Lantana Living Magazine September 2016 by Murray Media Group

SEPTEMBER 2016

The Nelsons:

Making Time for Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Most Important

l o o h Sc F O Y A ST D

FIR

Photos were submitted by area residents. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.

4 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 5

Lantana Community Events Lantana Community Garage Sale Sept 24th 8am-3pm

Contents Table of

Sponsored Content

of these laws date from 1841, and the mandate

This is an example of separate and community property being comingled. Things can get pretty complicated, but with good records, the separate and community property can be identified. Another common example of determining separate and community property occurs when a marital residence (along with its mortgage) is owned by one spouse prior to the marriage. During the marriage, the spouses pay the mortgage with community property and/or make improvements to the property with community property. The reduction in the mortgage debt and/or improvements can create claims between the community estate and the separate estate(s). Yet another example occurs when spouses create or join entities such as LLCs, partnerships, corporations, or were involved in such entities prior to marriage. Such entities, regardless of their size, create complex marital property issues. It would be wise for anyone contemplating divorce to seek advice from a family law attorney before an entity is formed or before there are any changes made to existing entities. As a matter of fact, in all the examples given above, the complexities that arise from marital property law and the risks to your assets are just too great. To protect what’s yours, it’s always best to consult with an experienced family law attorney.

A Word of Caution

fter that stretch of 100+ degree days these upper 80s-90s and frequent rain events are welcome! Compared to last August we got off pretty good but it’s still too early to say we’re out of the woods yet.

Now that school started for most of us and the vacations are over, it’s time to get to work preparing for fall. September is a great time to get the ball rolling on that outdoor space or landscaping project, but as you’re getting bids remember to keep your eye out for quality, ensure that the estimates you are entertaining are backed up by a portfolio displaying the attention to detail that you’re looking for. Yes, everyone’s looking for a “great deal” but sometimes the lowest price means the lowest quality. We warn against it as we go into the busy season every year, but daily we run into situations where the

best price (lowest price) got the job and now the homeowner is paying double or triple to fix it... With all the new construction in Lantana and surrounding communities comes all the handymen turned into patio builders and lawn mowers turned into landscapers. There is a difference in having someone that’s studied design and space management with years of “patio specific” construction experience just as there is a difference in having a degreed landscape designer put a plan together for you that will ensure a higher success rate with your plantings.

Ensuring you’re dealing with professionals makes a huge difference not only in the overall product but throughout the process. As busy as the construction industry is right now it’s always a good idea to have a prepared checklist ready when interviewing any potential contractors. It is our job as contractors to make you feel comfortable through our personal presentation and the information we provide, it is our job to have established ourselves in the community, have built solid references and be able to provide you with them when asked. Make your candidates work for it, provide

references, take you to a some completed as well as in-progress jobs and ensure you get a real-time view of what to expect while things are under construction as well as when they’re finished. In our area there are many great contractors who have proven themselves time and time again and won’t balk at your questioning them or their work. Just remember as you are organizing your next project don’t put yourself in a situation where you’ve paid less and have left hoping for more.....

Gardening

binding contract and before the materials have even been dropped on site you’re probably not dealing with her you should be. How many years have you been in business here locally? A contractor who’s been around for 5 to 10 years has established a solid network of suppliers, subcontractors and earned a local reputation that

they need to uphold. This will make them a safer bet than a contractor who’s either new to the business, area or planning on commuting in from an outside location. Can you provide me with at least five local referrals? All contractors should be prepared to provide at least five references for you to gauge their quality of work and overall experience. Are you insured and registered here with our city? Any company that is worth doing business with will carry both insurance and local registrations wherever they are working. You should expect to pay more for dealing with a legitimate company but able to rest easy knowing that you’re protected and following city codes when taking on your project.

THINGS TO REMEMBER What is your pay schedule on this project Most professionals will have a draw type payment schedule( depending on overall total) or a 50-50 split upon completion. IF you’re asked for a majority of all funds upfront without a

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 11

BASKETBALL

with UNT at The Lantana Basketball Court

photos courtesy of the Lantana Golf Club 12 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 13

Nutrition

Annette, Dear

I keep seeing â&#x20AC;&#x153;EAT CLEANâ&#x20AC;? in magazines. What does that really mean? Dear Reader:

ating clean is becoming a buzz phrase. Eating clean means eating as close to nature as possible with a lot of respect for nature. In other words, if it has a bar code it might not be close to nature. If it comes in a box, it may not be close to nature. If it is made in a plant, it may not be natural. If it has been fried, it is not clean. Chances are if you receive it through your car window, it certainly is not clean. Really, can you believe people want to eat dirty? Those are obvious ways to know if a food is clean or not. But some things are a little more deceiving. Is your chicken full of hormones and chemicals? Is your milk full of growth hormone? Is your beef full of dyes, chemicals, and are the cows forced fed? Are your fruits and vegetables clean from chemicals and pesticides?

14 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

THE CLEAN 15

The Environmental Worker Group (www. EWG.org) is an organization that works hard These foods that tend to have less pesticides and to help ensure that our food and products are herbicides buying organic is not as important. safe. They also keep a count of the thousands of new chemicals and pesticides that enter our • Avocados • Sweet Corn food supply every year. They are a wealth of • Pineapple • Cabbage trusted information. • Asparagus I know it is more expensive to eat organic, • Onions • Mangos • Papayas but your health is really worth it. There are some • Eggplant things that are better than others if you do not • Kiwi buy organic. The EWG has created a list of the • Honey Dew Melon • Grapefruit dirty dozen and the clean fifteen. I want to share • Cantaloupe • Sweet Peas it with you. The clean fifteen are foods that • Cauliflower tend to have less pesticides and herbicides and therefore buying organic is not as important as the dirty dozen. The dirty dozen are foods that are truly worth the extra to buy organic. Another great source for clean product These are foods that are truly is www.thrivemarket.com This is a market worth the extra to buy organic. place of healthy items at great prices delivered to your door. I find a few organic things at • Strawberries • Apples Costco, like organic coconut oil, but www. • Nectarines • Peaches thrivemarket.com has great choices and is • Celery • Grapes so convenient.

THE DIRTY DOZEN

EAT WELL TO LIVE WELL. Sincerely yours,

• Cherries • Tomato • Cherry Tomato

• Spinach • Sweet Bell Peppers • Cucumber

Annette Doody, Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 15

16 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

You Need To Know About

ith the football season officially in full swing, the threat of concussions is an ever-present issue. While there is currently no full-proof way to entirely prevent head injuries in football, one major equipment manufacturer is staying on top of its own product safety standards. As reported by the Dallas Morning News, Xenith and the Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a voluntary recall in August for Xenith’s recently manufactured helmets. The recall involved Xenith EPIC Varsity, X2 Varsity, X2E Varsity and youth football helmets with a gloss or metallic-painted polycarbonate shell sold or factory-reconditioned between

May 1, 2015 and March 18, 2016. Xenith explained on its website that a “flex” chemical additive compound was not added to the paint mixture, which caused the other components of the helmet to become brittle. There were no injuries, though the CPSC received reports of 29 shells cracking.

by Steve Gamel

HELMET RECALL

while reconditioning older ones in an effort to put the best and safest equipment on players. The Dallas Morning News said there were at least 11 high schools in the area that had Xenith helmets in their inventory, but that particular manufacturer was not their primary provider. None of those 11 schools

Xenith and the Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a voluntary recall in August for Xenith’s recently manufactured helmets. Per that same Dallas Morning News article, the EPIC Varsity, X2 Varsity and X2E Varsity all rank as five stars in the widely-used Virginia Tech helmet rating system. The EPIC Varsity was also the No. 1 helmet in the NFL’s 2015 health and safety report. The X2E ranked No. 4. Helmet safety standards at area schools have come a long way in recent years. School officials consistently purchase new helmets

appear to be in the immediate area. When contacted earlier this month, Guyer football coach John Walsh said his program has an exclusive relationship with Riddell and has at no point used Xenith helmets. Argyle and Lake Dallas also use Riddell. Lake Dallas uses an estimated 60/40 split with Schutt. Liberty Christian head coach Barton Hundley confirmed his program is exclusively Riddell. SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 17

Dr. Matt

GETTING A

Second Opinion by Dr. Matt Artho

My 4-year-old son is one of those “rowdy” boys. Not only is he a rolldown-the-stairs, swing-from-the-rafters, and bounce-off-the-wall kind of rowdy, he’s also a great mentor for his 2-year-old brother. Of course, when I find myself in the midst of

him jumping to me off the couch or tackling me from behind, what fascinates me is not necessarily

his pure lack of fear, but more so, his unwavering sense of trust. Wouldn’t it be nice if we all felt that same amount of trust in everything?

In the dental field, there is nothing more

important than a relationship between patients

and their dentist. However, sometimes that relationship of trust needs reinforcement. This is where the worth of a second opinion can be invaluable. Here are some tips and information about second opinions.

When you receive a second opinion from

a dentist, it is important to explain the entire

situation to the dentist so he can properly assess and determine your treatment needs. Providing

“What fascinates me is not necessarily his pure lack of fear, but more so, his unwavering sense of trust.” the dentist with any X-rays or treatment plans will

help the dentist evaluate your initial diagnosis. You may be expected to take new X-rays as each

dentist uses different systems and X-rays from other offices may not be decipherable.

