September 2015
Brett Nelson, Nelson Law Group
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 3
4 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 5
Featured Stories and News
Fall Community Garage Sale Saturday Sept. 26, 8 a.m.
32
Shops at Highland Village Sip, Shop & Serve Thursday Oct. 1, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Welcome Home Ceremony Johnnie Yellock
1604 Verbena Lane, Lantana, TX Saturday Oct. 3, 10 a.m.
Morning with Mom (PTA Meeting)
Blanton Elementary Cafeteria Thursday Oct. 8, 7:20 a.m.
Fall Festival & Chili Cook Off
Lantana Gazebo Saturday Oct .10th, 10 a.m.
Want to feature your school’s or organization’s event? Contact us at artwork@murray-media.com 6 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Pg 32 On The Cover: The Nelson family (from left) Peyton, Pierce, Brett, Karma and Lucy Nelson.
Photos from Lantana 12
Back to School in Lantana
20
Back to School in Lantana
31
Thank You from Hero
40
Best of Denton County Finalist Mixer
Also featuring photos from Lantana residents throughout the magazine so be sure to check every page!
34 36 38 43 44 48 52 56 58 60
New LGC Leadership Help Lilly Camp
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14 18 22 24 25
Saturday Sept. 19, 8:30 a.m.
’S TOR EDIPICK EN IPI
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Run Lantana 5k
Contents LANT AN
Lantana Community Events
Table of
2015 R E C
Harpool Orchestra Fall Fashion Trends Restaurant Spotlight
Business Owner, Husband & Father Lantana Chamber Lantana’s Crossing Guard Halloween Costume Ideas Empowering Children Feet Problems Beating The Heat Sadie Keller Drones Not Welcome Child Custody U-Nite School Festival
Every Issue 07 08 11 26 29 35 39 45 47 55
From Your Editor Inside Education Inside Community Real Estate The Sidelines Coaching Corner Gardening Rejuvenation Dr. Matt Upscale Home
Conversations
The Small Ones That Will Become the Big Ones A Message from The Community Editor
“L
isten earnestly to anything your children want to tell you, no matter what. If you don’t listen eagerly to the little stuff when they are little, they won’t tell you the big stuff when they are big because to them all of it has always been big stuff.” – Catherine M. Wallace With transition from summer to school and sports schedules, we find ourselves back into the conflicting battle of time management. This is excruciatingly true for those of us with younger children who simply need “talk time” in the crazy busy day. In our house, that usually comes in the car to and from events and/or at bedtime when we are still rushing. Sometimes my boys will want to talk about their day and sometimes they won’t. If they do want to talk, it’s important that I STOP and offer them a space and time to share their stories, emotions, and ask questions. For me, it takes practice to actively listen to their thoughts, attend to their body language, validate their emotions, and encourage respectful conversation and discussions. To many of us, this also involves carving out precious time in the day, but as my boys are growing, so are their minds and hearts. I love their brutal honesty, creative thinking and usually innate kindness (to others, but rarely to each other). These conversation skills with our children seem to be more relevant as another anniversary passes…the attacks of 9/11. For many, the day
recedes further into the past. However, for those who lost someone close or otherwise experienced that day – whether in person or on television – thinking and talking about 9/11 may still evoke strong emotions that transport us back to the tragedy and can jar emotions long forgotten. Many others will have little or no recollection of the event itself, yet understand its details and ramifications through media coverage of the event. Between managing these difficult emotions and conveying the details of such a tragic event, discussing 9/11 isn’t an easy task and especially to our children. We’ve all heard the steps of speaking to our children about tragedy: Don’t avoid difficult conversations, use age-appropriate language, reassure them of their safety and acknowledge we don’t have all the answers. We understandably don’t want to cause anxiety in our kids with any conversation. With the tragedies of 9/11, it is the attacks themselves that are upsetting, not the conversations about them. Isn’t that the case much of the time when listening to our children? My favorite part of talking with our kids is they readily are willing to listen to the emphasis of hope. The attacks of 9/11 showed us the worst in people. But it also was a time when many wonderful, compassionate, and heroic deeds occurred. “Heroes” were everywhere on 9/11 and for a longtime afterwards. The shock and the sadness also brought people together. It’s our job to help our children recognize how their own compassion can prevent future acts of intolerance and violence by reminding them to express their ideas respectfully and to treat people who are different from themselves with kindness. I’ve said it time and time again, in my opinion, kindness should be an instinct. Too often many of us are more empathetic and kind to perfect strangers than we are to those close to us. It’s so important to treat those close to you, as well as your acquaintances, with an abundance of understanding, positive intent and forgiveness. You have one chance to make this footprint so make it count! Kathryn Flores, Community Relations, Marketing and Advertising Manager Argyle Living and Lantana Living Kathryn@murray-media.com (214) 734-5783
LantanaLiving.com
Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton
Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne
Contributors Eric Williams Mark Miller Steve Gamel
Advertising
Kathryn Flores kathryn@murray-media.com Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com
Production Graphic Designers Liz Wallace Stephanie Hansen Whitney Hill Josh Burkham Caroline Brock
Photography
Scott Young (972) 899-3536 ScottYoungPhoto.com
Letters
Lantana Living invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments. Email artwork@murray-media.com. All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group. Editorial and Advertising inquiries call (214) 734-5783 or email kathryn@murray-media.com Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100 Ste. 101 Flower Mound, TX 75022 Lantana Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Lantana Living is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2015 Murray Media Group
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 7
Adkins Watch D.O.G.S. Training Planned for Students, Dads The next general meeting of the Adkins Elementary School PTA will provide information and registration on the Watch D.O.G.S (Dads of Great Students) program plus pizza to enjoy while learning about it. Dads and their children are invited to come at 6 p.m. for pizza followed by the general meeting. Find out how you can be part of this important and popular program sponsored by the National Center for Fathering. Watch D.O.G.S is a school-based father involvement program that works to support education and safety. Please RSVP for pizza by Sept. 23 on the Adkins page of dentonisd.org. Watch D.O.G.S. t-shirts are also available on the PTA website.
DISD Elementary Students to Leave Early Oct. 5-9 Students attending elementary schools in the Denton Independent School District will be able to take advantage of early releases each day during the week of Oct. 5. Elementary students will be released at 12:50 p.m., and buses will depart schools at 1 p.m. They will join all other students in a complete day off Oct. 12 while teachers and staff will take part in district-wide staff development.
8 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Blanton Seeking People for Volunteer Roles In 2015-16 Blanton Elementary School and the Denton
Independent School District are looking for volunteers to help in a variety of roles for the 2015-16 school year.
Opportunities range from baking cookies to
working book fairs, chaperoning field trips to helping assemble class folders and parties.
Volunteers generally will receive emails
detailing upcoming needs. Newsletters, flyers, phone calls and teacher communications also used to mention upcoming events.
Interested people can visit Blanton’s front
office to fill out the volunteer information sheet after which district-required background check will be performed. Once approved, volunteers
will sign in to computers to allow the staff to quickly identify cleared volunteers.
Shop in Highland Village to Help E.P. Rayzor Parents, friends and relatives can help E.P.
Rayzor Elementary School earn the chance to win $3,000 in the It’s Elementary School
Rewards Program in conjunction with The Shops at Highland Village.
By shopping and/or dining at participating
businesses through Oct. 18, writing “E.P. Rayzor” on the receipt and dropping it in the special collection box, the school will receive points to be matched against other schools.
In addition to the top prize, other schools will
earn amounts ranging from $500-$2,500.
Guyer Student Photo Re-Takes Set for Oct. 6 The last chance for Guyer High School seniors
to have their school photos taken will be Oct. 6, the official school photo re-take day.
Other students who have never had a photo
taken or students buying new ones also will have their pictures taken that day.
Underclassmen will report to the café stage
during their lunch while seniors will be scheduled throughout the day.
To view or purchase photos, visit MyLifetouch.
com MyLifetouch.com and use the Picture Day ID: DO105002Q1.
Back to School! Lantanaresident September 2015 | LANTANA living | 9
10 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Lantana Golf Club to Host PGA Qualifying School Again For the 12th straight year, Lantana Golf Club
will host the Professional Golfers Association stage 1 qualifying school Oct. 11-16.
Nearly 80 players attempted to earn spots in the
top 32 and ties to advance to stage 2 qualifying in November in the hopes of obtaining their PGA
cards for 2016. Among the courses where stage
2 qualifying will be held Nov. 10-13 is the TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney.
Final qualifying for 2016 will be held Dec.
10-15 in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.
Rally for the Cure Golf Event Slated for Oct. 3 The 10th-annual Rally for the Cure golf
tournament to raise money for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization will be held Oct. 3 at Lantana Golf Club.
Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with the
shotgun start at 8:30. Following the 18 holes of
four-person scramble format fun, lunch will be served and prizes distributed about 1:30 p.m.
