NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 Automotive Issue
LIVES CHANGING PEOPLE’S
T H R O U G H
W E I G H T
L O S S
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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEWISVILLE, TX PERMIT NO. 977
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TABLE OF Contents ASK THE EXPERTS
24 Fitness with Jesse James Fit 28 Gardening with Complete Solutions 24 Home Decorating with Allison Fifer 37 Travel with Terri Guthrie BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS 11 Connections Wellness Group: Supporting You During The Pandemic and Beyond 15 Adams Furniture: Furniture With A History PHOTOS FROM LANTANA 21 Lantana Resident Photos 39 Flower Mound Chamber Fiesta Photos 45 Lantana Resident Photos 61 Lantana Resident Photos ARTICLES 08 10 Ways To Save Money When buying A Car 12 A Kickstarted Nonprofit 16 Inside Community and Education 18 The Worst Of Denton County 22 This Holiday Season Shop Local 27 Sheriff’s Corner With Sheriff Tracy Murphree 30 Preventable Dental Emergency 38 A Paw-Some Woof-O-Ween 40 Service Dogs Making A Difference For Wounded Vets 42 Finding A Cure: Diabetes Awareness Month 46 Simple, Homemade Snickerdoodle Hot Chocolate 49 Increasing Breast Cancer Awareness 50 Rising From The Ashes 54 Return To School Algorithms 56 Foodie Friday DFW: Lakeside Urban Grocery
PAGE
32
CHANGING PEOPLE’S
LIVES T H R O U G H
W E I G H T
L O S S
Cover Image Laura Alexis of
Innovative Lasers of Houston
58 Safety, Warmth and Shelter www.LantanaLiving.com
NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 5
Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com
Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray
Administration
Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors
Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran
A T IME OF
Reflection
I
have been sitting here at my keyboard on and off all day trying to think of the words that best describe the craziness of this year. Chaotic, confusing, and unpredictable are just a few I landed on. However, during my journey down 2020 memory lane, many moments popped out at me reminding me of all the things we are grateful for: our family, our health, our jobs, and good friends. This year started off with a bang. We premiered not one but TWO new lifestyle magazines. And we could not be more pleased with the excitement and support the communities have shown us. We love being part of an area that embraces small businesses, encourages community relationships, and continuously finds ways to give back and serve others.
My favorite thing about Thanksgiving in Texas is that it kicks off the Christmas season. I love that after we give thanks, we can put up our trees and get into the holiday spirit! In Canada, where I was born and raised, Thanksgiving is in October, and it’s always on a Monday. I love that it is such a big deal here. This time of the year, we tend to slow down and spend time with friends and family. And I love that we have time to reflect on our blessings and make new memories. After the year we’ve had, I encourage you to look around and reflect on all of the things you are grateful for. There is still so much beauty in the world! To our readers, our local businesses, and the talented staff we have here at Murray Media, we want to say thank you. We are proud of the publications we send out each month and we wouldn’t be able to do it without each and every one of you.
Writers & Editor
Steve Gamel, Brooke Ezzo, Diane Ciarloni
Advertising Inquiries
sales@murray-media.com
Production
Graphic Designers Caroline Brock
Alyson Modene
Cayla Thompson
Photography
Your Candid Memories Photography
What’s That Guy’s Name? | Photography by Guy T
Letters Lantana 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 Lantana 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. Lantana Living is not responsible for omissions or information that has been
misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this
publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2020 Murray Media Group
Don’t forget we love family photos. Send us your Christmas cards, your Santa pictures, and any pets-dressed-as-elves photos. Those are my favorite!
Sincerely, Kelly Murray 6 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
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Automotive Article
10 WAYS
To Save Money
Car O
WHEN BUYING A by Contributing Writer
n average, spending on transportation is a family’s second-biggest expense after housing in the USA. Whether you need a new car or just want an upgrade, there are several ways you can cut auto bills and put more money toward savings or other expenses.
8 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
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What To Do
ONLY PAY CASH
Financing a car may be your only option if you don’t have the cash to pay for a car in full. If you can do so, however, perhaps by going for an older model, your monthly outgoings will be hugely reduced. This can often more than offset any extra maintenance repairs for older vehicles.
PICK THE RIGHT TIME OF YEAR February and August are often excellent times to buy a car. Sales usually are slow following Christmas and January, and at the height of summer, so dealerships slash prices to offset this. The end of each quarter can also be good times to buy, when dealers push to hit their sales targets. Buying certain types of vehicles in unpopular seasons, such as convertibles in winter and four-wheel-drives in summer, are also good ways to make this work for you.
PICK THE RIGHT TIME OF DAY When negotiating, sometimes even the time of day can have an effect. This is particularly true toward the end of the working day on Fridays when salespeople are keen to make up for any deficits in weekly sales targets.
BUY USED This one may seem obvious, but with depreciation remaining the largest expense for owners, and new cars often costing tens of thousands of dollars more than used models, the financial advantages are huge. Going for mid-
2000s models can strike a good balance
to avoid purchasing credit life or credit
too expensive.
itself, who can often try to hard-sell you
between not being too old and not being
WAIT TO BUY NEW If you must buy new, then at least wait
disability insurance from the dealership these. Stick with individual or employer policies.
for the initial excitement of a brand-new
RESEARCH POTENTIAL MAINTENANCE COSTS
There’s no more expensive time to
While buying used is usually a great way
release, when press and consumer
yourself on potential maintenance costs
model to die down for a few months.
purchase a car than immediately after attention on a model is at its highest, and dealerships can get away with charging more.
BE AN INFORMED NEGOTIATOR
to save thousands of dollars, educate
for the model you’re shopping for and
factor that into your budget. Some cars
can be notoriously reliable even if they’re older, and going for these models can save you a lot in the long run.
ensure you know what type of car you’re
ALSO FACTOR IN FUEL ECONOMY
the average selling prices are. Consider
fuel economy is another factor which
need, and don’t allow yourself to be
cost of a new car on top of the payment
Before you even enter the showroom,
looking for, and do research to see what which specifications you truly want and
upsold useless features. It’s also a good
idea to negotiate on the basis that you’ll
be paying on finance, even if you’re not. Better deals can be struck that way, and
you can decide to pay in cash at the end if you go for it.
As well as insurance and maintenance,
can massively influence the total actual
for the vehicle itself. If you want to save money, going for four-cylinder engines rather than six-cylinder and manual
transmissions rather than automatic are two ways you can maximize fuel economy in the long-run.
FACTOR IN INSURANCE COSTS
CONSIDER IF YOU NEED A NEW CAR NOW
Insurance costs differ due to many factors,
Finally, it’s worth considering if you truly
specific model of car. Ensure you’re well-
an honest look at your budget and
including age, driving experience, and informed on how much the insurance
costs will be for the vehicle you’re looking
for by shopping around online, so you can
be realistic about how affordable your new car will be overall. It’s also usually better
need a new car right now. By taking
deciding to delay buying a new car, you
can massively reduce the amount you’re spending over the years, easily tens of
thousands of dollars over the course of a decade.
There are many aspects to buying a new car. As well as deciding on a model, factors such as buying new or used and the way you negotiate a sale can collectively have an enormous impact on the amount you spend on auto bills. By considering at least a few of these factors when purchasing a new car, you can easily save a lot of money in the years to come. www.LantanaLiving.com
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Business Spotlight
C O N N E C T I O N S
W E L L N E S S
G R O U P
SUPPORTING YOU DURING THE PANDEMIC
AND BEYOND by Steve Gamel
I
t’s no secret that all of us have been struggling to mentally navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. For adults, the constant unknowns lead to anxiety over issues like layoffs, sickness, how to pay our bills, and fears over whether or not our kids are safe within school walls. Far too often, we must pretend everything is okay when it’s clearly not, which makes it worse for our children as they try to cope with their own issues: returning to school, feelings of isolation, and more.