Always ask a dentist to show you any tooth

lesions or defects that he finds either visually or Dr. Matt is a practicing dentist and owner of Country Lakes Family Dental www.CountryLakesDental.com 18 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

with X-rays. With the advent of technology it is easy to illustrate on a digital X-ray or intraoral photo exactly where any defects exist.

A good dentist will educate patients on how

cavities or restorative deficiencies are identified

and why they require treatment. If the dentist is

able to visualize or diagnose an issue, illustrating

this to the patient verbally and visually should be straightforward.

Finally, ask lots of questions. Never hesitate to engage in conversation with your dentist until you feel comfortable with your understanding of the situation. Remember, every dentist is different, but you should always feel comfortable with understanding and receiving dental care

Happy smiling !

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 19

g Levera

tur u F e h t for

by Susan

en Neuhalf

ith the continually rising cost of college, parents have to be weary of the impending investment. Is my child going to the right type of school? Is her major right for her? Will his current study habits work in college? What will help my student prepare for success both inside and outside of the classroom?

What if there were a way to help students

“It’s better for everyone to focus their time,

recognize their strengths ahead of time in order

money, energy and effort on what we call their

matter, any school or work experience?

happier when they are doing what they love to

to improve a student’s overall college or, for that Former Denton County Clerk Cindy Mitchell

is the CEO of Strategic Solutions HQ as well as a certified StrengthsFinder coach. The Clifton StrengthsFinder tool is powered by the Gallup

Organization and helps individuals, groups and

leaders recognize and leverage their strengths to help them focus on what they do best.

20 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

superpowers,” said Mitchell. “People are generally do. Instead of mounting frustration over how to

overcome weaknesses, why not focus on what they do well?”

StrengthsFinder is a 45 minute test that is unlike

any other. Through a series of questions, each of which has to be answered within 20 seconds, test

takers find out their strengths which, in turn, helps them to find out where to focus their talents.

Armed with this knowledge there are a number of advantages a student may have going into college such as what classes to choose, what majors to consider, how best to study and even how to better understand friendships and relationships. Mitchell has plenty of experience not only with business clients but students as well. One of her students is a talented equestrian rider. StrengthsFinder found that she was already competitive but instead of focusing on just winning and losing, they helped her focus on measurable goals when it came to competition so that she was as much in competition with herself as anyone. This helped her equestrian coach in guiding her at competitions and it helped her to stay less stressed once she understood where her focus needed

photography by Scott Young Photography

’s

hild C r u o gY

to be. She placed second in the AQHA World Championship last year as well as the top 10 for the last three years. After getting an equestrian scholarship to college, she worked with Mitchell on how to make the transition to higher education. Mitchell also worked with her on how her strengths affected her friendships and how she struggled with relationships. Once she understood the “basements” and “balconies” of her strength, she was better able to understand how to leverage her strengths for the best outcome. Basements and balconies are another way to state the good and bad side of something. For example, if a person’s strength is being analytical, he or she is comfortable with numbers and very logical, however that same person may be considered rude, short and never satisfied which doesn’t sit well with some. Every strength has basements and balconies attached to it. Another student that Mitchell worked with had a top strength of Input. A person with this strength has an excellent memory and mind for detail. Mitchell already knew him to be a history buff and an avid reader so most of his analysis came as no surprise. After studying pre-law, he chose an engineering and computer science major. Mitchell worked with him on his study habits and gave him permission to use history and context to study. This made

the simple act of studying more meaningful to him which gave him a deeper understanding of the subject. When it comes to learning, some learn better by actually teaching so for those who do, Mitchell says to seek out opportunities to present to others. For others, quiet reflection is the only way to comprehend information. For this student, Mitchell recommended finding a quiet place and making time to study that way.

Students may use StrengthsFinder to choose classes that they are more aligned with and, ultimately, careers that make sense for their superpowers. Using this strength-based development tool, students may use StrengthsFinder to choose classes that they are more aligned with and, ultimately, careers that make sense for their superpowers. “With the exception of those suffering an extreme life change at some point, the test doesn’t change much after the age of 15,” explains Mitchell. “Many parents have told me that they wish

they had had access to a tool like this when they were younger.”

An extreme life change is a life-altering change

such as a death of a parent or spouse or, in some cases, a divorce situation for a child.

StrengthsFinder even offers something called

StrengthsExplorer for kids 10-14 years with fewer

questions and fewer strengths analyzed.This will help parents with encouraging their children in a positive

manner as well as understanding their strengths and how to relate to them. It actually gives the child his

or her top 3 strengths and it gives action items to the adults working with them as well as action items for the youngsters.

“When my son was younger I learned not to

ASK him to clean his room,” said Mitchell. “I had

to TELL him to clean his room, but in a way that related to him. Because of his personality and how his strengths play out asking him to do anything he didn’t want to do wouldn’t work. It helped me to stop getting frustrated and speak his language.”

Cindy Mitchell is available as a StrengthsFinder Coach for students, parents, leaders and employees. She travels to homes and businesses, unlocking superpowers for people of all ages. For more information email cmitchell@strategicsolutionshq.com or call 469.426.7009.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 21

Dig In:

Can You

An Event-Filled Cookbook Of Gatherings and Gardening Is A Four Part Book:

DIG by Susan Neuhalfen

IT?

he popularity of all things organic has

The best part of this cookbook is that the reader

1. Gatherings: Dig In! includes a collection of monthly-themed gatherings of the garden club with ideas and recipes for fun get-togethers. 2. Dig In Deeper includes favorite dishes served by the members 3. From the Garden is a collection recipes for cooking with fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and nuts indigenous to Texas. 4. For the Garden is a collection of organic, healthy how-to and homemade concoctions for use in the garden.

The ladies were quick to point out that each of

breathed new life into the neighborhood

will receive over 20 years of experience from gardeners

their members had an expertise and together they

touting the benefits of organic food, but also the

area. They know what works in the soil here and what

an expert on roses, another would be an expert on

garden club. Not only are the experts

importance of planting with organic means and

recycling shells and peels from food to help in the process. Even Pinterest has cataloged gardening and

who have been planting and cooking right here in the is the best way to take care of it no matter what time of year.

“You can go to the Internet and look up information

complimented each other well.

While one was

gardening herbs. That’s what makes the cookbook so well-rounded.

“Everything in the book is good for the ground

planting ideas, appealing to a larger audience.

on north Texas, but that doesn’t mean that it works

and good for our bodies,” said Sharon.

have been sharing their love of gardening with each

one of us has tried it and we know.”

or a field trip. Whether it be a master gardener or

years. For twenty years they’ve all been meeting

future projects which include many that are done in

always something new to be learned. Much of that

educating themselves on all of the beauty and

pot scarecrow at Rayzor Elementary as well as the

Lantana residents Jean Hood and Loretta Shicotte

other as well as the Canyon Oaks Garden Club for

together, taking field trips, inviting speakers and goodness that the earth has to offer.

It’s only natural that the next step for these

ladies would be to create a cookbook—and not just any cookbook.

“It’s actually four cookbooks in one,” said Jean

Hood. “It’s not just for food, it’s also full of natural recipes for your plants and other gardening needs.”

Jean went on to say that the recipe

book comes in a three-ring binder so

that family recipes may be added in before giving as gifts to others.

“We wanted to make sure that the

a gift to others,” said Jean. “It is meant to be a creative spark for new gatherings and gardening with an eye toward freshness and fun-filled memory-making.”

Some of the recipes included natural ways to fight

mosquitoes, organic gardening fertilizer specific

to certain plants and flowers as well as other great organic recipes for the kitchen including jalapeño 22 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

Proceeds from the cookbook will go to finance

Lantana. Some of their projects include the flower seed balls that they made with the kids on Earth Day

at Adkins Elementary. The kids made the seed balls

using clay, dirt and water and then covered in seeds. The kids could take them home and after they dried throw them into the dirt to spread the seeds.

“Everything in the book is good for the ground and good for our bodies,”

cookbooks could be personalized before giving it as

spread, tomato pie and pickled shrimp.

here in Lantana,” pointed out Loretta. “Chances are

“The kids loved those seed balls,” laughed Sharon Kohl, president of

Canyon Oaks Garden Club. “Mostly because it was messy.”

Their monthly meetings always include a speaker

landscaper, the art of pruning or planting, there is knowledge is also included in the book. Many of the

monthly themed gatherings are based on what they’ve learned from their guests as well as each other over the years.

“We are so blessed with good friends and good

food,” said Pam Peterson, one of the cookbook

editors. “Sharing recipes is a way we can give back to our community and, we hope, bless others, too.”

To reserve one or more copies of Dig In for only

15, call or email Pam at qpeterson73@gmail.com or

call 940.241.2050.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 23

24 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

Empowering Women

MYTH

Multitasking Is A

are multitasking we are really switching back

and forth between tasks. Even though it feels

like we’re getting more done, task-switching is highly unproductive. To avoid overwhelm

Debbie Sardone is the owner of Buckets & Bows Maids Service and SpeedCleaning.com

and

the

temptation

these suggestions:

task-switch

try

• PRIORITIZE – Start each day by making a

list of the things you need to do today. Then

circle the top three things you absolutely s women sometimes our list of

positively must do and

we’re multitasking because we’re

importance. If your day

to-dos feels endless. We think

do those first in order of

unloading the dishwasher while putting dinner

falls apart you will have

on the table, listening for the dryer buzzer to go off (so the shirts don’t wrinkle again), and responding to email notifications on our phone. But what’s really going on here is actually slowing us down and preventing us from getting more done in less time. We’re actually just switching back and forth between tasks. Apparently there’s no such thing as multitasking. Neuroscience research has shown that the brain can only process one activity at a time. We can’t do tasks simultaneously so when we think we

done

the

important your list.

three

things

most on

• DELEGATE – Let’s put down that red

cape and admit we aren’t Superwoman and

ask for a little help. We have not because we ask not. Let the kids set the table and

the husband grab the laundry while you’re putting dinner on the table.