Denton County Non-Profits Benefit From Grande Donations
which even though it was the first case this year points out how residents can reduce their West
Nile Virus risk, “It is important for residents
to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites
The Denton County Friends of the Family
by minimizing outdoor exposure during peak
Texas were the recipients of recent donations
using DEET or other EPA-approved repellents,”
and the Boys and Girls Club of North Central
mosquito activity, dressing appropriately and
from Texas-based Grande Communications.
said Denton County Chief Epidemiologist
Friends of the Family received $1,200 and the
Boys and Girls Club $1,500 from the company’s employee philanthropy club, Grande Cares.
Friends of the Family plans to use its funds
to support programs that help people affected
Juan Rodriguez.
More information is available at DCHD’s
West Nile Virus website
dentoncounty.com/WNV.
Boys and Girls Club will help update its Lake
National Night Out Celebration Coming to Argyle on Oct. 6
Lewisville Resident is County’s First Human With West Nile
event will take place from Oct. 2 from 6-8 p.m.
by rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence. The Dallas technology center.
Festivities for the 2015 National Night Out
in the parking lot of Argyle Town Hall.
National Night Out annually raises awareness
A resident of Lewisville was reported to be the
of preventing crime by encouraging people
the West Nile Virus, according to the Denton
neighbors. The Argyle event will showcase
first human in 2015 to be reported infected with County Health Department.
The Texas Department of State Health
Services confirmed the case in late august
to come outside their homes and meet their community non-profit groups raising awareness
of the work they do for worthy causes in Argyle and Denton County.
The fee for Lantana Golf Club members will
be $95 with non-members able to participate for $125.
For more information, contact
rally4cure@gmail.com.
Lantana Fall Garage Sale Scheduled for Sept. 26 The 2015 Lantana Fall Garage Sale will
take place Sept. 26 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at
Harpool Middle School- Patriot’s Day and 8th Grade Band (Class of 2020) night at Guyer Football
participating homes throughout the community.
Promotion of the sale will be handled by
the Lantana Community Association which
will include directional signs and a banner at the community entrance. Individual signs will not be allowed.
Residents wanting to take part need to call the
association at 940-728-1660 by Sept. 23.
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 11
Back to
School Tyler D’Angelo
Blanton Elementary
Ava
Blanton Elementary
Jo
Blanton Elementary
Abbey
Harpool Middle School
Connor Rodriguez Blanton Elementary
Kinsley Storm
Rayzor
Blanton
Skyler Brown Harpool Middle School
Lantanaresident
EP Rayzor
Lauren Holland EP
Preston Harpool
12 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 13
A
By Mark Miller
fter a year or so directly away from the game, Scott McLinton and Jim Sanders separately decided to return to their roots. Luckily for Lantana Golf Club members, both were able to do it with them. McLinton has been LGC’s head golf pro since March while Sanders became
the new general manager in July. They replaced Ed Garland, who took a job with
Eagle Golf in Chicago, and Stephen Phillips, who become general manager of
San Antonio’s Dominion Country Club, home of Lantana Golf Club’s parent company, the Dominion Group.
McLinton came to the community after a very short stint as interim general
manager of the closing Great Southwest Golf Club in Grand Prairie and a year as general manager of The Lakes at Castle Hills. Before that he was a long-time pro or assistant pro at several DFW courses.
“I just didn’t want to get too far away from the golf operations,” McLinton
said. “I really enjoy the teaching aspect, the tournament operations portion of the golf operation. Being a GM you still are involved with the golf side of it but not as much.”
Sanders spent the last year in the oil and gas business in Odessa. He previously
worked for 25 years in all aspects of the golf industry throughout North Texas.
“Everything was going well in the oil and gas business; it was just an
opportunity to get back home and get back into the business I love,”
Sanders said.
What attracted the duo to Lantana Golf Club?
golf members. “I’ve seen Lantana open up and grow and I’ve always heard great things about the club, the neighborhood and the membership. It’s just a quality facility all around.” Neither
McLinton
nor
Sanders
plan
major
changes in respect to the work done by Garland and
Phillips. They both would like to play more golf but sometimes the responsibilities of their jobs often get in the way.
“We want to continue with the
level of service our membership likes, really just continue the good things they have here,” said McLinton, who resides
in Frisco with wife Jana
and 16-year-old daughter Sydney. “I’m
happy
opportunity
to
for
the
continue
building
on
what Stephen started,” said Sanders, who
commutes from Allen where he and wife Brandy
live with children Brittney, 17, and Braeden, 14. “We want
“It’s a great community and the golf facility has a great reputation,”
McLinton said.
“I’ve been watching Lantana being in the golf business in the area,”
said Sanders, who serves more than 600 members overall and 475
to keep growing and keep growing membership and continue making Lantana Golf Club a big part of the community.”
Taking the lead at Lantana Golf are, from left, general manager Jim Sanders and head professional Scott McClinton 14 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Lantanaresident September 2015 | LANTANA living | 15
16 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Lantanaresident
Lantanaresident
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 17
Lantana Community Pitches in to
Help Lilly Camp Beat Retinoblastoma By Eric Williams
came the terrible news. Their smiling, rambunctious 8-month-old F irst daughter Lilly was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare form of eye cancer that required removal of Lilly’s left eye and chemotherapy treatment that caused her to lose many of the lovely locks with which she was born. The wonderful news is that early diagnosis means there is an excellent
Lilly is completely unfazed. A happy, energetic baby, she is pulling
prognosis that a small tumor in Lilly’s right eye can be treated with
herself up at the coffee table, bear crawling, playing with toys and crawling
preserving the child’s vision. If all goes as expected she will complete her
boxer-heeler cross, and Rogue, a Labrador retriever with an easygoing
chemotherapy and after it shrinks, it can be removed with laser surgery, six rounds of chemotherapy by the end of January.
The terrific news is that the Lantana community has been incredibly
warm and supportive. Lilly has received marvelous medical care at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. Unfortunately, the costs of surgery, chemotherapy, a prosthetic eye and other
after and playing with family dogs bigger than she. She loves Bella, a feisty personality. In fact, she says Bella’s name, having heard it when the energetic dog is corrected. She said “Mama” first and “Dada” soon after.
As with most cases of this rare disease, which the American Cancer
Society estimates is diagnosed 200-300 times per year in the U.S., it
was first noticed by parents. Jill observed that in
certain lighting she could see something cloudy
medical expenses are going to be substantial
in Lilly’s right eye. In most lighting it
even with the insurance Jill has through
was invisible.
the Lewisville Independent School
Concerned, Jill took Lilly to an
District, where she is a first-grade School. Friend Tavia Montana, who works with Jake at Strada
Fitness where he is a personal trainer,
about Lilly’s illness on Facebook and
location that drew an excellent crowd on Aug. 25.
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Nannette Crow immediately grasped
the seriousness of the condition
and made arrangements for Lilly
to see a pediatric ophthalmologist and
N E ’S
Bahama Bucks manager found out
LANT AN
organized a go-fund me page. The
arranged a fund-raiser at the Double Oak
urgent-care facility where physician
Help Lilly Camp gofundme.com/ loveforlillycamp
R’S O T EDIPICK EN IPI
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teacher at Valley Ridge Elementary
2015 R E C
So far, approximately $20,000 has been raised. Beyond that, neighbors
are helping the family out with meals every Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings.
“The love and support has been really great,” said Jake.
Jill said the family remains happy and optimistic. Back in the old days, a
person who lost an eye would receive a static glass or plastic replacement. Jake said that technology has improved considerably. Lilly already has had
an eye-socket installed that is connected to her eye muscles. When the prosthetic eye is installed it will move in unison with her other eye. The
oncologist
Medical Center.
Jill explained that retinoblastoma is so
part of well-baby care checkups. Jake said that
parents or physicians wanting to check for the disease should use flash to
photograph a child’s eyes in a dark room. In normal eyes, the photos will show the eye to be red or black. If white spots show, then the child should be examined further to see if retinoblastoma is present.
Jill and Jake both graduated from Flower Mound Marcus High School
and have lots of friends and family in the area. Jake actually was in the first group of students to attend Valley Ridge Elementary. He was a third grader when the campus opened.
Jake played football for Marcus, while Jill was part of the debate team.
They’ve lived in Lantana for about three years.
of people fitted with the prosthetic eyes and can’t tell which eye is natural.
gofundme.com/loveforlillycamp.
18 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Children’s
rare, that checking for it has not been a normal
artificial eye will be artfully created to be virtually identical in appearance to her natural one, said Jill. She added that she and Jake have seen videos
at
To help with Lilly’s expenses you can go to the website
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 19
Back to
School Presley
Logan
Northstar Preschool
Blanton Elementary
Payton
Guyer Freshman
Dylan
Adkins Elementary
Holli Brown Guyer High School
20 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Kingston Keaton 1st Grade
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 21
Orchestra
THRIVES
In Lantana Beyond Harpool By Mark Miller
O
fficially they are the director and assistant director of the Harpool Middle School orchestra. But if you want to find Kara Ortiz and Ryan Napier on a typical school morning, you’ll need to look elsewhere in Lantana.