Connections Wellness Group in Denton wants you to know you and your kids aren’t alone. It is okay to say that, from time to time, you may need help. Your mental health — even in a pandemic — is the reason they come to work every day. “Our culture tells us, ‘keep going,’ and ‘persevere on,’ or ‘it will be fine,’ and ‘you’ve got this.’ But there has to be a counterbalance to that,” CEO Awstin Gregg said. “The way we become our best is seeking and having the support we need in tough times, which leads to more success in the end.”
over the past eight months. Thankfully, many people are calling Connections Wellness, which has set a new standard in handling the most clinically challenging of circumstances — whether in person or through teleservices. They have services that assist patients as young as 3 years old and currently offer programs for teens and adults that include Process groups, psychoeducational groups, experiential groups, psychiatric evaluations, nursing evaluations, and medication education. Their therapies include cognitivebehavioral, solution-focused, dialectical behavior, motivational interviewing, cognitive processing, rational emotive behavior, SMART recovery, and many
“ YOU CAN’T KEEP POURING FROM AN EMPTY CUP.”
The sad reality is that mental health affects people of all ages, and Gregg said those struggles have only been exacerbated
other services depending on the need. “When it comes to the pandemic, there are a few points we are trying to make, which include creating routines and structure for yourself, focusing on controllable tasks, and encouraging parents to check in on their kids more frequently,” said Dr. Syed Nizami, a child and adolescent psychologist and the medical director for the PHP and IOP programs. “We also want to help people learn coping skills and self-care, and finding ways to stay connected as best as we all can.” Gregg agreed, adding that people can’t continue being a caregiver for their family and others if they do not receive any care or encouragement in return. That’s what Connections Wellness Group is here to do — even in a pandemic. “You can’t keep pouring from an empty cup,” Gregg said. “It’s okay to say that, from time to time, you might need help. I happen to be biased, but I think we are pretty good at providing that help. Let us support you.”
940.222.2399 | ConectionsWellnessGroup.com | 2701 Shoreline Dr., Ste. 151• Denton, TX 76210 www.LantanaLiving.com
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A
K I C K S TA RT E D
Nonprofit by Steve Gamel | photos courtesy of P.J. Kratohvil
I
t’s no secret that the transition from active military life can be extremely difficult for many of our combat veterans. The mental and physically-disabling conditions they suffer from are overwhelming, and the yearning to recapture the unique brotherhood and sense of community they once had seems like it is lost forever in civilian life.
P.J. Kratohvil and Robbie Horne have lived in that world, and now they’re stepping up in a big way to help their brothers.
together and gets them back to living active lifestyles. They do that by hosting hunting trips and other activities that not only promote health and wellness but help restore that lost brotherhood and reduce or eliminate the life limitations many of these heroes are facing.
Kratohvil, a Marine Corp veteran who served two deployments in Iraq and now owns Complete Exterior Solutions in Flower Mound, has joined with Horne, who served in the It’s all about Founders Robbie Horne, P.J. Kratohvil, and Treasurer Ford Jacobs. same unit, to bringing create Therapeutic Recreation Group. back the power of hope to help build a The nonprofit brings veterans and community of veterans, first responders, first responders from their community and their families. 12 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
“Our vision is to get these guys together, let them know we are here to support them, and let them experience things,” Kratohvil said. “We are looking right here in Flower Mound, Highland Village, and surrounding areas to build a community that supports our veterans, active-duty guys, reservists, and police and fire. We want to help bring guys who are doing great together and point them in the direction of guys who aren’t doing so great.” Kratohvil pointed to several studies that prove that when you can introduce likeminded people who share similar life experiences into an outdoor environment, it allows that individual to decompress and help them open up and begin the healing process. Remember, these are service members who were wounded or traumatized during times of war. By pairing them with Veterans and Active Duty service members who have faced similar situations, they can learn coping www.LantanaLiving.com
techniques to fit back into society and reengage with their families. Outdoor events are great first steps for this. They introduce something new and allow them to re-live activities they once enjoyed. TRG goes a step further with a follow-up program to keep everyone in touch, help veterans track progress if they wish, and continue to surround them with the support they need to achieve that functioning independence. TRG also provides education to the community by giving free lectures and slideshows at corporate offices and other public venues. They utilize social media channels and the organization’s website to provide facts, statistics, and other related data on causes, current efforts, and solutions geared to help these patriots. “We are incredibly excited to get this kicked off. There are a lot of nonprofits out there that serve and do great things. The ones I’ve worked with fly guys in from all over the country, but beyond the event, there’s no sense of community. We want to establish that,” Kratohvil said. “We want to pull from our community and create that for these people.”
Pictured above, Founders Robbie Horne and P.J. Kratohvil served together in OIF 1 & OIF 2.
Kratohvil said the idea for Therapeutic Recreation Group started a few years ago when he and Horne went on a similar hunting trip. As they were traveling back, they couldn’t stop raving about the experience and how amazing it would be to do something in their communities. With P.J. living in Flower Mound and Horne residing in Austin, they saw an opportunity to create local chapters that served veterans and first responders in a way that truly makes a difference. Their first official trip will be a duck hunt in Arkansas on December 12-13. Kratohvil said they are also planning a steer and hog hunt in January and a few more activities later in 2021. “Who knows where this can go and who it can affect in a positive way,” Kratohvil said. www.LantanaLiving.com
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Business Spotlight
Furniture ADAMS FURNITURE
WITH A HISTORY by Diane Ciarloni
J
ustin, TX, just feels like the perfect backdrop for a place like Adams Furniture. Justin was settled by 70 people in 1848. The plan was to create a Utopian society. Its failure was official one year later.
Not much came out of Justin for the next 30 years or so. Then came the railroad, and the steam-powered locomotives
belched new life into the area. A post
office was granted in 1887, and the littletown-that-could became an established shipping and
salvage location. Adams Furniture first appeared in 1929 as Adams Cash Store, more of a general mercantile than
anything else. The
shelves were stocked
The present, sprawling store was built in 1938 and, today, it’s stuffed to the rafters with a broad selection of quality, American-made furniture. Owner Jim Smith was 16 when he started
Adams takes deepseated pride in having 85 to 90-percent American-made inventory.
with shoes, hardware, guns, hunting and fishing equipment, and anything else a
family living in North Texas might need.
Adams takes deep-seated pride in
having 85 to 90-percent American-
made inventory. According to Smith,
this is based on four primary reasons. First, it helps the American economy and American craftsmen. Second, it
offers superior quality. Third, the lack of
dangerous chemicals makes it family safe. Fourth, there are many more options to
working at the store
avoid cookie-cutter designs.
in 1969. “I became
No furniture is sold online because
a small percentage partner in 1979 and bought out the previous owners in 1982,” he explained. Adams’ market is within a 15-mile
radius of Justin, tapping into a 200,000 population. Most customers come from word-of-mouth marketing.
pictures can be deceiving. Neither are
prices posted online because of the broad choice of options.
Adams stays current in styles by traveling to markets in North Carolina and Las
Vegas. “We also have reps come to the
store and show what they have available,” Jim said.
When you think about it, that’s impressive for a town that failed after just one year!
940.648.3145 • ShopAdamsFurniture.com • 417 FM 156 • Justin, TX 76247 www.LantanaLiving.com
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INSIDE COMMUNITY
CANDY BAGS FOR SAILORS GIFT OF LIGHTS Thursday, Nov. 26- Sunday, Jan. 3 | Texas Motor Speedway 3545 Lone Star Circle, Fort Worth, TX 76177 It’s that time of the year again for the magical car ride through millions of lights hosted by Texas Motor Speedway. Tickets are sold by the carload so pack as many friends and family in the minivan as possible and let’s finish out 2020 with some twinkling joy. Tickets start at $30. Preorder today by visiting www.GiftofLightsTexas.com.
