NOVEMBER 2016
Healthy From The Inside Out
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 3
EP RAYZOR
Mother Son Night EP Rayzor PTA put on another AMAZING Mother/Son night Friday night. Mothers and Sons enjoyed a Super Hero night including pizza, bingo, bounce house, and laser tag. It was a fun night had by all.
4 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
photos courtesy of EP Rayzor Elementary
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 5
Table of
Stories and News Thanksgiving Break
10
New Pitch Counts
November 25th
12
Inside Community
14
Practice of Family Law is Seasonal
the Green
16
Denton Square Christmas Shopping
November 22nd
18
Staying True to Her Passion
November 21st -
Movie on
Free Birds 6:00pm
BINGO
North Amenity Room December 1st
Pg 32 21 22
Defending Speeding to Read Title
28
How to Serve Your Community
30
Fighting Inflammation
Dr. Matt
37
Inside Education
Nutrition
38
Is It Too Late to Save for College?
41
Track Your Holiday Spending
44
Kids Living with Diabetes
50
Celebrating a Lifelong Friendship
53
National Diabetes Awareness Month
54
#Harpoolreads is Trending
OnOn thethe Cover Cover (left(left to right): to right): Annika, Annika, Cade, Cade, Jack, Jack, Meredith, Meredith, Bradley Bradley Park Park andand Devon Devon
starts at 1:00pm
Pageant Ever
07 08 15 26
visit StudioBTheater.com
34
Studio B
Performing Arts The Best
Christmas
December 2nd -11th for show times
Santa’s Backyard BBQ December 10th
11:00am - 2:00pm Bartonville
(Lori Lesnansky with KellerWilliams
42 49 57 58 60
From the Editor Empowering Women
Restaurant Review Women’s Wellness Learning Sidelines Gardening Body and Soul
6 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
from Lantana
PHOTOS
visit SoSimpleHome.com)
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Makeover of the Month
04 20 24
E.P. Rayzor Mother Son Night Blanton Family Reading Adkins Good Character Week
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WORDS CREATE
LantanaLiving.com Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray
A Message from The Community Editor
Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton
Sub-Editor
“The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug.” -Mark Twain
R
emember that cheesy saying we kids used to say back when we were getting picked on, “I’m rubber and you are glue, whatever you say bounces off me and sticks to you?” If only that were true.
Negative words and actions leave such
lasting scars on the people in their path. I still remember hateful comments made to me as a child and as recent as yesterday. Unfiltered words hurled at others feel like bullets that pierce the
heart and leave lasting scars. We all have those “insert foot” moments but with swift action, a
We all know that special heart can be mended. It’s feeling that sweeps over that age-old “forgive but us when someone shares not forget” scenario that is something sweet and literally replayed all over our lives. brightens our day, gives us a It’s crazy to me how the little spark and ignites our things people say will stick spirit! It puts extra pep in our with us, hurt us, motivate us step and lifts us a little higher. or shape us. Words are so The benefits of a compliment powerful! They’re just letters linger much longer than grouped together that can the words. In these days of give someone a smile when negativity and hearing words Kathryn Flores, to others that can pierce like a they need it most, or slice like Community Relations and Advertising Consultant knife, we adults are reminded a knife leaving egos bruised Argyle Living & Lantana Living of the very simple lessons we and hearts broken. We need Kathryn@murray-media.com teach our children. Each of to be careful how we use 214.734.5783 us has the power to make words because once uttered, someone else’s day. It’s amazing how positive they can’t be retrieved. words and actions affect more than just the I try to remind our boys that most things come recipients. They have two-fold benefits, which down to the basics…be kind and humble, use leave the giver of positivity receiving more. manners and smile. We certainly all have days “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but that a smile just doesn’t come even when it is words can never hurt me!” Goodness it sounds invited by someone else. I recently read a quote great and has a certain super-power feeling, but that summed up all of this for me. I’m not sure it simply isn’t true! who initially said it, but it’s a very powerful and Sticks and stones may very well break your bones, but words can break your heart and steal positive group of words: “Better to be the one life. Gossip and slander bring a cheap thrill to who smiled than the one who didn’t smile back!” As we near a time of thanksgiving, gratitude some, while exploiting and objectifying others. False testimony uses words to misrepresent, and pumpkin pie, it’s my prayer that we all caricature, or malign the reputation of fellow humans, usually for selfish gain. Words of cutting sarcasm create pain as they shame, belittle and discourage.
remember that the little gestures sometimes
Bobbi Byrne
Contributors Steve Gamel Susan Neuhalfen
Advertising Kathryn Flores kathryn@murray-media.com Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com
Production Graphic Designers Liz Wallace Stephanie Hansen Caroline Brock Whitney Hill
Photography Scott Young 972 754 9070 www.scottyoungphoto.com
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 and Advertising inquiries call 972.899.3637 or email artwork@murray-media.com Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100 Ste. 101 Flower Mound, TX 75022 Lantana Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. 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. © 2016 Murray Media Group
make the biggest differences. Choose words for kindness, watch what you say, say what you mean and mean what you say.
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 7
Empowering Women
Holiday CLEANING TIPS For a Guest-Ready Home
P
repping your home for holiday guests and parties can be hectic this time of year. Get a jump on the chaos with these pro-cleaning tips from Buckets & Bows Maid Service. Your home will be sparkling by Christmas and you’ll enjoy a stress-free season.
DON’T TRY TO CLEAN THE ENTIRE HOUSE IN ONE DAY
THE FAMILY THAT WORKS TOGETHER PLAYS TOGETHER
Give yourself a full week and tackle the job in room-sized bites. Divide your house up by easy and hard rooms and designate enough rooms per day to finish the whole house in 7 days. Plan a reward at the end of the 7th day like a spa treatment, pedicure, or massage and stay on schedule.
Get the whole family involved. Assign tidying tasks to make sure everyone is helping to pick up, put up, hang up, and de-clutter. You can’t “clean” before the picking up is done. Family members can get their areas neat and tidy and ready for the deep cleaning.
PLAN YOUR WORK AND WORK YOUR PLAN Walk through each room of the house and note the things you want to get cleaned by the end of the week. Make sure you have the right equipment and supplies so you don’t lose momentum running to the store. You’ll need to have a long ceiling fan brush, vacuum hose with attachments, 2-step ladder for high dusting, plenty of cleaning towels, cleaners, and polishes.
CLEAN LIKE A PRO - FOLLOW THE SPEED CLEANING RULES Speed Cleaning is how the professionals get the job done faster, safer, and better than mere mortals. There are 13 rules. A few of the most important rules are: 1) clean from top to bottom and left to right; 2) make one trip around the room, never back-tracking; 3) you have two hands, keep them both busy; 4) organize all of your tools and cleaners in one large caddy and carry everything you need from room to room.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS To get into the right frame of mind for cleaning, get dressed for the job. Wear light comfortable clothing, and tennis shoes. Add a utility apron to keep your small tools and towels close, and put your hair up with a clip. Crank up the music with fast-paced upbeat tunes. Next, strike a Super-Woman pose, take a deep breath and go! Time yourself in every room, never losing track of time. Refuse to get side-tracked with photos, memorabilia, or special projects. Stay focused the mission is cleaning.
Debbie Sardone is the owner of Buckets & Bows Maids Service and SpeedCleaning.com
Hard work and a job well done is its own reward, but a therapeutic massage, mani-pedi, or long soak in a bubble bath with some aroma-therapy candles is even better. Make sure you treat yourself when the job is done. If deep cleaning is not an option in your busy life, call a professional maid service to get the hard stuff done and then follow these five tips to make maintaining the house throughout the holidays a breeze.
8 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 9
W E N
h c t Pi
s t n u Co
r a e Y s el Gam t Thi Steve
ec ff E nto
I g n i Go
by
T
he University Interscholastic League, upon a recommendation from its medical advisory committee, has adopted pitch count limits for all high school baseball players. The rule is effective immediately.
According to a UIL press release, the rule demands that all high school pitchers will be limited to no more than 110 pitches per day. Junior High pitchers will be limited to no more than 85 pitches per day. Days of rest between participation will be required based on the number of pitches thrown. The official ruling is slightly different from a proposed plan that would have called for different pitch counts for players aged 14-16 ( 95 pitches) than players aged 17-19 (110 pitches per game). The new plan creates one pitch count rule regardless of age. According to an article in the Dallas Morning News, the home team of a game will designate a person as the official pitch counter for that game. The pitch counter will not be allowed in the dugout. While the conversation may have been there for years, the decision to begin looking into pitch counts a little deeper caught fire this past season when several high
10 | LANTANA LIVING | OCTOBER 2016
school pitchers ended up throwing
what was considered by many to be
too many pitches in a single game.
The most widely used example was
former Dallas Jesuit pitcher and Texas
signee Kyle Muller, who threw 134
pitches in a playoff game before being
pulled in the ninth inning. He reportedly
threw 123 pitches in a single game one week earlier.
The new plan creates one pitch count rule regardless of age. At the time, coaches were able to manage pitch
counts at their discretion.
But the attention surrounding Mueller’s stats created
a fire storm as more people began questioning whether it
was healthy for a high school baseball pitcher to throw that many pitches in one game.
Evan Grant, a major league baseball writer for the Dallas
Morning News, said at the time that since the start of the
2014 season, there have been only four performances (including
postseason) in which a MLB pitcher had thrown at least 130
pitches, topped by a 134-pitch performance by Houston’s Mike
Fiers in a no-hitter last year. According to another report, the number
of MLB pitchers who threw 134 or more pitches dating back to 2007 was only six.
The UIL added in its press release that there is at least one more
approval process involved in its new pitch count rule. But at this point, it appears to be a done deal for the upcoming season and beyond.
OCTOBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 11
BINGO Fun For Everyone Come out Thursday, December 1 from 1-2pm to play Bingo with all of your friends. BINGO meets in the North Amenity Group Fitness Room. They’ll have light snacks, prizes and best of all, it’s free to play. Come out and join the fun.