• OUTSOURCE - Consider outsourcing the things you don’t have time for or

“. . .we are really switching back and forth between tasks.”

don’t

enjoy

doing

pool

maintenance,

etc.

housecleaning, yard work, Treat yourself to a gourmet meal delivery service once or twice a week and save your

time for the things you’d

• TIME BLOCK – The best way to stay

rather be doing. Use online outsourcing sites

off time for each high-priority task. Turn

by you. My two favorite sites are Fiverr.com

notifications so you can work uninterrupted.

every kind of digital project imaginable like

If you work in an office close your door so

graphics,

your focus.

other projects.

focused and avoid task-switching is to block

for menial tasks that don’t have to be done

off distractions like email and cell phone

and Upwork.com where you can outsource

Avoid the temptation to check Facebook.

building Power Point presentations, creating

that co-workers can’t pop-in and interrupt

blogging and article writing, and a host of

spreadsheets,

doing

research,

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 25

Midwestern State Joins NCTC At Flower Mound Campus Midwestern State University (MSU) will be

opening a satellite campus in Flower Mound

at Parker Square adjacent to the buildings already occupied by North Central Texas College (NCTC).

The two schools, both founded by Randolph

Lee Clark, will enter into a partnership allowing

students attending NCTC earning a 2-year

Lantana Garage Sale To Be Held September 24 The Lantana Community-Wide Fall Garage Sale is happening from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m on Saturday, September 24. If you haven’t already registered your garage sale you must do it by September 22. Visit www.whoozin.com/C3H-C7X-QXUD to register. Everyone is responsible for his or her own sale in the front yard. No extra signage is allowed.

degree to moving onto the MSU to earn their

Laser Tag Is Back

same campus.

Laser Tag on the Town Green is back! Saturday, September 24 from 10am until noon, you can keep the kids occupied while you man (or woman) your garage sale or head out to shop at your neighbors’ houses! The cost is $8 per player for 50 player shots. They’ll have 20 person rotating teams but you need to register, so email aslovak@insightam.com to register.

4-year degree as well as graduate degrees on the

MSU’s main campus is located in Wichita Falls.

FREE FUN BINGO Up for a rousing game of BINGO? So are we!

So join us in the North Group Fitness Room on Thursday, September 29 from 1-2pm. It’s free to play and there are prizes for the winners.

26 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

Dentistry From The Heart Is Saturday, September 24 Dental Depot in Highland Village is

giving back to the community by providing

complimentary dentistry to those in need. The 3rd Annual Dentistry from the Heart is

happening on Saturday, September 24 at 8am first come first served, over 18 only and limit

one procedure per patient. They will be offering basic cleanings, extractions, fillings and limited

exams. Contact Lindsey for more information or to volunteer at dentaldepot@live.com.

Story Time Friday Morning Join us for Story Time in the North Group

Fitness Room on Friday, September 23 from 10:30am until 11:30.

It’s open to all kids

between the ages of 18 months and five years. Light snacks will be provided.

Learn The Art Of Shots At Mixology Class Elixir Cocktail Catering will teach you

to bartend like a pro at their shot mixology class on Monday, September 26 at 7pm in

the Group Fitness Room. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll learn the art of creating tasty, technical and impressive

shot recipes. Space is limited, registration is

required. For more information or to register, email aslovak@insightam.com.

Photos were submitted by area residents. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 27

Turning Disabilities into Possibilities,

One Ride at a Time

or people with limited mobility, there is nothing like the freedom of mounting a horse for a ride. That’s why Jim Barton, who suffers from athetoid cerebral palsy, was instrumental in the formation of Riding Unlimited, a therapeutic horsemanship facility located in Ponder. Jim is 71 years old and still rides with Riding

our adherence to over 100 safety standards that cover

gentle, repetitive movement, it moves the rider’s body

Patricia Dellemann, Executive Director. “There are

Unlimited once a week. Because the gait of a horse is a in way that is very similar to the human gait, giving

physically disabled riders both a positive physical and emotional response.

While getting on the horse is the first step, so

to speak, therapeutic horsemanship is much more complex than just a ride.

Therapeutic horsemanship is a term

everything from administration to horse care,” said only three Premier Accredited centers in Denton County, however, Riding Unlimited was the first.”

In addition to the center being certified through

PATH International, all of the riding instructors are

also certified through PATH International. In order to become certified, the instructors must teach 25

hours of lessons under the supervision

that is becoming more well-known

of a certified instructor and then

in north Texas and in many parts

of the country. However, in

“It’s wonderful to see the boost in self-esteem when we put a rider on a horse”

1990, when Riding Unlimited was

founded,

there

were

very few places that offered therapeutic

horsemanship

and Riding Unlimited was

the first in Denton County

PATH

(Professional

Association

Therapeutic Horsemanship).

course a

“In order to retain the Premier distinction, we

undergo a site visit every five years to demonstrate 28 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

offered

certification

through

teaching

demonstration

and a riding test in order to

be certified. Once certified,

they are required to maintain

commitment to safety and a working knowledge of pairing horses with those riders with disabilities.”

Dellemann herself has been with Riding Unlimited

for 19 years. She started as a side walker in classes and

moved up to her current position of Executive Director. Most of the staff has been with Riding Unlimited a minimum of 7 years. Additionally there are currently 14 equine therapists (horses) on the property with each class limited to four people per class.

As to the physical benefits of riding, learning to ride a horse requires balance and coordination. Many physically disabled children lack muscle tone, and consequently, their coordination is lacking. Equine therapy gives a disabled child a fun experience that also helps develop muscle tone, balance, and coordination. It may also improve upon hand-eye coordination. It achieves the same results as standard physical therapy but in a fun, comfortable, fresh-air setting. While many can work in a physical therapy setting and get results, there is the connection between the horse and the rider that is unique to this type of therapy.

For those with emotional problems, the

membership

unique relationship that is formed with the horse

their education as it pertains to

patience. The sense of wonder and independence that

“With so many new start-up programs in the

“It’s wonderful to see the boost in self-esteem when

but

the

PATH. They must pass both

their

with the distinction of being

a Premier Accredited Center for

through

“Our certification through PATH demonstrates our

individual

must

also

continue

their profession.

area, it’s important for people to know what to look

for as they consider equine therapy,” said Dellemann.

can result in increased confidence, self-esteem, and is experienced while riding on a horse is also beneficial. we put a rider on a horse,” said Dellemann. “Imagine someone who has difficulty controlling his or her own

photos courtesy of Riding Unlimited

by Susan Neuhalfen body learning to control a one thousand animal that has a mind of its own. Just to see that smile makes it all worth it.” Their programs also include learning to groom a horse, which can aide disabled children in their comprehension of the importance of caring for other living beings (both animals and humans). In addition, once the child understands how to groom the horse, it allows him to start directing the grooming process. A step like that does wonders for a child’s self-confidence, not to mention that it’s a natural decision-making and problem-solving activity. “I never leave here with a frown after working with these riders,” said Dellemann. “They overcome so many challenges in their lives, each and every one of them gives me inspiration to be a better person to work harder to provide the opportunity for more riders.” Riding Unlimited serves ages 4 and up with physical and cognitive disabilities. They strive to make the cost manageable for all of those in need in the community and they never turn anyone away due to their inability to pay. Riding Unlimited is a 501(c)3 non-profit so any and all donations are tax deductible. They currently have volunteer opportunities available to help with the classes. For more information email volunteer@ridingunlimited.org or call the ranch at 940-479-2016. Another way to help is to attend the Barn Bash fundraiser happening on Saturday, October 15 from 5 to 10 p.m. which will include live music, a silent auction and BBQ dinner. For more information email director@ridingunlimited.org or call 940.479.2016. SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 29

Mommy

Daughter

Paint Night Presented by the Art House Summer Art Camps

photos courtesy of the Lantana Golf Club 30 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

The Nelsons:

Making Time for What’s

Most Important by Steve Gamel

Lantana Resident

rett and Karma Nelson are as busy as they’ve ever been in their professional lives – Brett the owner of a growing family law office in Flower Mound and Karma a successful health and fitness coach. So to say their calendars fill up quickly would be an understatement.

32 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

comes up, homework, constant adjustments

to work schedules to compensate for the kids’ extracurricular activities, and of course, the dreaded early-morning drop off lines at school.

On top of all that, we have to find ways to keep

“When you plan in advance, the expectations are clear for everyone – even us as parents” growing our businesses in this fast-paced life.

Everyone here at Lantana Living felt Brett

and Karma Nelson were the perfect September

cover story because, well, they are in the middle of all that. They each juggle extremely popular

and growing businesses while committing

themselves to being the best possible spouse and parent they can be.

