JANUARY 2018
Rescue ME The Salty Cow Is a
FAMILY AFFAIR
MERRY
MUSTANG
What Makes
Marriage
?
Work
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEWISVILLE, TX PERMIT NO. 977
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3
C
ongratulations to the Hebron High School Volleyball Team on its 3rd consecutive UIL Class 6A state title. The Lady Hawks swept Seven Lakes High School (Katy, TX) in three sets to win
in the state’s largest classification. This is the Lady Hawks fifth overall volleyball state title.
photography by John Osby Photography
4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5
CastleHillsMagazine.com
Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray
Just
Administration
Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne
Listen
Staff Writer
Susan Neuhalfen
Contributor Steve Gamel
Advertising Manager
Lizzy Hoffman 972.900.7302 lizzy@murray-media.com
Production
Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Stephanie Hansen Savannah Halfmann
Photography
Guy T Photography 469.500.5657 www.whatsthatguysname.com
Letters
Life in Castle Hills invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.
Email artwork@murray-media.com. All submissions become the sole property of
W
hile attending a recent party I found myself surrounded by “story toppers”.
It’s a Seinfeld tribute term referring to the
person who can’t wait to top the story you or someone else is telling. They stopped listening after your first two sentences
Editorial and Advertising Inquiries Call 972.899.3637
or email artwork@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com
Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100, Ste. 101
Flower Mound, TX 75022 Life in Castle Hills is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Life in Castle Hills 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. © 2018 Murray Media Group
art. Even when you’re in conversation with someone they are constantly checking their phone, computer or people watching. Heed this advice; the next time you’re dying to tell your
so they could tell their story because it’s
story just stop and listen. Listen without
bigger and better than yours.
checking your phone. Listen without
Let’s be honest we’ve all done it. It’s only
interrupting. Listen without solving
natural to want to talk about yourself.
anyone’s problem. Just listen.
This happens in business as well. I
In this day and age when everyone is so
remember sitting at an event with a
salesperson who spent the entire evening talking about himself. He wanted my
Murray Media Group.
Anymore, listening has become a lost
money (or rather my client’s money) so
you’d think he would have been interested in my client or how we could work
together, but instead I heard all about
were his crazy antics, his kids, his wife, his
busy being divided and not listening to one another, now would be a great time to open your mind. Don’t react. Don’t get mad. Just listen. By being completely present for the conversation, you just might learn
boat, and the list goes on.
something about your friend or client that
Needless to say, I didn’t do a lot of
later leads to an incredible opportunity or
business with him.
adventure. Just listen.
Sincerely, Susan Neuhalfen
Writer and Editor for Life in Castle Hills, Argyle Living, Lantana Living, Lake Cities Living Susan@murray-media.com 972.899.3637 Ex. 101 6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
16
On the Cover: Wayne Cagle owner of Lifeworks
FEATURED:
What Makes Marriage Work? FAMILY
22 Gardening with Complete Solutions
08 Inside Community
24 Rescue Me
09 Inside Education 10 Hebron Fares Well On All-District Team 12 Cougars Hold Their Own On All-District Team 14 Child Development with Easterseals
LIFESTYLE
18 EDITOR’S PICK: The Salty Cow is a Family Affair
18 The Salty Cow is a Family Affair
YOURSELF 26 Making Good Decisions in a Not-So-Good World 30 Edit This with Steve Gamel
18 The Salty Cow is a Family Affair
Photos from Castle Hills
20 Merry Mustangs
02 Lady Hawks Keep their State Title
THIS MONTH: We celebrate our pets. Look for the paw print. JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7
KNOW
Be in the
Family
INSIDE COMMUNITY
RUN FOR ROVER
The second annual Run for Rover will be happening on Saturday, February 17 at 8:30am at McInnish Dog Park, 2241 Sandy Lake Road. A 5k will be offered as well as a shorter fun run/walk route. Dogs are welcome but you don’t have to have a dog to race. The race benefits Carrollton Animal Services & Adoption Center. To register or for more information, visit cityofcarrollton.com/RunForRover.
SENIOR TAX SERVICE
Trained AARP volunteers will provide free income tax assistance at Lewisville Public Library from Monday, Feb. 5 through Wednesday, Apr. 11. This program is offered to people age 50 and older. People wishing to make an appointment must do so in person at the Lewisville Senior Activity Center, 1950- A South Valley Parkway. No phone-in registrations are allowed. Assistance will be available by appointment only.
SMART KEYNOTE SPEAKER Elizabeth Smart, the Salt Lake City resident whose 2002 kidnapping made national headlines, will be the keynote speaker at the annual Women’s Health Fair at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital of Flower Mound on February 3. The fair will also feature many booths including free screenings for cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure and more. The Health Fair will take place from 8am until noon at the Courtyard Marriott located behind the hospital.
