truly

said. Because of work schedules, North

get around, and thrive,” Alysia said.

“When Addie started there, she could

on first,” Alysia said. “Now, we can take a

gets them ready for Kindergarten,” Alysia

for Addie would be difficult. So, the

After some research, Alysia found

needs, it’s a constant battle between

Mrs. Green, Ms. Fox, and Mrs. Kent, all

amazing and has seen first-hand how their students.

“I am so excited to give them the credit

they deserve,” Alysia said. “It takes special

people to teach and super special people to teach kids with disabilities.”

She added, “One thing everyone

always says about Addie is her smile.

It’s infectious, and she’s the happiest kid in the world. We are all better people with her in our lives.”

www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 7

Fitness

ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO GET YOUR

by Steve Gamel

he higher your heart rate is, the more calories you burn and the more weight you lose. It seems pretty simple, right? For many of us, that means making sure we hit the gym for some strength training, CrossFit, and a few miles on the treadmill or

elliptical machine. But what if that’s not your thing? Or even if it is, what if you don’t have time to go to the gym this week or simply need a break from the normal routine?

Luckily, there are plenty of alternative activities out there that can keep your heart rate elevated and improve your cardiovascular health. Here are a few alternatives to consider as we enter a new year:

ICE SKATING

Even though we are in Texas, there are places like the Galleria or the Children’s Health StarCenter that not only offer a great experience for the family but also help you get in a killer leg and cardio workout without even realizing it. Ice skating is great for joint and muscle health, improved balance and coordination, and stress management.

STROLLER SPEED WALKING

It can be difficult for new moms to find time to get to the gym. Stroller speed walking is the perfect alternative; simply put the little guy or gal in a stroller and speed walk around the neighborhood or a local mall? Believe it or not, this is a form of high-intensity interval training that pushes your heart rate into the batburning range. 8 | LANTANA LIVING

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www.LantanaLiving.com

SWIMMING

Swimming is a highly underutilized form of cardiovascular exercise to get your heart rate up. Swimming is also great in terms of recovery from a tough workout. Several places in town offer an indoor pool experience so that you can still get your swim on without having to make an icy plunge.

BOXING

To piggyback off the previous alternative workout, there are tons of gyms in town that offer everything from a simple punching bag to go a few rounds with or a full-blown boxing and kickboxing cardio workout.

PLAY BASKETBALL WITH THE KIDS

For the competitive dads in their 40s and 50s, there is nothing like trying to recapture your youth by trying to beat your 12-year-old son or daughter in a game of pickup basketball. The cardio benefits are numerous, not to mention the ability to regain some of that long-lost endurance and coordination.

DANCING

ROCK CLIMBING

If you do have time to get to the gym but crave something different, consider yourself blessed if they have a rockclimbing wall. Places like Summit Climbing in Denton or Lifetime Fitness offer indoor rock climbing, which is perfect for cardio along with improving grip strength, coordination, and strength. Plus, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just fun! www.LantanaLiving.com

Take a dance class or bring your spouse out for a night on the town. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning on attending a wedding, get out on the dance floor and cut a rug. There are even interactive dancing games you can play with your kids on Xbox or Playstation. Bottom line, dancing is perfect for getting your heart rate up and requires zero workout equipment.

This is just a shortlist of alternative ways to get your heart rate up and keep it in tiptop shape. Remember that as you keep your heart rate up, you are naturally burning calories, improving stamina, and even building yourself a strong immune system. Did we leave anything off the list? What are your favorites? Please share with us so that others can join in on the fun. JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 9

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www.LantanaLiving.com

Business Spotlight

CUSTOM CLOSETS To Meet Any Need by Steve Gamel

efore Jay and Lisa Hemby left their corporate jobs to go into business for themselves, they were very

selective on which direction they’d go.

After all, they didn’t want just any business. They wanted one that provided real value to its customers.

After about three years of searching,

what they found was Closets By Design. And they were immediately hooked. “We had looked at all types of

businesses — fast-food chains, car

washes, etc.,” Jay said. “We found this one, and we felt like it was a

great fit. Another husband-wife team

was running it, and we all had similar backgrounds. But after 19 years, they were ready to retire and be grandparents. We have literally

photo courtesy of Lisa Parelli

stepped right into their shoes.

He added, “They built-up the business; we’re just trying to help it grow.”

Jay and Lisa officially took over for the previous owners in April, and they’re

inviting everyone in Denton County to give them a call if they want an easy

answer to closet clutter and to get their home totally organized! Closets By

Design specializes in designing and

remodeling attractive storage spaces for any area of your home that needs organizing. This includes everything

from that packed closet in the master

bedroom to home offices, kitchen pantries, and garages. They have 60 employees, including a full-service design team that will measure your space and offer a myriad of custom options, and 10 installation vans that allow them to service all of DFW better and faster than anyone in the industry. And the best part is that their vast collection of floor-based organizing options such as shelves, drawers, cabinets, dividers, lighting, desks, custom finishings, and more look like they were an original part of your home once installed. “When we go meet with someone, they already have a need. And, obviously, closets are the lion’s share of what we do,” Jay said. “What most people have is a builder-grade closet with a single rod and a shelf above it. It’s useable, but over time, everything starts piling up because you don’t have shelves or drawers. Before you know it, your closet is a disaster. We will come in and redesign that space to optimize storage capacity and help people get organized.”

972.440.5188 | www.ClosetsByDesign.com www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 11

INSIDE COMMUNITY A RICHER BLEND Sun., Feb. 2 - Mar. 22 | 11:15am - 12:30pm Founders Academy Classroom 129 4901 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75022 Rockpointe Church is hosting an eight-week video-driven class with materials

BOARD GAME NIGHT Thurs., Jan.30 | 5 - 8pm | Lantana Golf Club | 800 Golf Club Dr. • Lantana, TX 76226 Guess Who is invited to this night of fun? I’ll give you a Clue, YOU! Dust off the board games you have in the closet, grab your family and friends and join your neighbors for game night at the club, or you’ll be Sorry. Corn Hole and giant Jenga will be set up as well.

from author, Ron Deal, offering practical tips for raising stepchildren, and ways to strengthen your marriage. These classes will teach you how to handle unique stepfamily challenges and you’ll engage with other blended couples. Classes are open to the community and you can register for free by emailing, blended@rockpointechurch.org.

INSIDE EDUCATION

Feb. 7 - 16 | Fri.’s & Sat.’s at 7:30pm Sun.’s at 2:30pm | Studio B 2400 FM 407, Ste. 1 Highland Village, TX 75077

DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT Sat., Jan. 25 | 5 - 10pm | Liberty Christian School 1301 S. Hwy 377 • Argyle, TX 76226 This annual event promises an evening filled with friendships, games, food, and friendly competition. Boys and girls in 3rd to 8th grade are invited to the tournament sponsored by the Baseball and Softball teams at Liberty. Register in advance for $45, or day of in person for $55. Reserve your spot today at www.libertychristian.com/dodgeball.

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This heartwarming musical follows the adventures of a plucky advice-giverextraordinaire and her friends as they share their wisdom on the joys of growing up through clever, catchy, and poignant songs. You might even recognize a few Lantana students! Tickets range from $10-$15 and can be purchased at www.studiobtheater.com.

www.LantanaLiving.com

photo courtesy of Jarrette Moore

DEAR EDWINA JR. MUSICAL

MARDI GRAS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE Fri., Feb. 21 | 7 - 11pm Monroe Pearson 421 East Oak St. • Denton, TX 76201

THE TOURING CHOCOLATIER Denton County resident, Kay Thibodeaux is your local cocoa expert. Wanting to increase the community’s knowledge of great chocolate her company, The Touring Chocolatier, offers incredible chocolates, and truffle-making and candy-making workshops. Visit Kay’s website at www.touringchocolatier.com or email her at Kay@TheCocoaExpert.com to order your Valentine’s Day chocolate or to host a class! Come for the chocolate, stay for the adventure!

photo courtesy Luann Clancy

The Lantana Ladies League invites you to be transported back in time to the grand days of the secret society masquerade parties of Mardi Gras in 1929, New Orleans. This year’s event is called the Royale Carnival Casino Night open to members and guests, benefitting Kyle’s Place. The royal reception will include casino games, a silent auction, New Orleans-style cuisine, open bar, musical entertainment, and dancing. Tickets are $75 for members/$85 for guests and are on sale online at http://lantanaladiesleague.com.

THE VOCAL MAJORITY Sat., Feb. 8 | 7pm Guyer High School Auditorium 7501 Teasley Ln. • Denton, TX 76210 The Vocal Majority, the #1 A cappella barbershop men’s chorus will be holding a fundraising concert benefiting the Guyer Choir Program. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at www.GuyerChoirBoosters.com.

www.LantanaLiving.com

DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE Sat., Feb. 15 | 6:30 - 8:30pm | Liberty Christian School 1301 S. Hwy 377 • Argyle, TX 76226 Fathers and their preschool to elementary-aged daughters are invited to dress up and attend a special Daddy/Daughter Dance sponsored by the Liberty Dance Team. Experience an evening filled with dance, fun, cookies, and punch. The cost is $30 per couple, and $10 for any additional daughter. Sign up at the event or online at www.libertychristian.com/daughterdance.