They’ve become known for offering quality advice on everything from marriage to faith and family. They insist they don’t have all the answers, but trust us when we say they typically come pretty close. It begins, as the Nelsons tell us, with a calendar. At least once each month, Brett and Karma sit down and compare their respective calendars. And we’re not talking about skimming the surface of proper scheduling, either. We’re talking about a total deep dive. This includes cross checking Brett’s schedule to see which days he needs to be in court with the various things that Karma has going on, which can include training seminar trips or late coaching calls for her virtual health, fitness, and coaching business. They’ll carve out time for a date night, and to make it all run as smooth as possible, Brett and Karma will get their children involved by divvying up responsibilities around the house. Speaking of the kids, the couple gets even more

Sponsored Content

But this happily-married couple from Lantana will undoubtedly find a way to carve out quality time together, whether that be a quick night away for just the two of them, or a family dinner with their three children. The Nelsons make time for what’s most important, which in this day and age feels like everything. “Here’s the thing, we are all busy,” said Brett, who owns Nelson Law Group, P.C. “Our businesses are growing and our activities are increasing, but you can’t lose sight of the relationships that are important. In my practice, I see far too many people focus too much attention on everything but their marriage and families. If you don’t make these relationships a priority, you will have trouble in these areas.” This is the season to send our children off to school, and while that is an exciting time, it can also be exhausting. After all, you’re re-acclimating your easy-going summer lives to packing wholesome lunches before the sun

Perhaps that’s the biggest reason why she calculated and intentional with school and enough time for family and friends, exercise and remains so successful. extracurricular activities. Those can actually be a hobbies, and achieve a good work-life balance. The Nelsons have been married for 16 years, beast in and of themselves. For Brett, it’s that work-life balance that is the and as Brett puts it, Karma is the most attentive They have three children, all in different most important piece. schools and all with different responsibilities. Sure, Nelson Law Group – which focuses mother and caring wife he could ever hope Their daughter Lucy, 14, is a freshman at Guyer on everything from family law to personal to have. and needs someone to take her to school each day. She practices four and sometimes five times per week with the Thundercats competitive cheer team at Cheer Athletics in Plano. Pierce, 12, is in the sixth grade at Harpool Productivity experts say absolutely. When done effectively, using a calendar helps you avoid Middle School and is starting his first season of taking on more than you can handle, add contingency time for the unexpected, have enough tackle football with the Lantana Wildcats. He time for family and friends, exercise and hobbies, and achieve a good work-life balance. also takes guitar lessons. Peyton, 9, is a thirdgrader and plays just about every sport, including football, baseball and basketball. He also takes “You have to honor that time with your injury, civil litigation, estate planning, and small drum lessons. family,” Karma said. “We cherish our two nights To keep up with it all and still have the business legal needs – is a big part of Brett’s life. per week that everyone can sit down and eat wherewithal to adjust on the fly, the Nelsons There were times in the past, he said where he dinner together.” chart everything from schedules to chores, would get up at 3:30 a.m. and stay at work all day And it all circles back to scheduling. church obligations, and other responsibilities. – oftentimes not coming home until after 8 p.m. “When you plan in advance, the expectations Everything has its place in the calendar, and It can be easy to get caught up in chasing the are clear for everyone – even us as parents,” Brett it’s organized. mighty dollar, but all that did was put pressure said. “There’s no stress on the relationship because They’re very intentional, they’re extremely and strain on his family. everyone knows where everyone is supposed to calculating, and they are almost always on top “In the past, I would have been quick to get be, what they are doing and when they can be of their game. angry, say, ‘I don’t have time for this,’ and just in the mix to chip in. You have to be intentional, “When you run a big family like we do, you rush off to what I felt was more important at organized, disciplined, you have to have fun, you have to stay on top of it or else it could break work,” Brett said. “But this family is important.” have to laugh, and you have to prioritize all of it. down into total chaos,” Karma said With a renewed mindset, he’s found Everyone I’ve talked to has said that if you don’t with a laugh. “Even if it’s just he can put his family and God do that in your daily life, you won’t do it at work.” once a month, you have first while still making his Karma and Brett juggle careers with the to prioritize. There’s clients happy. typical trials and tribulations that go along with been times where Karma has had a any marriage. That’s quite a load, and it’s not hard I haven’t been on similar mindset to see why their calendar fills up so quickly. But top of it, and shift. Through they are committed to one another, and insist on all it does is partnering beginning and ending each day with family time. stress me out, with It’s the sort of balance every family could which stresses BeachBody stand to have more of. the kids out to start her “I feel like I’ve been running my business all my because then own business, life, and the principles I followed that provided they don’t she has the me with a good career are equally applicable know what’s when it comes to my family,” Brett said. “It’s a lot opportunity The Nelsons have been married for 16 years, going on, either. to help of work, and our calendars fill up fast. But Karma and as Brett puts it, Karma is the most I try to prep the busy mothers and I are blessed to have the family we have.” attentive mother and caring wife night before and everywhere who he could ever hope to have. go over the next day’s need that extra push to activities so everyone knows realize their fitness goals and what to expect.” potential for a healthier lifestyle. Karma added, “But trust me, there are constant Karma, as you probably guessed by now, is a adjustments to our calendars.” busy momma as well. She realizes all mothers

photography by Scott Young Photography

Is it really as simple as using a calendar?

Productivity experts say absolutely. When

done effectively, using a calendar helps you

avoid taking on more than you can handle, add contingency time for the unexpected, have

need that extra push. You would think it all comes naturally for someone as fit as Karma, but like everyone else, it takes work and dedication. But she continues to find ways to always be there for her children first.

www.NelsonLawGroupPC.com • www.KarmaNelsonFitness.com SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 33

Learning

STEAM Learning for Preschoolers

by Erin Lundie, M.Ed

t’s no secret that science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) are all important subjects in education, but what about in early education? While some of these topics may seem too complex for preschoolers to grasp, child care providers and parents can start laying the foundation for STEAMrelated skills and concepts earlier than you may think. The key is introducing the right activities at the right time. At Primrose School of Lantana, children

learn and practice STEAM concepts—as well as concepts in language and literacy, social

studies, music, physical development, character development

and

life

skills—continuously

throughout the day. While STEAM often

provokes thoughts of science experiments, building blueprints or video games, for young

children, STEAM looks more like the following:

34 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

• Science

–

Encouraging

children

to investigate and answer their own questions.

• Technology crayons, rulers

– Using simple tools like

and

magnifying

glasses,

and more complex ones like microscopes and computers.

• Engineering

–

Helping

children

recognize problems and test solutions to them.

• Arts children

– Fostering creativity and allowing to

illustrate

are learning.

• Mathematics explore

numbers,

–

concepts

Helping

patterns,

organizational skills and much more. Process

skills,

observations,

which

include

hypothesizing

and

they

children

shapes,

making critical

thinking, are key components of STEAM. These skills help young children grasp math

and science concepts early in life, but can also be applied to other subjects and more complex

concepts later on. It’s also essential to engage children in STEAM subjects early on since they are becoming increasingly important in today’s world.

The Primrose Balanced Learning approach is integrated, meaning every skill and concept taught is reinforced through different activities and guidance from teachers. For example, plants may be explored through free play, books, art, and

discussion, while teachers ask probing questions and share information along the way to guide and extend children’s thinking. This ensures each child has many opportunities to connect with the subject matter. While children are investigating STEAM subjects, exercising language skills or learning about honesty, every Balanced Learning lesson is wrapped in fun, meaningful experiences designed to help children reach their full potential, and learn at their own pace. At home, try incorporating STEAM activities throughout your day- cooking, sorting activities (groceries and laundry are great opportunities), scavenger hunts when you go on walks (look for colors, patterns, natural objects), and experimenting with color with paint or pudding are all simple activities that can unlock your child’s curiosity. To learn about Primrose School of Lantana, visit www.PrimroseLantana.com or call 940.455.2550. For more helpful parenting tips, visit the Pointers for Parents blog at www.PrimroseSchools.com/blog

A phone app review by Christine Olmstead of Distillery Creative

ou know what language they don’t teach in school? Food Labels. Am I right? Trying to read a food label is like trying to decipher a toddler’s made up language,

Take out the app and scan the barcode of any

typed in itty-bitty letters.

immediate grade of the food item you scanned.

Monocalcium phosphate? Dextrose? Sodium

metaphosphate? Carboxymethylcellulose?

I know, you think I made all these names

up. That last one I legitimately read on the back of a package I had in my pantry. Stop

Googling

those

ingredients. Stop guessing if

those snacks you put in your

child’s lunch box are healthy.

item (the app has a built-in scanner.) After you’ve scanned the barcode, a new screen immediately pops up and gives you a rating for the item from

A to D. Just like a school report card, you get the

One tab over explains the reason the food received its rating, in easy-to-understand terms, without

using crazy words like Carboxymethylcellulose.

I will admit, I am mildly obsessed with this

and here are just some of the cool features. Try

this the next time you go to the grocery store.

Fooducate is available for free in the Apple and Google play stores, and the app is available on your web browser. Join a community of other health conscious individuals, who share your

TBHQ…”etc. It also gives you

for health, value, and flavor. These are just the free

recipes blogs to plan meals that have been graded

the option to click to learn

features. If you want to unlock more features, you

“controversial

about

processed

those

chemicals.

highly You

can click to read where the

box are healthy.

app. Fooducate is really cool for many reasons,

your weight-loss goals.

additive

sodium,”

in your child’s lunch

with Fooducate.

suggest meal plans or foods to help you reach

health goals. At Fooducate, you can find healthy

those snacks you put

without learning how to say it,

you type in your health information, and it will

The explanations read like this, “high in

Stop guessing if

Get the answer right away,

The app has a built in diet food tracker, where

hard-to-spell ingredients came

from and why they are harmful

to your health and the environment.

