APRIL/MAY 2021 - THE SPRING ISSUE
Pushing
Forward With Southern Leisure Spas & Patios
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TABLE OF
Contents ASK THE EXPERT 19 Travel with Terri Guthrie
PAGE
16
Pushing
Forward With Southern Leisure Spas & Patios
Cover Image Hot tub by Southern Leisure Spas & Patios
ARTICLES 08 10 Hot Summer Camps For Kids 11 One-Skillet Cheesy Sausage & Peppers Recipe 12 Inside Community and Education 14 Foodie Friday DFW: Taco Cielo 20 Winning The Fight 22 The Future Of Workspace 25 There Remains A Need 26 Ally’s Wish 29 5 Things To Do 30 What Is Cinco de Mayo?
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Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com
Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray
Administration
If anything,
GET OUTSIDE & WORK ON THE GARDEN A
s the calendar flips to April, May, and then June and July, one thing that we all can stand to do more of is get out in the garden. Sure, summertime is for taking those long-awaited vacations, being with friends and family, and just enjoying some consistent weather. I’m certainly not insinuating that we kick those plans to the curb. But if you aren’t planning any trips this summer, or if you have some time in between getaways, get out and do some gardening. Mow the lawn. Plant some pretty flowers. Clean some of the excess garbage out from below the shrubs! I bring this up because gardening, at its core, is something that can be very soothing to us emotionally and spiritually during these crazy times we live in — and now is as good a time as any to appreciate everything that gardening gives us. Gardening is relaxing and can be very therapeutic. And if we do it right, it can turn any space into something beautiful. I can’t say that I’m the world’s leading authority on gardening and lawn maintenance, but I can tell you that getting out there with Scott and the kids — or even by myself — has helped me recenter and focus on controlling what I can control. The rest, as they say, will take care of itself. Here are a few inspirational quotes about gardening and life. And thank you for reading our latest issue!
“Gardening adds years to your life and life to your years.” — unknown author
“God Almighty first planted a garden. And indeed, it is the purest of human pleasures.” — Francis Bacon
Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran
Editor & Writer Steve Gamel
Writers
Caylie Howard, Diane Ciarloni Jade Kensington, Jean Eisenmann Leena Duwadi, Rebecca Beer
Advertising Inquiries
sales@murray-media.com
Production
Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Cayla Thompson Fernando Gomez
Photography
Miranda Longoria Photography Your Candid Memories Photography What’s That Guy’s Name? Guy T Photography
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 Murray Media Group.
Editorial Inquiries Call 972.899.3637 or email editor@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Life in Castle Hills is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Some articles and/or content may be sponsored by advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. 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. © 2021 Murray Media Group
Sincerely, Kelly Murray 6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2021
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HOT
SUMMER
CAMPS FOR KIDS
1. Win Kids | 3000 Waketon Rd. • Flower Mound, TX 75028 Win Kids is all about a fun and kid-friendly experience. Their summer camp activities consist of obstacle courses, gymnastics, stories, martial arts, nature walks, petting zoos, crafts, snacks, and more! You know your child is safe and having a blast when you enroll them in Win Kids Summer Camp. 2. Excite! | 2225 Highland Village Rd. • Highland Village, TX 75077 Excite! Summer camps are fun for each child that enrolls. It keeps them entertained and active throughout the day. Excite! Summer camp was created for members of Excite! However, if you are not already a member, it is very easy to join. Kids will tumble their way into a fantastic summer at Excite! 8 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2021
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3. YMCA | 2021 Cross Timbers Rd. • Flower Mound, TX 75028 The YMCA offers Summer Day Camps that are all about discovery, finding new talents,
trying new activities, and making lasting memories. Each campers’ day will be filled with nature and outdoor learning, games, swimming, and more! Your kids will have a ball at the YMCA Summer Day Camp!
4. IKidz | 25679 Smotherman Rd. • Frisco, TX 75033 IKidz is a woman-owned and operated, state-certified, child-care operation that focuses
on child safety, healthy food, and academic enrichment. They offer fun experiences such as sports activities and field trips that your child is sure to love! Your kids will never want to leave IKidz summer camp.