INSIDE EDUCATION
Janylle Koren has done it again collecting leftover Halloween candy for sailors aboard the USS Ronald Reagan. Last year, with the help of the community, Janylle was able to send around 1,000 bags to the sailors. This year, she hopes to meet this goal again. The sailors, including her son, will remain on board well past the holidays due to COVID.
WISDOM WARRIORS COOKBOOK
REMARKABLE WARRIORS Madison O’Rourke, Senior at Liberty Christian School paid it forward to Scottish Rite Hospital by raising nearly $50,000 with her, Shaping a Better Future Fundraiser. The funds go to help underwrite the cost of care for children with scoliosis. Madison presented the check to the hospital that helped her overcome her own struggles with scoliosis in September. photo courtesy of Vivian Nichols 16 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
In 2019, The Grandparents Association created a Taste of Liberty cookbook of favorite recipes to raise money for the Teacher Sustainability fund. On October 19, the “Wisdom Warriors” presented Dr. McCullough a check for over $3,000 from the sale of those cookbooks! The cookbooks are $21 and make great presents. To order yours, email Communications Associate, Vivian Nichols at Vivian.Nichols@mylcs.com. photo courtesy of Vivian Nichols www.LantanaLiving.com
DENTON COUNTY FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY
HOPEFUL HEARTS Over the summer Lantana resident Erica Wilson sat down at a local coffee shop with pen and paper and created a children’s book for elementary-aged students. The book, Hopeful Hearts is written to help encourage students through the changes this school year has brought and to stay positive when things may look and feel different. Lantana resident, Emily Holder illustrated the book. You can purchase your copy on Amazon or www.BarnesandNoble.com.
If you are looking for a way to give back this season, Denton County Friends of the Family offers an Adopt-a-Family Drive each year. A family, organization, or business an adopt families who have been impacted by domestic violence and spread some holiday cheer. DCFOF is providing gifts to over 700 children this year and they need YOUR help! For information on how to get involved, visit www.dcfof.org/ adoptafamily.
GUYER THEATRE PRESENTS… PARENT AND STUDENT ENGAGEMENT CLASSES Thursdays, Dec. 4- Jan. 14 | 6pm-7pm | ZOOM Denton ISD offers Social and Emotional Support Classes for parents and students. The classes are hosted via Zoom and the links can be found online. The December 4th class is about Conflict Resolution and the December 10th class covers Anxiety and Depression, hosted by the Counseling and Social Work Department. For more class subjects and Zoom links, visit http://sites.google.com/g.dentonisd.org/guidanceand-social-emotional-/parent-student-engagement-classes. www.LantanaLiving.com
Guyer Theatre is back and these performing arts students are bringing their best to the stage. The line up for this school year includes performances of The Phantom of the Opera in February, The Beauty Queen of Leenane, The Children’s Hour, and I’m Not Rappaport. For COVID guidelines and tickets, visit www.GuyerTheatre.com. NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 17
THE
WORST
Denton County OF
by Jean Eisenmann | photo courtesy of Jean Eisenmann
I
can’t wait for the Best of Denton County issue to come out! I think it’s wonderful that Denton county businesses have the opportunity to be recognized and commended by their very own clients and customers within their own communities. Congrats to all the nominees and recipients!
But what about things within Denton county that are not so positive? What about the WORST of Denton County? Here are my nominees: • The Gargantuan Groups of Grackles That Gather in the Parking Lots of the “Big Box” Stores. (Say that five times fast, I dare you.) Murphy’s Law isn’t just that it rains right after you wash your car. Murphy sometimes sends you grocery shopping at the big box store right from the car wash. By the time you’re back in your vehicle, you have to open the roll of paper towels you just bought and clean the white mess obliterating the windows, or else your car had better know the way home by voice command. And the sound grackles make in unison as they bed down for the night would make Freddy Krueger shudder. I find them acceptable once a year, however, because on Halloween I like to be creeped out. • Coyotes and Hawks and Fox, Oh My! Good commerce leads to progress, and new construction is a part of it. Consequently, woodland must 18 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
be cleared, and displaced wild
animals find their way to Denton
County backyards to check out our
lawn furniture and test the cushions.
Perhaps dip a paw into the pool. Some residents – myself included – have never seen a wild
animal face to face. Recently, I saw a
barn owl sitting on
our backyard fence. I
thought it was a hoot, until my husband
informed me it was
actually a hawk. No
wonder it screeched instead of hooted. I thought it was just hoarse.
• Closed Movie Theaters. I
understand why it
that glorious grease staining your
container and fingernails with a lemonyellow, artificial butter-like substance resembling frying oil. Or, in scientific
terms, JUNK FOOD. And that feeling
of satisfaction when you’re still picking the particles out of your teeth the next morning as you reflect on the movie you saw.
Don’t forget those ICEEs. Sucking them
I saw a barn owl sitting on our backyard fence. I thought it was a hoot, until my husband informed me it was actually a hawk.
through a straw used
to be my only workout for the week (bargain basement botox). Recently, a few theaters have
reopened with
enhanced sanitation
and safety measures. But does anyone in midlife really want
to see The Goonies or Sixteen Candles again? Buy the
popcorn “to go.” There you have it.
was necessary to close movie theaters
How great is our county when you can’t
mean I can’t have a weekly hissy
about, other than a couple of minor
during COVID-19, but that doesn’t fit about it. I’ve made five different
brands of popcorn at home, but none equaled movie theater popcorn;
think of anything negative to complain
irritations? We Denton Countians are a
lucky bunch. I think I’ll celebrate with some popcorn from the big box store.
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T H I S H O L I D AY S E A S O N
Shop Local by Kelly Murray
T
by Contributing Writer
he holiday season can seem like it’s all about shopping, and it is easy to get overwhelmed with sales flyers, doorbuster deals, free shipping, and online offers, especially from large, nationwide chains. No matter what you need or want to buy, however, if you shop local this holiday season, you will get far more than just your purchase. And every penny you spend benefits many more people than just your family and friends. This year it is especially important to make the effort and help our local businesses as they try and recover.
WHY SHOPPING LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS IS IMPORTANT?
you buy local, you can get the item immediately
While it is true that an online selection
with no delays
expensive than local stores (depending
problems en
might be larger and possibly less
for shipping or
on shipping costs that can inflate prices),
route. There is
than just a purchase. When you shop
than your
• Find more unique, one-of-a-kind options that aren’t available to
everyone who has internet access or visits a big box retailer.
• You are able to help more local
businesses since the business owners you purchase from are more likely
to shop local themselves for all their
personal and business
WHEN YOU BUY
needs. It creates a great community!
LOCAL, YOU CAN
Local business owners
a purchase at a local store is much more
nothing worse
GET THE ITEM
support local charities
local, you…
package arriving
IMMEDIATELY
• Support jobs in your community so
more employees earn paychecks they
can use for their families and friends as well as their own bills and necessities. • Enjoy higher quality items as well as
more personalized customer service.
• This year, as we know, has caused
major delays in postal service. When
22 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
too late for your holiday plans. • Develop
relationships
with business
owners that can
are the ones who that rely on local
donations. This is
WITH NO DELAYS
unlike larger retailers
FOR SHIPPING OR
to donate to national
PROBLEMS EN ROUTE.
donations usually do
lead to even better customer service for special deals, unique orders, and personal recommendations.