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www.LantanaLiving.com

SIBLING

CHECK-UPS by Dr. Rebecca Butler, Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics

ediatricians face a unique challenge that, generally speaking, adult providers do not typically encounter. Most medical practices struggle with how to schedule patients throughout the workday while still maintaining good medical care with minimal patient wait time. Pediatric offices also struggle with balancing multiple siblings at their well-child check-ups scheduled within the same visit. The longer I have been in practice, the more evident it becomes that these double or triple booked visits oftentimes, on one level or another, result in medical care that is sub-par to the standard I personally wish to uphold.

Imagine your typical yearly physical.

It’s probably booked for 20 to 40 minutes. Since you, like many of us, may see your

physician only once a year, it is important

for you to have your physician’s complete

attention and to have all of your concerns addressed. Some of these concerns may

be sensitive in nature. Your physician may ask you some probing questions about

matters you consider private. None of this is out of the ordinary for a typical annual physical, and during this time, you most

likely do not divert and ask medical advice about your husband, relative, child, etc. Now imagine bringing your spouse or friend to your medical check-up.

Not as support for you, but they have

an appointment with the same doctor booked at the same time in the same

exam room! You go back at the same time, and your histories and exams are blended

together. On top of that, if, in fact, their medical history is more complex than yours, they easily need more time and attention. Also imagine, as I see very often with siblings, that this person is naturally chattier than you and indeed very happy to jump in and provide their own answers to questions your doctor asks of you. And privacy? Forget about it. I hope this imaginary scenario strikes most people as entirely nutty, not to mention entirely avoidable. Who would book their annual physical with another person?

L Re ant sid an en a t

room at the same time as her 9-yearold sister and her 7-year-old brother (with asthma and ADHD), even though they would never think of doing the same thing with their own health care. Why is that?

I know the answer: convenience. I get it, BUT our kids deserve better. They deserve the same amount of time and attention as an adult patient. For obvious reasons, children are seen with parents or other caregivers, but there is no reason they must be seen with other siblings. Yes, even twins! Twins are people too, people deserving of the same basic dignity and autonomy as any other patient. But when I’ve gently suggested to parents of twins or other siblings that they should consider bringing them in separately, they look at me as if I have three heads. I still try my best to give parents the convenience they seek, so we don’t restrict the booking of multiple appointments together. But parents, I implore you: Consider treating your kids the way you would want to be treated. I speak all of this with respect, empathy, and understanding for how crazy things can get for all parents. This is in full regard to my passion for providing comprehensive and complete medical care to each and every patient as an individual which unique qualities, characteristics, and needs.

Many of our patients come to see us once a year, often during the summer or on holiday breaks when school is out. If they have siblings, they are very frequently booked together, sometimes even three at a time. Parents oftentimes think nothing of having their 14-year-old daughter undergo her annual physical in the same

www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 15

QUESTIONS

With MIKE WINBURN OF WIN KIDS by Steve Gamel

nyone in the area who has young kids has likely been to Win Kids at least a few times. For many parents, it’s a weekly thing. Since 1998, thousands of children and families each year come to Win Kids for everything from gymnastics and swim classes to cheerleading, dance, sports, martial arts, music, and more. But what about the guy behind the curtain who runs the whole thing? In a recent interview with Murray Media, owner Mike Winburn was gracious enough to give everyone a peek behind the curtain with an old-fashioned game of 20 Questions.

MMG: If you were stuck in an elevator with one person, who would it be?

Mike: Steven Covey. I have just really

enjoyed listening to him talk about human nature and principles.

MMG: What is the one household chore Pictured above: Mike Winburn

you can’t stand?

Mike: That’s hard because I’m a do-it-all

kind of guy. But I’d have to say cleaning out a hairy drain.

MMG: You have created a gem at Win Kids. What is the best part of it for you?

Mike: I would help people come up with the ideas to design and remodel their

Mike: I would say it’s when I see a child

buildings and homes.

time, and they’ve become more athletic

MMG: What is the least favorite part

who has been coming to us for a long

and confident. I really like to see a kid who is so confident that not only are they solid athletically, but they can hold their own in a conversation rather than being wimpy or withdrawn.

MMG: How long do you see yourself doing this?

Mike: There’s no end point for me. I am

constantly thinking of ways to make this place better. I think if I had to give this

place up, I’d miss it too much and end up

of your job?

Mike: The concern I always have that people are remaining content and happy with our service. I could have said accounting or something like that, but I really want to make sure we are keeping our promises.

MMG: Do you ever get in the Ninja training gym when no one’s looking?

getting into something that resembles it.

Mike: Not in the Ninja training room, but

MMG: If you couldn’t do Win Kids, what

definitely on the trampolines

would you do and why?

for gymnastics.

MMG: What is your deepest darkest secret? Mike: I was a runaway child who dropped out of school in the ninth grade. The good news is that I went back three years later and ended up graduating Summa Cum Laude. MMG: What’s on your playlist in the car on the drive home from work?

Mike: Stick Figure MMG: Do you have Disney Plus and what

would you be more likely to binge watch?

Mike: We have it here at the club, but I just photo courtesy of WinKids.net 16 | LANTANA LIVING

| JANUARY 2020

don’t watch a lot of television.

www.LantanaLiving.com

MMG: Who is the funniest person on your staff?

Mike: It’s our Ninja Director, Josh MMG: Iron Man or Captain America? Mike: Captain America MMG: Star Wars or Star Trek? Mike: Star Wars MMG: What’s your favorite hobby outside of work?

Mike: Water skiing MMG: What is your worst trait? Mike: My family would say it’s that I never rest. I’m high strung.

MMG: What is your favorite food? Mike: Italian pasta MMG: What is your favorite color? Mike: Cobalt blue MMG: Have you ever played Truth

or Dare? And how did that work out for you?

Mike: No, and that has worked out for me just fine.

MMG: If you could star in a movie, which movie would it be?

Mike: I have two answers. The first is

Bodie from Point Break. The second is Maximus from Gladiator.

MMG: Cups in the cupboard. Right side up or upside down?

Mike: Upside down

photo courtesy of Win Kids Facebook www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 17

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www.LantanaLiving.com

Business Spotlight

Putting Your

Family In The

RIGHT HOME

eannette Tipps was born to be a realtor. Word on the street is that even if you go back to her days as a restauranteur — before she joined Allie Beth Allman and Associates and the Dona Robinson Group — Jeannette loved helping friends, family, and even employees find the home of their dreams. “I would do the legwork that a realtor would do,” Jeannette said with a laugh. “I’d visit and tour the homes and give them the pros and cons of the house before they even came to town. I enjoyed looking at homes.”

It didn’t take long for Jeannette to chase that passion full-time. Jeannette is quickly becoming the go-to realtor for those of us who are looking to find the right home for our family. A Lantana resident and mother of two children in college and high school, Jeannette focuses her efforts on the Denton County area, including neighborhoods in Lantana, Flower Mound, and Argyle.

“I feel like I am on the path God has

for me. My desire is to help you find your perfect home.”

And she has certainly teamed with the right group of realtors. The Dona Robinson Group, part of the Allie Beth Allman firm, is a leading luxury real estate team serving Southlake, Westlake, Colleyville, Trophy Club, Keller, Flower Mound, and the surrounding areas. They continue to help buyers and sellers with some of the more sought-after properties in DFW, but as previously mentioned, the goal has always been to get clients into the right home. “I could show you a million-dollar home, but if it isn’t functional for your family, then it’s not going to be the right fit, and I haven’t done my job,” Jeannette said. “I want to get to know my clients and ask questions. I want to know what your day-to-day is like, what your life looks like, what’s important to each member of the household, and how the new home would be a great fit for everybody. It’s all about creating a personal relationship.” With that sort of unmistakable passion for the real estate world, why would you partner with anyone else? “I was able to be home with my kids when they were little, and now I get to pursue a career for myself,” Jeannette said. “I feel like I am on the path God has for me. My desire is to help you find your perfect home.” 972.824.2971 • jeannette.tipps@alliebeth.com www.DonaRobinsonGroup.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 19

GUYER:

DISTRICT 5-6A ALL-DISTRICT

2019 TEAM

MVP: Quinn Ewers, Southlake Carroll CO-OFFENSIVE PLAYERS OF THE YEAR: Eli Stowers, Guyer; Kaedric Cobbs, Guyer

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DEFENSIVE NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR: Curlee Thomas IV, Keller Fossil Ridge UTILITY PLAYER OF THE YEAR: DJ Graham, Keller Central

FIRST TEAM OFFENSE

STAFF OF THE YEAR: Southlake Carroll

Hayden Anderson, Keller; Andrew Paul, Keller Central; Enoch Ntchobo, Keller; Blake Smith, Southlake Carroll; Connor Briggs, Guyer; John Manero, Southlake Carroll; Wills Meyer, Southlake Carroll; Brady Boyd, Southlake Carroll; Seth Meador, Guyer; Jalen Brown, Keller Fossil Ridge; Nick Rocha, Keller; Chett Beach, Guyer; Addison Penn, Southlake Carroll; Devon Mack, Guyer; Brandon Borrasso, Southlake Carroll; Hunter Reeves, Keller; Gabe Blair, Guyer; Andrej Karic, Southlake Carroll; Landon Blubaugh, Keller; Joe McFadden, Southlake Carroll; Jose-Carlo Martinez, Keller Timber Creek.