Tree Lighting On The Square in Denton The 28th Annual Holiday Lighting Festival will be happening on the Square in Denton from 5:30–9:30 p.m. on Denton’s Square. Also you and your family may partake in cider tastings during Wassail Weekend. Many of the merchants mix up their own batch of cider for free tastings. For more information go to www.dentonholidaylighting.com
Free Bird Movie On The Green Start the holiday off right and join your friends at family on the Lantana Green to see a great Thanksgiving family movie Freebirds. Pack a picnic, blanket, chairs and be there at 6pm on Tuesday, November 22. It will be a great break for the holidays!
PointBank Named Family Business Of The Year PointBank was honored at a reception hosted by the North Family Business Association at UNT for being the student’s choice for family business of the year.
Ray David, the president of PointBank spoke
to a crowd of family business owners, UNT College of Business faculty and students about
what has made Point Bank a successful family operated business in North Texas.
Point Bank and the College of Business are
working together in a relationship to provide students with opportunities to apply what they
are learning through case studies, interviews, and community events.
Mission Moms Prepares Area Families For Thanksgiving Lantana-based charity Mission Moms got
together on Sunday, November 13 with a huge
group of volunteers to put together Thanksgiving boxes for Denton County families in need.
Parents and kids formed an assembly line to
put together the donated food. Generous donors
went online to Walmart and Kroger to order
the food which they then delivered to Adkins Elementary where everything was boxed.
Over 450 meals were prepared including
turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cornbread, corn, green beans and dessert. The meals were items that needed to be prepared so families
won’t miss out on the opportunity to cook Thanksgiving dinner together.
Mission Moms works with area schools to
help with needs of students and their families. The Thanksgiving meals will serve families of students from 21 local schools.
12 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Seasonal,
Our Choices Shouldn’t Be
by Brett Nelson
I have found over the years that the practice of family law can be seasonal. During the holidays, my new business slows down a bit and I believe this occurs because people are focusing on spending quality time with their family and finding joy in the season. It seems all of life’s problems, or whatever negative aspect of their life they may have been focusing on, fades away. 14 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
This time of year naturally allows us to focus on what really matters and to see the important things clearer, and for many folks, that means finding the light in their relationships and putting off the decision to move forward with ending it. People seemingly choose to be happy. I have written at length about the sanctity of marriage, and how important it is to find a healthy balance of give and take. It’s not an easy process, but those who choose to focus on it year-round can and have made out better in the long run. But one thing I’ve found is that – with the exception of twice a year during Thanksgiving and Christmas – we oftentimes struggle to choose that proactive path. Why? Some might say we are a busyness product of our environment. I say we are a product of our own choices. I am not sure of the exact statistics, but the number of times per week a family sits down together for dinner is on the decline. We either get busy with the kids’ practice schedules, our own work keeps us away from home late, or we’re too focused on the negatives to notice what we ourselves could be doing better. Meanwhile we choose to make the most of the holidays, to take that extra time to spend with loved ones. Fences are mended and relationships are strengthened. I suggest we choose to make improving our home life a focus throughout the year. I know in my life when our family gets too busy, we sometimes need to make the conscious choice
to say no to others and yes to our family. It is hard but the positive impact on the family dynamics is immeasurable. I’m not naive. I know there are families out there facing real problems. And I am always here to help. But who knows where we might land by the end of 2016 if we take a step back from the busy things in life and/or focusing on the negative and instead choose to be honorable, equitable and gracious throughout the year. What I’m most passionate about in my role as a family lawyer is helping people find a common ground so that disputes can be resolved without all the collateral consequences that occur when the focus is on what “I am getting.” Or better yet, help them resolve the issues they are facing so they can go back to living their lives – together. Sometimes it’s all a matter of choice. Which path will you choose?
Lantana resident Brett Nelson is owner of the Nelson Law Group located at 700 Parker Square Road, Suite 145 in Flower Mound. He can be reached at 972-808-7227 or at nelsonlawgrouppc.com
Sponsored Content
The Practice of Family Law is
Dr. Matt
Give Thanks
I •
for Dental Care!
•
DENTAL IMPLANTS – Another one of my
t is the month for thanksgiving, and while most everyone is giving thanks for family vacations, holiday eating, and shopping bargains, in the usual fashion, I stand with a unique few finding upmost appreciation and gratitude for all things dental. The truth is we can all share in thankfulness for the many progresses made in oral health care. So, for this article, I would like to distinguish those advances in dentistry that have benefited both dentist and patients that for which I particularly find thanks.
favorites. The advances of implantology in dentistry have made the treatment nearly flawless, with placement success rates of 95-97%. I personally appreciate that when placing an implant, I can actually give something back to the patient by restoring a missing tooth.
are faster, more comfortable, and, with
Of course, most of all, I am thankful this season for my family, not only my wonderful wife and children, but also my dental family: those wonderful people who make up my dental team and the fantastic patients I get to enjoy every day. Happy Thanksgiving, and happy smiling!
THE ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH – Though the
idea of an electric toothbrush itself seems simple, there are many benefits generated by this little device. Not only does it do the work for you, but developments like timers, pressure sensors, and even auxiliary music help to improve brushing efficiency, safety, and fun.
•
of information provided by these radiographs helps find hidden lesions and give true depictions of relative anatomical structures for the completion of treatment, such as root canals, extractions and dental implants.
DIGITAL X-RAYS – This remarkable
development is one of my favorites. Not only have digital radiographs improved the dentist’s ability to diagnose, but they
miniscule amounts of radiation exposure, they are overall safer for patients and dental staffs.
•
3D X-RAYS – While I’m on x-rays, the
advent of cone beam radiographs has added incredible value for diagnosis
in dental care. Cone beam x-rays can
provide a 3D radiograph that allows
dentists to virtually see all aspects of a patients head and neck, even down to
the canal of a tooth. The extra amount
Dr. Matt is a practicing dentist and owner of Country Lakes Family Dental
www.CountryLakesDental.com
LANTANA
photos courtesy of Brooke Vallie and Julie Gibbs
MILE
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 15
Take a Day Trip to the
Denton Square for Unique
Christmas Shopping by Susan Neuhalfen
C
mother and daughter restaurants and wonderful boutique style stores as well as unique gift team August Blue are shops. You’ll find such an amazing perfect for taking to an variety of great things that fit in your outside event or just to budget. wear to the work.Tyler Start with the Palm Tree candles, washing soaps LSA Burger Boutique. They have affordable, and warming waxes Barley & Board beautiful clothing that’s perfect for (flameless candles) women of all ages. From t-shirts make wonderful gifts Hoochie’s Seafood to dresses, there is something and these are all made Best of all, you won’t be hounded by kiosk gorgeous here for everyone and it’s Mellow Mushroom in Tyler, Texas. vendors, herded through narrow passageways not expensive. Over the knee socks J.T. Clothiers Abbey Inn at the mercy of the slowest people in the noisy, and colorful scarves and hand mits has been a Denton closed-in atmosphere of the mall. You’ll have make great stocking stuffers. Kate Beth Marie’s Old tradition and a family fresh air, beautiful holiday decorations and a Spade luggage tags, tumblers and Fashioned Ice Cream owned business since friendly, happy place to get your holidays off they even have vegan handbags. 1970. It has great men’s and running. The jewelry ranges from fun to and women’s clothes as There are so many events held in the historic spectacular. Goodworks bracelets are well as exclusive gifts like JT town square that you’ll want to the perfect gift for teens filled Cologne and private label clothing. The clothes plan several trips to go there. with inspirational messages range from elegant and classic suits and shirts On Friday, December 2, the and scripture. to casual wear and there are lots of great gifts 28th Annual Denton Holiday Honestly, there are so many like candles and grooming products for men and Lighting Festival is where great things in the store, a gift women. There’s even a kids’ section of classic you’ll see the square light up. certificate may be the way Denton Holiday Also, going on that weekend to go. First, however, go and books and toys. Lighting Festival More Fun Comics and Games has some is the Wassail Weekend. get something for yourself. A Friday, December 2 very unusual and fun comics, pop figures, retro Wassail is a fancy word little pre-Christmas shopping memorabilia and collectibles as well as board for cider and many of the Wassail Weekend for you should definitely be games. Right next door is Atomic Candy with merchants mix up their own on the list. Friday, December 2 retro candy like Fruit Striped Gum and lots of batch for free tastings. You Garden Gate on north & Saturday, December 3 fun novelties for co-workers and friends. Another can try something different Elm St. is full of unique, high Morning Yoga with morning yoga on the quality gifts that are perfect new addition to the square is Shop the Barn is On the Square square from 9am-10am or for the home. When you where you’ll find antiques and collectibles. 9am-10am La Di Da Boutique is another great locally go over to the Chestnut Tree walk in it’s like you stepped owned fashion experience run by two fabulous for the jazz brunch at 10am into the pages of Southern Jazz Brunch at every Saturday. Living Magazine. Boot socks ladies who love everything cool and stylish. The Chestnut Tree It’s the perfect place for the and scarves from Simply atmosphere is charming and quirky with dresses, 10am every Saturday Noelle are very popular. Two shoes, handbags and lots of great accessories. annual Christmas girlfriends’ way sweaters from Texas Simply put, it’s chick heaven. shopping trip. There are great
hristmas is right around the corner and the shopping season has just begun. Why not take a drive to The Denton Town Square. These are all unique, Denton owned merchants. These presents are treasured because they are uncommon and purchased with the individual in mind.
Activities
16 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Dining
If you need a bite to eat, there’s such a variety of restaurants ranging from the raucous LSA Burger to the divine Barley & Board and the wonderful Hoochie’s Seafood. There’s also some delicious restaurants on Industrial Street and further off the square. From pizza (Mellow Mushroom mmmmm) to the British pub-style Abbey Inn, there’s something for everyone. After a wonderful day of shopping, treat yourself to Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream & Soda Fountain. The line goes quickly, so don’t let that hold you back. It’s so good. The Denton Square is beautiful at Christmas - or any time of year. In a way, it feels like you stepped back in time. It’s simple, it’s beautiful and it’s family-oriented. Not crowded and overbearing, the open air feels great and everyone is friendly. This year do something different and take a quick day trip up I-35 and head to the Denton Square and really celebrate the holidays. Don’t forget to buy something for yourself first.