Denton County.
that are more likely charities and those not help
UNIQUE PLACES TO SHOP LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON www.LantanaLiving.com
Shopping local means more than just
visiting big box stores and nationwide
• Garden centers and nurseries for
holiday plants, outdoor tools, bird feeders, and more
chains in your community. True local
shopping means trying out one-of-a-
kind small businesses and searching for
• Art galleries that feature unique work from local artists as well as other art-
more unique shopping options that can
themed gifts
be pleasantly surprising with the wide variety of
• Spas and salons for
merchandise,
DON’T OVERLOOK
services they
GIFT CARDS
gifts, and
offer. Great options to
investigate for your
local holiday shopping
include… • Niche and
www.LantanaLiving.com
• Farms for fresh local
produce, honey, and craft
CERTIFICATES FROM LOCAL SERVICE PROFESSIONALS.
items, and many other unique options
bombs, and other indulgent items
AND GIFT
boutique shops for clothes, crafts, gift
locally crafted soaps, bath
items with a rustic, nostalgic touch
• Local craft breweries for
all sorts of local handcrafted items and gifts
• Thrift stores for a wide range of items at discount prices that often support charities
• Local bakeries are a great place to pick up gift items and also add something special to your own holiday dining plans. In addition to local shops for unique gift items, don’t overlook gift cards and gift certificates from local service professionals. If you aren’t sure what gift to buy this holiday season, a gift certificate for a future haircut at a local salon, a massage at a local spa, the next oil change at a local mechanic, or even holiday cleanup from a local cleaning service can be the perfect option. By shopping local, you not only give a gift to the recipient, but you also give a gift to the local business where you purchased it from and also to your community as a whole. And our goal here is to always inspire you to Live Life Local!
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Ask The Expert: Fitness dinner-sized plates for the main food and smaller dessert plates. Grab a
dessert plate for all your party food.
10
SM ART
Studies show that people eat less
S T R AT EG I ES
Holiday Party
FOR
when using smaller plates. 7.
Limit your intake and pass on the
drinks with sugary mixes. Try instead to sip on dry red wine, or liquor
TEMPTATIONS
with soda water. It’s also helpful to
alternate each glass of alcohol with a glass of water.
by Jesse J. Leyva, Owner of Jesse James Fit & Outlaw Fitcamp
8.
I
It can just be too much temptation. According to research by the National Institutes of Health, the vast majority of people will never lose the weight they gain during the holiday season! There are things you can do before you head to your holiday gatherings to help you from overindulging. INDULGE A LITTLE
We’ll start with one you’ll like — let
4.
full of holiday desserts when you’re
treats you only get this time of
hungry. When possible, it’s much
year. The trick is to keep it in
better to eat a small, healthy meal
moderation though!
before heading to a party.
DRINK LOTS OF WATER
Drinking water takes up space in your
5.
It’s tempting to eat very little during
HAVE AT LEAST A SNACK OF PROTEIN
the day of a party to “save” the
calories for later. But that almost
always backfires. It’s too hard to eat in moderation when you’re hungry and have been deprived of healthy fuel all day. 9.
TRY THE THREE-BITE RULE Research shows that the first few bites of any dish are the most satisfying. Some people find success with a
three-bite rule — slowly eat and enjoy
three bites of your favorite foods and then try to leave it at that. 10. TAKE YOUR TIME Eat slowly and before you go back
stomach, is calorie-free, good for your
BEFORE YOU GO
for more, wait 20 to 30 minutes. It
quickly.
nutritious meal before your party, at
signal your brain that it’s full. If you
before you go. Grab a handful of
the feeling of being overfull will
crackers with cheese.
you often find that you don’t really
health, and helps you feel full more 3.
It’s too hard to say no to a plate of
delicious hors d’oeuvres or a table
yourself have a bit of the holiday
2.
NEVER GO A PARTY HUNGRY
DON’T SKIP MEALS ON PARTY DAYS TO “SAVE” CALORIES
t’s well-known that people typically gain weight during the holiday season. But it’s not dinners at home that are the problem, it’s all the parties, work functions, family gatherings, etc. that take place this time of year.
1.
BE SMART ABOUT ALCOHOL
FILL YOUR PLATE WITH THE HEALTHY STUFF FIRST
When making your plate, fill most of the space with vegetables, fruits,
or salad. This will help keep you from over-indulging on the other stuff.
6.
If it’s not possible to have a small
takes that long for your stomach to
least try to have a snack of protein
eat to the point of feeling full, then
nuts, some yogurt, a protein shake, or
kick in soon. But when you wait,
GRAB THE SMALLER PLATES
A lot of party set-ups will have large
want more. ‘Tis the season!
Remember, your health is determined by what you do most of the time, not what you do once in a while. All of us from Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamp wish you happy and healthy holidays! 972.355.2639 • JESSEJAMESFIT.COM | 940.497.6002 • OUTLAWFITCAMP.COM
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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
Holidays & MENTAL HEALTH
W
ith the holidays approaching, the Denton County Sheriff’s Office Mental
Health Unit/ Crisis Intervention Team is aware that the majority of people with mental illness report that the holidays make their conditions
worse. The holidays don’t necessarily worsen mental health conditions
specifically, but they tend to create
more stress. The resulting stress can then trigger or exacerbate mental
health conditions, such as depression
or anxiety. DCSO Investigators assigned to the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)
use their dual certifications as Peace
Officers and Certified Mental Health
Officers to obtain the most appropriate placement for individuals assessed
for emergency commitment. The CIT
provides the citizens of Denton County
with professional law enforcement mental health assessments and transportation of the mentally ill. In doing so, the CIT conducts emergency apprehension
and detentions independently and in
HIRING
If you are interested in a career in Law Enforcement, join our family and be a part of a great organization. Detention Officer I positions start at $38,752.00 per year. Visit our website to apply. www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/dentoncounty
with the goal of reducing the number of mentally ill persons being inappropriately incarcerated in the Denton County Jail and other detention facilities within the county. Please remember that if your feelings of sadness during the holidays are accompanied by suicidal thoughts, do one of the following immediately: •
Call 911.
the Local Mental Health Authority (LMHA).
•
Go immediately to a hospital emergency room.
with the Local Mental Health Authority
•
Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.TALK (1.800.273.8255).
conjunction with Denton County MHMR,
The CIT remains in constant cooperation and area law enforcement agencies to
comply with jail diversion requirements
940.349.1600 | 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 • DENTON, TX 76205 | DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX www.LantanaLiving.com
NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 27
FALL
Ask The Expert: Gardening
Arrived HAS
by PJ Kratohvil, Owner of Complete Solutions
T
he cooler air is here, rain has been falling, and the days are shorter. Fall in Texas is probably one of my favorite times of the year, and it’s a great time to make some improvements around your property.
Fire Feature
• Snapdragons.
Fireplaces, pots, and troughs are all great ways to add a feature to your space. Fire tables can also be a big hit! Their sleek design and easy usage make them a great choice for larger groups, whereas fireplaces are ideal for those looking for a more intimate experience. You can’t go wrong incorporating that fire element within your outdoor space. Whether you’re outside enjoying the warmth or inside just looking out, it’s a win-win.
Adding Color
• Chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums are a common autumn flower in North Texas. ...
• Marigolds are one of the best pick because they bloom in the classic autumn colors: orange, yellow, gold, etc. The two most common groups of marigolds are the French marigolds (Tagetes patula) and the African (Tagetes erecta).
for interest, or running some Edison lights to light up the sky all will enhance your space. When it comes to safety and showing off the dynamics of your property, we suggest LED fixtures. These will help visitors navigate walkways & split level patios while highlighting features at the same time.
Lighting
With less hours of daylight this time of year, lighting is a great option to extend your usage. Adding some string lights along a handrail to create a boarder, putting some bulbs in a seasonal wreath
• Pansies. Pansies are hardy plants ideal for North Texas winters. ... • Texas Aster. Fall aster blossoms from September to November in North Texas. ...
INTERIOR: 972.539.8258 | EXTERIOR: 214.735.1363 | COMPLETESOLUTIONSDFW.COM
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Preventable Dental
EMERGENCY D O N’ T
ENAMEL CARIES
L E T
I T
S T O P
O
Y O U
T R A C K S
ne of the most innovative developments in automobiles is the tire pressure monitoring system that automatically lets you know your tire pressure. It’s very handy, of course, until you are following your child’s bus to his class field trip and get a slow leak that you anxiously watch drop one psi at a time between Fort Worth and San Antonio. Don’t worry, I made it just in time (with 20 psi to spare), but unfortunately in dentistry, our teeth and gums usually lack the ability to give us immediate warning signs to oncoming emergencies.
examinations, most patients are aware of
the necessity to have their teeth cleaned,
but it is also important that your teeth and
gums are monitored for potential tooth or gum disease. Considering that even the
most diligent dental patient is seen twice a year, a lot can occur within six months
when it comes to oral health and catching it early can make all the difference.