Another tab provides nutrition facts, and

the last tab suggests better alternatives that have an A-rating.

You can easily track your food’s ingredients

for health reasons, or to help you lose weight.

can for a fee. Grade your food, figure out what you are putting in your body, eliminate the highly processed foods, and learn why some foods are unhealthy for you. Fooducate yourself ! DistilleryCreative.com is a local graphic and web

design firm. Their expertise is branding, graphic, print and web design, social media marketing, and SEO. Contact them at 940.448.0092 or Suzanne@distillerycreative.com.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 35

Live

by Susan Neuhalfen

ancer has become entirely too common. Though the first writings of cancer date back to the 17th century, it seems recently that everyone who is reading this article knows someone with cancer.

The good news is that because of the many

medical

LIKE YOU WERE DYING

breakthroughs

everyone

reading

this article also knows someone who has survived cancer.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness

month. The thought of a helpless, innocent

child suffering from this disease is too much for most of us to bear. It’s like that scene out of

the movie “The Green Mile” where John Coffey

supernaturally heals the sick. We, as parents and as adults, want to take the disease from them and take the suffering from them. No child should

miss out on the craziness and fun that is defined

in childhood. Yet, though many of those suffering

from cancer do miss out on some fun activities, their resilience is nothing short of heroic.

We all want to find a cure. The truth is, we

all want to figure out absolute prevention so

there will no longer be a need for radiation, chemotherapy and other drugs in the first place. Until that joyous day comes, let’s look at what these kids with cancer have taught all of us.

They are Selfless

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 request for Christmas present donations for kids being treated for cancer and blood disorders at

Children’s Medical Center Dallas, the hospital

where she began her treatment as well. She

originally 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 for Christmas.

36 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

They are Tireless Kincaid Zindel of Lantana is always helping other charities such as Team Conner, Atty & Alex’s Lemonade Stand, as well as his own fighting force, Team Kincaid. He has now decided that he wants to use something he loves (cooking and eating) to help others so he is going to collect recipes and make a Team Kincaid Cookbook to sell and use the profits for charity. While many kids are figuring out how to level up on a video game, Kincaid and others work tirelessly to never stop fighting for a cure.

They Make the Most of Every Day

Most children suffering from cancer have more sick days than well. When a person is sick, with any illness, it’s hard to see the bright side of a day. Many of us simply wait for the illness to pass in order to get on with things. These children don’t have that advantage. Their illness may continue for weeks and most don’t know a time without it. They appreciate the good days. On the not-so-good-days, they make the most of what they are given and smile through it, even when they aren’t feeling good. We could all learn from that.

They are Not Vain

Imagine losing all of your hair. How would you handle it? These kids can find happiness in a crazy wig, a fun hat or just smiling from ear to ear with nothing covering their noggin at all. When you’re fighting every day as they are, you

put your energy where it belongs…in the fight. Not in something as shallow as outside beauty.

They are Courageous

Sadie Keller also made a video to Vice President Joe Biden asking him to help make childhood cancer research a national priority. She urged the vice president to attend an event called CureFest in Washington, D.C. aimed at uniting the childhood cancer community. When was the last time you even wrote a letter to a politician or attended a town council meeting for that matter? When did we become so wrapped up in our own lives that we forgot to take the time to make our country better? When did we stop fighting for what is right? Some of us haven’t, but let’s face it, many of us have. Long story short, these kids are an inspiration. In their short lives, they have learned to prioritize what is important. They have shown us to be grateful for the day and for the journey, as well as for whatever obstacle comes in our path. They understand the power of positive thinking and they are wise beyond their years. As the country song goes, “Someday I hope you get the chance to live like you were dying.” Today is that day. Start now, for Sadie…for Kincaid…for yourself.

What will you do to inspire others?

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 37

R A I N I NG L THOS

e v o

R E ’ O

D E E IN N

by Susan Neuhalfen

ichelle Conner was volunteering

for a job. If she doesn’t have a car, Grace Like Rain

in kids whose parents were

childcare, a Grace Like Rain sponsoring family

for an organization that took

will provide her with a ride. If she doesn’t have

struggling to keep their families together when

will keep the child in their care during the day or

to be doing. There are ministries for families struggling with particular issues such as alcoholism, physical illness, mental illness or abuse. What about the other families that are struggling, but not with a specific problem? Where would they turn for help? 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. According to Conner, Grace Like Rain is committed to extending God’s love to 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. “These are people just like us who love their kids and want what’s best for them but they need a little help,” said Conner. “Most of us take for granted that we have a support system of friends, neighbors and family, this is something that our families don’t have.” With Grace Like Rain, parents are matched with a case manager who helps them develop a plan for their situations and outlines specific steps to reach those goals. They are then matched with a volunteer coach who gives them guidance along the way. Here is an example of how Grace Like Rain steps in to help. Most of the people they help are single moms – it’s not a preference, it’s just where the need usually lies. A single mom is interviewing

that are really big things—that Grace Like Rain

she found that there was more they needed

38 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

for however long is needed. It’s the little things— steps in to provide.

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. They also call to families to love on

these parents and give them encouragement as they work their way through their troubles.

“The goal is to keep these kids out of foster care

and with their parent or parents until they can get

back on their feet.” Conner said. “Giving them a family to turn to provides a support system and opportunities they didn’t have before.”

Referrals for Grace Like Rain come through

organizations, schools, food banks, churches and

other outreach ministries that don’t cover these

types of issues. Though many are single parents, Conner said she sees all walks of life and they strive

starts at 5:30 p.m. and tickets may be purchased at www.gracelikerainministries.org. Conner also looks forward to sharing her vision for the ministry during the evening and helping families understand what it takes to be the community that surrounds and loves these families in need. “It takes a lot of people to help a family but not necessarily a lot of time,” said Conner. “We are respectful of people’s time and any time or help that you can give we can find something that works with your schedule.” For some, having the time to help is all but impossible, but donations are also welcome. There is a wish list at Amazon.com for Grace Like Rain, mostly consisting of diapers and other necessities but Conner also expressed a need for school uniforms for many of the kids. “There is a huge homeless population in Denton,” said Conner. “What most people don’t realize is that many of the homeless are families with children.” What Conner wants to stress the most is that everyone can help at Grace Like Rain without being saddled into a huge commitment. It can be something as simple as making a dinner for another Grace Like Rain family who is taking care of extra kids or donating a few hours to do admin work in the office. Grace Like Rain keeps a blog to better understand the needs of the charity at www.gracelikerainministries.org and to share a few of the stories about how they got started, their volunteers and their families. Also the Grace Like Rain Facebook page keeps the most up to date information on how to help. “Our Facebook page is where we communicate our needs for the ministry,” said Conner. “Anyone who likes the page can see what comes across and if they can help, that’s great. There’s something here for everyone.” If you are interested volunteering, go to there website and choose the “Join the Family” link to complete the volunteer application.

to help everyone who walks through the door.

Conner’s hope for Grace Like Rain is to

eventually raise enough money to provide a house to shelter these families, as one doesn’t currently exist.

“It will fill that gap for the families that just

need help,” said Conner. “The most important thing is to keep the family together.”

To begin the money raising process, Grace Like

Rain is holding its first fundraiser called Dancing

in the Rain on Saturday, November 5 at the Buffalo Valley Event Center in Denton. The evening includes dinner, a silent auction, dancing and music

by country music recording artist Blaine Larsen. It

photos courtesy of Grace Like Rain

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 39

40 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

ADDING SPACE and Value to Your Home

hen you get do-it-yourself kits to organize your home, not only does it looks bad because it wasn’t made to fit, more unused space is wasted on cheap ready-made organization shelves that really weren’t inexpensive at all. “When it comes to creating more room with

our closets we can gain an average of 30-50% more usable space,” said Jerry Caldwell, owner of

Classy Closets in Grapevine. “It’s not uncommon to literally double the usable space.”

Jerry and his wife Julie have been redesigning

closets, garages, home offices, media rooms, under

stair areas and much more for nearly 20 years. There isn’t much they haven’t seen or organized in

that time.

“Much of what we see is just poorly used space,”

said Jerry. “It’s our job to design a storage system

that maximizes the space that creates a very organized, functional area.”

They have worked on kids’ rooms, laundry rooms,

and craft rooms, designing special cabinets for

supplies. They’ve even built cabinets around litter

boxes complete with a kitty door cut out. They’ll

Sponsored Content

also install a Murphy bed that stores vertically on

the wall, leaving plenty of space, but if a bed is needed, it may be changed around quickly.

“It’s a great way to make use of a room in case

you need another bedroom,” points out Jerry. “It’s like adding another room to your house.”

Classy Closets will come to your house and take

the time to properly measure everything, design exactly what you need and then create it in their

and hardware. They are on display in the showroom so the customer may make the best decision.

“Our niche is being able to come in and handle

shop adjacent to the showroom in Grapevine.

all of the details,” said Jerry. “We are a full service

organized space will look like a beautiful extension

manufacturing and installation. We take great pride

They work to match what you already have so the of the home. It’s custom, it’s beautiful and it fits to a tee. They actually cut, stain, paint, sand and

whatever else is needed to make the area a perfect fit and look for your home.

So in addition to making your life easier, Classy

Closets increases your home’s value, giving your house an edge over others when it comes to selling.

operation from designing the perfect system to in what we do and see to it that everything is done right and back it up with a lifetime guarantee.”

It’s easy to make an appointment online at classyclosets.com or, better yet, call 972.355.7687 to come visit Classy Closets and let Jerry and Julie make your house more livable and more beautiful.