That’s because their program isn’t just for students in grades 6-8. It actually begins with fifth graders at Adkins, Blanton, and E.P. Rayzor elementary schools where the duo teach twice weekly before returning to Harpool for daily afternoon sessions. It’s actually been a three-year whirlwind for Ortiz since student-teaching at Harpool in spring 2013. Soon after graduating from the University of North Texas, she was hired as assistant director, then elevated to the lead position in 2014-15 following the departure of Carmen Wiest. “There was no doubt in my mind when they offered me the job that I wanted to be here,” she said. “The administration is great. The parents and everyone involved with the schools in this area, it’s an incredible thing to have.” With her first year at the helm behind her, Ortiz believes 2015-16 will go even smoother, thanks in part to the arrival of Napier. “I feel like the transition between last year and this year wasn’t really a whole lot of a challenge because I had been here as a student teacher, then assistant director, then director,” she said. “I’ve seen a lot of these students grow up these past three years and they’ve known me the past couple of years which has really made the transition smooth and a pleasant one. “Last year learning the paperwork procedures was something new that I hadn’t done before. This year I have a handle on that. And between last year and this year, it’s been wonderful how many students here at Harpool love to be in orchestra and love to play their instruments.”
22 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Photos courtesy of Kara Ortiz, Director of Orchestras, Harpool Middle School
Ortiz has known nothing other than success at Harpool. In her three years, students have earned
six first-division ratings. In spring 2014, when Ortiz was assistant director, the orchestra was crowned Division 4 middle school champion of the National Orchestra Festival in Louisville, Ky.
“We submitted a tape of the students playing and the students to be accepted out of the pool of
applicants that had applied to the international organization. It was an honor to be selected for that,” Ortiz said.
This past spring, the varsity orchestra earned a first-place division trophy while the non-varsity
group picked up a best in class award in San Antonio. “It’s been exciting,” Ortiz said.
The program this year includes more than 200 students, about 150 from Harpool and 55 combined
fifth-graders. They will put on several public performances in 2015-16 plus take part in a number of more private competitions.
There’s the winter concert scheduled for Dec. 1 with this year’s theme being Winter Wonderland.
The May 18 spring show will feature movie music and will be followed the weekend of May 20 with a
trip to the Space City Showcase in Galveston after which the students will stay to celebrate the season at the Schlitterbahn water park.
In between, the 7th and 8th graders will take part in the University Interscholastic League contest
at Guyer High School on March 2 with a pre-UIL concert planned for Feb. 16. There they perform before judges on stage, then in a sight-reading room where they have seven minutes to learn a piece they’ve never seen. Plus, the varsity orchestra always will play at school pep rallies.
While the schedule certainly is ambitious, Ortiz believes her artists will be up to the challenge.
“It’s going to be great. The kids here have a real positive attitude. That’s what I’ve already noticed
the first week,” she said. “The students are eager to learn and they’ve very attentive and supportive of each other and I know they’re getting ready to do some great things this year because they seem to be ready to work for the greatness to be achieved.”
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 23
Top Trends for Fall Great Fashions Made Easy By Megan Condrack
T
his fall, you can make a huge fashion statement while keeping it simple. The
season is all about chunky knits, flared pants, punches of color, coats and yes…fringe!
First on the list, add a couple pairs of flared
list, it is classic and timeless. A nice blouse in
duster is a great choice. It easily goes with a long
Lose the blazer and throw on a pair of jeans for
it makes you appear long and lean.
this pattern under a blazer is perfect for work. that casual weekend look.
Great news Stevie Nicks’ fans (OK, I’m
pants, either in a jean or in a pattern. Flares
showing my age)...Bohemian Style (BoHo) still
“long-legged,” ready-for-the-runway look.
with most ages. From floral prints to long skirts,
look great with heels or wedges, providing that Don’t pack away those skinny jeans, simply
dress, a skirt or most casual wear. The best thing, Top off your style with great accessories. Add
faux fur scarves, big floppy hats, long pendant
necklaces and tassels on anything. Just have fun.
is going strong. This loose and flowy look works
Psst…just not all at the same time.
the Boho image is a very easy trend to add to
love our shoes! Thankfully, trends are all across
Not sure about the full Boho style, just
by men’s oxfords to boots and booties, there
bags and shoes. This season it is on dresses,
any outfit. Looking to add more shoes to your
Now it’s down to the shoes, and oh how we
your fall wardrobe.
the board this fall. You will see styles inspired
evenings at a football game. When wearing big
add a little fringe. Last season it started on
are plenty of options for that final touch on
a slimming look on the bottom. Keep this style
tops and sweaters. Don’t go crazy, less is
collection, go with a chunky heel. This year, the
add a chunky knit top or sweater for that cozy, snuggle factor, perfect on those cold days or or chunky tops, remember to balance it out with
in your closet, the trend is here to stay for a while. Choose a few classic plaid tops, a style that
always says fall is here. The “Window Pane
Check” in black and white is on the top of the
more when it comes to fringe.
One thing is certain, this fall is all about coats.
Yes, we all have several but now is the time to
have fun and add something new. The long
big square heel design is on everything from
boots to evening shoes. Good news...if you’re not willing to give up those flats from the summer, go ahead and keep wearing them into the fall.
Wrapping up your fall wardrobe, don’t forget
to add a touch of color. Some of the top fall
colors include; Marsala (wine/burgundy hues), Reflecting Pond (deep blues), Stormy Weather
(blue grey), Oak Buff (golden yellow), Dried
Herb (soft olive green), Biscay Bay (teal blue) and Desert Sage (green and grey mix).
Want to keep it simple? Use earth tones of
Lantanaresident
greens, browns and blues. Throw in a pop of orange (cadmium orange) or a soft touch of ice
blue or soft pink. Remember, if you can’t wear
any of these colors near your face, use it on a bag, shoes, pants or other accessory.
The most important thing about your fall
fashions...have fun with your chosen style and
do what makes you feel good about yourself. Let your personality shine and when in doubt, ask for help!
Happy Shopping!
Megan Condrack is owner of Megan’s Lifestyle Boutique located in The Shops at Highland Village. She is very proud to support the community since 2000.
WINNER
Best New Restaurant (open under 12 months)
BEST OF DENTON COUNTY
2015
MURRAY MEDIA GROUP
Committed to Community Excellence.
Restaurant Review: Prime Farm to Table O
n Sept. 9, several local business owners were invited to a restaurant review at Prime Farm to Table that was hosted by Chris and Emily Flahaven. It was a special evening for all involved as they were treated to delicious cuisine that is just as healthy as it was scrumptious. “Every plate at PRIME tells a story,” says Chef Chris. “It’s the story of the local farmers along with what our team bring to the table. Some of our local farmers include JBG Organics and Windy Meadow Family Farms. We are proud to serve HeartBrand Beef, the healthiest and highest quality natural Akaushi beef.” Chris Flahaven is personally involved with his American farm-to-table cuisine. In daily conversation with their farmers and purveyors, he plans the daily menu, based on what is being planted and harvested. Butchering is done mostly in-house and many of the whole animals are from local, sustainable ranches focused on heritage breeds. Some of the Hors d’oveuvre(pictured above) that were served included smoked salmon on top of can baked cornbread, quail legs in a thai barbecue sauce, scallops and tilefish ceviche, steamed bun bánh mìs with bacon, and a gourmet meat and cheese plate. Guests also enjoyed sampling some of their signature cocktails like their vodka pink and their orange infused margarita. Many were eager to come back and become regular customers for Prime Farm to Table. Read the reviews below to see why you should stop by for lunch or dinner this week!
“I loved the steamed BLT…the bacon is TO DIE FOR!” — Frank Lundie, owner Primrose Lantana “LOVE that there is such a wide variety of amazing fresh food and high end ingredients.” — Tisha White, Keller Williams realtor “Awesome! Excellence finally brought to Flower Mound!” — Suzanne Reid, owner Suzanne Reid Design “Chris has done a fabulous job of this place. Such a quaint atmosphere, wonderful presentation and mouth-watering food!” — Heather Ledesma, Pure Barre Denton “This place continues to impress! Excited for Chris, his family and his team!” — Dennis Fontana, Piranha Killer Sushi “I always enjoy this place! The pairing of foods always compliment eachother well. Chris truly has a gift!” — William Travis, Denton County Sheriff
(972) 539-1902 | www.primefarmtotable.com 5810 Long Prairie Rd #200, Flower Mound, TX 75028 September 2015 | LANTANA living | 25
Real Estate
When you’re ready to make a move, make
sure to use a real estate agent for your new
C o ns i d er
NOW
New Construction B ef o re It ’ s T o o L a te in Lantana
L
• Newport is in the last phase of Bellaire/90s lots with 23 left to sell. • Reata/70s will be delivering lots in January for Highland and Standard Pacific. • Barrington, in the northeast parcel of Lantana, will be the next neighborhood to be developed.
26 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
what homes really are selling for, if you are
over-upgrading, or if the price you are paying is fair to the market? Plus, using an agent well-trained in new construction you have an advocate working on your behalf to help you make your new house the best it can be.
Look for an agent who is passionate about
new builds, who knows how to negotiate, and can help you make important decisions
for your home. Most of all have fun, don’t let the stress get to you, and remember it will be worth it in the end.