When it comes to monitoring tooth decay,
oftentimes the lesion is located in between the teeth, and only a dental radiograph
will illustrate its presence. Small cavities PULPITIS
Y O U R
by Dr. Matt Artho
When making routine dental
DENTIN CARIES
I N
on the chewing surfaces may initially
appear as a stain unless checked by your
dentist. Decay that is unchecked can grow resulting in a great loss of tooth structure or fracture. By the time a tooth begins to
feel pain from extensive decay, it is likely close to the nerve requiring a root canal or extraction. Gum health is also recorded during routine examinations. Periodontal disease is often called the silent dental disease, as it is unnoticeable if not monitored. Bacteria beneath the gums will cause inflammation that results in bone loss around the teeth that cannot be regained. Excessive bone loss could potentially lead to tooth loss. Any of these conditions could quickly cause an unwanted and unexpected emergency. The best method to avoid a dental emergency is to be prepared and preventative. Make sure to keep up your homecare and don’t miss those essential dental appointments.
940.455.7645 | www.CountryLakesDental.com PERIODONTITIS 30 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
info@countrylakesdental.com | 74 McMakin Road | Bartonville, TX 76226
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LIVES CHANGING PEOPLE’S
T H R O U G H
W E I G H T
L O S S
by Steve Gamel | photography by What’s That Guy’s Name? | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GUY T
L
aura Alexis can tell you countless feel-good stories of everyday people who struggled with being overweight but saw their lives change in the blink of an eye — all because of a laser that looks and feels like it’s not doing anything.
For example, one gentleman needed to
“There was a red, shining light hovering
approved for long-overdue knee surgery.
rolling my eyes and looking down as I
drop a few pounds before he could be
WITH ZERONA, THERE’S NO DOWNTIME, NO SWELLING, NO BRUISING, NO PAIN, NO HEAT, AND NO COLD. SIMPLY BY LYING DOWN UNDER THE LASER, THE PROCEDURE MAKES TINY TEARS IN FAT CELLS, WHICH ARE NATURALLY ELIMINATED THROUGH THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM. 32 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
over my tummy area, and I remember
Within a few weeks, he went back to his
said, ‘Are you sure this is working? I can’t
no longer necessary because his joints
a Monday, and when I came back two
weight. There was also a patient who, for
excited that I couldn’t wait to get under it
but miraculously cast it aside, and another
transformed me mentally, physically, and
two seats and ask for a seatbelt extender
for others.”
doctor and was told the surgery was
feel anything,’” Laura said. “I did this on
weren’t bearing the brunt of excess
days later and saw the results, I was so
years, relied on a walker to get around
again and push the repeat button. When it
gentleman who always had to purchase
emotionally, I knew I had to do the same
when he’d get on an airplane. They are
And just like that, Innovative Lasers of
both now living their best life.
And then you have Laura herself, who
was depressed and overweight after the loss of her baby boy, Phillip. A doctor
she worked for introduced her to a laser
machine tucked away in a corner, and the rest is history.
Houston was born — and the Zerona Laser would never be stuck in a corner again.
When we caught up with Laura earlier this month, she was smiling from ear to ear.
She shared how Innovative Lasers went
from a single office to six — five in Houston and one in Preston Hollow — while single-
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Laura Alexis handedly changing the weight loss game
“We don’t destroy fat cells; we shrink
it’s all thanks to the Zerona Laser, the
attracted to metal, the Zerona Laser is
several thousand fat cells at a time. And first non-invasive total body contouring
procedure without the adverse side effects of surgical and other
weight loss procedures like liposuction and bariatrics.
With Zerona, there’s no
downtime, no swelling,
no bruising, no pain, no
heat, and no cold. Simply by lying down under
the laser, the procedure
fat cells and sweeps them throughout the
THE ZERONA LASER IS GOOD FOR ANYBODY AND EVERYBODY — REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU WANT TO LOSE FIVE POUNDS OR 105 POUNDS.
fat cells, which are naturally eliminated through the lymphatic system.
Zerona is FDA approved, and patients
experience an average reduction of 3 to 11 inches in two weeks.
While it sounds too good to be true,
there’s a very good reason for such a high
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attracted to fat cells. It creates tears in the body so the content of
makes tiny tears in
success rate.
them,” Laura said. “Like a magnet that is
those cells naturally seep out through bodily fluids such as urine and sweat. When that happens, the results are immediate.”
She added, “We literally change people’s lives with this procedure.
I feel strongly that this
procedure shouldn’t just
be for the rich and famous but also for the average person just like me. I’m here to
troublesome loose skin because the laser stimulates the collagen in your body. “This is all we do, every single day,” Laura said. “We hire the best staff with love and compassion as the main qualification, and because we can deliver results quickly, it has made us very popular.” She added, “These are people who have tried everything under the sun and haven’t seen results like this before. I want to share those stories with the rest of the world”
CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
214.484.2340
help people and change people’s lives.” The Zerona Laser is good for anybody
and everybody — regardless of whether you want to lose ten pounds or 115
pounds. Not only does their laser shrink the fat cells, but patients aren’t left with
InnovativeLasersOfHouston.com NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 33
Ask The Expert: Home Decorating
The Art of Christmas
CREATING A
DESIGNER TREE by Allison Fifer, POSH Home Staging & Redesign photo courtesy of Allison Fifer
C
reating a Designer Christmas Tree is fun and easy, right?! Well, actually it can be with the right planning. There is truly an art to creating a fabulous Christmas presentation in one’s home, however, there is also a “science,” shall we say, which provides a formula for excellence. Perfection is not necessary, nor the goal. While everyone has their own sense of style when it comes to decorating, one can simply follow the below formula to easily step into creating your very own Designer Christmas Tree. Assemble, Shape, and Fluff After finding that special location for your tree and skirting its base, an essential yet often overlooked or rushed through step centers around shaping one’s tree after unpacking and assembly. Each branch is a vital part of your Christmas presentation, providing fullness as well as niches for ornaments in which to hang. Each branch should be straightened, positioned, and fluffed individually. This step is a bit time consuming and tedious but provides a huge payoff once decorating begins. Playing a favorite Christmas collection of songs or fun holiday movies to enjoy while meticulously attending to each branch creates a fun tradition for you and
your loved ones in kicking off this allimportant first step. Check the Bling Now that you have your tree assembled, fluffed, and full, this is a good time to check the lights on your tree. I like to refer to this as the bling! Be sure your tree is lighting up every branch on every row. If the lights are not coming on, ensure all plugs are connected and that fuses are good. Still no bling? Check to confirm each light bulb is securely in place or search for that broken bulb. Top that Tree Some family traditions use the topper as the finale to the tree decorating experience. However, I like to start by creating an expression of art at the top of the tree to set the tone for how the tree’s
decorations will flow down. Many toppers take on a more traditional approach with a heavenly angel, a big bow, a twinkling star, or any type of metallic finial. Others have added a special touch of creativity with oversized stuffed animals, dolls, or toy soldiers. Be sure to use filler around your centerpiece to fill in space, accentuate a special color or attribute, and have it blend with the rest of your tree. Create Focal Points & Ribbon Just like in your home, a Christmas tree needs focal points so that one’s eye may rest on something beautiful and peaceful. By creating focal points, you guide the eye through your tree while allowing your guests to experience its beauty as you do. To create a focal point, identify a few niches in the tree to accentuate with a chosen grouping including your theme color; i.e., flowers, ribbons, picks, oversized ornaments. Be sure to add various sizes, textures, and shapes for increased interest and dimension. Draping and looping a few strands of ribbon from the topper through a focal point to the bottom row of branches creates a nice flowing touch. Final Touches of Ornaments No tree is complete without the family’s traditional, heirloom, and special handpicked ornaments. Placement of solid color ornaments closer to the trunk of the tree will assist in filling in any sparse areas while also creating a feeling of balance both with color and shapes throughout. The more ornamental pieces are then placed among the tips of the tree’s branches to ensure sparkle, interest, and visibility. And just like that, you have created your very own Designer Tree!