TEXAS TUNES
The seventh season of the Texas Tunes concert series at the Medical City Lewisville Grand Theatre will feature a diverse and talented line-up of Texas performers who present great music in a variety of genres. Performers include the Josh Grinder Band, Jimmy Webb, Jon Christopher David, Maylee Thomas and The Quebe Sisters. Tickets may be purchased online at MCLGrand. tix.com, or in person at MCL Grand during regular business hours.
INSIDE EDUCATION LEADERSHIP THROUGH DANCE
Register now for Dance Dynasty Academy, an afterschool
program that will start at Independence Elementary on January 23. The goal of DDA is to build leadership, teamwork, and expression through dance training and performances in ballet, jazz, lyrical, modern, cheer, hip-hop and more. All forms must be completed 24 hours before class begins. Go to www. ddatexas.com for more information.
All entries for the LISD Student Film Fest, Reel Voices! are now
being accepted until April 2, 2018 at midnight. The categories and requirements vary by grade level with submissions such as public service announcements, documentary/cultural, instructional, and story and stop motion/animation. Visit filmfest.lisd.net for the entry
CHE PTA Meeting Hosted by Kindergarten & 2nd Grade “Cultural Night & World of Art” Featuring All Reflections Contestants.
form and more information on categories and requirements.
The Southridge Chess Classic tournament
Hills Elementary on Thursday, January 25th
Elementary in Lewisville. All LISD K-12
Cultural Night and World of Art at Castle
@ 6:30pm following the PTA Meeting. All
entries by the PTA Reflections contestants will be featured. The evening is hosted by
the Kindergarten and Second grade at Castle Hills Elementary. For more information visit
https://castlehillspta.membershiptoolkit.com.
January 25th at Castle Hills Elementary at 6:30pm
CHESS TOURNAMENT
Join the Castle Hills Elementary PTA for a
Hebron’s Got Talent Auditions
will be Saturday, February 24 at Southridge
February 3rd at Hebron HS from 9am-3pm
players are welcome to participate. Onsite
registration is from 8am-9am. $15 for rated
players, $10 for unrated. Walk up registration is $25. USCF membership required for all sections except unrated. For more information email keirseyd@lisd.net
Coffee with the Counselor (5th grade parents) Discussions About MS January 19th February 16th March 23rd May 3rd at Castle Hills Elementary from 10-11am
REEL VOICES DUE APRIL 2
WORLD OF ART
EVENTS & NEWS
Career Day
February 9th at Independence Elementary All Day Event
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9
Family
by Steve Gamel
H
ebron didn’t go as far as it would have wanted in the playoffs this past season, but it was a solid year nonetheless. Proof of that can be found on the District 5-6A All-District team.
Overall, the Hawks had 22 players make the team, including a trio of superlative honors. Leading the charge was quarterback
Clayton Tune, who was a unanimous pick for the district’s MVP award. The Kansas commit finished with 2,416 passing
yards and 23 touchdowns. He threw just six interceptions while completing 67
percent of his passes. Joining him were
sophomore safety Darius Snow, who was
named defensive newcomer of the year, and sophomore running back Jaylon Lott. Lott was named the district’s top offensive newcomer.
Of Hebron’s 22 selections, 13
made first team. Some of the big names include wide
receivers Trejan Bridges and Jaren Mitchell,
defensive end Paul Akere
and cornerback Verone
McKinley III.
Snow, Bridges, and
defensive lineman Carlos
Hatcher were also named to the Texas Associated
10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
Press Sports Editors All-State team.
Snow was a first-team selection while Bridges and Hatcher were listed as honorable mentions.
Below is the complete District 5-6A All-District team.
District 5-6A All-District Team MVP – Clayton Tune, Hebron Offensive MVP
– Courage Keihn, Euless Trinity Defensive MVP
– Connor Lee, Flower Mound Special Teams Player of the Year – Clayton Stewart, Flower Mound
Offensive Newcomer of the Year – Jaylon Lott, Hebron
Defensive Newcomer of the Year – Darius Snow, Hebron
Coaching Staff of the Year – Euless Trinity
FIRST TEAM: Jackson Kimble, Southlake Carroll; Leka Lea’aetoa, Trinity; Braden Daniels, Hebron; Henry Mossberg, Carroll; Jason Vakasiuola, Trinity; Justin Osborne, Marcus; Pila Siale, Trinity; Jay Folau, Trinity; Jeremy Thompson, Hebron; Matt Leehan, Carroll; Jack Bedell, Hebron; TJ McDaniel Carroll; Jordan Joiner, Byron Nelson; Jatyn Taylor, Hebron; Justin Dinka, Marcus; Toby Harrah, Trinity; Trejan Bridges, Hebron; Jaren Mitchell, Hebron; Cade Bell, Carroll; Keanu Hill, Trinity; Hudson Shrum, Carroll; Deandre Warren, Hebron; Will Bowers, Carroll; T J Sapoi, Trinity; Jacob Doddridge, Carroll; John Mayers, Marcus; Collin Alves, Flower Mound; Carlos Hatcher, Hebron; Khristian Versey, Lewisville; William Latu, Trinity; Sau Saafi, Trinity; Jacob Doddridge, Carroll; Paul Akere, Hebron; Travis Chatman, Trinity; Izaiah Filikatonga, Trinity; Kadren Johnson, Lewisville; Ryan Thompson, Carroll; Jaired Chamberlain, Byron Nelson; Jacoby Roberts, Trinity; Isaiah Munoz, Trinity; Shamar Morton, Trinity; Michael Parrish, Carroll; Michael Tingue, Marcus; Josh Carraway, Byron Nelson; Collin Lundgren, Hebron; RJ Mickens, Carroll; Sebastian Tauaalo, Trinity; Mario Montez, Hebron; Kevin Anderson, Lewisville; Daniel Sheehan, Marcus; Verone McKinley III, Hebron; Charles Carpenter, Trinity; Corey Miller, Lewisville; Tyrone Burnett, Trinity; Grant Paulette, Hebron.