A fresh new trend in new builds is lots of
• Interest rates are still low, houses are selling quickly, it is time to get up and go.
house by painting your cream or dark color
• Better floor plan for your family, lots of great options. • All new means under warranty, less stress and maintenance.
• Current builders are Darling, Highland, Lionsgate, Standard Pacific and Newport. American Legend has one spec to sell. Now that Lantana has a little age under its belt, we are seeing a trend of people selling their current property and buying new construction. Maybe you’re not a new home junkie, like me, but you have been thinking about a new home. Well there are good reasons to upgrade to new.
people make. How are you going to know
• Only 800 new houses until completion, time to get in that new house before it’s too late.
Lantanaresident
antana has been a growing, thriving community now for more than 12 years. During that time, we’ve seen a constant stream of development, new neighborhoods, new builders and a wide variety of home styles. In Lantana, there is something for everyone, including opportunities to move up or down without going too far. Personally, I love new construction, so much so that my husband and I have built five new homes ourselves! We’ve seen the market heating up this last year and building has again accelerated. We’re up to 3,200 homes with another 800 coming. Interestingly enough it won’t be too much longer before new construction in Lantana will come to an end. We have just 4-6 more years of growth. Here are some other great facts:
by Tisha White
home purchase. This is a big mistake many
Tisha’s Tips: Can’t move right now?
white. That is right think white. Brighten your
trim, cabinets and doors white. You will be surprised at how fresh and new your house
feels and it is sure to add value when it is time to sell your home.
Lantanaresident September 2015 | LANTANA living | 27
Blessings of The Backpacks Businesses and residents donated several backpacks that are given to local schools. It is an annual event that helps a child that would not start the year with a new one. Photos courtesy of Mission Moms
28 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
See You On The Sidelines
Fantasy Football Is Just Not My Thing But Only to Myself
N
Apparently, I’m in the minority then.
I just don’t see the need. Maybe it’s because
I cover sports for a living, perhaps it’s my business,
By Steve Gamel
Edit This, that adds to that workload. Or maybe
o, I will not join your fantasy football league. I know that sounds a bit abrasive,
ESPN, Fantasy Sports, CBS, The NFL, etc., can
been asked by 10 different people over the
According to an article in adweek.com,
but I don’t mean it to be. Truth be told, I’ve last few weeks...and in my mind, if I join one league, I’d need to join them
keep track of stats online instead of participants having to do so.
fantasy football’s revenue in 2012 was
$1.67 billion, a 48 percent increase
all. Right?
from 2008. According to the same
That seems to be the case
article, there are 23.8 million
with the majority of fantasy
fantasy football players. Most
football enthusiasts.
are so hooked they play
In a study done three years
in multiple leagues at the
ago by Ipsos Public Affairs
same time.
by Medill Reports Chicago, fantasy sports
already sitting there, why not be keeping track of fantasy stats on my laptop, and on my phone, and on my iPad?
Again, it just seems like overkill.
What happened to just watching a game? I
work and study stats so much as it is, why would
I do it on my day off ? Plus, I’m typically angry
to invest my time in worrying about drafting or
interviewed last year for a story
and older play in the United States and Canada.
chunk of it. I have friends who are the exact
Internet, where fantasy football providers like
But that’s what all my friends and family
who are fantasy fanatics can’t understand. If I’m
on fantasy football said he ran multiple
gentlemen
leagues concurrently for 24 years. While it didn’t
Much of that is due to the growth of the
watching my precious NFL Sunday Ticket.
while watching football anyway because my team
One
participation has surged more than 60 percent since 2007. More than 32 million people ages 12
I am off limits on Sundays as I sit on the couch
I
for the Fantasy Sports Trade
Association and published in a story
it’s my beautiful wife who already can’t stand that
consume his life, it definitely has taken a huge same way.
They love it. They crave it. They want to win.
usually isn’t playing well. So why would I want trading players from a roster? I know, because it’s fun.
It does look fun. For now, though, I’ll stick
to watching.
Until next time, I’ll see you on the sidelines.
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 29
30 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Thank You for Your Support!
SSgt Johnnie Yellock II is almost home! Many residents have come out over the last few months to support him into the community. We’d also like to give a big thank you to all the businesses who have donated to ensure our local hero receives a big welcome.
Supporters of Johnnie
Kenny Tortorici Mike & Michelle Ruocco Karen Alexander
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 31
FEATURED ARTICLE Local Sponsored Content
It’s the sort of balance most families may
be lacking.
Brett Nelson is Conscious of His Role as
business owner, husband
father By Steve Gamel
T
here’s a saying that suggests the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence, and it is used by people who aren’t satisfied with what they have. For Brett Nelson, the grass is only green where you water.
In this day and age, Mr. Nelson said it’s very
easy to be selfish and get too caught up chasing the
mighty dollar. There were times in the past, he said, where he would get up at 3:30 a.m. and stay at work all day -- oftentimes not coming home until after 8
p.m. That, he said, put a ton of pressure and strain on his family.
Now, on a day where he has a chance to come
into the office and talk about his work successes, Nelson calls to say he’s running a few minutes
behind because he spent the morning consoling his daughter, who had recently been grounded and was trying to negotiate a change in her punishment.
“In the past, I would have been quick to get angry,
say, ‘I don’t have time for this,’ and just rush off to
what I felt was more important at work,” Nelson
said. “But this family is important. As we explained
to Lucy, sometimes you have to do what is painful. That was hard for me. I want her to do the things
she enjoys doing. But in life, there are consequences
Sit down for five minutes with Nelson, a Lantana
Pierce 11, Peyton 8). Karma owns her own health
for all our actions.”
Nelson Law Group PC in Flower Mound, and you
she is the most attentive mother and caring wife he
so satisfied with his current situation, wanting
resident and successful divorce attorney who owns will hear plenty of sage advice. Some of it he came up with on his own, but Nelson admits he gleaned most of those words of wisdom from people he says are much smarter.
Nelson took time to learn and put it all to good
use — in his family life and within the community he serves.
“I’ve been prepared for where I sit today, and my
marriage is more fulfilling because of what I do for
a living,” Nelson said. “I have all this context from
which to look through, and it keeps you grounded. I’m not perfect, but I’m more conscious of my
role as a husband and father, and the need to be
more involved.”
When Lantana Living caught up with Nelson
earlier this month at his office in Parker Square, we
asked him to spend the bulk of that time talking
about his family rather than the practice he has worked so hard to create. And as we quickly found
and fitness coaching business, and as Brett puts it, could ever hope to have. Add in their dog Jo Jo, and the Nelson’s are your All-American family.
“When I think back to when I was a kid and what
I used to dream of in terms of the type of family
I hoped to have later in life ... well ... that dream has been fulfilled for me,” Nelson said. “My wife
is an incredibly strong and giving person. And my children are amazing. What and
I
wanted
envisioned
come true.” None
of
has
t hat
happened wi t h o u t pl ent y
of
searc hin g,
so u l
old-
fashioned hard work, an d comm i t m e n t .
Karma and Brett
everything from family law to personal injury, civil
local
needs — is a big part of his life. But work life isn’t
boys, cheerleading for Lucy, and the typical trials
about it. It’s obvious when he starts talking
That’s quite a load, and it’s not hard to see why their
Nelson and wife, Karma, have been married for
to one another, and insist on beginning and ending
Rockpointe
litigation, estate planning, and small business legal
Church, various sports commitments for their two
what makes this man tick, and he’s quite intentional
and tribulations that go along with any marriage.
adoringly about his family.
calendar fills up so quickly. But they are committed
15 years and have three beautiful children (Lucy 13,
each day with family time.
32 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
search for greener pastures?
For starters, Brett and Karma saw what it was
like to live a life without stability. Karma’s father passed away when she was 5, and Brett was a child of a divorced family. Both had to carry with them the stinging pain of being caught in the middle while trying to move forward.
. . . if our life is like a pizza, where you can carve out what you want, or if it’s like a cake where everything is mixed together,” Nelson laughed. “I used to be that pizza guy, but more and more now, my intentions are to be the cake guy.
out, he didn’t need his arm twisted for very long.
obligations at the
nothing more than to improve upon it rather than
“Both
juggle careers with
Sure, Nelson Law Group — which focuses on
So what changed in this man’s life to make him
and
my
granddad
parents were
extremely influential in molding me into the
man I am today,” Brett said.
“My
granddad
was very conservative
and there were things he instilled in me, like
if you are going to do a job, do it right the first
time. Also things like
be tidy, avoid clutter, make your bed. In my
family, I am naturally the firm one, and sometimes
I end up in situations I don’t handle as well as I should. But Karma and I learn as we go. There is no
handbook. We are doing the best we can, just like my parents did.”
As much as Brett has always adored his family,
he was able to recognize early in the process that he
still had plenty of work to do in living up to his role
Pictured bellow: Brett and Karma Nelson. Photography by Scott Young
as a husband and father.