940.765.2684 | POSHHOMESTAGING.COM | ALLISON@POSHHOMESTAGING.COM
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Travel: Ask The Expert
EXPLORE
ON A
NEW FRONTIERS
IDAHO 1
PART
R O A D
I
T R I P
by Terri Guthrie | photos courtesy of Terri Guthrie
t’s hard to comprehend that one state could have such a diverse and spectacular landscape. Well, Idaho definitely does, and we have enjoyed seeing many of these sites on “Our COVID Getaway” Idaho Road Trip!
Twin Falls – It was here saw the old Oregon Trail. I have no idea how the pioneers crossed the Snake River Canyon, but today there is the massive 1,500-foot Perrine Bridge. We actually walked across it on the pedestrian walkway. It’s definitely not for those with a fear of heights! Shoshone Falls – So many people have never heard of this “Niagara of the West.” These falls are actually 52 feet higher than Niagara and are 1,000 feet wide. Ketchum/Sun Valley – This is a great area. It’s even where the ski chair lift was
invented. Many celebrities live here parttime. The vibe and architecture is quaint, yet very upscale.
into the lake. We spent our time at Shore Lodge. Our favorite activity here was kayaking. We also enjoyed patio dining overlooking this magnificent lake. Everywhere in Idaho, you will discover a postcard-perfect moment! It’s truly a wonderful destination for an unforgettable road trip.
Stanley – Redfish Lake is near the rustic downtown Stanley. It’s a glacier lake and sits at an elevation of 6,550 feet with sandy beaches and blue-green pristine water. It’s postcard perfect! McCall – This charming town is built around the mountain-ringed Payette Lake and is near Ponderosa State Park that is a 1,000 acre stunning peninsula jutting
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NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 37
A PAW-SOME
Woof-O-Ween by Jade Kensington | photos courtesy of Town of Flower Mound, Richard Lehn and Ron Flower
T
he Town of Flower Mound’s Park and Recreation Department rolled out the red carpet for their beloved canine residents as a Halloween treat. Costumed pooches paraded around the Hound Mound Dog Park in costumes ranging from Santa’s elf and a bumblebee to the cutest side order of French fries.
Entertainment was provided by local DJ and member of the town’s Cultural Arts Commission, Jon Striklan. Animal Services had a table set up that was filled with coloring pages for the kids and information about their services. A photo area staged with hay bales and pumpkins made for fun photos for humans and their fur babies. Many people would agree that no event is complete without a designated photo area to capture those Instagramworthy photos to commemorate the occasion. Woof-O-Ween had something for dogs of all sizes and humans of all ages! Over 25 dogs trotted down the red carpet to showcase their Halloween best. Prizes were given to the most creative, scariest, best homemade, funniest, and best pet/ owner look-alike costumes. The panel of
judges was made up of a staff member from Hollywood Feed, a Flower Mound police officer, and a member of Animal Services. Treat bags were given to all fourlegged attendees and were courtesy of Hollywood Feed, a natural and holistic pet
Krissi Oden, said they hope to make this a yearly event. Various spectators raved about the event, stating they would have participated if they had known the details before arriving on their scheduled trip to the dog park. “We’d absolutely participate again, along with any other themed events that come up,” Corbett said. Woof-O-Ween is what the doctor had ordered to bring smiles and joy to kickstart the holiday weekend. Pets are an integral part of the family, and this event was the perfect opportunity to socialize and appreciate the community events that bring people — and pets — together.
supply store located at the corner of Cross Timbers Road and Long Prairie Road. Flower Mound residents Kathi Corbett and Richard Lehn are Hound Mound regulars along with their 8-month-old Pomeranians, Bentley and Tucker. Bentley trotted down the red carpet, fashioning long, furry tarantula legs on his back and took home the title of Scariest Costume. Event organizer and Cultural Arts Manager,
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Difference M A K I N G
F O R
W O U N D E D
A
V E T S
by Steve Gamel | photos courtesy of Operation Mutt22
J
ustin Rie was convinced that it would take a lot of hard work and at least a good 10 years before anyone would know what Operation Mutt22 was and how they could help deserving combat veterans.
He was spot-on about the hard work part. The whole “10 years” thing was way off base. In two short years, Operation Mutt22 has become another beacon of light in the nonprofit community. The Lantana-based organization, which is run jointly by Rie and Jacob Robinson and now has a second facility in Tennessee, trains and delivers service dogs to veterans who return home suffering from extreme emotional and physical trauma that is often too difficult to overcome alone.
“Honestly, I’m still in disbelief,” Rie said of the program’s growth. “The amount of growth is unbelievable, and it’s gone beyond helping people in Dallas. We just sent one dog to Tennessee to be trained, and it will eventually move on to help someone in Montana. We are helping people, and that’s a great feeling.”
“THE AMOUNT OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT WE’VE RECEIVED TO CONTINUE OPERATING HAS BEEN TREMENDOUS.”
They’ve managed to place 44 dogs in that stretch and have gone beyond veterans to also help domestic violence victims, rape victims, sexually-abused children, and families of fallen soldiers.
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hesitation, he accepted his wife’s advice to get a service dog. Seeing the benefits in his own life, he wants to help others benefit. To receive a service dog through Veteran Affairs is roughly a three-year process — an overwhelmingly long wait time for those men and women who have served our country. Operation Mutt22 provides its services at no cost to the person
The idea for the foundation stems from Rie’s personal experiences. After serving in the Marines, Rie experienced life-altering PTSD from his time in the field. His condition was so severe that it took him six years just to feel comfortable going to the movies with his wife. With
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in need and can do so much faster. Beginning with basic obedience training, the team gradually guides the dogs in their program to behave appropriately in various environments and serve the specific need of the veteran. This can include PTSD alerting, seizure response, or serving as a mobility or stability partner. “The amount of community support we’ve received to continue operating has been tremendous,” Justin said. “There are no salaries. There are no paychecks. Every dime goes to a vet or a dog, and we’ve
never stopped operating — even during COVID-19. People believe in us and what we are doing.” The trainers at Operation Mutt22 are committed to instructing these amazing animals promptly and to be of assistance throughout a veteran’s journey with their dog. Veterans are encouraged to send an application for a service dog to operationmutt22@gmail.com and visit the foundation’s Facebook page Operation Mutt22. Contact their office for more information at 903.556.0882. www.LantanaLiving.com
NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 41
Finding A
CURE Diabetes Awareness Month by Brooke Ezzo | photo courtesy of Kathy Duke
N
ovember is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time when the diabetic community can come together to show the world what this epidemic is really like. Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. There are several types of diabetes, most commonly we hear of Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is thought to be caused by an autoimmune reaction that stops your body from making insulin. With Type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t use insulin well, resulting in abnormal blood sugar levels.
Genes definitely play a role in Type 1, but researchers believe it is a mix of nature and nurture; your environment, the foods you eat, and daily routines. People 42 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
carbs. For instance, if I eat a plate of
spaghetti, I count the carbs and take the
insulin I need for those carbs. That is what will break down the sugar in those carbs.” Insulin is the difference between life or death for people living with diabetes,
yet insulin prices are still skyrocketing. Because of this, Kathy hopes that with
more awareness, more research will be done to find a cure.
“With two diabetics, I have to spend
thousands of dollars on diabetic supplies in some months,” Kathy said.