FIRST TEAM DEFENSE

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Graham Faloona, Southlake Carroll

OFFENSIVE NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR: Owen Allen, Southlake Carroll

Grant Mahon, Guyer; Dillon Springer, Southlake Carroll; Mike Sanjo-Njiki, Keller Timber Creek; Devin Goree, Guyer; Thomas Wrehe, Southlake Carroll; Colton David, Keller Central; Preston Forney, Southlake Carroll; Cole Ramsey, Guyer; Kyle McIver, Keller Central; Beck Parra, Southlake Carroll; Jordan Eubanks, Guyer; CJ Garnett, Keller Central; Deuce Harmon, Guyer; Tim Benson, Keller Fossil Ridge; Dylan Thomas, Southlake Carroll; James Miscolli, Southlake Carroll; Jaden Fugett, Guyer; RJ Mickens, Southlake Carroll; Oscar Moore, Haslet Eaton; Clayton Thomas, Keller. www.LantanaLiving.com

WILDCATS

LOOK TO

REBOUND

AFTER STATE TITLE GAME LOSS

f you remember, Guyer’s football season was almost over the day after Thanksgiving.

The Wildcats trailed Cedar Hill by a

seemingly impossible to overcome 27

points with 4:54 left in the third quarter and were well on their way to being bounced

from the playoffs way earlier than expected. What happened next was nothing short of

a miracle, as Guyer recovered three onside kicks and put its offense to work while rallying to win, 50-41.

That win proved that you could never

by Steve Gamel

Kaedric Cobbs, wide receiver Seth Meador, and defensive lineman Grant Mahon. They were also hungry, fueled by an early playoff loss in 2018.

Guyer featured one of the more prolific offenses in the state this year, averaging 491.3 yards per game through 16 games. Stowers, a Texas A&M commit, finished the year having completed nearly 66% of his passes for 2,969 yards and 36 touchdowns while rushing for another 1,166 yards and 11 scores. Cobbs rushed for 2,641 yards and 42 touchdowns, and Meador caught 61 passes for 1,267 yards and 19 touchdowns.

quarterback Eli Stowers injured his knee in

But without Stowers under center in the title game, the storybook season came to a crashing halt. Guyer turned to freshman Jackson Arnold — he’d attempted just one pass coming in — and the team suffered the first shutout in a state final in the state’s largest classification since 1998.

It was Guyer’s fourth state title game

Guyer managed just 187 total yards and trailed 14-0 by halftime.

appearance and first since winning it all in 2013.

Walsh said after the game that putting a freshman in that position was unfair.

“I’m extremely proud of them,” Guyer

“The kid has a major-league arm and is a good athlete,” Walsh told the Denton Record-Chronicle. “But to play Austin Westlake in Week 16 as a freshman is a tall order. We kept getting behind the chains and not letting him get some momentum going.”

count Guyer out. The Wildcats used it to fuel their run to the Class 6A Division II

state title game, where they lost 24-0 to Austin Westlake on Dec. 21 when star the first quarter and did not return.

coach Walsh said after the game to a

crowd of reporters. “When you lose your quarterback, sometimes it can fall apart completely. But I thought we stayed

competitive throughout the whole game. We just couldn’t cross the goal line.”

Walsh had said before the season started that this year’s team had all the pieces to make a run at a state title. The Wildcats returned 17 starters, most notably

quarterback Eli Stowers, running back www.LantanaLiving.com

He added, “We had to help him more, and we didn’t. We were hoping to get him some reps in the playoffs – just not like this. It was an unfair situation.” The question now becomes, where does Guyer go from here? The Wildcats will have Stowers back next season, but Cobbs, Meador, and Mahon were all seniors. If one thing is for sure, don’t be so quick to count the Wildcats out. JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 21

h an T e r o

Just Color ful Beads: W H AT

Connect with us next

month on social media and share your favorite Mardi Gras photos.

Who knows? You may

by Ste ve Gamel

veryone has heard of Mardi Gras,

around the early 1900s and are

It’s that fun time of the year when

and other events

which this year falls on February 25.

people line the streets of New Orleans for a seemingly unending stream of parties, parades, food, drinks, camaraderie, and beads. Oooh — it’s all about the beads!

The best part is that Mardi Gras isn’t just for natives of New Orleans. People from

all over the world host and attend Mardi

Gras events, including plenty right here in Denton County.

tossed at spectators during parades • Green beads signify faith. Purple represents justice, and gold indicates power

• Mardi Gras is actually a state holiday in Alabama, Florida, and parts of Louisiana

• Surprisingly, it is illegal to ride a float during Mardi Gras without

But while Mardi Gras truly is a global

phenomenon that you don’t want to miss, what most people forget is its rich history and the real reason it exists. And trust us, it’s not because of the beads.

HERE ARE A FEW NOTES AND FACTS ON MARDI GRAS THAT YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW:

wearing a mask

If you’re looking to celebrate close to home while still feeling like you are in New Orleans, Lake Dallas will hold its 15th annual festival

and parade on Main Street. The exact date for that event hadn’t

been released as of press time, so be sure to check with city officials

for more details. Not only is this the

• Mardi Gras is known as Fat Tuesday.

largest and possibly only Mardi Gras

Ash Wednesday, signifying that it’s

gives you a chance to visit with your

food and celebration before fasting

check out all the entries in the Mask

It happens on the last Tuesday before

parade in Denton County, but it also

time to have one last night of bad

neighbors, stroll the vendor market, and

• Mardi Gras is also known as Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day

• The first New Orleans Mardi Gras parade was in 1837

• Beads (purple, gold, and green)

have been a Mardi Gras staple since

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see them in the pages of a future magazine.

| JANUARY 2020

Contest. Like last year, there may also be another crawfish eating contest. If you can’t make it out to Lake Dallas,

various restaurants throughout Denton

County will likely have drink and dinner

specials on Fat Tuesday. Check with your area for more details.

www.LantanaLiving.com

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TAX TIME IS COMING by Steve Gamel

e’re barely through the first month of 2020, so let’s talk about taxes, shall we? You’re probably saying to yourself that it’s way too soon to talk about that, and, in many ways, you’re right – tax day isn’t until April 15, and even then, you can always file an extension. But waiting until the last minute only makes things worse. So why not start now?

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www.LantanaLiving.com

Here’s a simple, yet important list of five common tax items everyone should be rounding up right now:

ALL DOCUMENTS T H AT P R OV E W H AT YO U M A D E I N 2 0 1 9

A D E TA I L E D L I S T O F A L L YO U R DEDUCTIONS

D I R EC T D E P O S I T I N F O R M AT I O N

This includes everything from W-2 forms to unemployment income, investment income, rental property income, social security benefits, and even 1099s.

This is a perfect example of something that will take some time, especially if you are relying on crumpled up receipts between the seats of your car. Be mindful

ones to get money back on your taxes,

of anything that can help out your case, including childcare and educational expenses, property tax and mortgage interest, retirement accounts, etc.

Assuming you are one of the lucky

make sure you have your bank account

information handy. This includes routing and account numbers.

A L I S T O F A L L YO U R CREDITS Credits are another great way to

P E R S O N A L I N F O R M AT I O N

lower your tax burden, but you need

If you’re doing a single filing, this is as simple as knowing your social security number. But if you’re married and have children, you will need the same information for each person in your family. If you’re relying on a CPA to handle your tax return, make sure they have birthdates, etc., and have previous years’ tax returns available.

documentation to prove you deserve them. Examples of common credits

include child credit, premium tax credits, and lifetime learning credits.

These tips are all fine and dandy, but what about the procrastination part? After all, even if we know how to get our hands on all the information above, most of us see it as too big a chore and ignore it for as long as possible.

“THE HARDEST THING IN THE WORLD TO UNDERSTAND IS THE INCOME TAX.” — Albert Einstein

SOME TIPS TO HELP WITH PROCRASTINATION INCLUDE: BLOCK OUT TIME

CREATE YOUR OWN DEADLINE

Maybe a few weekends are coming up where you can spend an hour at a time getting all your ducks in a row. Starting earlier and in smaller doses makes tax prep and easier pill to swallow.

Pick an earlier date as your own personal deadline. Mark it on your calendar and make sure it’s listed as a big deal.