WINNER
role. I was out of work for a period of time and that
BEST OF DENTON COUNTY
“There was a time when I didn’t understand my
really brought me to my knees and the Lord helped soften my heart,” Nelson said. “That process made me understand that all my wife and kids wanted was
my time. That’s what makes them happy, and that’s where I now see the fruits of my labor. When I can
stop and give my family the attention they deserve.” When Nelson was out of work, he was given
a book through Rockpointe Church written by Robert Lewis called, Raising a Modern-Day Knight. The book took a unique approach toward
helping fathers raise Godly sons. Nelson read it cover to cover, and it further validated for him the need to be an authentic man.
“It changed me. My role to my boys is to
demonstrate what it means to be a good spouse
and an honorable, Godly man. For my daughter, it is to show her what a healthy relationship is,” he
said. “Karma and I are very intentional about our
relationship, and we hope our kids find comfort through the security we give them.”
That attitude has carried over to his practice.
Nelson’s philosophy, he explained, is all about
treating his clients as people. And in many
instances, he would rather talk a potential client out of working with him -- and potentially save a marriage -- than make an extra buck.
It’s that personalized approach that has gained
Nelson a loyal following everywhere he goes.
Though Nelson’s firm may still be relatively new
to Texas, owning and operating a successful law
firm is nothing new for him. He practiced family law and operated his own firm in Iowa and Illinois
for 16 years. While there, he gained a reputation as a tireless defender of families. Nelson also led
Highland Village-based Christman, Kelley, & Clarke’s family law practice before starting his own practice.
He will forever be a tireless worker, but Nelson
knows now it’s important to have balance. Being a
husband and a parent is the hardest thing he’s ever done. But it’s also the most rewarding.
“I heard a great presentation where we were
asked if our life is like a pizza, where you can carve out what you want, or if it’s like a cake where everything is mixed together,” Nelson laughed. “I
used to be that pizza guy, but more and more now, my intentions are to be the cake guy.”
He added, “I am always available to serve
my clients. But they don’t take precedence over my family.”
2015
MURRAY MEDIA GROUP
Brett Nelson was voted as Best Family Lawyer in Denton County
Committed to Community Excellence.
Lantanaresident
Local Ribbon Cuttings! The r be Cham
n o i t c nne
Co
Mackey Attack Fitness Tuesday, August 25th Our mission is to Educate, Motivate, and Inspire individuals to overcome any health and fitness barrels that may be holding them back. The M.A.F presents Shrugz Gym will increase your confidence; give you tremendous pride in your accomplishments and great joy from achieving your fitness goals. You look and feel great too!! Fertility Leaders of Texas Tuesday, August 11th
What’s On Tap Choose from many samplers or grab a pint from our selection of 36 rotating taps. Once you know what you like, fill a growler to experience the freshness of draft beer in the comfort of your own home. It's that simple! We are more than just a fill station for your growler. Bring your friends and family to experience a selection of rare and hard-tofind bottled and canned beers. But don't stop there -we also offer equisite wines by the glass, locally-brewed root beer and a light fare menu. A little something for everyone in your family. Become a part of our community and sign up for the newsletter to receive updates on Special Tastings, Meet the Brewer Night, and Private Events.
2809 Justin Road • Flower Mound, TX 75028 Contact: Vernard Mackey • 214-982-9932
Having a baby can be one of the most exciting and rewarding times of your life. Our goal at Fertility Leaders of Texas is to help you achieve a very healthy pregnancy in a safe, compassionate environment. We do this by providing you with support, necessary information, all of the latest technology, and the most advanced reproductive procedures. Our team has more than two decades of experience in the field and we are happy to use our expertise to help you. Give us a call at (817) 945-3506 to inquire! 4370 Medical Arts Drive, Suite 315 • Flower Mound, TX 75028
2570 FM 407• Highland Village, TX 75077 Contact: Brad Trapnell • 972-966-2400
Medical Massage RX (Major Investor)
DFW Shooters Academy Support your community by shopping local. See a full list of local businesses at the Flower Mound Chamber! 700 Parker Square Road, Flower Mound, TX 75028 (972) 539-0500 • www.flowermoundchamber.com
The gun store offers NRA training for concealed handgun licenses (CHL). 1830A Justin Road • Highland Village, TX 75077 Contact: Travis & Paula Bond • 972-436-1911
Located in the heart of Flower Mound, the leading health professionals at Medical Massage Rx are dedicated to helping you achieve your wellness objectives -- combining skill and expertise that spans the entire massage wellness spectrum. Dr. Daniel Canchola, MD and staff are committed to bringing you better health and a better way of life by teaching and practicing the true principles of massage wellness care and clinical skincare. Patients seeking treatment at Medical Massage Rx, with any of our experienced massage therapist and aesthetician are assured of receiving only the finest quality care through the use of a variety of massage modalities and clinical skincare. The entire staff has a genuine concern for your well-being! 2616 Long Prairie Road, Suite 101 •Flower Mound, TX 75022 Contact: Amy Cox• 972-460-4420
34 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Coaching Corner
Taking Care of
look: If you continue your current habits, do you like where you’ll be in a year? Five years? What
Helps Take Care of Others
By Stacy L. Allen, CACP
about the people you care for and influence?
They may actually be getting less because you’re
not at your best. Do they need for you to model how to live a healthy, balanced life so they learn the skills to do the same?
H
ere we are again, the time of year when students trade their sunscreen and
flip-flops for new shoes and notebooks. Ready or not, it’s time to head back to school.
While the flexibility and fun of summer is
irreplaceable, settling back into routines may bring
a welcome sense of rhythm and organization to daily life. When the kids are occupied at school
or extra-curricular activities, you may have more
opportunity to think about what you’d like to accomplish. How long has it been since personal
goals have crossed your mind? What are you currently investing in yourself ?
One common false belief which can sabotage
your purpose: Taking care of me is selfish. First, evaluate it honestly. Do you pay attention to your
Finally, put the oxygen mask on yourself first.
own physical, mental and spiritual needs? Are you kind to yourself ? If you struggle with feeling that it’s selfish to invest time and resources on you, take a moment and ask why. Perhaps you have believed a message that your hopes and ambitions aren’t as important as everyone else's. Maybe you are on empty after meeting the needs of others. Perhaps
Flight attendants advise us to get our own oxygen
supply before helping a child. This advice is as crucial on the ground as it is in the air. How can we
bring our best to our family, friends and colleagues without first taking good care of ourselves?
Don’t wait for an emergency. Give yourself
permission to put the oxygen mask on yourself right now. Schedule a bit of time daily, weekly
you need to set a higher value on yourself. Next, hit the fast-forward button and take a
and monthly for the activities that re-charge
Flight attendants advise us to get our own oxygen supply before helping a child. This advice is as crucial on the ground as it is in the air.
care you need, you’ll be better equipped to help
How can we bring our best to our family,
friends and colleagues without first
taking good care of ourselves?
your batteries and make you glad to be alive. When you’ve given yourself the kindness and those around you.
Stacy L. Allen, CACP is a Certified Coaching Practitioner who helps people find their value and reach their personal, relationship or professional goals. Ask Stacy your questions at questions@stacylallen.com or contact her for more info about her services at 972-965-6487
Lantanaresident September 2015 | LANTANA living | 35
Getting to Know
Lantana’s
Where did you grow up and where do you currently live? I grew up in Oklahoma and live in Denton Do you have a wife and kids? Yes, and I also have two grandkids
What encouraged you to become a crossing guard? I retired after working for Denton ISD for 25 years as a maintenance supervisor...and I got bored (being retired) so that’s why I started doing this
What is the biggest problem you see at the crosswalk? People driving too fast What time do you have to wake up in the morning to make it to the crosswalk? 5 a.m. What’s your favorite hobby? I’m a deer hunter What do you like to read? Crime novels
W
hat was once a dangerous street for Blanton and Harpool elementary school kids to cross on their way to and from school has now become a lot safer thanks to a local crossing guard. Although his face has become familiar to most of us, many may not even know his name. Our Girl Scout troop decided we wanted to learn more about this man and put a name with a face for others in our community. We met with Mr. Steve Clark and asked him some questions to get to know him better. We heard you were a police officer. If so, which police department did you work for and for how long? I worked as a police officer for several different departments for 15 years (Grayson County, Police Chief for Pilot Point PD, etc.) What is your favorite food and drink? Mexican food and iced tea What’s your favorite Girl Scout cookie? The lemon ones (Savannah Smiles)
A Message from the troop!