Shops Palm Tree Boutique Garden Gate
J.T. Clothiers
More Fun Comics and Games La Di Da boutique
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 17
Staying True
To Her Passion by Susan Neuhalfen
Lantana resident, Kim Crabtree, loves the game of basketball.
B
orn and raised in Cleburne, Texas, Kim says she’s been playing basketball since she could walk. From her small town community league as a child, to AAU club basketball in her teen years, she could be found on a court. A member of the Texas Basketball High School Hall of Fame, she helped lead Cleburne to a State Championship her senior year. She continued her basketball career at The University of Texas, where she was coached by legendary Hall of Fame coach, Jody Conradt. Coach Conradt taught her a great deal, not only about playing the game, but about playing it the right way. Her first coaching job was at UC Irvine, where Coach Crabtree spent five seasons coaching college basketball before starting her family. Though basketball takes a back seat to her faith, marriage, and motherhood, Kim has continued to teach the sport, now with the help of a very supportive husband and four daughters in tow. True Texas Hoops may have officially made
its club debut in January of 2016, but many of
Kim’s players have been with her since age 5.
fort, to help juggle our busy schedule on nights and weekends.”
and the other girls on the team, they learn to stand up for one another, stick together, and
help each other overcome challenges, as they arise.
Kim is nothing, if not thankful.
She loves the Lantana community
and is grateful for the basketball
court, where she and her family
play pick-up games with other kids
in the community, as often as they can.
“I love how basketball bridges together
different groups of people,” said Kim.
She is also grateful that God has placed so many
Coach Crabtree also coaches a 4th-5th grade
wonderful parents and families into the program,
daughters, Reese and Summer, who are both
“Over the years, I have been blessed with
Currently, her club consists of several basketball
team, as well as a kindergarten team, for her
who are actively involved with True Texas Hoops.
assistance of a great group of parents, who are
talented young players as well. Kim is a firm
good people around me, teaching, and helping
help girls grow into confident, strong women.
with True Texas Hoops is to set these kids apart,
teams, coached by Crabtree, with the support and actively involved in the program. Kim is teaching
two 6th grade teams, an elite team and a select team, with 10 girls on each roster. It
believer that basketball is an amazing platform to
guide the kids on the right path. My mission
“Oftentimes, in sports we’re faced
not just with athletics, but more importantly, by
also helps that her daughter, Ashlin,
with challenges and adversity, things
shares her mother’s passion for
moments that we have the greatest
aren’t always fair, but it’s in these
who is the starting point guard,
opportunity to grow and build
the game.
character, so these are things that we
True Texas Hoops competes
continually talk about,” she said.
against other club level teams in and
Coach Crabtree’s program has
around North Texas.
“Fortunately we are in a good
three foundational beliefs focused
excellent programs at the club and
mentality, and character building.
“With so many great teams, the level
Texas Hoops, to encourage the girls
area for girls basketball, with a lot of
on teaching fundamentals, team first
high school level”, said Crabtree.
That’s why she named the club, True
of commitment and competition
to be true to themselves and who
photos courtesy of Kim Crabtree
makes everyone better.”
a week and have games and tournaments with
an
Kim says she is blessed
incredible
group
of
they will grow up to be.
“One day soon these girls are
Her teams practice two days
on weekends.
their character.”
parents
to
help, but it’s her husband, Scott, who is her biggest supporter.
“He’s an incredible partner,” she said of her
husband. “He fills in the gaps and holds down the 18 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
going to be entrepreneurs, teachers,
business women, and mothers,” she explained. “We want to set them up for success in life, by
preparing them to be confident leaders, who will make a difference in the world.”
Kim also talked about how middle school
adolescence can be challenging; full of changes
and learning experiences. Between the parents
“I love how basketball bridges together different groups of people,”
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 19
Family READING Blanton
photos courtesy of Rebecca McKown
20 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
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214.415.4806 www.cloud9salon.com NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 21
E.P. RAYZOR
DEFENDS Speeding to Read
TITLE
6,500 students and faculty from 11 DFW-area elementary schools gathered at Texas Motor
Speedway to celebrate their victories and, for E.P. Rayzor, its second consecutive championship. 100% of the student body at
E.P. Rayzor Elementary participated and reached, or exceeded, its goals.
Rayzor’s Karina Singh, the kindergarten
by Susan Neuhalfen
champion, won the K-2 individual crown with
15,016 books read while Noah Temer, the
T
wo-time defending champion E.P.
by quarters in the school year and TMS awards
fourth-grade champ, earned the 3-5 crown
perfect in Turn 1 of Texas Motor
individuals and the classrooms.
also grade champions with Olivia Temer being
NASCAR and INDYCAR-themed reading
books read and Jayden Singh the second-grade
Rayzor Elementary School was
Speedway’s Speeding To Read competition
among 10 Dallas-Fort Worth schools. This will mark the third year that E.P. Rayzor
has participated in the Speeding to Read competition and it makes it all the more important since they have a title to defend.
So far in the contest, every kindergarten
through fifth-grader in Lantana’s E.P. Rayzor
Elementary’s student body has either met or exceeded the pre-set program reading goals.
Teams are scored by individual as well as
trophies recognize each turn by both the
with 1,760 books read. The duo’s siblings were
Speeding To Read is an incentive-based,
named the first-grade champion with 12,310
program that encourages elementary school
champ with 5,034 books read.
school year. Since Speeding To Read began
Rayzor was named the K-2 classroom champs
and nearly 19,000 students have participated
during the competition.
students to read more frequently during the in 2011-12 with one pilot school, 33 schools
with an average of 2,614 books read per student
and combined to read more than three million
Speeding to Read is currently in its 6th year.
heading into the 2016-17 competition.
Speedway’s Speeding To Read, please visit
books in the program’s five-year existence
As for the DFW area schools participating
Second-grader
this year, half of them participating exceeded
reader with 1,182 books read while third-
far, the 10 schools and 5,000 students have
overall
classroom
readers.
Alysson Delloro was the leading K-2 individual grader Peyton Small led 3-5 with 108 books
read. Michelle Watson’s kindergarten class was tops in K-2 with 5,982 books read.
“Turns” are defined
Melanie Peterson’s kindergarten class at
For more information on Texas Motor www.speedingtoread.com.
80 percent of the program Turn 1 goals. So combined to read 139,617 books in the
scoring period.
Last Year, Verizon IndyCar Series driver
Graham Rahal and NASCAR Camping
World Truck Series driver Christopher Bell
presented the winning trophies to E.P. Rayzor Elementary. Over
photos courtesy Texas Motor Speedway/GettyImages 22 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 23
Adkins
WEEK
Photos were submitted by area residents. If you’d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.
24 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 25
Dear
Nutrition
Annette,
Sincerely yours, Annette Doody, Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach
Fall classes are progressing and my kids have a demanding schedule. Is it true that food can affect how they perform in school?
Dear Reader:
The new research proves that this is truer than
we could have ever imagined. We focus on food for physical health but it may be even truer for mental and cognitive health. Our brains use 20-30 percent of all our calories. Calories from
processed and fried foods hurt the brain, calories from whole foods feed it. The research shows
brains can heal and change. Good diet, exercise and reduction of toxins is key.
Researchers like Dr. Daniel Amen are leading the charge on how the foods we eat affect mood, depression, cognitive ability, memory, and overall brain function. As it turns out what is good for the heart and body is also good for the brain. Clean whole food, exercise (both mental and physical). The biggest news is we can shape and change our brains. This is very new and exciting research. The thing that bothers me the most is when I hear parents say “my kids are picky eaters” and
they have a diet of soft drinks, high sugar, and processed foods. Kids are adaptable and can be taught to eat healthy; it must be modeled and encouraged. Their little brains do not have a chance and they certainly will not be working on full potential without healthy foods. Once again the number one thing you can do for your brain for development and healthy aging is to get off processed and fried foods.
So how do I feed my brain? The research is clear, processed sugar is a big culprit for depression and overall brain health. Processed, fried foods, and added chemicals and preservatives not only clog up the arteries but it appears the pathways for the brain. Based on the latest research here are some of the best foods for your brain health.
Raw Almonds
Eggs
Cashews
Salmon (oily fish)
Walnuts
Apples
Cinnamon
Avocados
Coffee (check out bullet coffee)
Blueberries
Dark chocolate (75% cocoa or higher)
Chicken (lean protein)
Kale, Spinach and Greens
Notice the majority are plant-based foods. Notice how many of these foods that kids love. It is becoming very clear that food truly matters. Did you have any of these items today to get through your school or work day? Did your children’s brains get any of these foods? The Amen clinics are having great success in treating everything from depression, ADD, memory loss, and even traumatic brain injury. They have had great success working with the NFL and veterans, and have scanned and studied more brains than any other research group. If you are interested in the research, go to www.amenclinics.com. The lifestyle section on the clinics site has a host of recipes to enjoy. Remember when you are feeding your kids you are feeding their bodies and brains.
26 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Meet the 6th Grade Lantana Wildcats
3 TIME NTFL SUPER BOWL
CHAMPIONS photos courtesy of Corey AustinÂ
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 27
How To
Serve
YOUR COMMUNITY
This Holiday Season by Susan Neuhalfen
D
uring the holiday season, we urge the community to buy local and keep the money here. It’s no different when it comes to donating. Many people are hesitant to give to large organizations for fear that their money will go into an executive’s salary instead of the one person who really needs it. Maybe this year, it would be a good idea to donate right here at home. Here are just a few great Lantana and local based charities that are in need of your time and money to help area residents this holiday season.
Mission Moms
Ranch Hand Rescue
Mission Moms was created for the purpose of teaching our children the importance of counting their blessings, giving and serving their community and performing acts of kindness. Started by Lantana resident Kathryn Flores, Mission Moms is made up of local families, moms, dads and kids, helping others in need. They work with Communities in Schools in North Texas to help with needs of students and their families. They helped over 400 area families with donations of meals to prepare for Thanksgiving holiday and plan to help even more over Christmas. They work to help kids and families all year round. Consider giving your time or monetary donation to this cause any time of year. To learn more about Mission Moms go to www.missionmoms.org or www.facebook. com/missionmoms.org.