PRIORITIZE Ask yourself, “what’s the one item I can accomplish today?” Once you know the answer, then do it.

HIRE A BOOKKEEPER The benefits of having a bookkeeper are numerous. Perhaps the biggest one is that they can do all the heavy lifting for you and then give you a pretty package of tax documents for your CPA.

We’d be silly if we didn’t add in here that Murray Media Group are not tax advisors. This is merely a basic list of information you should consider pulling together now rather than waiting until the last minute. There are plenty of qualified CPAs in and around Denton County who can help answer specific tax questions as they relate to your situation.

www.LantanaLiving.com

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www.LantanaLiving.com

Old Town Market: Foodie Friday DFW

Old Town Market’s

NEW LOCATION W

hen we featured Old Town Market 2 years ago at their Old Town Lewisville location off of Mill St, they were our most-watched episode of 2018. If you’re a customer of theirs, you know why that’s the case!

Owner Shawn Knowles and his wife,

which we love, ready-to-eat sides like okra,

community and have worked hard to

upon jars of pickled items.

Sharon, are beloved members of the

continue on the “customer-first” tradition and philosophy of the original meat photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW

market which was opened by Shawn’s father, Bob, and Dickie Grant.

an assortment of spices and rubs, and jars Of course, the showpiece of the store

is the meat counter which is constantly being restocked with only the highest-

quality meats Shawn can find. Whether

Hanging in the new location of the Old

you need steaks, hamburger patties, roast,

original carving knives, there to serve as a

can help you out. And if you don’t see the

Town Market in Double Oak are Bob’s

fajita chicken, or ribs, Shawn and his team

reminder of the past 43 years of service to

cut of meat that you need, let them know

the community.

and they’ll cut it however you need!

The new location is absolutely beautiful

You can find specials running throughout

and is jam-packed with all kinds of

incredible products like the Amish butter

the year for holidays, etc. But their most popular deal is most definitely their

all the meats. It truly is an art form and is fascinating to watch. Now at the new location, you can watch them at work through the big, open windows behind the meat counter. We selfishly love that their new location is closer to us and are grateful for the years of dedicated service they’ve provided to our local community!

Anniversary specials in May which include the Bacon-Wrapped Filets. We always get some for ourselves and apparently lots of you do too, because Shawn told us they sold around 42,000 filets this past May!

One of our favorite parts about filming at the Old Town Market is getting to go in

the back and watch them cut and carve

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022

www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 27

What Is

CHINESE

NEW YEAR? by Steve Gamel

e are all used to celebrating Eve and lasts for around 15 days through the New Year on December 31 the middle of the first month. Before and January 1, the celebration, people but it’s not the only New traditionally clean their Year’s celebrations that houses thoroughly and 2020 is the Year are going on in the world. also display traditional of the Rat, recent The Chinese New Year is New Year’s decorations. years of the on January 25 and is easily This festivity is a time Rat are 1960, regarded as the most for family reunions; important Chinese holiday people often visit 1972, 1984, of the year. relatives and friends, do 1996 and 2008 some shopping, watch The Chinese New Year, traditional Chinese New also known as the Lunar Year events, launch fireworks, and plan New Year, is the first day of the first for the coming year. month in the traditional Chinese calendar and is based on a In modern China, Chinese New Year is a traditional Chinese lunisolar celebrated public holiday, and working calendar. According to professionals usually enjoy 7 days of time chinesenewyears. off, including the weekend. Here are some info, the celebration more interesting facts about Chinese New begins on New Year’s Year that we all should know:

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• There’s no set date for Chinese New Year — For example, last year it fell on February 5. • It’s celebrated all over the world — There are people of Chinese descent all over the world. • 15 days — The celebration lasts for 15 days and culminates with the Lantern Festival. • There’s a ton of fireworks — Fireworks are set off at midnight and again in the morning. • No showering, sweeping, or throwing out garbage — You read that right. Showering is not allowed on New Year’s Day. Sweeping and throwing out garbage aren’t allowed before the fifth. www.LantanaLiving.com

Those born the year of the rat are more likely to be optimistic and energetic. They are sensitive to other’s emotions but are stubborn with their opinion. On the financial side, they like saving and can be stingy.

• Children don’t receive gifts — Instead, they receive red envelopes with money. • Every year has a zodiac animal — This is why you’ve heard of Year of the Pig, Rat, Dog, etc.

• You grow a year older — In China, you have a real age and a fake age. The fake age increases with the Spring Festival. Connect with us next month on social media and share your favorite Chinese New Year photos. Who knows? You may see them in the pages of a future magazine.

www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 29

COMMUNITY

CORNER 2020 RESOLUTIONS FOR PRECINCT 4 by Denton County Commissioner Precinct 4 Dianne Edmondson photo courtesy by Commissioner Dianne Edmondson

ith the start of a new year and a new decade, now seems the perfect time for resolutions.

To make a resolution achievable, the list

2. A second resolution is to be even more transparent in government

spending. We want you to be able to

see where your money goes and how

needs to identify something specific and

it is being used. Stay tuned on this one

with a goal in mind.

for more details.

After giving it some thought, I’ve created a

3. In 2020, my plan is to schedule and

to follow and to achieve.

Precinct 4. We held Precinct 4 updates in

few resolutions for the New Year that I plan 1. My first resolution is to continue our

careful oversight of taxpayer (your) money. We’ve kept the property tax rate low and,

in fact, in 2019, we adopted the lowest tax

hold more town hall-type meetings in

2019 but my hope is to go beyond road and bridge updates and give you more details about what we are doing across the board in Denton County.

rate since 1986! Spending your dollars

4. As you know, Denton County is one

worth in services is important.

the U.S. With that growth comes both

wisely and ensuring you get your money’s

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| JANUARY 2020

of the fastest growing in the state and

advantages and challenges. One of my goals this year is to consider innovative solutions for dealing with the hypergrowth in our county. We also welcome your input and hope you would share any ideas you might have at one of the town hall meetings or even at the Denton County Commissioners Court meetings on Tuesdays. 5. With just over 80 people moving into Denton County every day in addition to the many who pass through our major thoroughfares, transportation is an ongoing issue. My goal in Precinct 4 for 2020 is to create a well-thought-out road maintenance plan to ensure your safety and ease of transportation on our county roads.

6. And on that note, to ensure your Precinct 4 roads are handled with the utmost professionalism and care, I resolve to increase training for our Road & Bridge West employees. A well-trained workforce is an important dual use of your tax dollars. These are just a few of the main goals I have as we start this new decade. Each is an important component to ensuring your county government is efficient, transparent, communicative, looking ahead, supportive, easily traversed and professional. To receive a newsletter, please contact Precinct 4 Commissioner Dianne Edmondson at Dianne.Edmondson@dentoncounty.com and ask to be placed on the email list. OR CALL AT 972.434.3960.

www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 31

A FUNCTIONAL

FITNESS R O U T I N E

Built For

EVERYONE by Steve Gamel | photography by Your Candid Memories

t’s 8:45 a.m., and Averon and Jennifer Edwards are hard at work at their fitness studio, F45 Training Lantana. But instead of greeting guests in between sipping coffee and pushing paperwork in the comfort of an air-conditioned office in the back, Lantana’s newest power couple is scraping themselves off the floor after another intense workout.

In a room busting at the seams with early risers standing in a pool of their own hard work, they are right there with them. “We don’t want any special treatment,” Jennifer said while trying to catch her breath. “If I’m doing it wrong, fix me.” Averon agreed. “We leave [gassed] every time. And the funny thing is that the other members will challenge you, too,” he said. “They say, ‘Come on … I thought you could do this!’ I’m like, ‘Are you kidding me?’ It’s intense, but also fun.”

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www.LantanaLiving.com

YourCandidMemories.com

So what is this latest workout craze? F45 Training is the world’s fastest-growing functional training community. The “F” in the name stands for functional training, which incorporates a mix of circuit and HIIT-style workouts geared toward everyday movements. The “45” represents the number of minutes it takes to get through the workout. And Lantana residents are signing up at a breakneck pace, largely because unlike traditional workout clubs and gyms, F45 specializes in innovative, high-intensity group workouts that are fast, fun, and results-driven. A hallmark of each class is that no two workouts are the same, and it’s structured so that enthusiasts of any fitness level can leave with a great workout. Participants follow pre-determined circuits on television screens that incorporate everything from bodyweight exercises like jump rope, pushups, and standing squats to kettlebells, and cardio bikes. They have a litany of other workout routines and equipment, and more is on the way. On top of that, F45 Training Lantana employs six trainers who are on-site to explain the workout of the day, guide you

through to ensure proper form, and push

worker with Child Protective Services.

the membership are heart rate monitors

“We do it because we need the workout,

you to your absolute limits. Included in

and an opportunity to be counseled on diet and meal plan strategies.