We are thankful we have Mr. Clark to help keep us safe each day! We used some funds we raised selling Girl Scout cookies to put together a basket of goodies to show him our appreciation. A special thanks to the following businesses for donating additional items for our gift basket: Sonic of Lantana, Kwik Kar Wash of Lantana, Pizza Hut of Lantana, McAlister’s, ModMarket, Bahama Bucks, Subway of Bartonville 4th Grade Girl Scout Troop 4795 of Blanton Elementary: Daisy Hatfield, Anna Woodfin, Natalie Mayes, Rosie Adams, Mallory Jones, Claire LaubTracy, Alyssa Lagomarsino, Amelia Munger, Reese Decker and Kristen Wells Led by Carrie Hatfield, Stephanie Mayes and Amy Woodfin
Did you know…
Girl Scout cookies are more than just yummy treats that come around once a year. Girl Scouts learn many leadership, success and life skills through selling cookies: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics. Thank you for supporting Girl Scouts! 36 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Blanton Meet The Teacher
Lantanaresident Lantanaresident September 2015 | LANTANA living | 37
Classic
Halloween
Outfits with a Twist By: Caroline Brock
October is coming up and everyone’s favorite holiday is close at hand. The one day out of the year where eating excess candy and running around in a costume is socially acceptable. The only difficult question on everyone’s mind is what are you going to wear? Picking the perfect Halloween costume can be more difficult than deciding on what to watch on Netflix. You don’t have to break the bank in order to pull off a terrific costume. We’re taking classic Halloween looks and giving you tips and tricks that won’t break the bank, and refresh your costume that will have everyone talking.
The Classic Vampire
The Classic Witch
The Classic Mummy
We all know vampires love to suck your blood, and not your budget. Here are some tips and tricks about creating the perfect vampire outfit.
Calling all witches! We all know a few witches in our life, and Halloween is the one time of the year we appreciate your evilness. Don’t be afraid to unveil your true form with these ideas!
Being a witch or a vampire can make Halloween a classic success, but lets get real. Mummies know how to get down and party! If you want to rock a creative costume this is the way to go. Grab a friend, family member, or complete and utter stranger for this one.
1
For a vampire don’t focus on what you wear, but more on your makeup. Go all out on the makeup! Youtube has great videos to help you create the perfect freaky face for Halloween. For clothes a simple button down and some slacks for guys, and a nice black or red dress for girls will do just fine.
2
You can’t be a vampire without some sharp canine teeth. Your local Halloween shop should have plenty to go around. This you will just have to buy, but it is a must.
3
You’re a blood thirsty creature so here’s a great recipe to make edible fake blood to really give off your look.
Ingredients Nestle’s Chocolate Syrup Corn Syrup Red Liquid Food Coloring
Instructions: Pour about a cup of corn syrup into a jar. Next pour and mix in the chocolate syrup and food coloring until the mixture is a deep red. 38 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
1
The first place you should always look to find a great witch dress is your closet. Every girl should have a little black dress just waiting for you to transform it into the perfect costume.
2
For a witch it’s all about the stockings and hat! Try some crazy thigh highs for a twist. There are plenty of tutorials on how to DIY your own thigh high socks and your own witch hat. Just Pinterest it! If your not the DIY type you can always buy them at your local Halloween store or raid your local Walmart.
3
A witch never walks around town without a sweet ride. All you have to do is go on a little hike. Find a large sturdy stick and fill another bucket with smaller sticks. Wrap the smaller sticks around the larger one and tie with twine or rope. You’ll be flying in style in no time!
What You’ll Need White or gray clothing for the basis of your costume. White gauze instead of toilet paper.
( For a more aged look you’ll also need black acrylic paint)
1
Put your underclothes on and then have your buddy start wrapping you up in gauze, which you can buy in the medical section at Walmart. (For a more distressed look water down black acrylic paint. Soak the gauze in the paint. Gently wring it out and hang to dry.)
2
To really pull this look off. Decorate with some Egyptian styled accessories, like a pharaoh hat, necklace, or an Egyptian staff for a little twist in this classic look.
Gardening
Do Your Homework When
Planning Fall Outdoor Projects
We are so glad that August is over and hoping those 100+ temperatures are as well. Now that school has started for most and the vacationing is over it's time to get out the to-do list and focus on prepping for fall. It's a great time to get the ball rolling on that outdoor space or landscaping project but as you do remember to protect yourself by keeping an eye out for quality, ensure the estimates you are entertaining are going to be able to deliver on what's promised and not drag you through a long list of change orders and weeks of frustration. As we all know any project’s success isn't viewed by the price but more important by the experience, outcome and follow up. Look through the lowest price and into the company behind it. We say it every year but it still amazes me how many patio and landscape companies that pop-up here in our area in early spring but are gone by winter. With this growing trend throughout Lantana and neighboring communities (but especially in Lantana) we are seeing so many "recently-completed builds" that already are falling apart or not at all the quality that was expected or promised.
There always will be those out there who get taken by the enticing "lowest bid" even though we all know typically you will get what you pay for. But in the last 11 years we have not seen what we have seen so far in 2015 pertaining to the poor quality of work. As a contractor it's our job to establish ourselves in the community, build a solid reference list and give you a level of comfort moving forward with anything we do. Make us work for it, look through the initial pricing and into the company behind it go through the details in comparison to the finished product you're being promised, check references, look at some jobs and speak to your neighbors. Anyone can show you a bunch of pictures and say they built it but a reputable contractor will have no problem taking you by a couple active projects and or completed jobs to give you a real-time view of their work and how it comes together. Make sure your contractor has an anchor in the community or gives back in some way. The only way to make our community better is to SUPPORT THOSE WHO ARE GIVING BACK TO IT! If we could all only pass on the cheapest bid it will probably thin out some of this fly-by-night competition we are running into. In our area there are a ton of talented people who have built great businesses on being creative, building relationships and doing things the right way the first time. Just remember when organizing your next project don't put yourself in a situation where you've paid less and then left hoping for more.....
Three things to remember when hiring a contractor:
1) Ask to meet to the job foreman, can he take me to a project he is managing?
With even the smallest businesses there typically will be a guy who will be on your job daily making sure things get done how they were described and in a timely manner. If the contractor says he'll be running the job itself just ask whether he'll be there every day. Whatever the response that will be something you can hold them to and ask the references about to get an accurate account. 2) What is your payment schedule? Most professionals will have a draw type payment schedule or a 50-50 split upon completion as well as a binding contract that is for the protection of both client and contractor. If they are asking for majority of funds upfront without any type of agreement you're probably not dealing with someone you should be. 3) Are you insured and registered here in our city? Any company that is worth doing business with will carry insurance coverage and local registrations wherever they are working. Expect to pay more for dealing with a legitimate business but rest easy knowing you are protected. By PJ Kratohvil Complete Exterior Solutions 214-735-1364
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 39
Finalist Mixer
Finalists from Best of Denton County were invited to an Exclusive Mixer on August 18th. It was graciously hosted by Murray Media Group, Fresco’s Mexicana, PointBank and Picture This!
40 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Lantanaresident Lantanaresident
See who won this year’s Best of Denton County at BestOfDentonCounty.com.
Lantanaresident
Over 350 Categories where residents nominated the top businesses in the county! Limited edition & exclusive magazine/directory to be mailed out to Denton County in November! Keep an eye on your mailboxes. September 2015 | LANTANA living | 41
42 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Advertisement Local Sponsored Content
Lantanaresident
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 43
Striving 2 Share By Meredith S. Tittle, PT, DPT, OCS
We All Can Relate to
Feet Problems
H
Lantanaresident
ow I love the summer, the beach and my flip flops. Walking in the sand and slipping on our sandals is relaxing and easy, however, it also can cause some aggravating foot pain. Several conditions can cause pain on the inside of one’s foot. It is important to visit a medical professional capable of diagnosing this pain if your pan persists. However, here are a few tips to prevent a nagging condition and help your feet avoid end-of-summer blues. Walking on your toes for prolonged periods through the sand or for days at a time can cause overuse of a muscle called the flexor hallicus longus. This muscle originates in the outside of your lower leg and travels around to the inside of your foot where the muscle becomes your FHL tendon and acts to bend the big toe. Any activity that causes excessive pushing or bending of this toe can irritate the tendon and cause discomfort on the inside of your arch. Walking through thick sand, walking in flip flops, or high heel
44 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
shoes can irritate this tendon. Dancers who are on their toes for hours on end also suffer from this condition. Pain on the inside of your foot that is disturbing while you sleep and/or tenderness while touching the cord-like soft tissue that is superficial when you extend the toe backwards can be signs of this condition.
S2S Functional Performance Whether you are concerned about the chance of an injury or have already obtained one, our highly qualified staff is here to help. About Wellness: Our certified performance enhancement specialists will design a unique plan for athletes and weekend warriors alike to help them become top performers! About Rehabilitation: Physical therapy performed by a skilled, knowledgeable therapist will get you safely back to your sport or life activity! Call us or visit our website for more details at www.s2sperform.com! Follow S2S Functional Performance on Facebook at www.facebook.com/s2sperform, Instagram @s2sperform, and Twitter @s2sperform.
Tips:
Stretch your calf muscles and ankle by standing against a wall and lunging forward. The stretch is felt along the back of the leg and into the bottom of the foot. Pull your toes back in an attempt to stretch the area. This called a windlass maneuver. Perform a cross friction massage to the arch of your foot. Rub an object like a tennis ball across the foot sideways. Or use the heel pad of your opposite foot to knead the arch and its soft tissue. Try altering your gait periodically and walk on your heels to stretch the soft tissue. For video tips of these exercises visit our YouTube page, Facebook, or Instagram.