The shop and machinery are an impressive

compliment to a beautiful showroom at Classy Closets. Solutions for every room in the home

We are a full service operation from designing the perfect system to manufacturing and installation. are on display to get the idea train rolling. Closet ideas include custom drawers for jewelry and other

items as well as dividers. They come with soft-closer drawer slides and soft-close hinges. They also carry

a variety of pant ranks, hampers and, best of all, wardrobe lifts, to take clothing racks to the highest point in the room and pull them down for ease of use. One may even chose to put in a rolling library ladder for easy storage and a very classic look.

Along with the basics come the details such as

putting in energy efficient led lighting, custom pulls

1240 Texan Trail, Suite 105 • Grapevine, TX 76051 SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 41

Sidelines

No ‘Mo Romo,

& That’s A Shame N

othing is certain but death, taxes – and Tony Romo injuries.

I hate to say it so bluntly, folks, but isn’t that what it feels like right about now for our favorite – and to be perfectly honest, very brittle – Dallas Cowboys quarterback? I wasn’t watching the preseason game against the Seahawks on Aug. 25, but when I heard Romo got hurt, my immediate thought was, Of course he did. Don’t get me wrong, I think Romo is great. I’m a huge fan, and I’m not just saying that to keep you from lighting the torches and shaking me down in a dark ally. But to be perfectly honest, Romo has more injuries than Donald Trump has insults. OK, so maybe it’s not that bad. But it has to be close. This “compression fracture” is Romo’s fourth significant back injury in less than four years and it’s hard to say when he’ll be back to full strength. Does he even know what full strength feels like anymore? He was sidelined twice by a broken left collarbone last season, and overall, he’s been sidelined by injuries that include a broken finger, a herniated disk and another small fracture in his back. I’m pretty sure he hasn’t played a full season since 2012 or 2013. And he’s only 36. I realize that’s 85 in football years. But he should be more durable than this. Shouldn’t he? Check out this basic graphic, courtesy of The Dallas Morning News.

42 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

by Steve Gamel

DATE . . . . . . . . . . . INJURY TYPE. . . . . . . GAMES MISSED

Oct. 2008 . . . . . Finger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Oct. 2010. . . . . Clavicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sept. 2011. . . . . Lung/Rib . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 Apr. 2013. . . . . . Back Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 Dec. 2013. . . . . Herniated Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Oct. 2014 . . . . . Back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Sept. 2015. . . . . Left Clavicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Nov. 2015. . . . . Left Clavicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 For the Cowboys, it screams another

season without a playoff berth. Per Yahoo! Sports, Romo is 78-49 as the starter, and the

Cowboys are 7-20 when he has been sidelined by injuries.

The Cowboys were 1-11 last season with

Romo sidelined twice.

So now your best option is Dak Prescott,

who has played well for a young guy with no experience. But come on. Throwing him into

the fire – for a 16-game schedule – this early in his career is a crap shoot.

But what option do the Cowboys have at this point? Romo lying on his back in the middle of the field is as indelible an impression these days for the Cowboys as the giant star in the middle of their field. Don’t shoot the messenger, because well, I’m just saying what you already know. I get that the NFL is a violent place and people get hurt. But Romo is hurt more than most. Here’s wishing him a speedy recovery – again.

Until next time, I’ll see you on the sidelines.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 43

Email Absence Notes Now Accepted At Adkins Elementary If a child is absent from school, Adkins Elementary will now accept those excuse notes via email. Just email AdkinsNotes@dentonisd.org.

Automated Call-Out System Will Be Used This Year For Inclement Weather Denton ISD’s will use an automated call-out system for weather alerts. All current contact information on file should be up to date in order to receive the call. There is also a sign up to receive an e-alert via email. Instructions are on the Denton ISD website at http://www.dentonisd.org/Page/40840. The decision to close schools based on inclement weather is made when possible by 6:30 a.m. School closing decisions are reported on the Denton ISD Website, the Denton RecordChronicle Online and on the major television networks: Channel 4 (KDFW), Channel 5 (KXAS), Channel 8 (WFAA), Channel 11 (KTVT), Channel 23 (KUVN) and Channel 39 (KXTX). The major radio stations include: FM 88.1 (KNTU), AM 820 (WBAP), AM 1080, (KRLD), and others. It is also announced on the district’s main telephone line at 940.369.0000.

44 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

District Sees Student Enrollment Increase For Sixth Consecutive School Year Denton Independent School District enrollment increased for the sixth consecutive year with 27,528 students attending classes on Monday, Aug. 22 - the district’s first official day of school. Enrollment increased by 1,295 students, with the district projected to grow at 2.5 percent each year for the next five years. Denton ISD posted overall enrollment numbers of 13,501 elementary students and 14,011 secondary students for the first day of the 2016-17 school year. Guyer High School saw an increase of 87 students. Overall, the district’s high school enrollment increased by 595 students from the previous year.

Adkins Elementary Initiates STEAM Book Challenge Every month, Adkins Elementary is STEAMing it up with a family fun STEAM challenge. Students are encourage along with their families to create a project based on a selected book for the month.

September’s book was Violet the Pilot by Steve Breen. Students were asked to voluntarily participate in a design challenge and create an airplane worthy of the blue ribbon. They could be creative with any supplies and help Violet take flight by designing an air worthy prototype. They could also email a video link of their creation to the elementary school so that it might be featured on the morning news in September STEAM challenges incorporate science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. They are designed to stretch a student’s thinking, exercise creativity and enjoy quality family time.

Blanton Elementary Volunteers Needed Blanton Elementary and Denton ISD are currently recruiting volunteers – especially those who want to mentor or tutor students. The purpose of the volunteer program is to utilize the talents of parents, grandparents, caring citizens and employees in the business community to help students within the regular school program To volunteer, contact the school office or the district’s community relations office at 940.369.0006.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 45

KIDS KUPBOARD

Feeds Kids in Need

by Susan Neuhalfen

Kids Kupboard Ministries Food Donation List

iving in a “bubble” like Lantana, it can sometimes be hard to picture that there are kids going hungry in our community schools but the problem is bigger than you think.

When Lara Lopez and her husband Damen moved to Lantana, they were looking for ways to give back to the community they now called home. They had been involved with a network of schools in Amarillo where they were feeding thousands of kids who were not getting anything more to eat than the meals they received from school. That left not only breakfast and dinner on school days, but entire weekends with little to no food. Lara approached a DISD school counselor to see if any need like this existed in the area. The counselor researched and found that there was a need and Lara got to work. 46 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

Kids Kupboard packs snack bags for children who may not otherwise eat over the weekend when they are not provided school meals. They support 3 local schools: McNair Elementary, Blanton Elementary, and Adkins Elementary. They started by packing 25 bags on Fridays, just plain paper bags with no markings filled with non-perishable food items. Fast forward a few years and four daughters later and not only do they make it a family affair for the Lopez family, it’s a neighborhood effort. Kids Kupboard now produces 120 bags per week for the three elementary schools. Every Tuesday after school, the Lopez family, along

Food Items should be in single serving packaging so that they can be divided up into the snack bags.

Thank you so much for your generous donation!

SNACK FOODS: Pretzels Goldfish or Cheez-It Crackers Sunflower Seeds

PROTEIN: Peanut Butter individual snack cups Tuna and Crackers single servings

(Costco has packages of 6)

Chef Boyardee single serving pasta meals Cup Of Noodles Beef Sticks

FRUIT: Fruit Cups Apple Sauce Dried Fruit Fruit Snacks

BREAKFAST: Individual Cereal Boxes Donut Packs Honey Buns Granola Bars Pop Tart Mini Muffins

DRINKS: Juice Boxes Shelf Stable Milk Boxes

photos courtesy of Kids Kupboard

with the neighbors and their kids, pack and pray over the bags that Lara will deliver to the schools on Friday. “It’s good for the kids to understand that not everybody lives like we do,” said Lara. “It gives them a sense of community, but it also builds their faith.” On Friday, 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. What’s even more unbelievable to some is that these kids aren’t even going to a home of any kind. Some are living in cars and many are homeless. The homeless population among DISD students is an issue that is surfacing as a real problem. These bags, according to Lara, are one of the only consistent things in their young lives. This year, the Lantana Ladies League asked for food donations for their first meeting and with over 100 in attendance, Lara said her car, and her heart, were full. “They not only brought us food, they gave us a donation of $500 for the year,” said Lara. “We are so blessed.” Heather Shimala, president of the Lantana Ladies League said she and the ladies were only too happy to help.

“We were surprised at how many kids needed

help,” said Heather. “It was even a good learning

opportunity for my kids to see how many children were affected by this.”

According to Lara, 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 the like are what they put in leftover grocery bags for the kids to take home.

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue, but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:18

Lara says she is overwhelmed by the support

of the Lantana community, her neighbors, the

Lantana Ladies League and, most of all, the kids who help.

“I tell my girls, ‘Live not by words but by

actions and truth,’” said Lara whose daughters

Sophia, Olivia, Mia and Ava all help each week. “Together we can do big things that make a difference.”