“That’s the thing with this company; they

are always doing something new,” Averon said. “No workout is the same, so you’re never going to get bored. We’ve done

Camp Gladiator, CrossFit, and even had

stuff at our home. But none of it worked for us. It’s a lot packed into a very small space, and people are enjoying it.”

Averon and Jennifer have been sold on F45 since they went to a class together

just more than a year ago near their home in Corinth. As the story goes, Averon

Averon is in liquor and spirits sales.

and it’s great for stress relief. Coming in early set the foundation for my day. And I know it’s the same for him.”

One of the biggest selling points of

having their own franchise was that they had the autonomy to give their Lantana location their own look and feel. All of

their personal trainers are certified, which means the clients receive an unrivaled

personal training experience while still working out in a group setting.

On Saturdays, they hold a one-hour

session and invite a DJ to play live music.

remembers being in the middle of the

“We have a strong member base, but still

first heard a friend mention F45. His friend

said. “The biggest thing for us is creating

Caribbean Ocean on a cruise when he

was hooked on the concept and quickly got Averon to try out a few classes.

The next thing he knew, he was inviting Jennifer along for the ride.

By September, they were so hooked that they opened their own franchise.

have plenty of room to grow,” Averon a fun place to train and create more

awareness for F45 Training Lantana and our awesome trainers/coaches. If you walk up to 10 people and ask them if

they know what F45 is, the odds are high that none of them would know yet.

But we’re getting there. We feel like

“We both have full-time jobs on top

those who have experienced it are

morning,” said Jennifer, who is a social

the atmosphere is amazing.”

of this, so we really like coming in the

hooked. The workouts are great, and

972.685.1998 | www.F45training.com/Lantana | 3600 FM 407 E., Ste. 180 & 185 • Bartonville, TX 76226 www.LantanaLiving.com

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Where Your Pets

Business Spotlight

ARE TREATED

LIKE FAMILY by Steve Gamel

ourtney Clark has plenty of childhood memories, but the ones that spring to mind the most always involve the adorable look on her pet’s faces as they pranced into the house after a visit to the local dog groomer.

“They’d come in, and they’d be so happy,” Courtney said with a laugh. “You could tell they felt good.” These days, Courtney has taken those fond memories and parlayed them into a career she truly has a passion for as the proud owner of Nails 2 Tails in Highland Village. At Nails 2 Tails, the focus is always on the safety and comfort of your furry family members. Their grooming services include everything from a refreshing bath with shampoo and conditioner, blueberry or hypo facial, fluff-dry, brush-out, nail clip and ear cleaning, to tartar and plaque spray! For an additional fee, you can add trimming of the face, feet, and sanitary areas. They also offer customized nose and paw balm for pets who need a little extra TLC for those sore spots. Each jar contains 100% organic home-made paw and nose balm. Pick your butter and oil, or let Courtney pick for you!

“The care of your dogs is the most

important thing for me,” Courtney said. “We have a long list of customers who

have been coming to us for years, and

a few of them drive from as far away as Argyle, Canton, and Little Elm.”

Originally from Maryland, Courtney

joked that she held practically every job under the sun — from pest control to

bartending and house cleaning — until she realized just how much she enjoyed being around and caring for animals. At home, she cares for two dogs, a cat, and fish.

Not to mention all the birds that visit her at her home. Professionally grooming

since 2012, Courtney has become one of the most relied on Doodle groomers in

the DFW area. She also has partnered with Doodle Rock Rescue of DFW by providing grooming and bathing services to new rescues and fosters.

At the end of the day, it’s all about

making bath time the best time of the day for your pets.

“Something has always drawn me to pets,” Courtney said. “This is my passion.”

972.355.1692 | www.Nails2TailsTexas.com | 2230 Justin Rd., Ste. 200 • Highland Village, TX 75077 www.LantanaLiving.com

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NEW YEAR

NEW MINDSET Y

by Jesse J. Leyva, Owner of Jesse James Fit & Outlaw Fitcamp

ou’ve probably heard the sobering statistic that 80% of people who set New Year’s resolutions don’t keep them. But that also means that 20% do succeed in keeping the goals they set at the new year. Despite its low rate of success, some people do reach their new year goals. If you’re ready to make a change in your lifestyle, a new year seems to be the natural time to start. You can’t just make the resolutions and hope they happen though. After you set your goals, the work to make them happen can begin. By adopting the following mindset changes, you can have a healthier and happier 2020. MAKE A MINDSET CHANGE At Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamp, we emphasize the importance of knowing the WHY of your fitness goals. Do you want to look better? Improve a health condition? Keep up better with your kids or grandkids? Compete in a race?

Whatever your reasons for wanting to get more fit, you have to keep the “why” in mind as you work toward your goal.

Fitness: Ask The Expert

how much healthier you’ll be and how much better you will feel. MAKE YOUR HEALTH A PRIORITY THIS YEAR Don’t put off making your health a priority! Let those around you know that it’s your priority and then surround yourself with people who will help you be successful. CHANGE YOUR ROUTINE We work hard to make Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamp the absolute best workout facilities you can find. We offer our clients the best training and support available. Our clients are able to take advantage of the following: •

Wellness Scan Get a wellness scan on our state-ofthe-art scanning machine that gives you extensive health information.

•

Certified Personal Trainers Our trainers are among the best you’ll find anywhere. All our trainers are certified personal trainers.

•

Group & Community Accountability Not only will you get support from your own personal trainer, but the group and community support you’ll find from our Jesse James and Outlaw FitCamp families can’t be matched.

•

Pricing For All Budgets We serve all kinds of clients— students, seniors, families, couples, military, fitness competitors, and clients with health problems.

If your “why” isn’t a strong enough desire to motivate you to do the hard work, you won’t succeed. PRIORITIZE YOUR SPENDING Be honest. How much did you spend at Starbucks last year? You may have some costly habits that you could replace with a new habit of working out with a personal trainer at about the same cost. Just think

Make 2020 your year for better health! Setting goals to be healthier, lose weight, or whatever goal you have can be done any time. But a new calendar year seems to be the time when most people make these resolutions.

972.355.2639 • JESSEJAMESFIT.COM | 940.497.6002 • OUTLAWFITCAMP.COM

www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 37

Business Spotlight

WOMEN’S

photos courtesy of Mainstream Boutique

Fashion AT ITS FINEST by Steve Gamel

usan Bauermeister still laughs when she thinks back to the day her daughter, Maddie, asked her to come work with her at Mainstream Boutique in Flower Mound. Maddie had only been at the popular women’s fashion store for a few months, but Susan was looking for something new and figured working with Maddie as fashion stylists was a great start. ended up taking over sooner than later!

Maddie was thrilled. She feels like she has pride of ownership, as well.”

Susan and Maddie have added their flair to what was already a successful store. Mainstream Boutique offers the latest

and greatest in a multigenerational line of

fashion that women really want, from posh accessories that light up your wardrobe to

shoes, jewelry, and everything in between. What happened next surprised both of them and instantly took their motherdaughter tandem to new heights. Susan joined the Mainstream Boutique team as an employee in September, and by December 16, she was the new owner. “Can you believe that? It still feels [surreal],” Susan said with a laugh. “The best part is being able to work with Maddie.”

As it turns out, while Susan enjoyed being a sales team with Maddie, she also had experience as a business owner and toyed with the idea of owning a Mainstream Boutique someday. When she and her husband, Dwight, called the corporate office, they were thrilled to hear the Flower Mound location was for sale. “We were thinking for down the road,” Susan said. “But I feel fate stepped in and

The store also got a facelift with fresh paint and new furnishings throughout the store

to lighten it up along with creating a more inviting experience.

They added a new seating area and offer wine during the afternoons.

“I think people like the mother-daughter

team,” Susan said. “Our goal is to provide exceptional customer service while forming lasting relationships.”

972.539.4800 | mainstreamboutique.com | 5801 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 810 • Flower Mound, TX 75028 40 | LANTANA LIVING

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Edit This: Ask The Expert

Writing Your Way Into The

in this day and age as more and more customers prefer to know who they are working with as opposed to simply picking a name out of a phone book.

HEARTS OF CLIENTS

They are more inclined to read your newsletter, follow your blog online, and check out your website before doing any business with you. By showing them your personality and flair, you are proving how invested you are in them – and how different you are from the competition.

by Steve Gamel, Owner of Edit This

e are less than a month into 2020, and all those New Year’s resolutions – especially the ones that have to do with the future of our small businesses – are fresh in our minds. Maybe you have aspirations of hiring at least two more employees or a renewed focus on getting out from behind the desk and taking part in more networking and community service projects. There’s also the opportunity to add products and services to what you’re already doing and even pick the brains of entrepreneurs who have been in business longer and enjoy giving free advice. No matter what your goal is, don’t delay. Furthermore, don’t underestimate the power of writing your way into the hearts of your clients in 2020. It’s yet another

great way to think outside the box on the future of your small business, and you don’t understand its impact until you try it. A few of the content writing strategies you can do this year include: •

Blogs

•

Revamped website content and copywriting

•

Monthly or quarterly newsletters

•

Press Releases

•

Articles in magazines and newspapers

And that’s just a shortlist. I talk a lot about giving your business a clear and authentic voice, and there’s a bunch of ways to do that using the written word. By doing any of the above, or a combination of two or three, you are sparking engagement and building trusting relationships with your clients. Having this mindset is critical

How do you start? Start by writing something, anything, and putting it out there for the masses to enjoy. Maybe it’s one blog every other week, or an article in a neighborhood magazine to share your story. Once you get the hang of it, simply add from there. Many business owners will find they enjoy writing various pieces on their own, and others will find it more difficult given their schedule. And that’s okay – just don’t give up. If you find there simply isn’t enough time in the day, consider hiring a local content and copywriter to spread your message. Edit This® is that writing and editing services company every small-business owner needs. Give us a call today to see how we can help your business grow in 2020.