5. RNR Stables | 3114 Parkridge Dr. • Corinth, TX 76210 RNR Stables offers fun and popular horseback riding summer camp programs for kids
of all ages. Their goal is to share with everyone the joy of learning horsemanship skills.
With over 40 years of experience, RNR Stables is sure to provide your child with a oneof-a-kind summer camp experience.
8. Bach to Rock FLM 6000 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Bach to Rock Flower Mound offers a special musical experience for each child. They teach musical instruments that include guitar, piano, drums, voice, violin, trumpet, and more! If you are looking for a unique way for your child to spend their summer, Bach to Rock Flower Mound is the place to be! 9. School of Rock 6891 Main St. • Frisco, TX 75034
6. Adventure Kids Playcare | 690 Parker Square Rd. • Flower Mound, TX 75028 Adventure Kids Playcare is a unique and fun childcare and entertainment center for
kids from ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. You can be sure that your child will be safe and secure as they play, explore, and learn in this fun and exciting environment. Your child will have a blast at Adventure Kids Playcare!
7. Kids R Kids | 2660 Main St. • Frisco, TX 75033 Kids R Kids Learning Academy offers a unique state-of-the-art, technology-filled
experience. This summer camp offers an experience that you won’t be able to find
anywhere else. Your child will be sure to make lasting friendships and memories at Kids R Kids!
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School of Rock is the leader in performance-based music education. Your kids are sure to have a blast learning to play music, have fun, and create great communities of musicians. Your kids are sure to be entertained at School of Rock this summer! 10. YMCA Camp on the Lake 709 Highland Village Rd. Highland Village, TX 75077 YMCA Camp on the Lake is a fun and exciting waterfront day camp environment created just for kids. This unique experience will provide your child with a variety of camp activities that are usually exclusive to sleep-away camps. Your child won’t be able to stop talking about YMCA Camp on the Lake! APRIL 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILL | 9
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One-Skillet CHEESY SAUSAGE
& PEPPERS T
his super quick and easy one-skillet dish is full of flavor. Serve with lettuce wraps, gluten-free tortillas, or over a bed of steamed cauliflower rice for a satisfying meal. Multi-colored peppers make for a nice presentation. However, any color of bell pepper, including green, work well for this recipe. Time-Saving Tip: Slice the onions and peppers while the sausage is cooking. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes Serves: 4
R E C I P E INGREDIENTS: 1¼ lbs. hot Italian sausage links, sliced 1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin Sea salt and black pepper, to taste ½ large red bell pepper, sliced thin ½ large yellow bell pepper, sliced thin ½ large orange bell pepper, sliced thin 2 T. fresh parsley, chopped 4-5 slices mild Provolone cheese DIRECTIONS: 1. Heat a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes.
with additional salt and black pepper, if desired. Cook, stirring frequently, until the peppers are crisp-tender and start to char, approximately 3-4 minutes. (Do not overcook or the peppers may become mushy). 4. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Remove from heat and top with the chopped parsley and Provolone cheese slices. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted. 5. Remove lid and serve immediately with your choice of wraps and/or side dishes. Enjoy!