SECOND TEAM:
Ryan Lilomaiava, L.D. Bell;
Cameron Hataway, Carroll; Andrej
Karic, Carroll; Cade Cowen, Flower Mound; Jake Springfield, Flower
Mound; Jack Genard, Hebron; Nick
Nielson, Lewisville; Connor Stillwell, Byron Nelson; Jeremy Phelps,
Byron Nelson; Gavin Mull, Byron
Nelson; Chris Beckham, L.D. Bell;
Ape Likio, Trinity; Brent Self, Byron
Nelson: Zion Hardy, L.D. Bell; Pierce Hudgens, Flower Mound; Dylan
Bell, Byron Nelson; Jaylin Buffin, Trinity; Ty Boone, Byron Nelson; Jack Welch, Flower Mound;
Brandon Rolfe, Lewisville; Christian Gadison, L.D. Bell; Blake Covin, Marcus; David Leonty, Hebron; Esteban Larrangaga, Trinity;
Xavier Maxwell, Marcus; Noah
Potthast, Lewisville; Hudson West, Trinity; Grant Paulette, Hebron; Brice Honaker, Trinity; Rylan
McConoughey, Byron Nelson; Trevor Nwosu, Byron Nelson;
Myles Tillery, Marcus; Drew Parker,
Marcus; Chase Steelman, L.D. Bell; Travis McFarling, Flower Mound; Grant Outram, Flower Mound;
Tanner Gordon, Flower Mound; John Brand, Marcus; Hayden
Pruett, Marcus; Brett Poythress,
Byron Nelson; Matt Werner, Carroll; Alec Brooks, Flower Mound; Clark Whitaker, Hebron; Ethan Barr, Marcus; Emmanuel Adebayo, Lewisville; Dante Cardinali,
Byron Nelson; Graham Faloona, Carroll; Cole Davenport, Flower Mound; Chris Crawley, Hebron; Steve Ayisire, L.D. Bell; Jason
Manning, Byron Nelson; Matthew
Greenwood, Flower Mound; David Evans, Flower Mound; Soti Leota, Trinity; Jake Fex, Carroll; Clayton Rutz, Marcus,;Joseph Angelone, Hebron; Nigel Blount, Trinity; Daylen Clark, Lewisville; Ian Mason, Trinity
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11
Family
by Steve Gamel
T
he Colony football team turned a lot of heads in 2017. If you need more proof, look no further than the Cougars’ overwhelming representation on this year’s District 14-5A All-District team.
The Cougars had 25 players make this year’s list, including three superlative honorees. The rest were spread out among the first and second teams. Top honors went to quarterback Mikey Harrington, who was named co-offensive newcomer of the year. Myles Price and Peter Kimani nabbed two-way player and co-defensive lineman of the year honors, respectively.
Below is the complete All-District team for
Colony, Sr.; DL Roberson, Lake Dallas, Jr.
District 14-5A All-District Team
Defensive Utility Player of the Year: Brandon Crossley, Little Elm, Jr.
District 14-5A.
District MVP: Lamar Lucas, McKinney North, Sr.; Kaleb Adams, Prosper, Sr.
Offensive Newcomer of the Year: Marshall Funches, Carrollton Newman Smith, So.; Mikey Harrington, The Colony, So.
Offensive MVP: Ryan Depperschmidt,
Lake Dallas, Jr.; Cameron Constantine, McKinney North, Jr.
Offensive Lineman of the Year: Zach Frazier, McKinney North, Sr.
Offensive Utility Player of the Year: DJ Love, Prosper, Sr.; Ky’lee Smith, Lake Dallas, Jr.
First Team Offense Quarterback: Logan Kohler, Little Elm, Jr. Running Back: Corey Moses, Little Elm, Sr.; Glenn Young, Little Elm, Sr.; Jadan Abdallah, The Colony, Jr.; Jarod Hall, Carrollton Creekview, Sr. Tight End: Brandon Frazier, McKinney North, So; Aiden Carr, Prosper, Sr.; Ryan Mora, The Colony, Jr. H Back: Andre Overton, Carrollton Newman Smith, Sr.; Marcus Moore, The Colony, So.