Ranch Hand Rescue was started in 2008 by Bob Williams as a place of hope and healing for victims of trauma. RHR is an area farm animal rescue center and sanctuary that provides mental health counseling for children suffering from traumatic life experiences. RHR is trauma and PTSD certified and specializes in treating complex cases where individuals are not making progress in their current program. They partner the children with the rescued animals under the guidance of a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in counseling sessions. These special animals that have been abused or neglected have a way of reaching the children in ways that people don’t. They are completing their new facility on US 377 and are in need of monetary donations as well as material donations. For more information go to ranchhandrescue.org.
Lantana Cares
CISNT
This is a wonderful service-based charity in
Lantana where you and your family can easily
donate your time. Lantana Cares is responsible for picking up the trash around the area after a big
event or just after a few weeks when construction trash blows around the neighborhood. It’s just a
few hours on a Saturday and you’ve gotten your
kids away from their electronics, you’ve gotten
some fresh air and you’ve done some good for the environment. These people love and care about Lantana. For more information go to their Facebook page at Lantana Cares.
28 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Communities in Schools in North Texas (CISNT) is a multi-faceted organization whose purpose is to keep kids from dropping out of school. Their various programs help 5,000 students in seven school districts in the area. Their many programs such as Project Prom and WISE help students to afford things that many of us take for granted. Their purpose is to not only empower students but to urge them to stay in school and achieve in life. There are many different projects within this organization where citizens may volunteer their time, talents and money. Go to CISNT.org to learn more.
Grace Like Rain
Grace Like Rain was created to provide moms and dads with young children a helping hand in times of crises and homelessness and for the purpose of keeping families together. They help families who have suffered homelessness, parental incarceration, financial devastation and other times of severe need by providing programming, training, education, resources, housing and tangible assistance. An example of time donation would be a single mom interviewing for a job. If she doesn’t have a car, Grace Like Rain will provide her with a ride. If she doesn’t have childcare, a Grace Like Rain sponsoring family will keep the child in its care during the day or for however long is needed. Sponsoring families may also provide short-term care and assistance for Grace Like Rain client families in emergency situations such as overnight babysitting with written approval from the parent or guardian. Find out how you may help by going to www. gracelikerainministries.org. They also have a wish list on www.amazon.com.
Sadie’s Sleigh
Sadie Keller is a resident of Lantana and an inspiration to all. In the midst of her treatment for Leukemia, Sadie started “Sadie’s Sleigh”, a charity that delivers toys to the kids being treated for cancer and blood disorders at Children’s Medical Center Dallas. Last year she asked for 300 gifts and wound up with 1300. This year, with the help of the Lantana Ladies League and others, she hopes to collect 3,000 toys for the kids. Toy collection sites include: Argyle Fire Department, Shimala Realty Group, MidAmerica Mortgage (Flower Mound), Lawyers Title (Flower Mound), Primrose School (Lantana), Lantana Eye Care and Starbucks both in the Lantana Town Center.
Kids Kupboard
This Lantana-based charity packs snack bags for children who may not otherwise eat over the weekend or holidays when they are not provided school meals. They support 3 local schools; McNair Elementary, Blanton Elementary, and Adkins Elementary. Kids Kupboard produces 120 bags per week for the three elementary schools. Every Tuesday after school, the Lopez family, along with the neighbors and their kids, pack and pray over the bags that Lara will deliver to the schools. On Fridays, the bags are handed out by the school counselor to the children in need with no fanfare, they place them in the backpacks and go home. They will be sending two bags per kid the week before Christmas break so they will need lots more food. The types of food needed are non-perishable food items and individual wrapped snacks. Things like mac ’n cheese, pretzels, individual peanut butter packs, fruit cups and other snacks are what they put in leftover grocery bags for the kids to take home. For those interested in donating, e-mail Lara at soliviasmom@gmail.com.
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 29
FIGHTING
INFLAMMATION the Forgotten Ingredient in Heart Disease
For more information contact our Denton or Flower Mound locations: Dr. Steven Mottl Denton Heart Group 940.382.8080 dentonheartgroup.com
D
espite all of the recent advances in medications and treatments, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in this country. In fact, more Americans will die this year of heart disease than ever before. The challenge is predicting who will suffer the deadly heart attack.
and fruit. Remember, an avocado a day keeps the doctor away.
Eating more white
meats and seafood instead of red meat and pork lowers body inflammation. Get rid of the butter Heart disease requires both cholesterol and inflammation. How does inflammation occur inside the body? There are several conditions that result in higher levels of inflammation, such as skin diseases, joint diseases and intestinal disorders. Diabetes and cigarette smoke also damage the wall of the arteries. For most Americans, food is a major culprit for inflammation. The western diet has lead to higher rates of several diseases such as strokes, cancer, dementia and, of course, heart disease. Particularly red meats, pork products, processed carbohydrates (sugar, flour and all the products made from them), and the excess consumption of omega-6 vegetable oils like soybean, corn and sunflower that are found in many processed foods. The Mediterranean diet is an excellent dietary guide to avoid harmful foods, and, in fact, the Mediterranean diet is one of the few diets that has actually been shown to lower your risk of a heart attack. The focus is on eating fresh
and use olive and coconut oil. Eat more healthy fats such as nuts and olive oils. Consuming foods that are high in Omega-3 such as fish or fish oil, chia seed and flax seed help balance against the damaging effects from Omega-6. Several other foods have natural anti-inflammatory properties such as ginger and turmeric. Lastly, do not forget about exercise.
30
minutes 5 days per week at an intensity that causes you to breath heavy and break a light sweat. 1 in 5 people will die from a heart attack. Healthy living through diet and exercise will lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. Today is a great day to start!
3333 COLORADO BLVD. • DENTON, TX 76210 • 940.382.8080 Physicians are employees of HealthTexas Provider Network, an affiliate of Baylor Scott & White Health.
Sponsored Content
What can you do to help lower your heart attack risks? Lets take a look at what causes atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, which is the most common cause of heart attacks and stroke. There is a misconception that if the cholesterol level is normal, the risk of a heart attack is low. That is not always true. Cholesterol is only one of the ingredients used by the body to form a plaque on the artery. Really, the process starts with inflammation. Chronic inflammation that lasts for several months causes injury to the arteries. This injury leads to an inflammatory response, similar to what happens with a cut on the skin. As the healing process occurs, cells ingest cholesterol particles that stick to the artery walls, this forms a cholesterol rich plaque. More commonly known as an atherosclerosis. Rupture of these plaques is what leads to heart attacks and stroke.
plant-based foods, fresh vegetables
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 31
Healthy From the Inside Out by Susan Neuhalfen
D
r. Bradley Axline loves being a doctor. With over 20 years of experience as an OB/GYN he has delivered over 5,000 babies and now he’s started delivering the next generation of babies with the same level of care and expertise that he gave to their mothers.
32 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
“Not only is he a great doctor, he has built lifelong relationships with his patients,” said Meredith Axline, who, in addition to being his wife has been a registered nurse over 20 years. “He really cares about people and their overall health.” One of the things that Dr. Axline has noticed over the years is that most women don’t have a primary care physician or an internist they see every year. They only go to the OB/GYN and occasionally the urgent care for a sinus infection. He believes that people should be concerned with their overall health so he decided to expand his practice to help his patients.
“They are already coming here for their annual now and Dr. Axline helped check up, so I have expanded on my annual to tweak his testosterone exams to offer a variety of screenings and tests. and hormone levels, his lab These are things that, if left unchecked, may results look great and he drastically affect a patient’s overall health,” said feels great. Dr. Axline. “If I’m not talking to them about “The most amazing screening for colon cancer, I’m not doing my best change, though, is in his for my patients.” personality,” said Meredith Dr. Axline emphasized that while the annual Axline, RN. “He’s like exam is important, concerns such as diabetes, a completely different cancer and cardiovascular health need to be person, his attitude is addressed as well. so positive.” “If you’re overweight and you want help, we His office is also now can put together a plan to get you to a healthy offering CoolSculpting, the weight,” said Dr. Axline. “If you smoke and want only FDA cleared device From left to right: Meredith, Dr. Axline, Kaylee, Ami, and Minnie to stop, we want to help you.” to permanently freeze fat photo courtesy of Meredith Axline Unlike many multi-provider practices, Dr. and eliminate it without Axline performs all of the exams himself and the need for surgery. Unlike some spas that offer “Unless the situation was life-threatening, spends whatever time it takes with each patient CoolSculpting, it is performed by a registered I would never insist that a patient get a to ensure that he has nurse and overseen by C-section,” said Dr. Axline. “I make sure to addressed all of their Dr. Axline personally. educate the patients on their options and then let concerns. He left He is also only them decide.” a large practice and one of a few doctors Due to popular demand, Dr. Axline has also branched out on his in the state of Texas own for that very trained to work with a added skin care and other aesthetic services to his reason. It’s important vascular stenographer practice. He and his staff use the latest methods to him that every to measure arterial and technology to help patients improve their patient get the time and health. This is the outward appearance through Botox, Juvederm, level of care needed for most innovative Kybella, Voluma. He also offers Skin Pen each appointment. cardiovascular health microneedling, skin peels, and medical grade Dr. Axline recently scan available. had one patient who “During well skin care products, all performed by a Registered was young enough woman exams, if we Nurse who is a Certified Cosmetic Skincare and that she didn’t have find a patient is at Injection Specialist. significant health concerns, but she was 313 high risk we would get them certified/approved The most important thing to Dr. Axline, pounds and recently engaged. She wanted help with insurance to get the testing done,” said though, is making sure that his patients take care getting the weight off safely so Dr. Axline started Dr. Axline. of their whole health. by putting her on the HCG diet. In 40 days she Patients at Dr. Axline’s practice love the “Women especially are so busy taking care of lost 45 pounds and her labs, which included high whole staff experience that they receive and they cholesterol and blood pressure readings, were know the staff well because most have been with everyone but themselves,” points out Dr. Axline. into a normal range. Dr. Axline emphasized that him for so many years. From the time they are “We’re trying to make it easier for them to reach this was only the first step and then he helped greeted at the front desk to the time they leave, optimum health and happiness in their lives.” her develop a plan for her lifestyle change. the staff at Dr. Axline’s office makes He also recently treated a sure they have received a level Marine veteran suffering of care and expertise that from PTSD. The man is unparalleled. was 100 pounds Another aspect to overweight, the practice is the suffering from control Dr. Axline depression, was gives his patients on multiple with their own care. medications due For labor and delivery, to high cholesterol he explains the many 972.538.2100 • www.draxline.com and showing signs of options available, but 2560 Central Park Avenue, #340 being pre-diabetic. He is leaves those options up to the now down about 80 pounds From left to right: Jack, Annika, Devon & Cade Flower Mound, TX 75028 patient to decide.
photography by Scott Young Photography
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“Women especially are so busy taking care of everyone but themselves,” points out Dr. Axline. “We’re trying to make it easier for them to reach optimum health and happiness in their lives.”