Boot Camp Begins Now:
Be Skin Fit for the
W
hy does the word ‘Procrastinate’ begin with ‘pro’? I admit, there have been times that I have benefited by putting-off an assignment to the last moment, but for the most part, procrastinating does not have a positive outcome. The field of aesthetics becomes quite busy in November and December as people prepare for parties and events. Unfortunately, they seem to arrive in a state of crisis, seeking a skin transformation, for an event that is less than a week away. Meeting with a medical professional such as a physician or registered nurse who specializes in skin care and being on a treatment plan which is monitored every three months is optimal. Waiting until days before an event to call and make an appointment will produce much less
than optimal results. Most times, your first choice for where you would like to be treated will have no openings during the holiday season and you will be tempted to go to a place that does not have a medical professional treating you. When it comes to your face, one size does not fit all, and finding the bargain may have less than desirable, even dangerous outcomes. Beginning treatment approximately three months prior provides an opportunity to be carefully assessed and to establish a plan to implement for optimal results. The skin cycle (one transformation of skin cells from new to expired) is approximately six weeks. The old skin cells need to be sloughed off and fresh cells need to be cared for so when they reach the surface, they have everything they need to be healthy and protected.
Rejuvenation By Rebecca Romanucci,
RN Advanced Aesthetic Registered Nurse Injector Owner/Manager RSR Medical Skin Rejuvenation, L.L.C.
Being on the correct treatment system, such as Obagi Prescriptive Skin Care, within the first six weeks, the skin transforms with tightening of pores, lightening of freckles, age spots, and sun damage. Skin tone becomes tighter, has less laxity and fragility. Redness and flaking lessen and smoother, softer, healthier skin is evident. Over the next six weeks, leading into the days before special events, you and those who see you will notice significant improvements in your skin such as firmer, smooth, naturally-hydrated more resilient skin with improved clarity with a healthy glow. Your skin will have transformed to function properly as the layers of the skin receive increased supply of nutrients and blood flow and healthy, strong collagen and elastin production has increased. Now is the time for all good men and women to seek out the medical professional of their choice, to be medically assessed and assisted with a treatment plan for their skin. Take a beforeholiday photo now, and wake up on Christmas Day and compare the two photos. It’s my gift to you.
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 45
46 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Getting a
From Dr. Matt
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.
O
f 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
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 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 ! Dr. Matt is a practicing dentist and owner of Country Lakes Family Dental
www.CountryLakesDental.com September 2015 | LANTANA living | 47
Football
Coaches &
Players
Beat the
Heat By Steve Gamel
T
exas is hot. Yet every year, football coaches juggle the demands of preparing their teams for another long season with doing all they can to avoid anything that would cause a serious health risk for players. The simple answer is to make sure athletes stay hydrated, but area coaches know they can’t stop there. “I can tell you my coaches weren’t very smart (about safety procedures) when I was in high school,” said Guyer head coach John Walsh. “It’s a lot different now.”
According to an annual survey done by the
National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research, there have been 140 heat stroke deaths from 1960 through 2014. Since 1995, 54 football players have died from heat stroke – 42 high school, 9 college, 2 professional and 1 sandlot. The survey went on to state that 90 percent of recorded heat stroke deaths occurred during practice. It’s a harsh reality, and one that coaches must take seriously. “The No. 1 important aspect for us is to maintain the health and safety of our students,” said Argyle 48 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
head coach Todd Rodgers. “These are teenage boys, and we tax them pretty good with two-a-days.” It’s important to note that the survey above showed a decline in the average number of heat stroke deaths per year. During the five-year period from 2010 to 2014, there was an average of 2.6 heat stroke deaths per year compared to 3.6 per year during the previous five year period (2005-09), the study showed. Those statistics are encouraging in that they support continued efforts to educate coaches, administrators, medical providers, players, and parents on the proper procedures to follow when playing in the heat. Unlike the old days where football practices were held in the heat of the day with a limited supply of water, coaches today are doing everything from giving players access to frequent water breaks to breaking away from two-a-days all together and shifting practice times to mornings and evenings. At Guyer, Walsh and his coaching staff have made it a top priority to provide an unlimited supply of Pedialyte for their players and ask them to drink it throughout the day while at school. Pedialyte, just like Gatorade, contains electrolytes to prevent everything from dehydration to excessive cramping. Pedialyte may sound like a weird option since it always has been marketed as the go-to product for
infants and children. But an increasing number of athletes – including at the pro level – swear by it. “I’m no doctor, but when you are sick, they tell you to drink it,” Walsh said. “We’ve had Pedialyte since I’ve been at Guyer. From my playing days to now, coaches are much smarter about protecting players.” Coaches and athletic trainers are trained in the first signs of heat exhaustion, and most programs like Guyer and Argyle have ice baths available and ready to help keep a player’s core temperature down. Rodgers also pointed out that, due to University Interscholastic League rules, teams don’t subject their athletes to full pads during practice every day of the week. Having exposed skin helps cool the body better, he said.
There have been zero known cases of serious
incidents of heat exhaustion at Guyer or Argyle. “I know what happens here. When I was with Que Brittain at Marcus, we never had an issue there either. I was taught well,” Rodgers said. “You hear stories of extremes, but those need to be handled on a case-by-case basis with those schools. For the most part, the kids themselves are well-trained. Year-round training is common, and they are exposed to the heat more. “Unfortunately you have to play in it (heat), but you have to manage it.”
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 49
50 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Lantanaresident September 2015 | LANTANA living | 51
From left to right: Sadie having fun at her rainbow themed craft party funded by Rockpoint Church, Mission Moms & Pizza hut. Sadie showing some strength(photo courtesy of Sarah Keller). Sadie making a tie-dye shirt. Many guests showed up to support Sadie and her fight. Photos by Jen Armstrong, Jen Brown.
Lantana Youth
oncologist and leukemia expert Dr. Tamra Slone, the Kellers, including dad Shawn and 11-year-
old brother Grant, are well-prepared for the worst possible scenarios.
“I always appreciate that she tells us what to
expect,” Sarah said of Slone. “She’ll say ‘here’s
what most kids do’ but the joke with us is Sadie always does her own thing. Most kids will do this
and Sadie reacts totally different. But we know that and she prepares us.”
Before delayed intensification, Sadie felt good,
Despite Health Challenges By Mark Miller
Just since late February, Sadie Keller has endured more physically and emotionally than most people do in a lifetime. After being diagnosed with Pre-B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia or ALL B Cell, the 8-year-old Lantana resident has undergone an array of tests, treatments, and trips to the hospital. Though she’s been considered in remission since May, she continues on a long journey in the effort to keep the disease from returning.
“S
he is so strong and we are so proud of her,” said her mother Sarah. “She is like the toughest
little girl I know. She never complains. She doesn’t like it. But she never cries. She never fights them when they’re accessing her port or poking her. She
just does it.” Sadie now is finishing an eight-week phase called delayed intensification, generally the second-hardest part of the process after the initial round of aggressive treatments. It has
52 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
involved weekly chemotherapy at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas, injections her mother Sarah gives her at home, plus a chemotherapy pill she takes at night and frequent amounts of the strongest doses of steroids. There’s also too many spinal taps to mention. “It’s become our routine. It’s our norm,” Sarah said. “You just do it. You fight and we’re all in it together and just make it through.” Thanks to the care of pediatric hematologist-
her hair was growing back and she had energy. While things have reversed some heading into September, the family knew this was normal
though spending four days in the hospital in late August was not.
Once recovered from the effects of delayed
intensification, Sadie will enter the interim maintenance II phase where she will go to
Children’s every 10 days. If she gets a fever, she must go to the emergency room immediately.
Even with all she’s gone through, Sadie has
been one busy kid. She went to a Make-aWish event at the Hilton Anatole in downtown
Dallas in May. This summer, she attended Camp
Esperanza at Camp John Marc about 90 minutes south of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She even
was asked to be an ambassador for the Dallas-
based Wipe Out Kids Cancer organization for next year.
But little did her parents or brother know she
also was going into her closet to record videos
to help other kids with the same disease. Only when she showed them before they were posted on YouTube did they find out.
“She has quite a following,” Sarah said.
“People want to know what it’s like to be a kid with cancer.”
The major disappointment has been not being
“When she first was diagnosed there was there
able to return to Blanton Elementary School
so much happening I needed to write it down
Independent
new things would happen that I would forget. So
this fall as planned. Thanks to the Denton School
District’s
homebound
program, she’s staying up to date with what Denae Cose’s third-grade class would learn through work at home.
“She’s only 8 but I really believe she’s the
most caring little girl. She loves to bake and
make crafts which she takes to the doctors and nurses. She goes on Pinterest and she’s made the
YouTube videos. I believe they all are therapeutic
each day or I would forget. The next day so many I started it and now I’m committed to it.
“I write what happened that day and some
days are uneventful and she baked cupcakes all
day. I write what I feel. Some days I just write what she did that day and other days I’ll just write what’s on my mind.”