Special Teams Player of the Year: Cade
Fullback: Obed Guerrero, Turner, Sr.; Jose Rangel, The Colony, Sr.
Two-Way Player of the Year: Myles Price,
Receiver: Devin Haskins, Prosper, Jr., Brandon Engel, Lake Dallas, So.; Charles Williams, Lake Dallas, Sr.; Kevin Terry, Little Elm, Sr.
York, Prosper, Jr. The Colony, So.
Coach of the Year: Brandon Smith, Prosper Defensive Newcomer of the Year: Carson Criss, McKinney North, So.
Defensive MVP: Zalen Long, Lake Dallas, Sr.; Justin Benvie, Prosper, Sr.; Obed Guerrero, Carrollton R.L. Turner, Sr.
Defensive Lineman of the Year: Jevin
Jackson, Prosper, Sr.; Peter Kimani, The 12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
Tackle: Adrian Franco, The Colony, Sr.; Hayden Brockenbush, Lake Dallas, Jr.; Jacob Kimball, Little Elm, Jr.; Cameron Coler, McKinney North, Jr. Guard: John Hughes, Carrollton Creekview, Sr.; Zach McMahon, McKinney North, Jr.; Carson Shaffer, Prosper, Jr.;
Grayson Winters, Prosper, Sr.; Elias De Leon, Little Elm, Jr. Center: Dalton Wilcox, Little Elm, Sr. First Team Defense Defensive Lineman: Keshon Dawson, Little Elm, Jr.; Ben Kopenski, Prosper, Sr.; Marcus Moore, The Colony, So. Defensive End: Chi Chi Odo, McKinney North, Sr.; Kevin Simes, Prosper, Sr., Luke McPherson, Creekview, Jr.; Jakob Machuca, Lake Dallas, Sr. Inside Linebacker: Zach Graham, Lake Dallas, Sr.; Roy Goins, Little Elm, Sr.; Blake Young, McKinney North, Sr. Outside Linebacker: Ross Hendley, Prosper, Sr.; Noah Ellis, Prosper, Sr.; Darryl Minor, Lake Dallas, Jr. Corners: Tavion Carr, Little Elm, Sr.; Keyon Walker, McKinney North, Sr.; Armon Johnson, Prosper, Sr. Safeties: Cameron Pair, The Colony, Jr.; Junior Espinoza, Little Elm, Jr.; Blake Harrington, Prosper, Sr. Kicker: Cristian Gonzales, Carrollton Newman Smith, Sr.; Nick Dill, The Colony, Sr. Punter: Keegan Sueltz, The Colony, Sr.
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13
Family | Child Development
EASTERSEALS North Texas
E
asterseals North Texas Child Development Program is a unique, inclusive preschool, serving children 6 weeks to 6 years of age. We believe in providing a positive approach to learning. Our experienced staff members take high quality child care to the next level by providing evidence based strategies, scientifically designed and proven to promote optimal development in all domains. Emphasis is given to increasing language, engagement and social skills, helping the children to form natural friendships, and preparing for success in kindergarten.
Look to the Child Development program at Easterseals North Texas for: 1. Low child-to-teacher ratios 2. Top quality child care 3. A safe and nurturing enviornment 4. Highly trained teachers with degrees in Education, Child Development, and Behavior Analysis 5. Evidence-based curricula and materials designed to prepare
children for success in kindergarten
6. Active family-centered partnerships 7. High quality programming 8. Competitive rates
We are currently enrolling for ALL FOUR CLASSROOMS: KOALAS’ TREEHOUSE (6 weeks-17 months)
TURTLES’ COVE (3-4 years)
Koalas’ Treehouse, where infants 6 weeks to 17 months are provided secure, consistent relationships with care givers who encourage exploration through the use of enriching activities specifically designed to provide optimal development.
Turtles’ Cove, where children ages 3-4 years participate in hands-on activities designed to build self-image, independence, and the ability to make positive choices.
DOGGIES’ DEN (18-35 months) Doggies’ Den, where children ages 18 months to 35 months receive warm, nurturing care and opportunities for positive relationships with peers to foster self-esteem and a strong sense of self efficacy.
ARMADILLOS’ DUGOUT (4-6 years) Armadillos’ Dugout, our pre-kindergarten classroom for children ages 4-6, where the emphasis is on the development of social, academic, and problem-solving skills. These are the skills that provide the foundation for a successful transition into kindergarten while building a life-long love of learning.
Come to our Open House FEBRUARY 13, 2018 from 2 - 4pm
14 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15
What Makes
Marriage
?
Work
by Susan Neuhalfen
G
etting through December and January is tough enough for many, but for couples who stay together for the sake of getting through the holidays, this is the toughest time of the year.
“March is one of the biggest filing months
of that unit affects the security of the kids.
for divorce,” said Wayne Cagle, Licensed
Therefore, the relationship is key to a
Professional Counselor-Supervisor and a
child’s sense of security.