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 33
Restaurant Review
Going the Extra Mile for
BREAKFAST
B
reakfast is the most important meal of the day and, in our opinion, the tastiest. As we are connoisseurs of all morning meals, we had to try several local breakfast restaurants and one of the best is Seven Mile Cafe. They’re open from 7:30am till 2pm during the week and until 2:30pm on weekends. There are other locations, but for this trip we focused on the one in Highland Village.
We stopped by for brunch and ordered several fan favorites. For a fresh start to our day we tried the Green Smoothie which has kale, spinach, banana, strawberry, agave and soy milk. Don’t let the mention of kale scare you off, it pairs well with the spinach and strawberries, plus the banana gives it a very smooth texture. If you can’t sit down for a full meal, the smoothie is a great way to keep you satisfied until lunch. However, as we were very eager to try more, we didn’t stop with the smoothie. To begin our morning culinary adventure, we ordered The Seven Mile Latte and the Benny Sampler. They have 6 different styles of eggs benedict which include the Original Benny, Bruschetta Benny, the California Benny, the Veggie Benny, the Chipotle Tofu Benny and the Crap Cake Benny. Seeing as we couldn’t make up our minds, the sampler allowed us to try any two. So we went with the Bruchetta Benny that had mozzarella, tomato, basil and a balsamic glaze that was heavenly when paired with the rich hollandaise sauce. The other was their California Benny which Visit their website to see their whole menu at www.sevenmilecafe.com 34 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
came with bacon, avocados and grilled S’moreo pancake. Yes you just read that right, tomatoes. The bacon wasn’t your standard a S’moreo pancake. Your traditional pancake thin bacon. It was thick cut and satisfied our gets an upgrade with these decadent toppings: meat craving. We substituted marshmallow cream, chocolate, the hash browns to try the oreo cookies, whipped cream Whether you’re looking legendary smoked gouda grits. and graham cracker crumbs. for a healthy start to To describe them as delicious Overall, it was an amazing your day or looking for a would be an understatement. breakfast that satisfied every savory breakfast, Seven The creaminess of the smoked craving we had. Whether you’re Mile Cafe has it all. gouda cheese gave the simple looking for a healthy start to grits a gourmet status. your day or looking for a savory Once that was completely devoured we breakfast, Seven Mile Cafe has it all. Though we decided to continue the egg theme and ordered encourage you not to try it all at once since we’re the Huevos Ranchero. It comes with a crispy quite stuffed. corn tortilla topped with black beans, pulled pork, ranchero sauce, cheese and 2 eggs over Yummy Bites food enthusiasts signing off easy. The egg yolk really complimented the flavor of the sauce over the pulled pork. We decided to finish off our culinary experience with something sweet and discovered the
photo c
our
their tesy of
k page faceboo ilecafe /sevenm
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 35
36 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Bozeman New Principal At Blanton Elementary Linda Bozeman, who has served as the
assistant principal for E.P. Rayzor Elementary
School in Lantana, has been named the new
principal of Blanton Elementary School. She
is replacing Karen Satterwhite, who is retiring in December.
Mrs. Bozeman has been the assistant principal
at E.P. Rayzor for more than six years and is responsible for leading the W.A.T.C.H. Dog program and several other programs that have helped Rayzor Elementary grow into the school it is today.
Bozeman came to E.P. Rayzor as a first grade
teacher in 2003 before moving to the role of Vice
Principal. She says she will miss the relationships
that she has built but she is excited for her new role.
“I can’t wait to meet the wonderful students, parents and staff members of Blanton,” said Bozeman. “Blanton has a reputation for being a campus with a growth mindset and I look forward to learning right alongside the teachers and students.” Blanton Elementary was built in 2008 and is the second elementary school built in Lantana. Satterwhite helped open Blanton and will work with Bozeman to ease the transition until her retirement in December. When asked about her first order of business at Blanton, Bozeman said it was about getting to know the parents and students. Bozeman is a firm believer that communication is vital to the success of a good school. She wants to parents and students of Blanton to know that her door is always open. “We are all here to benefit students and will work together in an atmosphere of trust and respect toward that goal,” said Bozeman.
Community Built And Money Raised in Golf Tournament “Fore” The Students Parents, grandparents, and friends of Liberty Christian gathered on Oct. 31 for a great day of golf, a ladies “Christmas in October” event, and a buffet breakfast and lunch at the Lantana Country Club. More than $20,000 was raised for Liberty’s Tuition Assistance Fund. Golfers gathered for breakfast and began the shotgun start at 8 a.m., followed by a Liberty moms brunch led by Becca Anderson and Randi Worsham, a Liberty mother and grandmother team who own the “The Christmas Shoppe” that provides home décor for Christmas and all seasons. “We are grateful for everyone who was a part of this fantastic event, from the golfers to our volunteers,” said Ed Cook, Vice President of Advancement. “It was a tremendous day of networking, friendships, and fun – all for a great cause – our students.”
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 37
LATE $AVE Is It Too
to
COLLEGE? for
by Susan Neuhalfen
M
y son’s 7th grade pre-algebra teacher, Mrs. Drake, is my new hero. For his homework, the kids had to research the cost of college, a four-year degree, room and board, materials (because books probably won’t be used in a few more years), etc. Then came the best part--how would they finance it?
they can see how much extra they are paying.
come to me a year before college starts with nothing saved and another with a three day old baby ready to set up her future education account. There is no set formula.”
hoping to go to medical school.
Saving vs. Borrowing
The students had to figure the total amount
with a loan and with credit cards (various percentage rates and numbers of payments) so This was a real eye opener for my son who is
He first investigated Baylor University. He
figured out that he would have to save $10,000 per year for the next six years to pay for his
freshman year at Baylor. That’s just the first year. I told him that was a lot of lawns he was going to have to mow. I didn’t have the heart to tell him
that that was THIS year’s tuition and that over the next six years it would continue to go up and up and up.
So, is it too late to save for college now? Bill
Collins, CFP (Certified Financial Planner) with
Edward Jones in Flower Mound says it’s never too late.
“In my experience there is no specific starting point,” said Collins who has over 13 years
experience as a financial advisor. “I’ve had people 38 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
However when you do the math, it is less expensive to try to save for education now than to borrow the full amount later. For example, saving $200 per month for 10 years with a 7% return will yield roughly $35,000. Whereas to borrow $35,000 at a 7% interest rate over a 10-year period will cost double - over $420 per month.
Don’t Borrow From Retirement
Collins went on to say that to give a child the gift of an education is wonderful as long as the parents don’t sacrifice what they will need for retirement. It’s important to maintain a certain standard of living in retirement and it’s going to be a lot less if you’re taking from that account.
“You need to fully understand that by
taking money from your accounts today for college, it may cost you your retirement,” said Collins.
“You can always borrow and pay
back money for education. You can’t borrow to fund your retirement.”
Weigh your options and don’t put your eggs
in one basket
There are many options to saving for college
and, as Collins points out, different options suit different situations. Having your money in different programs is the best way to save.
Collins recommends researching plans along
with a financial advisor in order to make the
best choices. There are many plans available including the 529 plans specific to saving for
higher education. Sometimes Municipal Bonds are a good option as well. It is also important
to note that every plan has its pros and cons. The younger your child is when you start
HERE’S THE BREAKDOWN: BORROWING
SAVING Years of Savings:
10 years
Net Loan Proceeds:
Amount Saved Per Month:
$200.00
Total Loan Fees:
Savings Interest Rate:
7.00%
Loan Interest Rate:
7.00%
Loan Fees:
4.00%
have such as stocks. When your child is older, it’s
more about preserving what you have since there isn’t a lot of time to grow your portfolio.
Ways to Save A few savings “tricks” to think about include:
• As your family income increases, allocate more to education savings plans. • Redirect the money spent on daycare to the education savings plans once the children enter elementary school. • Consider asking family and friends to contribute to the child’s education fund for birthdays and holidays instead of giving them money for gifts or other presents • Use tax refunds or bonuses as contributions • Once your car is paid off, invest that monthly car payment in education
$1,450.79 Total Loan Balance: $36,269.68
Monthly Loan Payment (10 yrs):
$421.12
Total Contributions:
$24,000.00
Total Interest Paid (7.00%):
$14,264.72
Total Interest Earnings:
$10,818.89
Total Interest + Fees:
$15,715.51
Total Projected Savings $34,818.89
investing, the more room for growth savings you
$34,818.89
Don’t Count Out Financial Aid Just because you’re saving, especially with a 529, doesn’t mean that you won’t qualify for financial aid. The good news is that saving in a 529 and some other plans, the funds are not considered part of the student’s assets so it won’t count against them when they apply. Another aspect of financial aid comes in the form of scholarships. While your student may or may not be able to qualify for an academic scholarship, there are many other possibilities that should be investigated. There are literally thousands upon thousands of scholarships, many of which you didn’t know existed. Nearly every college and university has countless applications for scholarships right online and then there are many more independent scholarships given by businesses and charities for which students may apply. There are scholarships for sports such as skeet shooting and fishing in some places. There are scholarships from businesses for creative ideas or community service projects. There are even unique scholarships for tall people as well as twins and triplets. Look it up and see what you find. It’s just a matter of doing your homework.