Through the blog, the Kellers have met
other families going through the same thing, something that helps bind them together. It’s also given the Kellers and fellow parents a voice in the fight against cancer. “Out of all the cancer funding children only get 4 percent and that’s weighing on my mind so that’s what I write about,” Sarah said. “It’s an awesome way to raise awareness so that’s what I do. We had no idea what this was this all about. We never knew this could happen.”
for her,” Sarah said. “In her mind, it’s not about her. It’s ‘how can I help others and make people feel good.’ ”
Sarah
Keller
has
continued
her
daily
postings on the Sadie’s Journey #yougothisgirl
Facebook site. Between 1 and 2 each morning,
she updates Sadie’s day in words and pictures.
Lantanaresident
“She’s only 8 but I really believe she’s the most caring little girl. She loves to bake and make crafts which she takes to the doctors and nurses. ”
While it gets information out to others, it also is therapeutic for Sarah.
“That’s why I started it,” she said. “I did it
as a group and not a page which can blast the world and I’d probably get 50,000 followers. I wasn’t doing it for that. I was doing it so people would have a place to know what’s going on and therapy for me.
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 53
Blanton Grandparents Day
WINNER
BEST OF DENTON COUNTY
2015
MURRAY MEDIA GROUP
Committed to Community Excellence.
54 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
The Time to Start
Holiday Projects is Now
S
chool is back in session, the house has emptied out some and the holidays are coming up....where do you go from here? Where do you even start? Those are great questions. The holidays are a great motivator. You have the things you know you want to do, along with the projects you’ve been planning on doing since last fall. You might as well do them before you have guests this holiday season. How do you even get started? You need to put a realistic list together of projects you want to get accomplished, and then take half of them off. We always try to do too much and we give up before we even start. The more you can accomplish the better you will feel. If you do a couple of things that aren’t on the list along the way, it’s OK to put them on the list so you can mark them off ! There are several ways to accomplish your goals. You may want to hire someone to help you put your
vision together so you can make the most of your time. That always is a nice option. If you haven’t worked with someone before you will need to find someone with whom you are comfortable. We all work differently and all have different personalities. If you have an idea of a budget that always is helpful. It lets the designer know what projects on your list can be accomplished in your time frame. Whether you have help or want to work through your list on your own, there are several ways to organize the list. You may want to do the things that will allow you to finish the most in the available time. If so, the No. 1 thing is clean. Cleaning windows, baseboards, doors and frames and around light plates will make
Upscale Home a huge difference and will give you a quick sense of accomplishment. Next you want to paint. Paint is the best return on the amount of investment you can make. It adds personality to your home as well as character and flair to all areas. Paint is a giant force. It can be a subtle encounter or a striking impact. Updating accessories such as pillows, floor vases, rugs, art work, etc. will rejuvenate your areas. Another option would be to look at the list for projects that would carry the most significant long-term value. Updating counter tops, fixtures, backsplashes, lighting or addressing your cabinet would be on this list. Today’s smart homes are all about the simplicity and ease of window coverings. Whether you are comfortable with screen shades or transitional/contemporary décor, blinds, shades and shutters always are a winner in our area .Window treatments in updated styles and fabrics are a great sound and heat insulator. The statement they make in your home is one that sets you apart in this market place. The thing is to just start so you can finish. We’re here to help. Good Luck!! By Paula Kratohvil, Owner Complete Interior Solutions 972-436-9083
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 55
Not All Teams Sold on Using
Drones at Football
Practice By Steve Gamel
T
here’s a noticeable buzz surrounding the start of the Texas high school football season, and it has nothing to do with fans or the typical pomp and circumstance associated with the state’s most popular sport.
Drones reportedly are being used as aerial cameras by a handful of high school coaches – some right here in the Dallas-Fort Worth area – to film practices from an unparalleled angle. Yet while the technological innovation appears to have plenty of upside, not all coaches are interested – at least for now.
“For me, it’s a little bit of excess,” said Guyer head coach John Walsh. “It’s not anything new, the NFL has been doing it for years with various (hovering) cameras in games and stuff like that. If you can do it, great. But it’s not something we’re interested in.” Walsh, who is in the middle of his 10th season at Guyer, said there aren’t any plans to change the way his coaching staff films practices and hinted that could be the case for all Denton 56 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Independent School District teams. Walsh went on to say his opinion on drones may be different if teams could use them for regular-season games. According to the Dallas Morning News, the University Interscholastic League sent an email to school districts last month informing them that the use of drones is prohibited for filming scrimmages and games. That edict likely won’t slow the growing popularity of drone usage – even if it is just for practice sessions. According to the same Dallas Morning News report, area teams like Grapevine, Dallas Jesuit and Arlington Martin were using them during fall practices. And before the UIL ruling went into effect, Martin reportedly used at least one during its preseason scrimmage against defending Class 6A state champion Allen. Drones are being used by several college teams, including Clemson, SMU and UCLA. Proponents say they are impeccably sturdy, accurate and versatile since they provide coaches
with the ability to capture video from a much larger section of the field. This is particularly important since most teams hold offensive, defensive and special teams’ drills on opposite ends of the field. They also are able to be operated at a high enough altitude that they don’t interfere with practice or the overall safety of players. Coaches have filmed practices for years to catch mistakes, praise players and, in general, help their teams to get better. But that process can be time consuming and often involves an assistant coach or student setting up for filming in the press box. The coaches who were polled in the recent Dallas Morning News article said there are more advantages to using drones, and suggested the improved angles make for better football teams. There’s also the cost factor. The cost of a drone ranges close to $2,000 compared to most quality end-zone cameras that run from $6,000 to $8,000, the Morning News said. Cheaper or not, Walsh is happy to leave well enough alone. “We don’t feel we need that angle to watch our own kids practice. It would be one thing if we were filming an opponent during a game, but in practice we really don’t need that angle,” Walsh said.
Back to School!
September 2015 | LANTANA living | 57
Local Sponsored Content Advertisement
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September 2015 | LANTANA living | 59
October 16 • 5:30-9 p.m.
Harpool Middle School football field
Local Campuses Focused on Bigger, Better Second Event
By Steve Gamel
All three Lantana elementary schools are uniting for their second annual
U-Nite carnival and fund-raiser.
With the event less than a month away, the parent-teacher associations at Blanton, E.P. Rayzor and Adkins are intently focused on making it bigger and better than last year’s wildly-popular inaugural festival. The community-wide event is slated for Oct. 16 and will be held from 5:30-9 p.m. at the Harpool Middle School football field. Families again will be treated to an old-fashioned night of food, fun and games, including pony rides, train rides, bounce houses, a zip line, and petting zoo. New attractions include laser tag, a rock wall and photography courtesy of Picture This Green Screen. “It is well worth it and a lot of fun for the community,” said Adkins PTA president Jennifer Duncan. “Last year was the experiment year and it worked out well. We want to take what we did last year and tweak it to make it even better.” Duncan is working alongside Blanton’s new PTA president, Katie Messerle, and E.P. Rayzor PTA president Danielle Hamblin. “The Adkins PTA is thrilled to partner with Blanton and E.P. Rayzor’s PTAs to bring an amazing night of fun to our community and surrounding communities,” Duncan added. 60 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Money raised at the festival will be evenly split between the three campuses and used by the PTAs for educational programs and supplies. Funds also will help with festival operating expenses. Each school can raise its own money prior to the event through ticket and wristband sales. Duncan said between 3,000 and 4,000 people attended last year’s event, which including pre-sale items, raised just more than $28,000. Sponsors already signed up for this year’s event include Rapid Med, Pediatric Dental World, Complete Exterior Solutions, Gold Landscape, and Guidance Prep Academy. “All three schools share the responsibility of making this a successful event,” Messerle said. “I’m not sure whose brainchild this was to bring all three schools together, but it was a no-brainer. We can have one event, and the sponsors can donate one time and reach all of Lantana.”
families from all over Denton County. All three
PTA presidents said Blanton and E.P. Rayzor had previously held their own events, but officials started
rethinking that process when Adkins opened its doors
in 2014.
“We didn’t want there to be a big competition between the three schools and we didn’t want the local businesses to feel pressure or confusion with three different events,” Hamblin said. “The schools would have suffered with three events. This is so good to be a part of, and we want it to be bigger and better.”
Lantanaresident
U-Nite will be more of a community event
than a school event because it’s expected to attract
To make this year’s event better than the first,
organizers are doing everything from sharing best practices from previous events to making sure
there will be enough lighting and security on hand. Unlike last year, when the event competed against
a Guyer football team’s regular-season game, the schools will have U-Nite all to themselves.
“Last year I remember everyone thinking, ‘Let’s
give this a try.’ Hands down, it was a success,” Messerle added. “It’s so nice to come together and do a fund-raiser like this, and have it be so well received.”
Anyone wanting more information on U-Nite can contact Duncan at jjgkduncan@me.com, Messerle at blantonptapresident@gmail.com and Hamblin at president@eprayzorpta.org. September 2015 | LANTANA living | 61
62 | LANTANA LIVING | September 2015
Lantanaresident
WINNER
BEST OF DENTON COUNTY
2015
MURRAY MEDIA GROUP
Committed to Community Excellence.