469.360.3611 | EDITTHISLLC.COM

www.LantanaLiving.com

JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 43

When Should You

DEFINITELY

TAKE DOWN Those Holiday Lights? by Steve Gamel

hen it comes to the debate over when everyone should have their Christmas lights down and packed away for next year, we’re sure we are preaching to the choir. After all, the majority of folks — even the ones with the most holiday cheer — start taking lights off the house and letting the air out of the inflatable Santa during the first week in January. So why is it that other people can’t take a hint? You know the ones … the neighbors who leave their lights up until mid-February or even March — as if there’s some sort of mythical award that goes to the one house still celebrating. We’re willing to bet that if you were to stuff the family in the minivan and drive through four or five neighborhoods right now, you’d find at least a handful of houses with holiday lights still hanging from the eaves with pride. The intent of this article isn’t to be mean-spirited, but as we approach Valentine’s Day and even Spring Break, this is your friendly reminder that it is perfectly acceptable to start taking those lights down. Here are a few practical reasons why:

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HOLIDAY LIGHTS AREN’T MEANT TO BE UP YEAR-ROUND While the idea of having Christmas lights still burning bright could help us all beat the gloominess of winter, they simply aren’t meant to be up year-round. Cords will dry out and crack even if they’re not plugged in, and bulbs and various strands of lights will burn out. Heck, you could run the risk of a fire hazard.

WHO WANTS A HIGH ELECTRICITY BILL YEAR-ROUND? All that extra lighting costs money, no matter how pedestrian or over-the-top you are with decorating. Most people would prefer to keep that extra expense tied directly to the holiday season, not year-round. www.LantanaLiving.com

IT’S UNSIGHTLY — AND A TAD ODD Think of it this way: no one wants to be that one house that has its trash bin out by the curb all week. So why would you do the same with your lights? Even if you don’t intend on plugging them in, the mere sight of seeing them still attached to the house or in your trees and shrubs is just weird.

YOU COULD GET FINED You could face a steep fine depending on how your Homeowners Association feels about Christmas lights. Some neighborhoods might have rules as to when decorations go up and when they are expected to be taken down. This includes those strands that aren’t even plugged in.

LIGHTS DON’T MATCH YOUR OTHER SEASONAL DECORATIONS As the seasons change, your interior and exterior decorations will also change, including plants, landscaping, different colors if you choose to paint, etc. Let’s be honest: nothing clashes more than an inflatable set of reindeer set up next to your soonto-be budding rose bushes.

“I usually try to joke around with my neighbor about his lights. I tell him, ‘Is your Rudolph going to be friends with cupid or the Easter bunny this year?’” What do you think about Christmas lights staying up all year? Let us know! JANUARY 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 45

Brooke’s

BOOK CORNER

by Brooke Ezzo

rowing up, I spent days and nights in the back of my closet cuddled up with a big blanket, a small lamp, and a book. I loved reading each story and being taken away to a far off place with characters I felt I knew. I’ve left the comfort of my closet behind, and now you can find me at a bookstore, a coffee shop, or my living room enjoying a bestseller or unknown author. This past year was packed with top reading lists and must-reads, so I have brought you a few of my favorites. Get cozy, and get to reading. WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING by Delia Owens This book was a major talking point this past year in most online forums and book clubs, and I understand why. The author’s writing style delivers small punches of information at a time, leaving your mind to find and discover the imagery and mystery on its own. The story is delicately and poetically written, with descriptions so beautiful you can almost smell the sea and hear the sounds of the marsh. Following the life of Kya Clark, also known as the Marsh Girl, the novel spans several decades in a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. Where the Crawdads Sing is a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, a tale of murder, and an ode to the natural world. Kya, abandoned by her parents, siblings, and what feels like the whole world at a young age, is forced to survive alone in the marsh. It’s a place that becomes her life and livelihood — and ultimately, her mother. The reader is taken on a journey of examining the importance of human connection and the secrets that nature keeps. You’re taken back to a time where prejudice is real, where social status matters, but love and kindness prevail. photo courtesy of Target.com, Penguin Group USA, Delia Owens. BEFORE WE WERE YOURS by Lisa Wingate Although this book was published in 2017, I didn’t jump on the bandwagon until this past year. I had heard it was a great read but never made it a priority. Well, all good things come to those who wait, and as I finished the last page, I was sure this historical-fiction novel was a literary gift. Wingate tells the tale of a real-life American scandal involving Georgia Tann and the Tennessee Children’s Home Society orphanage involved in kidnapping and selling poor children to wealthy families all over the country. The novel alternates between the fictional lives of the Foss siblings who grow up living on a shanty boat with their parents in 1939 and present-day Avery Stafford who stumbles upon a dark family secret and her mission to expose the truth. The story takes your heart on an emotional roller coaster, pulling at every string. photo courtesy of BarnesandNobles.com, Random House Publishing Group, Lisa Wingate. GIRL, STOP APOLOGIZING by Rachel Hollis Every girlfriend I have has posted something related to Rachel Hollis and her girl-power books. I don’t necessarily always go with the tide, but here I am, telling you to read all things Rachel Hollis. Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals was a Goodreads Choice 2019 Winner. The book is about making goals and following them without apologies. Hollis writes that women should be proud of their accomplishments, should have some goals to look forward to, and be encouraged to stick to them. She offers great tips and ideas, and killer pep-talks to start the New Year off with a little more confidence and positivity. photo courtesy of Amazon.com, Harper Collins Leadership, Rachel Hollis.

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Dentistry: Ask The Expert

NEW SMILES For A New Year by Dr. Matt Artho, Owner of Country Lakes Family Dental

t’s a new year, and as I reflect on the intimate time spent over the holidays with family and friends, celebrating the season and appreciating those cherished moments of joy and giving, I can only sum it all up in four simple words: I ate too much. Yes, once again, we start the new year off with resolutions to shake off those habits so easily picked up during the time of merriness and cheer. Now, with the holidays behind us, we can focus on some new ways to improve ourselves, even our oral health. Here are some dental ideas for how you can start the year with a great smile.

Every good resolution starts with a solid foundation. With your oral health, it’s back to the basics of brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Brushing after meals, or at least twice a day is a common understanding, but flossing can be a tricky habit to start. Some tips for flossing can include setting up a reminder in your phone or creating a progress chart. It may even be helpful to place floss next to your sink as a daily reminder to floss.

As you start off 2020 with new resolutions for a healthy, happier you, make sure to keep your oral health as a part of that package. Happy New Year and Happy Smiling!

When it comes to improving the aesthetics of your smile, there is a wide spectrum of dental treatment that is available. If you have never tried whitening, this is a simple and easy way to enhance the look of your teeth. If you have ever considered straightening your teeth, this may be the year to consider orthodontic or Invisalign treatment.

940.455.7645 | COUNTRYLAKESDENTAL.COM | 74 MCMAKIN RD., STE. 200 • BARTONVILLE, TX 76226

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NI T

A T N

NA COMMU

SUPPORTS

SAILORS by Steve Gamel

Just before Christmas, Janylle confirmed

that she had already heard from the Navy

Chaplain that the majority of the bags had reached the carrier and were lined up in

the mess hall. And more were on the way. “He said that as the sailors sat down,

a hush came over the room as they all

started reading the notes and looking at

their bags,” Janylle said. “He said the hush was followed by such a wonderful sense of energy.”

When Janylle initially concocted her idea,

the first thing she did was pen a Facebook post to Lantana residents just to gauge

interest and see if anyone had any leftover

antana resident Janylle Koren is used to sending her son, Taylor, gifts and loving reminders from home while

he is away serving his country in the Navy — especially during the

holidays. But when Janylle

decided this year to send a gift bag to every sailor on

the ship, she knew it would

take a small miracle to make it happen.

Little did Janylle know she

was surrounded by plenty of miracle workers.