Total Payments: $50,534.40
The most important thing you can do right now, according to Collins, is start working your plan. “Don’t put it off. It doesn’t cost anything to have a meeting with a financial planner and see what’s possible,” said Collins. “Having your eyes wide open is the best first step when making a decision that works best for you and your family.”
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 39
Photos were submitted by area residents. If you’d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.
40 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Track Your Holiday Spending With
Gift It by Christine Olmstead of Distillery Creative
H
ere comes Santa Clause, here comes Santa Clause right down. . . . Oh sorry, not ready for the holidays yet? I don’t now if you’ve noticed but the stores are ready for the season, and Christmas is just a few weeks away!
So, if you are anything like me–a natural saver; and
list, coworkers list, you name it! The app also lets you
I have the perfect gift for you this Christmas – the
you want to spend $500 total on all the gifts for your
all you see is green, and none of it is in your wallet, Gift It app.
This cute holiday app with its well-designed
Maybe you’re great at shopping and love it!
graphics will guide you through your holiday
love through gift giving, then more power to you!
Christmas expenses. It is perfect for those of us
If you’re a natural born shopper, born to spread
But if you’re anything like me, shopping usually
leaves me feeling stressed and exhausted. The main reason for this is too many choices, combined with
spending money.
shopping and calm your stress by helping you budget who maybe need to reign in the spending, or feel
set a maximum budget for your Christmas giving! Say friends and family this year. Just put in the total, put in each person or group you want to spend money
on, and track each purchase. It automatically deducts
all purchases from the total amount that you want to spend this Christmas.
If someone has been naughty, you can cross them
uncomfortable letting go of those hard earned dollars.
off your list by swiping right, allowing you to easily
You could have a family list, girlfriends list, teachers
shop for! The app will let you know if you’re about to
Gift It lets you create different lists and name them.
see who’s still on your list, and who you still need to go over budget, or if you have a surplus. Wouldn’t that be amazing!
Of course, you could do this process manually
with your calculator, saved up receipts, and a dose of
discouragement once you’ve blown your budget. Or, you could do it while you shop, with this cute app
that does the math for you and has jolly graphics to
cheer you up, and encourage to stay on your budget. Gift It is a free app, available from the App Store and Google Play Store.
Let Gift It easily and merrily track your holiday spending! Happy Shopping!
Christine Olmstead is the lead designer at Distillery Creative, a local graphic design firm that specializes in custom web and print design for small businesses. www.distillerycreative.com
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 41
What is a CERTIFIED
Women’s Wellness
NURSE-MIDWIFE?
A
The word midwife means “with woman.” Midwives believe that you need time and special attention whether it is during birth or any other time in your life.
by Cheryl Smitherman DNP, CNM
Women’s Wellness at Flower Mound 972.355.9436 3051 Churchill Dr., Ste. 220 Flower Mound, TX 75022 www.womenswellnessfm.com
42 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) is a health care provider who is licensed by the State of Texas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). There are four types of APRNs in Texas: Certified Nurse Specialists, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Practitioners and Certified Nurse-Midwives. All four categories have been trained as nurses, and have received additional training in their specialty. Like other APRNs, CNMs have either a Master’s or Doctorate in nursing with special training in midwifery, have passed a national certification examination and have a license to practice.
A common misperception about “midwives” is that they only deliver babies, and if a midwife delivers your baby, it is done at home with no anesthesia. Although there are midwives who do just that, it is important to know that there are many different types of midwives who practice in many different ways and in many different settings. Certified NurseMidwives (CNMs) are nurses with specialized training in midwifery. Other midwives, such as Certified Midwives (CM) and Certified Professional Midwives (CPM) are educated and trained as midwives without having been a nurse first and are licensed in their state as a Licensed Midwife (LM) or Registered Midwife (RM). Although many midwives provide care in freestanding birth centers or homes, most of the care provided by midwives occur in hospitals and women’s health offices. It is also important to know that midwives are trained to provide health care to women throughout the life span, including: prenatal care, birth, postpartum care, newborn care, annual exams, birth
control planning, perimenopause/menopause, gynecology care, common health problems, medication management as well as many other health issues. A midwife can do your annual check-up, provide family planning, answer women’s health and general health questions, discuss treatment options and prescribe all types medications, including pain medication, epidurals, antibiotics, antidepressants, hormones and etc. The word midwife means “with woman.” Midwives believe that you need time and special attention whether it is during birth or any other time in your life. They specialize in providing support while providing health care through informed choices, shared decisionmaking and promoting your right as a patient to self-determination. Midwives strive to develop a partnership with you regarding your health care while providing health promotion, disease prevention and treatment, as well as education. Midwives also work closely with physicians and other health care providers such as nurses, social workers, nutritionists, doulas, childbirth educators, physical therapists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 43
Kids
Living
with
E
veryone knows someone who has diabetes whether it is a relative, a friend or a co-worker. The truth is despite the fact that almost 10% of the population is diabetic, those who are not living with it, truly don’t understand the magnitude of it. It’s even harder to understand when the diabetic is a child.
Tamara Quilty understands this all too well. Her daughter was diagnosed at 12 with type 1 diabetes. She was constantly thirsty and was losing weight, which Tamara thought was just a result of growing pains due to her age and misdiagnosis of strep throat. As soon as the test results came in, the doctor’s office called Tamara to tell her to get her daughter to the ER at Children’s Dallas Hospital right away. “She was in the middle of the STAAR test and I had to pull her out,” she said of her daughter who is now in high school. “She had been managing it for so long that I didn’t realize how severe her condition was.” Juvenile Diabetes is now known as type 1 diabetes. It occurs when the pancreas no longer produces insulin. Though it cannot be cured, it can be managed. The part that many question is how did she get it? So often many onlookers misdiagnose the kids with diabetes and blame the parents. The truth is it could be any number of things and no one knows exactly how it happens. Autoimmune diseases or viruses often precede the diagnosis. Sometimes genetics are involved but not necessarily. The one thing that all kids with diabetes have in common is a very tough road ahead and no one knows that better than the parents. That’s where groups like Tamara’s become lifesavers for parents of kids diagnosed with diabetes. Denton County T1 Diabetics was formed by Quilty and many other parents to help each other better understand diabetes and learn the best practices for their kids. 44 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Diabetes by Susan Neuhalfen
“It’s hard for us to get to meetings and events in Dallas or Fort Worth by 5pm with our kids’ schedules,” said Alicia whose daughter was diagnosed at 12. “There are a huge number of kids right here who have diabetes and the parents really need this network.” Most of the parents met after their kids attended a 3-week camp in Gainesville called Camp Sweeney, specifically designed for kids with diabetes. It is both a fun and educational camp for these kids to learn not just from the camp counselors, but from other kids as well. It is medically staffed and siblings are welcome to go and participate as well. For many parents, it’s the only break they get all year, as it is very hard to leave a child with diabetes even for an overnight stay. “After Camp Sweeney, a group of us got together and we realized that not only could we lean on each other, we could learn from each other,” said Tamara. “It’s hard to understand what it’s like unless you’re going through it and we all are.” Denton County T1 Diabetics is a support group for parents as well as the kids. Many of the older kids share with the younger kids the experiences
that they have had in order to make the journey less burdensome. The parents have also found that they are there for each other in times of need. One mother told about how her daughter’s pump had stopped working one night at 3 am and she put out a call to the other mothers. Someone delivered an extra pump to her door almost immediately as it was very late and she couldn’t leave her daughter. It’s stories like this that can go on for hours with this group. Annette Price, a counselor at Harpool Middle School has been proactive in educating students on diabetes. Once a week, the kids with diabetes meet and share with each other. One mother talked about how that “sharing time” helped her daughter. She had been hesitant to change her routine until one student helped her understand how to use her pump. That peer help has been invaluable to the kids. They even bring in speakers for the kids including one professional football player who talked about living and working with diabetes. They also put together a presentation and educated the entire student body about type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Harpool Middle School has rallied around World Diabetes Day. They wear blue on November 14 to provide education. awareness and support for the students fighting the silent disease. Many without diabetes think that diabetics “can live a normal life.” That’s not really true, it’s closer to the thinking that they simply have to redefine normal. For example when Tamara’s daughter was diagnosed, she was scheduled for a Sea World summer camp and several national park hikes for her summer vacation. She was not permitted to attend those camps--that is until she could become self-sufficient. She went to work immediately and by the next summer she was able to finally complete her vacations that she had planned.
photo courtesy of Tamara Quilty
The moms talked about how technology has helped tremendously but really the kids are learning to do a lot of things on their own. Chantal’s daughter was diagnosed at 5 and is now 16. Her school didn’t have a full time nurse and technology as we know it today didn’t exist. Chantal told of how every lunch she would come to check on her daughter and made sure she was never far away in case they needed her to come and get her. “Now she’s so independent,” she said proudly. “When she packs her lunch she counts her carbs and knows which ones are good, measures her food and takes great care of herself.” A recently diagnosed diabetic named Jacqui also joined us at the meeting. Though not a kid, she said that Shelly (one of the moms) and her daughter Sophia who has diabetes and is now in high school, has helped her tremendously to better understand the condition. The hospital really doesn’t train adults and the kids learn everything at such a young age that they only too happy to share their experiences. Despite all of this, it’s a 24-hour challenge for these kids and their parents. Their houses still go on lockdown when illness strikes and the monitor is always close by. The difference for them is having the needed support to get through it.t As for what’s next for Denton Type 1 Diabetics, the group is looking to grow here in the Denton County area with members from Lewisville to Lantana. They are working to become more vocal and better involve the dads and other members of the family. They do community walks and runs together and are looking into ways to help people who aren’t able to afford pumps and censors and other equipment to help them get what they need. The biggest weapon they have in their arsenal, though, is knowledge. The experience that only these people and their kids understand can help countless other families in the area to learn to live with diabetes. “The kids look healthy and act healthy and most people don’t understand the challenges that we go through every day,” said Alicia. “Every one of these kids is a unique individual and every situation is different. We’re just here to help each other do the best that we can.”