“THERE ARE STORIES OUT THERE ABOUT PEOPLE WHO CAN’T AFFORD INSULIN, AND THEY ARE RATIONING THEIR SUPPLIES. IT’S NOT LIKE AN ANTIBIOTIC YOU GET WHEN YOU NEED IT. IT’S NOT EVEN A CURE, BUT INSULIN IS THE ONLY WAY WE SURVIVE.” The research community is making
headway in beta cell replacement and regeneration – understanding why the
body turns on itself destroying the cells
that create insulin, immune therapy, and
Test strips, finger pricks, glucose monitors, midnight blood sugar checks, and thousands of dollars worth of insulin are just glimpses into a day in the life of a diabetic. This is something Flower Mound resident Kathy Duke and her son, Danny, know all too well. “I was sick for a couple of years and didn’t realize it,” Kathy said. “I was diagnosed at 21 with Type 1 diabetes, and my son was diagnosed at 14 months old.”
working, so we take insulin and count
the development of an artificial pancreas. “What a diabetic would specifically
want are things that would make our life easier. Every day you have to have your insulin and your supplies,” Kathy said.
“You can’t just run out the door with your cell phone and nothing else. You are living with diabetes are encouraged to live healthy lifestyles: maintain healthy weights, stay active, and manage blood sugar levels with food. “You have to check your levels every day, at least five to 10 times a day,” Kathy said. “With Type 1, the pancreas stops
always planning ahead.”
Kathy added, “For me it’s about
awareness. Insulin is not a cure, and we need to find a cure.”
For more information on diabetes
research and ways to get involved, visit
www.jdrf.org and www.diabetes.org. www.LantanaLiving.com
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Simple, Homemade SNICKERDOODLE
Hot Chocolate by Caylie Howard | photo courtesy of Caylie Howard
A
re you looking for a simple and delicious drink to make for the holidays? This recipe is sure to impress anyone who tries it. It’s perfect to make for any holiday party or gathering. Here are the ingredients you will need.
½ gallon of whole milk 3 cups of white chocolate chips ½ tbsp of vanilla extract ½ tsp of almond extract 1 tbsp of cinnamon
HERE’S HOW TO MAKE IT! Step 1: Pour your milk and white chocolate chips into a pot on medium heat. Make sure to stir continually until the chocolate chips are melted, or else the chocolate will stick to the bottom of the pot. Step 2: Once the chocolate is completely melted, add in your vanilla extract and your almond extract. Step 3: Add in your cinnamon and stir until combined. The cinnamon will want to clump together and sit at the top of your mixture. I’ve found that using a whisk continually helps to evenly distribute the cinnamon. Step 4: Let simmer until you’ve reached your desired temperature. Once your hot chocolate is ready, finish it off by dressing it up with your favorite toppings. My favorite way to dress up this drink is by adding whipped cream to the top and then sprinkling it with a little bit of cinnamon sugar. This recipe is super simple and comes together in about 10 minutes. No matter the occasion, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Increasing
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS by Precinct 4 Commissioner Dianne Edmondson photo courtesy by Commissioner Dianne Edmondson
S
adly, we all know someone who’s been affected by breast cancer --a wife, mother, relative, or even a neighbor here in our own block. While there has been considerable progress in the fight against breast cancer, it continues to be the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States. As such, it is important to continue increasing awareness of the disease that affects more than 300,000 additional women and their families each year.
When you look at the statistics, 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop cancer in her lifetime. Men are affected by breast cancer as well. In 2020, an estimated 2,620 men will be diagnosed this year in the U.S. Today, there are more than an estimated 3.5 million breast cancer survivors. As public officials, your Denton County Commissioners are aware and concerned about this devastating disease. To demonstrate our concern, the Denton County Commissioners Court issued a proclamation on Oct. 20 to affirm our commitment in supporting the education of all residents about breast cancer as well as risk factors, early detection, treatment and support services.
...Denton County Commissioners Court issued a proclamation on Oct. 20 to affirm our commitment in supporting the education of all residents about breast cancer...
In 2020, an estimated 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. as well as 48,530 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
We want to give special recognition to our community’s breast cancer survivors who have or are battling the disease as well as to their families and friends who provide encouragement and support, and especially to those who have lost a loved one to this awful disease. Whether it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October or any of the other 11 months of the year, we want to offer our full support to those who are dealing with this invasive disease.
To receive a newsletter contact Dianne Edmondson at | Dianne.Edmondson@dentoncounty.com OR CALL AT 972.434.3960. www.LantanaLiving.com
NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 49
by Brooke Ezzo | photos courtesy of Claudia Roman
T
here aren’t many 12-year-olds who can say they’ve met a president. But for Lantana resident Juliana Lopez, her philanthropic efforts led her straight to the presidential palace of Bolivia, South America.
After hearing about the August 2019 fires that destroyed more than 5.6 million acres in the Bolivian Amazon, Juliana became motivated to create a relief fund aimed to help recover the habitat of all affected animals. “My family is from Bolivia, so when I found out, I was really sad,” Juliana said. “I really like nature, and the fires destroyed the forests, and a lot of animals were forced out “IT WAS of their homes.” Juliana symbolically named her fundraising project, Phoenix, wanting to help the lost animals resurface from the ashes.
“I like reworking dolls, I clean them up and then sell them,” Juliana said. “I put in new hair, remove the stains, and repaint them. I’ve sold around 13 dolls.” Juliana added, “I have a lot of supplies to fix dolls. I get raggedy dolls from thrift stores and then fix them up. Then I would sell them to friends and neighbors.”
A BIG PROJECT, AND IT IS INCREDIBLE AND VERY SATISFACTORY THAT YOUR MONEY CAN HELP FEED THAT MANY PEOPLE,” CLAUDIA SAID
She has always had a love for arts and crafts, and when she found an old doll on the playground at school, she came up with the idea to sell restored dolls as a way to fundraise. 50 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
Those dolls and other fundraising initiatives earned her well over $1,000, and her family graciously matched the raised amount, giving Juliana $3,000 to donate to the relief efforts.
Unfortunately, by the time Juliana was ready to donate, the global pandemic had made its way around the world. She was aware of the financial impact the coronavirus was having on Bolivian residents and decided
pictured above is Juliana Lopez (left) and President Jeanine Anez Chavez of Bolivia (right) to put her Amazonian relief efforts on hold to focus on helping feed those in need in her family’s hometown of Santa Cruz. “There was an immediate problem of feeding people there,” Claudia Roman, Juliana’s mother said. “She decided that the money she raised for the fires would go toward helping the people.” With family and friends still living in Bolivia, Juliana was put in touch with a www.LantanaLiving.com
woman named Maria Paula Munoz who was running a soup kitchen with her husband and their three children. For 13 weeks straight, Maria cooked meals for over 100,000 people. The funds raised by Juliana went toward purchasing food and supplies for the soup kitchen.
institutions that were bringing aid to
“It was a big project, and it is incredible and very satisfactory that your money can help feed that many people,” Claudia said.
after severe events. And, she is the first
Word of Juliana’s project spread through the city and quickly gained the attention of former interim President, Jeanine Anez Chavez. Juliana and her parents were invited to Bolivian presidential palace this past August, along with other U.S.
the country.
“I was the only child attending the
meeting. I felt very special,” Juliana said.
“I was very happy to meet the president. She is important to Bolivia because she helped get the country in control even female president — very independent and strong.”
Juliana added, “It felt really nice to have
someone so important say ‘thank you for your donation.’ We couldn’t really hug
or shake hands, so I elbowed her like an elbow shake.”
“I will continue to donate money and
still look forward to helping the Amazon. I want to help any way I can.”
The coronavirus, much like the Amazon forest fires, burned through countries
destroying financial stability, job security,
and peace of mind. Projects like Phoenix, help to lift people out of the ashes one meal at a time.