With help from hundreds of

local elementary and middle

Reagan Aircraft Carrier on Nov. 18. That was the deadline to ensure each

family, parishioners from her church,

donate. Before she knew it, everyone

sailor received a bag by Christmas.

wanted to help in some way. Some

Each decorated bag was filled with a

and others went so far as to show up at

Janylle shipped between 3,100 and 3,200 gift bags to sailors aboard the USS Ronald Reagan Aircraft Carrier on Nov. 18.

school students, friends,

Halloween candy they’d be willing to

variety of candy and snacks, as well as handwritten notes of love and support. “When they told me I had to have them done and shipped by the 18th, I knew

volunteers chipped in candy and snacks, the Koren house to help pack each bag. From there, several schools were calling

to find out how they could help. Students from the elementary schools decorated every bag, and students from Harpool

Middle School took the time to provide

I really only had two weeks

handwritten notes.

to get it all done,” Janylle

“I only did a little bit last year for my

said. “We couldn’t have

son, but this year, the doors opened,”

done this by ourselves.

Janylle said.

This was truly a

Janylle said the goal is to make this a

community thing.”

yearly thing and possibly grow it from year

neighbors, and even total strangers,

She added, “It was overwhelming in

to year with continued support.

the most awesome way possible. What

gift bags to sailors aboard the USS Ronald

happened was an absolute blessing.”

“It’s definitely something I’d like to see

Janylle shipped between 3,100 and 3,200

happen every year,” Janylle said.

photos courtesy of Janylle Koren

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Getaway for VALENTINE’S Let’s

Day by Brooke Ezzo

alentine’s Day falls on a Friday this

year, creating just

enough time to take your

honey on a long-weekend getaway. It isn’t too late to

plan the romantic trip, either. Whether you’re looking for

secluded and private to city

strolls and adventures, there are a few different ways to celebrate each other this Valentine’s Day. There is

something for everyone

on this flower-smelling and chocolate-eating holiday, and we have found a few

places you may enjoy for a

few close-to-home escapes this February.

GRANBURY, TEXAS

1.5 HOURS AWAY

photo courtesy of The Grandbury Square facebook

This charming old town offers plenty of romantic options for a long getaway. Stay in the Garden Cottage with a private patio and fireplace at the Iron Horse Inn Bed and Breakfast, which is minutes from the historical Granbury Square. You can also spend your days on the square with a variety of restaurants and bars, a unique art scene, live shows, museums, and shopping. The New Granbury Live at the opera house presents a Blue Brothers Tribute and a Valentines dinner on the 14th. Don’t forget the lake, as there are a few services that offer moonlight dinner cruises out on the water. A great way to end an enchanting weekend away together. With a list of B&Bs, restaurants, and tickets to the opera house, visit www.visitgranbury.com.

BROKEN BOW, OKLAHOMA

3 HOURS AWAY

photo courtesy of www.TravelOK.com

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If you are looking for a nature adventure, Broken Bow has it all. Take a quiet drive to a log cabin you booked on Airbnb, where you are surrounded by the soaring pine trees and secluded in your own romantic world. If you want to leave the cabin, there is still plenty to do. Spend a day at Beavers Bend Resort Park where you can hike a variety of trails, go fishing, and even zip-line through massive trees and over the water. Make your way to a wine or brewery tour, stroll through the wildlife museum, go horseback riding, or meet some furry new friends at the petting zoo. Last but not least, try your luck at the Choctaw Casino. For more ideas for your scenic getaway, visit www.travelok.com.

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4.5 HOURS AWAY

FREDERICKSBURG, TEXAS

Everyone talks about Fredericksburg,

but have you ever experienced the Hill Country? Known for its wineries and

peaches, you’ll also be drenched in its German history, natural beauty, and rustic charm. With hundreds of bed

and breakfast options, you’ll be sure

to find one that fits your tastes. Take a

chauffeured tour on the 30-mile stretch

of road that is home to over 40 wineries

and tasting rooms. Beautiful Main Street offers unique shopping and German-

inspired foods. Take a historical walking tour, stroll through the Herb Farm, and

explore Enchanted Rock. And, of course, only 14 miles away in Luckenbach, end

your weekend in this two-building town listening to country music and dancing the night away. To see what else the Hill Country has to offer, visit

www.visitfredericksburgtx.com. You don’t have to travel far to wine and dine your love this Valentine’s Day!

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Ask The Expert: Gardening

WELCOME by PJ Kratohvil Owner of Complete Solutions

e hope everyone had a GREAT CHRISTMAS and that you’re looking forward to this new year. As the 2020 to-do lists come out, keep in mind projects can be exciting and the rewards enjoyed for years to come. But just remember, as we always say: “Good labor ain’t cheap and cheap labor ain’t good.” By hiring legitimate, local contractors, you can protect your investments and give yourself peace of

mind – ensuring that your time and money are being well spent. January is a great time to get that soft screen planted. Larger shrubs and trees do well when planted in winter due to stored nutrients and the fact that majority of root growth happens in winter. Everyone appreciates some

level of privacy, especially in our larger communities where the lots are closer together. So take advantage of the cooler temps and get to work!

While things are dormant, it’s also a perfect time to get in your beds and add some structure. Pots, water & fire features, cedar or iron screen walls and accent rocks are all great for personalizing your space. If you’ve experienced standing water or drainage issues with the heavy rains we had this season, a dry creek bed might be a great option for you. A contrast of materials, colors, and texture add so much to the bed spaces as things come alive in the spring. If you don’t have an outdoor space that’s covered, January could be the perfect time to get that patio cover drawn up and moving forward. Getting to enjoy a dinner on the patio (rain or shine) or an evening next to the fireplace under cover is an experience you’ll look forward to repeating!

INTERIOR: 972.539.8258 | EXTERIOR: 214.735.1363 | COMPLETESOLUTIONSDFW.COM

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2019

Guyer District 5-6A All-District

VOLLEYBALL MVP: Paige Flickinger, Trophy Club Nelson HITTER OF THE YEAR: BROOKE SLUSSER, GUYER Blocker of the Year: Annabelle Smith, Southlake Carroll Defensive Player of the Year: Kalani Whitlock, Keller Setter of the Year: Payton Chamberlain, Trophy Club Nelson Newcomer of the Year: Leah Ford, Keller

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FIRST TEAM

SECOND TEAM

Kyndal Stowers, Guyer; Jordyn Williams, Guyer; Maggie Walsh, Guyer; Charitie Luper, Trophy Club Nelson; Giselle Santini, Trophy Club Nelson; Skyler McKinnion, Trophy Club Nelson; Natalie Glenn, Southlake Carroll; Keagan Polk, Southlake Carroll; Kate Lang, Keller; Jayden Nembhard, Keller; Caleigh Enax, Haslet Eaton; Kyndal Payne, Haslet Eaton; Halle Sherlock, Keller Timber Creek; Abby Wells, Keller Central; Isla Olivas, Keller Fossil Ridge

Hailey Schneider, Guyer; Nina Petersen, Trophy Club Nelson; Adeline Miller, Trophy Club Nelson; Grave Ver Meer, Trophy Club Nelson; Madelyn Grunza, Southlake Carroll; Laura Brambilla, Southlake Carroll; Mabyn Thomas, Southlake Carroll; Haylee Maxey, Keller; Kennedi Sutter, Keller; Adeline Ortman, Haslet Eaton; Lindsey Harris, Haslet Eaton; Sydney Sherlock, Keller Timber Creek; Karly Wells, Keller Central; Nakayla Abelard, Keller Fossil Ridge

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Three Easy Steps

TO START THE DECADE

OFF RIGHT

by Jennifer Balmos, Owner of Balmos Law, PLLC

he start of a new year is a great time to review existing estate plans or to develop a plan in the first place. A few steps to get you on the right track include: 1. MAKE SURE YOU’RE NOT MAKING ANY OUTRIGHT GIFTS TO MINORS. Texas statutes are clear: individuals under 18 may not inherit. Outright gifts to minors require the involvement and approval of the Probate Court, which is unnecessarily expensive and time-consuming. Instead, consider a living trust or building some

trust provisions into your will to make sure your children are protected. 2. UPDATE YOUR

BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS. This is particularly important if 2019 included a birth, death, or divorce in your family. Wills and living trusts do not control the distribution of retirement accounts, life insurance policies, or any assets that include a beneficiary designation. For instance, if you updated your will to remove your former spouse but did not remove him as a beneficiary on your life

Legal Advice: Ask The Expert

insurance, he will still be entitled to a payout that you probably wished went to someone else. 3. THINK ABOUT YOUR HEALTHCARE CHOICES. As people get older, it is not uncommon for their healthcare preferences to change. Perhaps, too, the people you want making healthcare decisions for you might change. Have family relationships changed? Are your children now adults and capable of serving as your agent for healthcare decisions? Additionally, consider how you might pay for long-term care if it is ever needed. (The average cost of skilled nursing care in this area is over $5,000/month). These are certainly not the only decisions necessary to put a comprehensive plan in place, but they are a great start. Resolve to make 2020 the year that you give your loved ones – and yourself – the gift of peace of mind.