For those interested in donating, e-mail Lara

at soliviasmom@gmail.com.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 47

ME OR YOU

It Is About Those

WITHOUT A CHOICE of childhood cancer awareness month, I will relinquish my I nusuallightcaution with regard to writing columns that may “stir the pot.” You have probably already been inundated with statistics this month regarding childhood cancer rates and deaths. I can only hope that you have also been exposed to many amazing success stories and survival rates, and heard testimonies directly from children and families who have and are currently battling cancer. The patients I care for will continue to grow and change, but my mission will always remain the same. As a pediatrician, I strive to maximize health and minimize illness. To be true to my mission, I must take advantage of this opportunity to educate and emphasize the importance of routine vaccinations in maintaining the health and safety of the aforementioned children as well as others in our community. More and more parents have made a choice to not provide routine vaccinations to their healthy children. Increasing numbers of healthy eligible children in our communities, our schools, and traveling around our country are unvaccinated. Unvaccinated children (and adults) are at an increased risk of contracting and transmitting infectious diseases that threaten the lives of immunocompromised individuals, not limited to children with cancer, but also pregnant women, infants, those with chronic illnesses, and the elderly. Always, and especially this month, let us think of the children with cancer and how they just want to be children, they simply want to play with their friends, live life completely, and experience the unique aspects of childhood. Their parents can only hope that they fight hard and beat cancer with minimal complications and pain. I understand that when routine vaccinations for healthy eligible children are declined it is out of genuine love and the fear of causing more harm than good to your most precious

treasure. The internet is flooded with frightening stories and headlines. Some are true and valid and many are not. Most are very emotionally driven and no doubt impactful, but talk with a healthcare professional, or many, before making big healthcare decisions regarding yourself and your children. Let us all pledge to do our part to minimize complications in those battling illnesses or conditions that make them more susceptible. The good news... Since the majority of parents, around 90%, still vaccinate their children, we are able to provide adequate protection for those who cannot be vaccinated. Herd immunity is a major factor in ensuring that these children, along with the at-risk members described above, do not encounter vaccine-preventable disease. The bad news… more and more children are being exempted from vaccines on a daily basis in this country. When less than 90% of children in a community are immunized, infectious disease can take hold and spread rapidly. Making the choice to immunize your child gives them the freedom to visit a newborn, learn in a classroom, socialize on the playground, and spend time with grandparents with less fear of contracting or spreading a life-threatening illness. Many prayers and blessings for those struggling in this time. Lantana Resident

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.

74 McMakin Road, Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 940.455.7200 www.LantanaPediatrics.com Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-6:30pm • Friday: 7:30am - 5pm • Saturdays: 9am - 12pm Call to schedule appointment with Dr.Butler or our NEW Nurse Practitioner, Melanie Bitzer.

Sponsored Content

It Is Not About

YOU CAN FLY YOUR FLAG HERE

national story broke in late

must be located in approved areas of your property.

community in Corinth.

flag you wish.

August about a neighboring

appears a resident in the Oakmont

Country Club Estates was flying a “Back

the Blue” flag. The letter the homeowners association sent him read in part:

“No noxious or offensive activity shall be undertaken

on the property, and nothing shall be done which

is or may become an annoyance or nuisance to

the neighborhood.”

As we all know when you sign up to live in a community

with an HOA, it comes with its benefits and challenges.

As the first elected board member of the HOA, I want to give clarification on what is and is not allowed in our community.

After a conversation with the staff, I have

But our community is free to fly just about any So with college football seasons starting, brush off the University of Texas, UNT, or Texas Tech flags, and, as much as it pains me to say, the Oklahoma Sooners flag is ok as well. IF you want to fly a “Backing the Blue”, Donald Trump or even Gary Johnson flag it’s allowed. The only restriction of expression we have is not displaying anything vulgar. So if it has profanity or something that would be inappropriate for my 9 year old daughter to see, it could be a problem. Our HOA has a responsibility to keep our home prices high.

It has the responsibility to keep our

neighborhood looking nice and to keep us safe. believe we have wonderful people who care and are doing a wonderful

been told Lantana HOA does not want to limit

job. I am proud that our community

guidelines of size and how you display a flag. And

next month because of something

anyone’s freedom of expression.

We do have

if you want a flag pole it has restrictions, and it

will not be on CNN or Fox News like a “Back the Blue” flag.

by Jim Bridges

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 49

TRUST ME

You’re Children’s Future May Depend on It! by Adam Burrows

ne of the most important roles in life is that of a parent. All parents have a duty to love, protect and help their children

grow into adulthood. This is a duty that entails that we as parents have to keep our children’s best interests in mind before our own. A parent has to make tough decisions and sacrifices on a daily basis. One of the most important decisions that a parent can make is to invest in their

children’s future. As an Estate Planning Attorney, my role

is to help my clients understand that the decisions we make in life for our children may

not be what we intended after we pass away. As I explain to my clients, leaving a great sum

of money for your children may be a great

idea but without parameters, this blessing

may soon turn into a curse with unintended consequences for your children. A Living

Trust allows the structure that your children desperately need to help provide for their

health, education and way of life for many years to come.

Most people have a preconceived notion

that Trusts are for rich people. The truth

is, that EVERYONE can benefit from a Trust and most importantly so can your children. Think about it, if you passed away today and everything you own went to your children will they truly know how to manage the responsibility of a sizeable inheritance? Will they know how to invest and save for the future? It is my passion to make sure that your children are protected until they reach the age to manage the gift that you left for their future. What is that age? Every child is different, but that is why we plan ahead. As I tell my clients, if a sizeable inheritance was given to me at the age of 18 or 19 the first place I would have found myself would have been at a new car dealership buying a Porsche! I face these same decisions that all parents are faced with because I too am a parent. As I help you plan for your children’s future, I also take into careful consideration the steps I have taken and would take to protect my own child’s future. It boils down to this… Is it going to be a trip to the Porsche dealership or a financially secure future for your children? Let me help you make that decision while it is still yours to make.

Call The Law Office of Dale A. Burrows today at 972-304-6000. Mention this article and receive a free consultation to help me, help you, plan for your children’s future and much more. Visit us on the web at www.burrowsatlaw.com.

At the Law Office of Dale A. Burrows, P.C.,

we believe a strong will ensures a lasting legacy. We turn your concerns into effective plans for the estate you wish to leave to your heirs. We are also able to review your documents, advise you on any significant changes in tax laws, and re-evaluate your

will to make sure that, as your circumstances change, your estate plan continues to preserve your wishes. Call us today at 972.304.6000.

*The information provided here in is given for general information only. The information presented should not be construed as legal advice or the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.

Sponsored Content

50 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 51

C.E.S.

COMPLETE EXTERIOR SOLUTIONS

Now Merged Into One

Come Visit Our New Showroom! 972.539.8258 CompleteSolutionsDFW.com 4401 Long Prairie Road, Suite 400 Flower Mound, TX 75028

We appreciate you supporting small business by shopping local.

54 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

WE ARE

GUYER by Susan Neuhalfen

WE ARE ONE & READY

ver the summer, the principals and administrators in all of the schools in Denton ISD came together to produce a vision. With the enormous growth in the district, the schools were feeling a disconnect with one another and felt it was important that there be a continuity between the elementary schools, the middle schools and the high schools into which they fed.

G Stood For Growth Mindset U Stood For Unquestioned Character Y Stood For You Are Valued E Stood For Excellence By Example R Stood For Resilient Spirit

O’Bara grew up in Denton ISD and has watched its growth as a student, teacher, principal and

The overall theme for the Guyer zone was

to stay connected as one large Denton ISD. Then

READY. This powerful theme was resonated by

“Each zone has a different personality,” explained

now administrator.

She said that with the district becoming so big so

quickly, they needed to come together with school leaders and have a conversation. First they wanted

WE ARE GUYER, WE ARE ONE, WE ARE

they divided into zones to work on their core values.

Associate Principal Hailey at Guyer High School

O’Bara. “We started the process of defining our

Tammy Allen spent ten years as a teacher in

as he welcomed the new class of 2020. A Twitter

mission and what our core values are as zones.”

position. She attended the leadership training

how the new One and Ready theme is being used to

at Hawk Elementary they referred to themselves as

Allen created a presentation of the Guyer Zone

School. She felt as though they were preparing

Denton ISD and is now in an administrative intern

account @One_and_Ready has been set up to show

seminar which took place in north Denton and then

motivate students and faculty.

Middle School.This mission of One and Ready

team’s WE ARE ONE, WE ARE READY to

“Coming into the new school year it was

Middle Schools as well as the six elementary

presented the final product to the staff at Harpool motivated the staff for the upcoming school year.

present to the staffs at Harpool and Crownover

important for all of us to have a clear vision,” said

schools that feed into these schools including,

Allen. “We needed to get everyone on the same page: the teachers, the students and the community.”

Adkins, Blanton and E.P. Rayzor.

“It was especially important to include the staff

The Denton ISD high schools and their feeder

that wasn’t in attendance so it wasn’t a surprise to

by zone and each came up with its own mission

signs posted in the halls of our school and in the all

middle and elementary school leaders were divided statement. In the case of Guyer High School, the

leaders of Crownover and Harpool Middle Schools

them,” said Allen. “We have the One and Ready of the schools.”

Up until this leadership training, the schools

and its six feeder elementary schools were in

were on somewhat different pages according to

were asked a series of questions which then became

go to Guyer and they were loyal to the high school,

attendance as well as the high school leaders. They

a brainstorming session. The leaders of the schools used GUYER as an acronym and to develop their guiding principles upon which they would stand.

various staff members. They knew the kids would but there wasn’t a lot of connection between the

schools and that was the reason for the meeting. Denton ISD Area Superintendent Susannah

O’Bara remembered that when she was principal

mini-Wildcats as the school feeds into Guyer High

them for elementary school, then middle school, then high school and then the world and this connection and consistency was important.