Juliana and her parents spent 10 days in Bolivia seeing family, visiting military bases,
and spending time at the
soup kitchen. The kitchen
is still feeding people, and Juliana continues to send
raised funds to Bolivia. Most
recently, sales from restored
Juliana said she isn’t sure what she
wants to be when she grows up — an
investor or business owner. Whatever path she chooses to take, she hopes to make a lot of money so she can donate more.
“My dream is to help a lot of people,“ Juliana said.
dolls helped donate
To help support Juliana’s project by
children in Santa Cruz.
Claudia Roman at Clauro4@verizon.net.
necessities, like toiletries, to
www.LantanaLiving.com
“I THINK IT IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR MY GENERATION TO LEARN ABOUT WHAT’S CURRENTLY HAPPENING IN THE WORLD,” JULIANA SAID.
purchasing a restored doll, please email
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www.LantanaLiving.com
www.LantanaLiving.com
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RETURN TO
SCHOOL Algorithms
A
by Dr. Rebecca Butler (Lantana Resident) Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics
growing body of evidence suggests a return to in-person learning can be accomplished safely, particularly for young children. Throughout the pandemic, childcare centers serving school-age children have successfully operated without significant outbreaks, even in high prevalence areas.
Overall, these algorithms (as shown) provide practical guidance to students, parents, school nurses, administrators, and community pediatricians. They foster confidence in the school community that there is a plan in place to deal with these complex situations. Of course, we must be adaptable as more is learned about this particular virus, available testing and resources, and the practical application of these guidelines. A national mechanism to collect data
on the usage and effectiveness of these algorithms could prove useful in continuing to support “schools as healthy places” as more and more students return to in-person learning. Additionally, realtime evaluation of the effectiveness of these algorithms must occur in partnership with our schools and
local pediatric healthcare providers to crystalize the new knowledge obtained as children return to in-person schooling. This novel coronavirus will be with us for years to come. These plans are the first of many steps in balancing the health and education of our children.
940.455.7200 | www.LantanaPediatrics.com
74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226
FLU SHOTS AVAILABLE
Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-6pm | Wed: 7:30am-1pm | Fri: 7:30am-5pm | Sat: 9am-12pm
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www.LantanaLiving.com
www.LantanaLiving.com
NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 55
Foodie Friday DFW: Lakeside Urban Grocery
LAKESIDE
Urban
GROCERY by Jay Marks | photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW
W
hen space became available in Lakeside DFW for a specialty grocery store, local residents Wilma and Brian Cheshier knew they wanted to open one up where they could provide locals with all the products they’d need — from beer and wine to basic groceries and specialty items from local companies.
The new Lakeside Urban Grocery is a true family affair. Wilma and Brian are the owners, and their granddaughters help work in the shop, One of them even designed their beautiful logo! Since opening a few weeks ago, they’ve loved getting to serve their community and getting to know so many of their neighbors who have come through the shop. What are some of our favorite items you’ll find inside the shop? We love their grab-ngo meals prepared by a few different local caterers with options for those needing
Prisoner and Silver Oak plus Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Chardonnay Karia. When it comes to their beer, they have an amazing selection of locally-brewed beers including Wise Monkeys, Nine Volt, and Bitter Sisters. We had a lot of fun while we were visiting Lakeside Urban Grocery checking out all of their products and watching Wilma show customers around the store. She has the ability to make fast friends with everybody!
gluten-free, keto, and organic lifestyles. We also love their collection of Valerie’s Thyme nuts and granolas, which make a great snack. And they have an amazing selection of rubs and sauces you can use for your barbecuing needs. Many of these local companies’ products can only be found at farmer’s markets, so it’s really special to have them in-store at Lakeside Urban Grocery!
So, go visit Wilma and her family at Lakeside Urban Grocery soon. Pick up some of their wine, beer, to-go meals, or specialty items and enjoy them at home or on their indoor or outdoor patios. Welcome to Lakeside Urban Grocery!
And, of course, now that Lakeside Urban Grocery has beer and wine, we have to talk about their lineup! Some of their crowd-favorite wines they carry include
972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022 56 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
www.LantanaLiving.com
www.LantanaLiving.com
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SAFETY, WARMTH
Shelter AND
by Contributing Writer | photos courtesy of Cloud 9 Charities
U
ncertain times call for living life uniquely. As our democracy rolls into a new era, the changing of seasons brings a cool chill to the air, and life as we know it continues to present new adventures and challenges. Cloud 9 Charities stands firm in its mission.
For more information, go www.cloud9charities.org or follow the charity on social media. 58 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2020
www.LantanaLiving.com
Since its inception in 2004, Cloud 9
Charities, Inc. has hosted numerous awareness and fundraising events to address a multitude of needs
throughout our local community.
Through these efforts, the charity has
raised approximately $3 million, which has been donated to several other non-profit organizations that share
its mission. Cloud 9 Charities is an organization of local leaders and
business owners with a passion for giving back to this community and
working to make it a better place in which to live for all of us.
After seeing a stirring episode of 60
Minutes which featured a father with
two school-age daughters living out of their van and bathing daily at a local
gas station restroom all while trying to
maintain solid grades at school and a job, Cloud 9 Charities Founder, Kim CloudSkidmore, knew she had to laser-focus the efforts of the charity’s board to a
unique niche of homeless families in
Denton County. Quickly discovering that
the Lewisville ISD had over 300 homeless students of its own, mostly from single-
parent homes, the board knew it needed
to create a non-profit initiative to address this growing population.
Beginning in 2019, Cloud 9 Charities
changed its focus from redirecting funds
TOGETHER, WE CAN BUILD A COMMUNITY WHERE EVERYONE HAS THE SAFETY, WARMTH, AND SHELTER THEY DESERVE. www.LantanaLiving.com
to a multitude of non-profits to solely supporting its own initiative, Bedtime Rescue (BTR). Bedtime Rescue, launched in January of last year, is an ongoing program that was created to provide temporary housing for homeless families within our local community. This program brings relief to families and single parents so they can get back on their feet, connect with appropriate resources, and make long term plans for a healthy, successful future. This initiative has established relationships with local hotels in order to provide shelter for those affected by crisis or abrupt homelessness. Bedtime Rescue, through fundraising efforts, provides the monies to cover the hotel expenses for those it assists. Funds are raised through private donations and two annual events – its Annual “Giving & Golf Tournament” held each Spring, and its largest event “The Best Little BrewFest in Texas” each October. Both these events are unique in that 100% off all proceeds go directly to funding Bedtime Rescue. This year’s BrewFest has a new twist due to Texas Social Distancing Guidelines as the festival draws nearly 3,500 attendees and volunteers combined. As of January last year, Bedtime Rescue has provided over 2,800 nights of shelter for families throughout Denton County.
In 2020 thus far, Cloud 9 Charities’ Bedtime Rescue has assisted 96 families and continues its efforts with the challenge of COVID-19 pressing down on so many. Today, Bedtime Rescue’s statistics show an increase of 401% in homeless families needing assistance this year. What is your mission? Together, we can build a community where everyone has the safety, warmth, and shelter they deserve. Join Cloud 9 Charities and Bedtime Rescue in making a difference in our local community — be a sponsor, join the board, volunteer, make a donation, change your charity of choice at the grocery store, and online shopping outlets…even for a day! As we roll into the holidays, join Cloud 9 Charities and Do Life on
Mission. Support Bedtime Rescue in its efforts of providing safety, warmth, and shelter one family at a time. Bedtime Rescue has teamed up with Kendra Scott for a Kendra Scott Gives Back Event on November 21st from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Highland Village. Shop at their new store located at 1500 Cottonwood Creek #180 in the Shops of Highland Village and make sure to mention Bedtime Rescue at Checkout for 20% to be donated back to the organization! NOVEMBER 2020 | LANTANA LIVING | 59
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www.LantanaLiving.com
www.LantanaLiving.com
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www.LantanaLiving.com