940.300.9834 | BALMOSLAW.COM | 2652 FM 407, STE. 215G • BARTONVILLE, TX 76226

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Organizing: Ask The Expert

How To Achieve Your

Organizing Goals by Crystal Nerpel, Owner of Cloud Nine Organizing

lutter is exhausting and overwhelming to deal with. Not just trying to tackle it, but trying to avoid, ignore, and maneuver around clutter is also equally exhausting. Having organizing goals is great, but how do you actually achieve those goals when it’s so overwhelming?

ONE BITE AT A TIME How do you eat an elephant? One bite

at a time. An overwhelming task is much

easier to swallow, so to speak, if you break it into bite-sized pieces and take your

time. If you have the great big goal of

organizing your entire home, then that’s a great organizing goal. It’s also a great

BIG organizing goal and could be way too daunting. Start by focusing on one space at a time and back into the BIG goal.

As one of my clients recently pointed out to me, “small hinges swing big gates.” When you take one small action step

toward your goal, you’ll start noticing

bigger, faster results with less effort as

time goes on. Man, I love knowing that. Don’t you?

KNOW YOU CAN Henry Ford famously said, “Whether you think you can or think you cannot, you

are right.” There is such genius truth to this statement. If you set an organizing goal (or any life goal for that matter) and immediately tell yourself, “There’s no way I can do this.” Guess what? You’ve already defeated yourself. You have set yourself up for failure. Flip that negative self-talk on it’s head! Go to a mirror, look yourself in the eyes and say, “I’ve got this. This is my home, and I am in control of the clutter. Clutter is not in control of me.” Then give yourself a high-five and get to work. Who cares if you feel silly because you’re about to crush your goals! HAVE A PLAN As an organizing specialist, I have successfully organized and decluttered many homes. Before tackling every single one of those organizing jobs, I made sure I had a plan in place. Sometimes, even the best made plans need to be adjusted as the job progresses. But I always start with

a general idea of how to accomplish my

client’s decluttering and organizing goals. WHERE TO START You can try starting with the spot that bothers you the most. Once you get

the most annoying clutter taken care of, the rest will usually fall way more easily. However, if it ALL equally bothers you,

then start with your personal space like

your bedroom. Your bedroom is probably the first room you see when you open your eyes in the morning, and the last

room you see when you close your eyes at night. Make that space the best space in

your house! It sets the tone for your mood (whether you realize it or not). WHEN TO FINISH Keep yourself accountable and on track by making sure your organizing plan has a realistic timeline attached to it.

Put it on the calendar and hold yourself accountable to that “finish date.” Make sure you give yourself enough time to

complete the project, but don’t make it so far out that you begin to procrastinate.

CLOUDNINEORGANIZING.COM

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hen you’re a kid who loves swimming practically more than life itself, the winter months when the pool is closed can drag on for what seems like an eternity. Luckily, Lantana Lightning Swim team officials have the perfect answer.

Last year’s event brought in roughly 50 plungers of all ages, and several dozen more residents showed up simply to show support and help raise money for the organization. Big blocks of ice and various decorations surrounded the pool; the HOA also hosted a s’mores station while the golf club provided hot cocoa. Lantana Lightning coaches were on hand, as were several lifeguards to help warm swimmers up once they exited the pool.

SECOND-ANNUAL SUPER POLAR PLUNGE SLATED FOR FEB. 1, THE POLAR PLUNGE WILL RUN FROM 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M AT THE SOUTH POOL

The swim team, which is headed into its 17th year offering competitive swimming for kids ages 5-18, has teamed up once again with the neighborhood HOA to host its second-annual Super Polar Plunge. Slated for Feb. 1, the Polar Plunge will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m at the South Pool and is a unique, communitywide event where kids, their parents, and even coaches sign up to swim — but mostly plunge — into the water in 40 to 50-degree weather.

Gscheidle said that participants who sign up for this year’s event could expect much of the same. Prizes will also be awarded for the bellyflop and cannonball contests. Someone will also be dressed up in a polar bear outfit.

by Steve Gamel

READY FOR 2ND ANNUAL

LANTANA LIGHTNING

SUPER POLAR PLUNGE

“We definitely anticipate more participants than last year,” Gscheidle said. “The coaches also participate, which I think is really cool for the kids to see.” Once the Polar Plunge is complete, Gscheidle admitted the team would quickly turn its focus to the upcoming season. Registration for 2020 begins April 1 for returning swimmers. Meets typically run between June and July. To join, there are a few rules, including being able to swim 25 yards and that the swimmer is a resident of Lantana. Lantana Lightning is part of a group called Swim North Texas. This group, while it is a chance for kids to learn structure and the importance of being a part of a team, is also a chance for kids to learn a few new tricks while also making new friends. If you are interested in having your child be a part of the Lantana Lightning, visit their website at www.teamunify.com.

You read that right — and don’t knock it until you try it. “The longer the pool is closed, the more these kids miss it and start bugging their parents,” Lantana Lightning board President, Melody Gscheidle said. “It’s a fun event, and the parents are such troopers to do this along with the kids.” 58 | LANTANA LIVING

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WHO DO I CALL? information provided by Community Lifestyle Director Ashtin Slovak

antana is a unique community in that it does not rest inside the corporate limits of a municipality. Lantana is located in unincorporated Denton County. To provide some of the services that a municipality normally provides, Fresh Water Supply Districts 6 & 7 were created. This can be confusing sometimes for the residents of Lantana on which entity they should contact for a particular service or concern. Below is a small list to clarify who you can call for specific services.

LANTANA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

940.728.1660 | www.lantanalive.com After Hours emergency Line: 214.373.2412

FRESH WATER SUPPLY DISTRICT

940.728.5050 | www.lantanatx.org •

Trash Collection

•

Water Bill

•

Perimeter Stone & Brick Walls

•

Right of Ways Along (Lantana Trail, Rayzor Rd., Branch Crossing, Stacee Ln.)

DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Emergency: 9.1.1 Non-Emergency: 940.349.1600 •

Traffic Concerns (Speeding, Reckless Driving)

•

Crime Stoppers

•

Animal Control

•

Jail Information

•

Association Common Areas

•

North Amenity Center & North Pond

•

South Amenity Center & Town Green

•

Tennis Courts

•

Mesquite Park Pool & Playground

•

Building Permits

•

Jail Records

•

Hickory Park Pool & Playground

•

Block Party Permits

•

Warrants

•

Oak Park Pool & Playground

•

Streets

•

Architectural Review Committee Submittals (For All Exterior Modifications)

•

Sidewalks (With more than 1 inch vertical movement)

•

Street Regulatory Signs

•

Neighborhood Parks

•

Hike & Bike Trails

•

Community Events

•

Front Yard Maintenance

•

Vector Security

•

Grande Communications Basic Cable (In Select Neighborhoods)

•

Barking Dogs (You will need to be able to provide address)

•

Monument entry Sign Lights

www.LantanaLiving.com

COSERV ELECTRIC 1.800.566.2314 | www.coserv.com •

Street Light Outages

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SHERIFF’S W I T H

S H E R I F F

T R A C Y

M U R P H R E E

WE ARE

HIRING

DETENTION

OFFICERS! 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

DENTON COUNTY CRIME STOPPERS

enton County Crime Stoppers, Inc. celebrated 30 years of service to Denton

County, its citizens, and state and local law enforcement. In 30 years, Denton

County Crime Stoppers has certainly made an impact locally. A total of 10,731 tips

from the public have netted 4,096 arrests, 267 confiscated firearms, $4,754,776 in seized drugs, and $2,848,630 in recovered property. An estimated $1,534,760 in rewards have been paid to those who have taken the time to let law enforcement know of crimes that

have been committed. A partnership with the Denton County Sheriff’s Office, the public, and the media has created a winning combination.

Over the past three years, Denton County Crime Stoppers has been recognized by the Office of the Governor and the Texas Crime

Stoppers Advisory Council for the following achievements:

Productivity Award 2016 Most Cases Cleared for

Population of 500,001-1,000,000 Productivity Award 2016

Greatest Dollar Recovery for

Population of 500,001-1,000,000

Productivity Award 2017 Most Cases Cleared for Population of 500,001-1,000,000 Productivity Award 2017 Greatest Dollar Recovery for Population of 500,001-1,000,000 Productivity Award 2018 Most Cases Cleared for Population of 500,001-1,000,000 Productivity Award 2018 Greatest Dollar Recovery for Population of 500,001-1,000,000

The Safe School Program of Denton County Crime Stoppers is a program to expand Crime Stoppers operations, encouraging students to remain totally anonymous when reporting school crime. The program has no impact on taxpayers and relies on the collaboration of law enforcement, media, teachers, and students to provide a flow of information about crime and criminal activity. Let’s continue to help them help law enforcement. Crime Stoppers pays up to $1,000 cash on tips leading to the arrest of an individual — and you remain anonymous! You can call 1-800-388-TIPS (8477) with information or visit www.dentoncountycrimestoppers. com for more details.

940.349.1600 | 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 • DENTON, TX 76205 | DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX

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