Certified Professional Life Coach as well as
Wayne goes on to say that all parents with
the owner of Lifeworks Counseling Center now located in the Castle Hills Village Shops & Plaza. “Many find it too difficult around Christmas to split up so they wait for the ‘right time’ to tell their families what they’ve already been planning.” Wayne goes on to describe that many
972.466.2800 www.lifeworkscc.com
Carrollton 2625 N. Josey Lane, Ste. 250 Village Shops at Castle Hills NEW 2540 King Arthur Blvd, Ste. 206 16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
couples make their decisions either after the holidays or after long trips together
kids have to learn to co-parent, even if a couple decides to divorce. In order to do that well, the couple has to be friends. “Friendship is the key to longevity of a relationship and the key to intimacy,” said Wayne. “No matter what state your relationship is in, you have to be friends first.” That’s where Wayne and his team of
when things don’t seem to get any better.
counselors at Lifeworks come in.
Cohabitating for the sake of the kids is
“We’re here to bring hope to what may
not a marriage either, he explained. The family unit is the couple and the kids are the extension of that unit. The condition
seem hopeless,” said Wayne whose marriage counseling program is based on research by John Gottman. “We help
couples find the tools to connect. Even if they think they’ve done everything
clear, these symptoms aren’t the cause
of marriage instability and the potential
possible, we can help each person see his
ending of a relationship.
or her responsibility in the relationship.”
“Our job is to get to the root of the
Wayne explained that the purpose of marriage and couples counseling is not to fix anyone or anything; it’s simply about making adjustments and recalibrating your relationship. “69% of problems in the average marriage are not actually resolvable, but we treat them as such,” explains Wayne.
problems so we can help couples work
through them,” said Wayne. “This is hard for many because unless you’re willing
to change, you’re working against your own goal.”
More difficult marriage cases involve
Stonewalling
affairs, alcoholism, or substance abuse.
Withdrawing as a way to avoid conflict in efforts to convey disapproval, distance and separation.
issues such as mental illness, extra-marital Counseling can certainly help both parties to navigate through
“The problems are differences, not right or wrong or good or bad, but can lead to impasse.” What author Gottman deems the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are the main reasons for marriage problems and potential break up during the first 6-7 years (see illustration):
The family unit is the couple and the kids are the extension of that unit. The condition of that unit affects the security of the kids. Therefore, the relationship is key to a child’s sense of security.
criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling. Emotional disconnect or growing apart is the main reason for problems around 16-17 years. That’s sometimes because
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photography by Guy T photography
the couple has focused more time on the children and not on each other. 80% of what Wayne sees in marriage counseling does not have a diagnosis. He and his team assess couples, learning all about how they met, what attracted them to each other, what made them decide to marry, and finally what caused the relationship to break down.
and develop hope for the relationship.
“We help people understand why
they are drawn to
a particular type of
person,” said Wayne. “The bottom line
is that we help you understand your
responsibility and grow
Carrollton and Castle Hills, so Wayne has
a team of several counselors, all with
their own specialties, ready to help in
any situation. In addition to marriage counseling, they help with addiction,
stress management, depression, work and career and much more.
The mission at Lifeworks is to help their
Criticism Verbally attacking personality or character.
clients live well, whether it be at home or work. They provide comprehensive evaluations for their clients and offer
several different types of therapy as well
as different types of sessions from group sessions to individual sessions to help
their clients. For Wayne and his staff, they
parenting, finance, extended family, family
“There are no guarantees in counseling,”
symptoms of the breakdown, but to be
Attacking sense of self with an intention to insult or psychologically abuse.
Lifeworks has offices in
are in the business of life change.
are just a few of the problems that are
Contempt
from that.”
Communication, intimacy, conflict, history, affairs, and a child’s chronic illness
THE FOUR HORSEMAN OF THE APOCALYPSE BY GOTTMAN
said Wayne. “The only guarantee is that
you’ll remain in the same place, without growing if you don’t do anything.”
Defensiveness Seeing yourself as the victim in effort to ward off a perceived attack and reverse the blame. JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 17
Lifestyle
IS A by Susan Neuhalfen
I
f you don’t believe in fate, then you don’t know Jennifer and Harold Rivas, owners of the Salty Cow in Castle Hills.
They met by chance in Dallas, both having left fast-paced
Manhattan careers for a new life in Texas. Jennifer, an attorney and Harold, a bank executive, loved their Uptown Dallas
lifestyle where lots of shops were within walking distance.
Jennifer immediately embraced the Dallas food scene just as she had in New York.