For more information go to their Facebook page Denton County T1 Diabetics.
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 45
Photos were submitted by area residents. If you’d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.
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NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 47
48 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Nurturing
GOOD
E
Learning
Character Traits in Preschoolers
very parent wants their child to develop character traits such as compassion, generosity and kindness, but how can you achieve that? Are preschoolers capable of learning and understanding these traits? And if so, how can we, as parents and caregivers, support their development?
Build an understanding of different traits. According to the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, the early years of Even at a young age, children begin to build a child’s life lay the foundation for a wide their understanding of traits like generosity, range of important developmental outcomes, respect and gratitude. Read books such as I Can like self-confidence, mental health and the Share by Karen Katz (ages 2-5) and When I motivation to learn. The earlier these softer Care About Others by Cornelia Maude Spelman skills are fostered in young (ages 4-7) with your child children, the more likely Young children learn through and take the opportunity they are to be successful to discuss the positive repetition and observation. in school and later in life. traits that the characters And while it may seem like One of the best ways for you to possess. Ask questions and your child is too young to nurture positive character traits help your child apply the grasp these concepts, the concepts in the book to is leading by example... foundational behaviors real-life experiences. needed to develop Introduce important life skills. Even very empathy and other social-emotional skills that young children can begin to learn about essential make us good people are actually nurtured in the life skills, such as manners, safety and caring for first years of life. the environment. Letting children take care of The best way to teach young children about their very own plant will promote responsibility these intangible skills and traits is to provide while also teaching the importance of caring for hands-on learning opportunities and to reinforce the concepts in a variety of ways. We suggest the the world around them. Modeling these life skills following tips for parents and caregivers to use is also a great way to introduce them, especially at home: for younger children.
Make time for hands-on learning. Children get most excited about giving back when they are able to experience it firsthand. Introduce your child to helping those in need by starting small in your community. Whether it’s collecting coats for a clothing drive or making cards for the local nursing home, it’s rewarding to see your child begin to understand the huge impact a simple project can have. Young children learn through repetition and observation. One of the best ways for you to nurture positive character traits is leading by example and consistently modeling. Soon your children will start imitating you and be on their way to becoming a kind, caring individual. To learn about Primrose School of Lantana, visit primroselantana.com or call 940.455.2550. For more helpful parenting tips and information, visit our blog at www. PrimroseSchools.com/blog and sign up for the Pointers for Parents newsletter.
by Frank Lundie Franchise Owner, Primrose School of Lantana www.primroselantana.com
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 49
C
ating A r b e l e
l
A
e f i
7th grader at Liberty Christian, she met her best friend in pre-K and they were as thick as thieves. One day Sydney got an infraction at school on purpose just so her friend would not have to sit at the lunch table alone. This is the kind of friendship they shared. “I remember watching the girls walk together from a party and thinking to myself these girls will be friends forever,” said Sydney’s mother Michelle. “ I did not know that forever was going to get a lot shorter.”
50 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
n
o l F
...rather than mourn Tit a’s absence, [Michelle and Sydney] would celebrate her and her mother.
g
riendship
euhalfen by Susan N
occo Sydney Ru rkable is one rema . young lady
Sydney’s best friend Tita and Tita’s mother were killed in an car accident on April 9 of this year and since that time Sydney has been working through the unimaginable. Every milestone in her life had always included Tita. When it came time for Sydney’s 13th birthday party, they had talked about skipping it altogether or going away to celebrate. It was too painful for Sydney to have a party and not have Tita there. That void would never be filled. Michelle and Sydney prayed about it and decided that
rather than mourn Tita’s absence, they would celebrate her and her mother. They decided to have a huge party at the Lantana Golf Club, complete with balloons, a DJ, photo booth, dancing and costumes. They invited close friends and the entire Liberty Christian 7th grade class. In lieu of gifts, Sydney asked invitees to donate funds to build a prayer garden at Liberty Christian in memory of Tita and her mom, Emma. They also asked for donations for a scholarship to be established in Tita’s name. They raised over $3,600. “It was wonderful to see kids celebrate Sydney and honor Tita all at once,” said Michelle. “We were thrilled that James and Jimmy Shaffer (Tita’s dad and brother) could join us.” They are planning to give two $1,000 scholarships per year in Tita’s name to graduates of Liberty Christian who display, what they call, a servant’s heart. Teachers will nominate the students. So far, the scholarships will be awarded every year through not only what would have been Tita’s graduation, but
her little brother Jimmy’s graduation as well. As for the prayer garden, it will be tied to
Michelle says there are a few things that citizens can do to help
the remodeling and expanding phases are
Sign the petition put forward by Champion Cheer to ban the use of handheld electronics while driving in Texas.
the worship center and fine arts center once complete at Liberty Christian.
The accident that killed Emma and Tita
Shaffer was determined to be the result of
another driver texting and driving. As a result, #TextfreeforTita has become an initiative
put forward by James Shaffer and Champion
Cheer to pressure lawmakers to ban the use of hand held electronics while driving.
“#TextfreeforTita is something we are all
passionate about,” said Michelle. “We want to
make sure no one suffers a loss like the Shaffer family and all of Tita’s friends.” For
those
who
are
interested
in
donating, please email Michelle Ruocco at Milata@gmail.com.
www.change.org • Search: Tita
The petition is called: Create and pass a Texas law banning the use of hand held electronics while driving.
Contact Senator Jane Nelson in Flower Mound and urge her to make passing this law on a state level a priority. Urge the Denton City Council to vote to ban the use of handheld devices while driving.
The council is scheduled to vote on this measure on December 6, 2016.
The final thing that Ruocco urges families to do is to simply put down their phones while driving.
#TextFreeForTita
photos courtesy of Michelle Ruocco
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 51
52 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
November National
M
DIABETES MONTH
L Re anta sid na en t
AWARENESS
ost are aware of diabetes as a condition, and some know that there are different forms of diabetes, but few understand the differences in what causes them and how they are managed. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) will be referenced today. I would like to improve upon the general awareness regarding the unique struggles of an individual with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). TD1M most commonly presents in childhood with some cases in early adulthood. It remains the most common form of diabetes in childhood, despite the rising incidence of Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM).
Parenting a child with T1DM means being your child’s pancreas. It means checking blood sugar levels nonstop and administering insulin based on carbohydrates eaten, activity level/exercise, hormones, growth spurts, stress, and everything else that could affect insulin needs. If blood sugar dips dangerously low or spikes dangerously high it could lead to permanent body damage, or even death. Parents feel that every day is like walking a tightrope with their child. Teaching and managing children means explaining to them the severity of their disease and how and why they are ‘different’ and have ‘different’ needs than their peers without making them feel alone and secluded.
Sponsored Content
T1DM is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when certain cells of the pancreas, an organ in the abdomen, produce very little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body to absorb and use glucose (sugar), store fat, and build up protein. When certain pancreatic cells, called beta cells, are destroyed by the immune system, insulin can no longer be produced; as a result, glucose stays in the blood stream. Over time blood glucose levels rise, the SOME WARNING SIGNS body lacks the insulin OF DIABETES INCLUDE: needed to utilize the Extreme Thirst glucose and the body
T1DM is a “silent” disease with no remission and no breaks. People with Frequent Urination T1DM may appear as begins to shut down healthy and happy eventually unable Drowsiness or Lethargy as anyone else, as to carry out the Sudden Vision Changes long as they are necessary functions Increased Appetite with in good control of that keep us alive. Weight Loss their disease. They Those affected by Fruity, Sweet, or Wine-Like may function as a T1DM must administer/ Odor on Breath normal child, teen, inject insulin to their college student, and bodies daily to prevent adult, BUT only if they are organ failure. actively thinking of and managing Research is ongoing and therapy modalities their disease at every minute of are slowly improving, BUT there is still NO every day. CURE for T1DM. Caring for a child with T1DM is a terrifying, often lonely, and an extremely Type 2 diabetes has become exhausting process. The lives of ALL involved increasingly prevalent among are changed forever. Blood sugar levels must young people, largely due to be tested six or more times a day by pricking increasing obesity rates and their finger and they must carefully monitor sedentary lifestyles. The main their carbohydrate intake in order to regulate difference between Type 1 diabetes their blood sugar levels. Both hypoglycemia and Type 2 diabetes is that people (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high with T2DM make plenty of insulin and blood sugar) can be life threatening. Insulin have healthy pancreatic cells. In this is then injected into the body based on blood case, their bodies no longer respond appropriately to the insulin hormone sugar readings.
and blood sugar levels rise. In most cases, T2DM can be controlled and even cured with lifestyle changes and regular check-ups with your doctor and does not always require medications. Special thanks go to James and Tamara Quilty for their personal insight and contribution with regard to this article.
by Dr. Rebecca Butler, who is Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is proud to be a resident of Lantana and the owner of Lantana Pediatrics. For more information on Dr. Butler or to schedule an appointment, call 940.455.7200.
Call to schedule appointment with Dr.Butler or our NEW Nurse Practitioner, Melanie Bitzer.