“None of us gets into this work without having

the graduate in mind,” she said. “This was a very

intentional effort to have all our schools connected and our practices aligned.”

Allen said it has been a collaborative effort and

that the leaders reached out to the elementary and

middle schools to get buy in from the teachers and

staff. They have placed 3x5 cards on the walls at Harpool for continuity.

“We wanted there to be a connective message,”

said Allen. “Those principles that we wrote down

are not just for the kids, we expect those from each other as well.”

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 55

Business Coach

The Personal Touch(es) Have you ever… • Called a company for a quote and never got a return phone call? • Described your future needs to a business, got an enthusiastic response, and then nothing happened? • Met someone at a networking event, agreed to take a call, and never heard from them again?

hese head-scratching scenarios happen all too often in businesses both large and small. Obvious opportunities to sell, provide service or nurture a relationship go unexploited. Hours of time and thousands of dollars spent marketing, networking and advertising are wasted. Legitimate leads are never converted to sales due to perceived disinterest. The way people buy is changing, and one of the big changes is that in our content-centric, options-filled world, buyers require more touches with businesses before they decide to buy. Those numerous touches — as many as 7, 10, 13 or even more depending on who you read and how they count – require a strategy for developing a personal relationship that complements a customer’s interest in specific features and benefits. Chances are they can find features, benefits and prices similar to yours with a few clicks. But why should prospects consider your company at the moment they’re ready to actually buy? They will consider you if they know you and you know them, not just as buyer and seller, but as people who are comfortable with each other, respect each other and recognize their mutual interests.

56 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

Wait. What if YOU own the business that does the poor job of follow-up as I described earlier? As a business coach I meet hundreds of entrepreneurs each year. I believe strongly that all the business I could ever need is linked to the few hundred people I already know – not the 10,000 on some email list I could buy. Here’s the sad truth: less than 5% of small business owners are effective at following up with their contacts (even when there are obvious sales opportunities, as I described above). All the excuses get trotted out: I’m too busy; they know how to reach me; it takes too much time; I don’t want to bug them; and on and on. If you’re building sales nothing substitutes for deliberately nurturing relationships with a big pool of qualified prospects (set a goal to have at least 500). For example, within 24 hours of meeting someone new, send them a personal note letting them know how much you enjoyed meeting them (handwritten will instantly distinguish you). Or thank them in email and attach something informative that you know, from talking with them, they’ll read and appreciate. Ask to connect with them on Facebook and/or LinkedIn. If they acknowledge receipt of your note, then within 7 days touch

them again and suggest a cup of coffee. Your

goal isn’t to sell: it is to deepen the relationship. If they don’t acknowledge your note, push out the next touch to 30 days, but don’t stop trying

to connect. Keep your name in front of them and continue to share ways in which you can

help them with their business. Newsletters are

one way, but my preferred way is to write short, personal “thinking of you” notes with articles, “how-to” tips or recommended links.

Commit to be a master of relationship

development. Use

every

opportunity

you

can to provide value for your prospects. Not

only will you easily distinguish yourself from

your competitors, but you’ll also build a good relationship that will allow them to refer you with confidence to all of their contacts.

Restaurant Review

Granny J Eats The Egg & I has closed down but now we have First Watch The Daytime Cafe! First Watch is an interesting restaurant that only serves breakfast, brunch and lunch. So it’s best not oversleep! When you arrive, they welcome you with a pot — not just a cup — of their Sunrise Select Premium Blend® coffee, along with complimentary newspapers and WiFi Internet access. I love that! The restaurant might seem a little pricey at first glance but it’s totally worth it since the food is quality. They also offer to substitute cholesterol-free eggs or egg whites at no additional charge. Some foods are organic and guess what? The hash browns were fluffy fresh potatoes with a small touch of onion. I ordered the original breakfast but I’m going back to try some of their unusual offerings like avocado bread with eggs. Oh and don’t forget since fall is just right around the corner they also offer Pumpkin Pancakes! Their seasonal menu now has Butternut Squash Bisque, Fig & Prosciutto Toast, a Butternut Squash and Wild Mushroom Frittata. Now I can really satisfy my fall pumpkin cravings! They also serve 2 very delicious (and might I say nutritious) juices: • Kale tonic-kale, fuji apples, cucumber, and lemon • Day glow-carrot, orange, lemon, and organic ginger Your North Texas Restaurant Critic-signing off

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 57

Local Dining

Cornucopia

of Fall Flavors

With autumn just around the corner, you

can expect some incredible seasonal dishes coming to The Table. We specialize in finding

the best in current and local produce, and then tailoring a menu to delight your tastebuds. With

ever-changing dishes and specials designed by Chef Ray, you'll always be able to find something new to try and love.

The change in seasons brings richer, heartier

vegetables to The Table. Stop by and you'll

find butternut squash, brussels sprouts and an

assortment of root vegetables added to the menu. We can't wait to feature tender braised meats and flavors you haven't had since the weather last changed.

We would like to send out a huge thank you to

our patrons for giving us the honor of Best New Restaurant in this year's Best of Denton County

vote. We would love for you to stop by and allow us to show you why we earned the title.

972.874.1010 www.dineatthetable.com

3701 Justin Rd., Ste. 150 â&#x20AC;˘ Flower Mound, TX 75028

58 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 59

Thunder Water Polo

MAKES NORTH TEXAS

he North Texas Thunder Water Polo Club made Texas proud at the USA Water Polo National

PROUD by Susan Neuhalfen

Junior Olympic Championships in San

Jose, California, this summer. Athletes

and teams came from across the country to

compete on a national level at the largest

water polo competition in the world. Seven teams from the Thunder competed and all qualified for the Championship Division. Three teams ended up ranked in the top 25 water polo teams in the U.S.

“This was our most successful summer season

to date,” said head coach Joe Linehan. “I am very

proud of all of the Thunder athletes and coaches.” To qualify for the National Junior Olympics,

teams first have to qualify on a regional basis.

60 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

photos courtesy of Tori Nutt, Colette Sallas and Nichole Carter

The North Texas Thunder competed in Houston

against several teams and came out dominant. According to Linehan, the Thunder was the top seed from the region in all the age groups and

genders. They had a total of four boys’ teams and 3 girls’ teams participate in Stanford, California.

Nearly 700 teams from across the U.S. battled

over a 4-day period within their respective age group—from age 10 and under to 18 and

under—and separated by boys and girls. All of the Thunder teams had a successful run from the 12U team up to 18U team.

“Each year we build on the previous

year’s success,” said Linehan. “This is only the beginning.”

Water polo’s popularity is spreading like

wildfire across Texas. After growing water polo in the Houston area, Linehan came to north

Texas to head up the North Texas Thunder. Denton ISD now has 4 high schools with water

polo teams: Guyer, Ryan, Denton and Braswell. Many area high school coaches are all part of the

parents,” said Linehan. “I am very fortunate to be

part of the athletes lives as they live, work, play, grow, compete, learn, and improve.”

Thunder Water Polo has practice facilities in

North Texas Thunder coaching staff. Water polo

Southlake, Flower Mound and Denton and has

“The Thunder is filled with the hard working,

groups from 6-18 years. For more information

is also being considered as a UIL sport.

home grown coaches and supported by the best

practice opportunities all year round for all age go to www.facebook.com/thunderpolo.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | LANTANA LIVING | 61

TCU

uyer basketball standout Lauren Heard committed to TCU late last month, suddenly giving her family split ties between the Horned Frogs and the University of Texas.

Lauren’s older brother, Jerrod Heard, led the Wildcat football team to back-to-back Class 4A state titles in 2012 and 2013 and is currently in the mix to switch from quarterback to receiver for his third year at Texas. Lauren was a freshman in 2013 when Jerrod was lighting up scoreboards on Friday nights in Denton. She has more than continued that family legacy, and is a huge pickup for TCU. “TCU was a good fit for me because I love the coaches,” Lauren Heard told Adam Boedeker of the Denton Record-Chronicle. “Coach [Raegan] Pebley has a really good relationship with God. It’s really close to my home, so my friends and family can come to the games, and I just love the girls and played AAU ball with a few of them. We have a lot of chemistry already.” The first day a class of 2017 recruit can sign a national letter of intent is Nov. 9, 2016.

“TCU was a good fit for me because I love the coaches” 62 | LANTANA LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2016

Heard reportedly had a ton of offers to choose from, including Houston, SMU, Kansas State, Rice, Louisiana Tech and the University of North Texas. She is one of two Division I players the Lady Wildcats have had on their roster dating back to last season. Former teammate Bre Wickware, now at Indiana, graduated last spring. Heard has shown she can be a dominant athlete on the court, versatile enough to score and play lights-out defense. Last year, she averaged just more than 19 points and five rebounds per game. She averaged 5.2 steals per game, earning her co-MVP honors in District 5-6A.

by Steve Gamel

Heard to Commits

The Lady Wildcats are hoping for a deep

playoff run in Heard’s final season. The upcoming season marks a new regime under first-year head coach Aimee Kilgore and will also see Guyer make the jump to a tough District 6-6A with the likes of playoff powers Plano and Plano West. Heard is up to the task, and said she is ready to make the most of her final season. “When I made the commitment, I immediately felt better with just being able to focus on what’s here,” Heard said in the same interview with the Denton Record-Chronicle. “My teammates here deserve 100 percent of me, so I’m really happy about getting this out of the way.”