“Being a foodie has always been a sort of
“We were surprised to find some amazing
hobby,” said Jennifer. “I love the creativity
cheese right here in Texas,” said Jennifer.
of the restaurants in Dallas.” Harold and Jennifer fell in love, got married and moved to Castle Hills over three years ago with their daughter, Morgan. Living a suburban life certainly has its perks, however, they missed having their favorite shops within walking
“We have taken many trips to farms across the state and brought back a lot of great cheese.” In addition to their unique inventory of cheeses, the Salty Cow provides meats, fruit spreads, crackers, oils, gourmet popcorn and extraordinary chocolates from Wiseman House Chocolates in Hico.
distance. That’s when they
The shop keeps very
decided to bring
busy making
their love of
specialty
food to the
cheese boards
Castle Hills
for parties,
Village Shops.
provision plates for the Lakes at Castle Hills
“It was a half day trip to go to
Country Club and also
our favorite cheese shop in
providing food for TKO, the
Dallas so we thought why not
craft beer and wine bar also
open our own?” said Jennifer. “Harold pointed out that other residents would probably love to have a specialty cheese shop right here in Castle Hills, too.”
in the Castle Hills Village Shops. With all of the new business, it’s a good thing that Jennifer and Harold have help. “Both of our moms were retired but
So Harold and Jennifer opened The Salty
wanted to work,” said Jennifer. “Now we
Cow, an artisan cheese and provisions
all live on the same street in Castle Hills
shop full of cheeses and meats from all
and they help manage the shop for us.”
over the world. However, they are quick
Even Harold’s younger brother moved
to point out that they have found some remarkable products close to home as well.
down from New York and handles their website and social media while going to school.
Their inventory is unique, so if there’s
something you’d like to try, chances are
there are samples available. They are also BYOB meaning you can Bring Your Own
Board and they’ll not charge you for that. Jennifer says she is especially looking
forward to doing some crazy things like a fondue event for Valentine’s Day.
“We want to do some funky and creative
stuff for the residents of Castle Hills,” said Jennifer. “We’ll be doing some cheese tastings and pairings with TKO.”
Harold is even taking classes to be a Sommelier so expect even more
partnerships with other Castle Hills shops to be part of their exciting new offerings in 2018.
“I’m looking forward to 2018 after all the
effort we put into 2017 and seeing it come to fruition,” said Harold. “The fact that it’s a family affair makes it just awesome.” Want to learn more? Visit them on
facebook by searching The Salty Cow,
their full selection and prices are made available so you can peruse at your leisure.
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19
Lifestyle
MERRY
MUSTANGS
photos courtesy of Nannie Boone
by Susan Neuhalfen
It all started with a Silly String Challenge.
T
he Merry Mustangs of Killian
•
Middle School challenged the students and the teachers to see
who could raise the most money for KMS
chocolate for the family goodie bags •
for the family goodie bags
the holidays. The group that raised more •
sort gifts
community pulling together to raise over Assistant Principal Mr. Croll agreed to allow the students to spray him with Silly String. Last year, the faculty raised more money. As a result of their effort, the Merry Mustangs were able to service 61 6-8th grade students at Killian. The amazing thing is that this fundraiser involved everyone in the school and many in the
KMS parent volunteers shopped for students and helped wrap and
The result was students, teachers and the $4,500. This year the students won and
KMS Circle of Friends decorated candy canes and made reindeer food
students in need and their families for funds got to Silly String the other.
KMS cheerleaders collected hot
•
KMS PTA provided food and supplies for the family goodie bags
•
The Young Men’s Service League donated $885 in Walmart merchandise cards
“The parent volunteers shopped for presents,” said Suzanne Miller, Principal Secretary at KMS. “They got everything from fun stuff like skateboards to basic
community. Here are just some of the
needs like underwear and socks.”
groups that helped out:
It all culminated with a wrapping party that
•
NJHS students decorated and stuffed
included parent volunteers, PTA members.
family goodie bags and stood in the
In all, 52 families and 61 students had a
carpool line collecting gift cards
merrier Christmas.
20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
photos courtesy of Deanne Angonia
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21
Lifestyle | Gardening
W
e hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a great start to an outstanding 2018!
Our first quarter schedules have come out and it’s going to be a busy one.
Projects can be exciting and the rewards
enjoyed for years to come. Just remember, as we always say: “Good labor ain’t cheap
over, leaving mulched leaves sitting on
example - 70 one day and high of 32 the
leaves returned back to the turf are
annual color types you’ll probably need
the lawn. Studies prove that finely ground actually beneficial for both soil and grass. Leaving these finely ground leaves in the
soil increases microbial activity and better water filtration. Studies also show that
when the leaves were returned to the soil,
the grass greened up quicker in the spring
and cheap labor ain’t good”. By hiring
and had fewer dandelions. You just want
protect your investments and give yourself
pieces of the leaf in your lawn that will
money are going towards quality.
fall, mow more frequently to ensure they
legitimate, local contractors, you can
to make sure that you’re not leaving large
piece of mind, ensuring that your time and
smother the grass. Grind it up and, as they
Here are some recent calls that
might just answer something you’re wondering about:
Q: So with the weather being so back-
and-forth, our trees haven’t cooperated and we still have quite a few leaves
blowing around but don’t want to pay for someone to come back out and bag.