940.455.7200 | www.LantanaPediatrics.com | 74 McMakin Road, Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-6:30pm • Friday: 7:30am - 5pm • Saturdays: 9am - 12pm
#Harpoolreads IS TRENDING by Susan Neuhalfen
O
ver the summer, Denton ISD came together to connect their schools, preparing the students as they move from elementary to middle school to high school to act as one student body. The schools of Lantana became part of Guyer High School’s “We Are Guyer, We Are One, We Are Ready”. #harpoolreads. Using the hashtag, As part of this effort, students and teachers could #harpoolreads is Harpool photos courtesy of Tammy Allen not only post pictures of Middle School’s newest themselves, they could initiative,” said Allen. “So far we’ve been very happy reading drive. The track what others initiative is meant with the level of participation so we’re excited to see are reading for to support the where it goes next.” great book ideas. #guyerreads This is all to tie in with the #guyerreads challenge The pictures have program at Guyer on the high school level. This is the first year for the gotten somewhat High School. creative as program which is run by Guyer’s National English “If there is students and Honor Society and the school library. The goal is to anything we can teachers are get as many students, encouraged by staff members do as a middle tweeting from and parents, reading as much as possible. Students school to help various places, are given a reading challenge worksheet which lists support the Guyer even the airport, with national book award winners and those interested Zone, we will do Natalie Vaughan the caption: “You can sign up and are placed on a team to them compete it!” said Tammy Allen, Winner read anywhere!” Assistant Principal Intern for gift cards and other prizes. “Just because you are at Harpool. “If students only read 20 more not at school that does not Mrs. Allen (Assistant Principal Intern), minutes a day, that’s 2 1/2 hours Mrs. Brandt (Librarian), and Ms. Herron (7th mean that you stop enjoying a more per week per semester,” Grade Reading Teacher) worked on getting the good book,” said Allen. point out Guyer High Finally the staff placed word out about #harpoolreads to the students and School Principal Shaun Perry. staff at Harpool and the result was a video showing QR codes around the “That’s significant.” campus which take students students how they may participate. The high school is still The initiative began with a #harpoolreads Logo to a Google Form. Once the currently looking for sponsors students finish a book, they Contest. They received 60 submissions and Brendan Rieder list the book title, chose a winner and two runners to provide gift cards and other Runner Up author on the form up. The two runners up were prizes to the students. The reading and then give the Alyssa Harris, 8th Grade and challenge goes on all year, so it’s just a matter of book a rating. Brendan Rieder, 7th Grade. businesses contacting the school and if they want In the Spring, Harpool The official #harpoolreads to get involved. staff members plan to Logo Contest winner Mr. Perry emphasized that because it is the first continue #harpoolreads was Natalie Vaughan, year their biggest focus was on getting the word out and also roll out a reward 8th Grade. The winning to the students and hopefully providing them with program for students logo appeared on who read and document added incentive to read more. #harpoolreads t-shirts. “We are definitely committed to this program,” at least 3 books for each While working on ways said Perry. “It’s great to be getting support from the nine week period. to promote #harpoolreads Alyssa Harris “We are still working the other schools and it’ll be even better once we obtain to students and staff, the staff created a twitter hashtag
54 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Runner Up
logistics of that portion of the
more community-wide support.”
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 55
56 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
by Steve Gamel
Sidelines
Let’s Not Be So QUICK TO JUDGE
On Concussion Protocols
I
wrote an investigative article recently for the Denton Record-Chronicle on a high school right here in Argyle that is using head impact sensor technology in football helmets to help curb the threat of concussions. This
The logical follow up questions would be,
yet to embrace the same technology.
“Well why aren’t the rest of them using it?” or
School had sensors installed inside every varsity
player safety than other schools do?”
For those who don’t know, Liberty Christian
and junior varsity football helmet this season in
“Does Liberty Christian care more about its I don’t think it has anything to do with other
what team officials hope is the next step toward
programs not wanting to protect players. I have
player safety and protecting the future of football.
stories over the last few
being at the forefront of concussion awareness, These sensors, which fit underneath the
existing helmet padding and measure the force
of a hit, are meant to monitor in real time hits players take in games and practices. They keep track of everything from how hard a player got
hit to the exact location on the players’ head the hit occurred. Trainers then receive instant
feedback on the sideline using tracking software. Simply put: If a player has too many
questionable hits, he can be removed faster from a game.
The sensors will not detect concussions.
But it’s another tool to help limit them.
done
enough
concussion
years to know that Liberty Christian is just like everyone
else in the sense that they are all using a slew of tools to
help promote player safety. That
includes
everything
from proper tackling, the
importance of hydration, having skilled trainers and doctors on hand, and educating players and coaches on what concussion symptoms look like. The latest sensor technology is simply another tool.
And then there is the cost. Depending on
whose product you use, the cost for a sensor
wrote it). The key point I want to make here is
less expensive than you would initially think,
that out of the 13 high schools and one college
football program (UNT) the DRC covers, Liberty Christian is the only school currently using sensors.
them, too? I say you have to.
There are thousands of high school and college
football programs across the country. According to the sources from my article, there are a little
more than 600 programs using some form of helmet sensor technology.
Do I think they all should
...the next step toward being at the forefront of concussion awareness, player safety and protecting the future of football.
If you didn’t read the full article online on
Oct. 6, I suggest you do (and not just because I
concussion battle, you must do for the other. And what about the middle schools? Do you include
school deserves a ton of credit for doing that. But let’s stop short of chiding those who have
Frisco. What you do for one district school in the
ranges between $100-$150 per player. That’s far but not every school district or university (large
or small) is in the same position financially. The total cost balloons when you look at larger
school districts like Denton, Lewisville or even
be using sensors? Absolutely!
Are the ones that aren’t in the wrong? No.
No one at Liberty Christian
told me that the sensors they
are using in helmets are the be all, end all tool to promote
player safety. In fact, team
officials stressed the importance of maintaining
their existing concussion protocols and quality
equipment as their first line of defense. They are giving sensors a try, though, and if they have the means to do it, then by all means push forward.
There are a growing number of helmet
manufacturers who believe sensors will be required in every helmet in the near future. To
suggest those not begging for the technology
now are willing to put their players’ lives at risk in the meantime ... well, that’s just ludicrous.
Until next time, I’ll see you on the sidelines. NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 57
Gardening
G
NOVEMBERinTEXAS
rass growth is starting to slow down, temperatures and leaves are starting fall, it must be November in Texas! As we’re preparing to deal with the cooler temps there are many things to start thinking about in preparation of your landscaped spaces. We’ve listed a few of our most common Q&A’s for this time of year: Should I just cut the sprinklers back or do I need to shut them off completely and winterize my system? What should I plant that will put some color in my beds without dying after the first freeze? Which one of these trees should I go ahead and cut back and how much should I take off without causing damage?
There are way too many things going on this time of year to let these things stress you out. We’ve put together a short list to ensure you’re prepared for whatever this winter has in store:
Sprinkler Systems
Reducing watering back to once or twice per week and shortening the runtime per zone will not only be adequate for your planting but should also save you a little on the monthly irrigation budget. If our temperatures are going to get below freezing, it’s a good idea to turn your controller to the off position, close and wrap valves, and drain water from any lines not deeper than 12 inches. Freezing temperatures can cause water/ ice to expand, eventually breaking your pipes and leading to costly repairs. If you’re familiar enough with your system to go ahead and prep for winter, than do so. If you’re not, sometimes it’s a good idea to call upon an irrigation professional to ensure things are done properly.
by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com
58 | LANTANA LIVING | NOVEMBER 2016
Pruning
As long as temperatures remain above 32°F, winter is a great time to prune most all of your trees, shrubs and roses. Getting things cut back now will reduce on overgrowth too early in the spring and help keep your bed space organized throughout the growing season.
Winter Planting
Winter isn’t the time to ignore your landscape. In fact, both rooted and bare-rooted plants do well when newly planted in the winter. Getting your larger plantings (30-100 gal) in the ground so that they can start to establish themselves before spring rolls around and they are not as affected by the early heat is a good thing. It’s also a good rule of thumb to ensure you have at least 2 inches of mulch in your beds to help regulate soil temperatures and keep things as consistent as possible through the up-and-down roller coaster of a Texas winter. Winter is a good time to assess your landscaping, figure out where the blah areas are and consider your options. Cedar trellises, stone seating areas, pots and all type of rock accents are good ways to get creative within your bed spaces, giving them that final “finishing” touch. Sometimes the greatest focal points of your landscape are not plants at all but rather the hardscapes they are supporting.
Hope this helps with getting your property ready for the winter months, as always we appreciate all the support and hope you’re able get outside and enjoy some fresh air!
NOVEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 59
Body and Soul
2
Striving
Share
by Meredith S. Tittle PT, DPT, OCS “Train to Live Healthy, Energetic, and Injury Free.”
A
t S2S, out interdisciplinary team of licensed physical therapists, certified personal trainers, certified pilates instructors, and certified performance enhancement specialists are striving to share with you the most current evidence in maintaining a healthy, energetic, injury free lifestyle! From preventative to restorative, we’ve got you covered!”
Can a stiff neck cause a headache?
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Can a stiff neck cause a headache? Headaches come in many shapes and sizes. Have you ever experienced a headache that was one-sided and seemed worse when you changed the position of your neck? Additionally, did the headache seem aggravated when touching and putting pressure on the part of your spine closest to your hairline- the most upper parts of your cervical spine? Have you had at least one headache a week for over two months? This type of headache can be the result of stiffness in your cervical spine! Research shows a 50 -100% healing success rate when these headaches are treated by a licensed physical therapist. A combination of exercise and manual therapy prove the best results. Manual therapy consists of skilled joint movements provided by the therapist that decrease pain and assist in improved mobility of the neck and upper back. Low load exercises designed to create a balance and synergy of your neck and shoulder girdle (muscles of your scapula and shoulder complex) have been proven to assist in the treatment of such disorders. The exercises prescribed are very specific to target the deep muscles of the front of your neck. These are known as the longus coli and longus capitis muscles. Skilled PT’s will provide one on one instruction to the technique and frequency with which to perform the movements. Benefits of physical therapy for neck pain with associated headaches includes decreased duration and intensity of pain as well as reduced medicine intake. In the study Trial of Management for Cervicogenic Headache ( Jull et al), patients experienced relief for greater than 12 months. Whether you have had your headache for 1 month or 5 years, results show
PT is still beneficial! Additionally, the study suggests that even those with moderate to severe pain levels will benefit. As always, we encourage independence, and most patients will receive these benefits in as little as 6 weeks!
HOW TO PREVENT HEADACHES CAUSED FROM A STIFF NECK To avoid this PAIN IN THE NECK altogether, try to avoid prolonged postures. For example, AVOID staring at your phone for greater than 15 minutes at a time and avoid all-day use. Additionally, while wrapping presents, take frequent breaks! Don’t try to wrap for hours on end! Keep moving!! Movement provides lubrication and prevents a lot of stress to your joints. Perform simple active range of motion exercises and isometric neck exercises often to maintain good neck health!
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