A: There’s a couple options here but the easiest would be to mow them back in
to the lawn. Use your lawn service or set
your mower to mulch and run everything 22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
break down as needed.
Q: With the recent freezing temps do we need to shut down or drain the sprinkler system?
A: Yes and No. It is Texas, and we never know what we are going to get, but I
wouldn’t be too worried about draining
the irrigation system. If installed properly,
next. Depending on rain amounts and
to water at times throughout the winter
if you want to enjoy some color. On your sprinkler system, flip the controller to off
when freezing and back on when we are going to see a couple of warmer days in a row. That way everything can get what
it needs. Obviously, if we experience rain (depending on how much we get), that
may supplement the need for water for a few days.
We are off to a GREAT start here in 2018 and SO EXCITED about what’s to come! As you’re sifting through your various
projects lists remember you’ve got some of the best contractors in the Denton
County right here, so shop local for your
next project. Wishing you the best of luck in 2018!
your lines should be able to withstand some freezing temperatures without
issue. Just ensure that your cover/wrap any exposed valves and or shut-offs
during freezing temps. Take last week for
by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23
Lifestyle
RESCUE ME by Susan Neuhalfen
S
ometimes we have to go through a rough patch in life to find our purpose. That’s exactly what
happened to Bartonville resident Lynette Cano. To be fair, though, Lynette always believed that helping animals was her
purpose. However, her story led her in a direction that even she didn’t expect.
Lynette and her husband had adopted two German Shorthair Pointers named
Sancho and Lola from Texas GSP Rescue.
What might have sent other people into a
For the first year she worked alone and the
and a new mission. She began
employees. Now, less than three years
depression, set Lynette on a new course studying holistic nutrition and made an unnerving discovery.
“The more I learned what was toxic for
my body, the more I found the same toxic
second year they grew to include another later, they have five employees and the
business shows no signs of slowing down, though they have had their share of setbacks.
ingredients were used in most dog treats
“My Amazon account got hacked and it
treats sold by reputable companies.”
said Lynette. “When the Houston hurricane
and chews,” said Lynette. “These were
The dogs had been abused and seeing
In 2015 Lynette started Sancho & Lola’s
other dogs. However, she was having
specializing in natural, chemical free
took forever to get it straightened out,”
victims called for help, we had to donate product instead of cash, but everything
their struggles inspired Lynette to help
Closet, a boutique brand of pet treats
struggles of her own.
treats and chews for dogs, owned and
Her “little business” was supposed to just
or limited ingredient dog chews that
days a week, allowing her to contribute to
wheat & corn, soybean oil, thickeners like
about. To date they have donated over
BHA and BHT, bone meal (MBM), artificial
well as dogs in crisis with no official rescue
to contribute to inflammation or cancer
Sancho & Lola’s closet is strictly an
After years of burning the candles at both ends with work and exercise, Lynette
found herself sidelined. She was suffering from a debilitating joint and adrenal
condition and unable to work for 4 years, having multiple procedures/surgeries on her knees, neck and wrists while in
operated in Lewisville. They offer single
be a side project that she worked a couple
do not contain products such as GMO
local dog rescues that she was passionate
Carrageenan, synthetic preservatives like
$18,000 in cash and product to rescues as
flavorings and colors, all known
helping them.
in dogs.
Lynette took an ecommerce course to
purchased through Shopify store, Amazon
out of her condo in Castle Hills. After 3
Facebook page.
sell on Amazon and started the business
and Chewy. They also have a website and
months, her inventory had grown so much
So what’s next for Sancho & Lola’s Closet?
that her husband insisted she move into an office building they owned in Old Town Lewisville.
“I could bring Sancho and Lola, so I agreed,” laughed Lynette. 24 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
ecommerce business. Products may be
“We are continuing to expand the product
line. As of 2018, our portfolio has doubled in size,” said Lynette. “Meanwhile my team (CEOs Sancho and Lola) will keep up their strict testing standards.”
photos courtesy of Sancho & Lola’s Closet
leg braces.
worked out. We were just glad to help.”
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25
Making
Yourself
GOOD DECISIONS in a
Not-So-Good World by Susan Neuhalfen
W
hat started as a book has now, as predicted, become a movement.
Inspired Right: Your American
Opportunity is about right vs. wrong. It’s about the actions and decisions that are being taken in our world
“Parents should be teaching these
Our society feeds this epidemic,
responsibility to schools and other
media feeds on this, politics thrive on
skills but often they outsource that
entities,” said Brian. “Some parents
it and the current culture perpetuates
don’t know how to teach
through anger and bullying instead
grew up without it themselves so they
it. Our society resolves conflict
personal skills.”
of simply listening to find common
today by our friends, our neighbors,
Employers tell Searcy every day that
a movement to bring back the basic
candidates with basic problem
have fallen out of our society.
They won’t take responsibility
our co-workers and our children. It’s
they are unable to find qualified
principles and personal skills that
solving skills. They listen to respond.
“95% of our youth today are lacking personal skills,” said Brian Searcy, CEO of Main Street Pilot and Co-
Author of Inspired Right. “Increasing numbers of people simply don’t
know how to make good decisions
anymore. Fortunately, our company offers help through new programs and materials for every learning audience.”
How did this happen? The basic
structure of the family has changed over generations. With two parents
working, many of the personal skills
that were usually taught in the home, are simply not.
where opinion becomes fact. The
for their actions
and everything is someone
else’s fault. “It’s an epidemic in our current
society,” said Mark Stratton, Director of Programming.
ground with the objective of better outcomes.
Our schools teach the hard skills:
math, science, reading, writing, SATs, Staar Tests, TASC tests, etc.
95%
According to Harvard and Stanford studies, only 15% of a person’s
success is based on
of our youth today are lacking personal skills.
“Somewhere along
the way, parents stopped
teaching their children life skills and
I’m not just talking about millennials. The problem spans across four
generations. There seemed to be
a decline along the way of how to teach, learn and use these skills.”
hard skills. 85% of success depends on personal
skills, such as
problem solving
and personal
responsibility, but how
do they learn personal skills
development if they are not being taught effectively?
“We are now the ‘How’,” says Mark. The folks at Main Street Pilot have developed a number of simple
Employers tell Searcy every day that they are unable to find qualified candidates with basic problem solving skills.
and effective programs to help provide the “How,” giving anyone the ability to
accelerate the development of personal skills in new and impactful ways.
Options for teaching and learning these critical skills are available as Decision Navigation™ classes and
courses on line, with program content and materials
available for direct use by
employers to complement professional development and ethics requirements. There are also exciting
programs for K-12 and higher education teaching and learning audiences.
Main Street Pilot’s approach to teaching and learning is by delivering content to
audiences over an appropriate period of time. These skills cannot be developed effectively without repetition and
practical use, so the content is delivered
progressively, a little at a time, to promote
and better understand decision making
Main Street Pilot is already working with
on a personal level. Programs can span 15
corporations, small businesses, colleges,
weeks for educators and up to 48 weeks for employers. Included along the way are many opportunities to put this knowledge to use with increasing confidence.
public schools and churches to help their clients develop individual, positive, self-respecting personal skills that are desperately needed in our society today.
“Only 15% of a person’s
success is based on hard skills. 85% of success
depends on personal skills.” Main Street Pilot has also developed technology-based and micro-learning content to appeal to the learning behavior of younger learners and corporate executives alike.
Obviously, with their varied client base, each program is tailored for different conditions depending on the clients’ circumstances, but with the same basic principles.
“Everyone is experiencing these problems, whether in business or closer to home,” said Mark. “The good news is there is now a beacon of positive possibilities out there
“What our audiences are experiencing is a very personal approach to building confidence in making better decisions, whether learning on their own or in larger
for those who want to change
groups,” said Mark.
offered visit mainstreetpilot.com.
this epidemic.” For more information on the programs
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 27
CASTLE HILLS Village Shops & Plaza
D I N E
•
S H O P
•
E V E N T S
•
S E R V I C E S
Welcome to
CASTLE HILLS VILLAGE SHOPS & PLAZA Come join the fun at any of our periodic events that are all family - friendly, free (unless noted) and open to the public. Our events range from live music to educational & are held in the plaza unless otherwise noted. So be sure to read the latest issue of this publication for upcoming events in the Castle Hills Village Shops and Plaza.
28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
JANUARY 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29
Yourself | Edit This
Should You Write by
Day Night? or
A
fellow writer recently asked me if I thought writing things like blogs, feature articles, and other intense projects early in the morning was better than doing the same work late at night or in the middle of the day. The quick answer is that it all depends on the writer.
Personally, I’ve tried writing in the middle
But which is better – the “Early Bird”
of the day but often find myself distracted
approach or the “Night Owl” approach? I’ve tried both approaches and have yet to
“Early Birds” make 11.8 mistakes
by other responsibilities, phone calls, honey-do lists, unforeseen additions to my
find a negative to each. But the good folks
schedule, et cetera. So, what usually takes me roughly an hour to craft might instead take me two or three hours if done in the
at Grammarly appear to disagree with me. They put a blog and graphic together on this very topic quite some time ago and
per 100 words. “Night Owls” make 14.3 per 100 words. SOCIAL MEDIA “Early Birds” make 34.0 mistakes
found that most “Early Bird” writers make
per 100 words. “Night Owls” make
that happens to me EVERY time. If I had
less mistakes than “Night Owls.”
41.6 per 100 words.
my preference, though, I would work on
Below are some of their results broken
middle of the day. That’s not to suggest
the more difficult pieces during odd hours – early in the morning or late at night.
down by writing task. Keep in mind that “Early Birds” are those who write between
Doing so keeps me focused and helps me
4 a.m. and 8 a.m. “Night Owls” write
cut down on errors.
between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| JANUARY 2018
by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 EditThisLLC.com