2. Transfer sausage to a platter and carefully drain all but one tablespoon of grease from the skillet, if needed. Add the onion and season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and starts to develop some color, approximately 3-4 minutes. 3. Increase heat to medium-high and add the sliced peppers. Season lightly www.LiveLocalMagazines.com
APRIL 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILL | 11
INSIDE COMMUNITY
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ANNUAL PULLING FOR KIDS CLAY TOURNAMENT CASA of Denton County is hosting their 20th Annual Pulling for Kids Sporting Clay Tournament on June 25th! Join as a sponsor, team, or volunteer at the Dallas Gun Club from 7:30am - 5:30pm to help CASA raise money for the best interest of children in Denton County that have been abused and neglected. Go to https://casadenton.org/ news-events/pfk/ for more information. photo courtesy of Casa Of Denton County social media page
LEWISVILLE POLICE OFFICERS RECEIVE UNIQUE BADGE OF HONOR Chief Deaver presented Lewisville Police employees with a unique Badge of Honor COVID-19 lapel pin! This pin represents their hard work during the challenging year of social unrest, COVID-19, and weather issues. Each color represents something different, black is to mourn those who lost the battle to COVID, white respects those who fought to save lives, and the American flag represents the strength and resolve of the U.S. photo courtesy of the City of Lewisville
INSIDE EDUCATION
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THE COLONY HIGH STUDENT ILLUSTRATES PUBLISHED CHILDREN’S BOOK Author Maria Davies posted on Facebook looking for an illustrator for her new children’s book, “Peyton’s Purpose.” When The Colony High School junior Jacalyn Olson saw the post, she knew she had to submit her work. Olson got to work and soon after she now has a published book in her hands that she illustrated! You can check out Olson’s art by purchasing “Peyton’s Purpose” on Amazon https://amzn.to/3uhTask. photo courtesy of Lewisville ISD
FEED THE TEACHERS LUNCH Hebron High School PTSA will be facilitating a sandwich or salad boxed lunch for Hebron Staff during Staff Appreciation week! Staff Appreciation week is from May 3rd to May 7th. Families and businesses who would like to donate a lunch can also include a thank you note with their donation. Your personalized thank you will be placed on each staff lunch. For more information and to donate go to https://bit.ly/39EKPXA.
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GRANDSCAPE NOW OPEN Grandscape in The Colony is now open!! Explore this one-of-a-kind outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment destination for all ages. Dine at one of the many delicious restaurants, shop at the boutiques, have fun at one of the entertainment areas, or even stay the night at one of the hotels! There’s something for everyone at the Grandscape.
PAINTED DECORATIVE CROSSWALK The City of Lewisville is launching the Decorative Crosswalk Program which will add decorative crosswalks throughout the city over the course of several years. The first decorative crosswalk will be at Purnell and Charles Street, crossing Purnell on the east side of Charles. This calls for artists who can both design the artwork as well as install and maintain the work. Learn more on the city’s website www.cityoflewisville.com/.
HEBRON’S WATCH YOUR WORDS CAMPAIGN After hearing from students and their concerns regarding certain word and language use, Hebron High decided to bring awareness to the power of words and how words can affect others. It was dubbed the “Watch Your Words” campaign and contains a wide range of topics from courage to microaggressions. Both students and the community were pleased with the willingness to have these tough conversations to create a more unified, empathetic, and inclusive campus. photo courtesy of Lewisville ISD
SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF VICKI ANNIS Vicki Annis, a life-long resident of Lake Dallas, had an incredible passion for teaching. She impacted every student she came in contact with and had a heart for helping others. Vicki’s positivity and love for life will be missed by all, so to honor her, Lewisville ISD Education Foundation has created a scholarship in memory of her. To donate to this scholarship go to https://bit.ly/31IzKAG. photo courtesy of Lewisville ISD
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APRIL 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILL | 13
Foodie Friday DFW: Taco Cielo
TACO CIELO by Jay Marks | photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW
A
nyone else like to imagine that in heaven we’ll find delicious street tacos on every corner? If you do, then you’ll love what they have to offer at Taco Cielo in Highland Village.
Over the last three years, they’ve become well-known in the community for their fresh-made cuisine using as many local ingredients as possible. They’re famous for everything from their salsa bar to their full-service bar and (of course) their street tacos. You can top their famous Cielo Tacos with everything from one of their seven meats to fried avocado to shrimp, and there’s no way to go wrong no matter what you choose! They’ve also become well-known for their tamales, burritos, and their Carne Asada Fries.
...GREAT SPECIALS YOU CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LIKE TACO TUESDAY AND BURRITO THURSDAYS — WHERE YOU CAN GET ANY BURRITO FOR $5.99.
Taco Cielo is also a fantastic place to enjoy entertainment after work or on the weekends. They have a huge bar fully-stocked with tequilas, beers, etc. — all with a couple of big screens and projectors where you can watch a game. And when it comes to their drinks, they’re famous for their Cielo Slush made with Malibu rum, strawberry, and more. Their Cielo Punch and martinis are also out of this world. You can find different bar specials throughout the week, and they also have Happy Hour Monday-Friday from opening until 4 p.m. So, if you’re interested in finding out what heaven tastes like, we definitely recommend you visit Taco Cielo in Highland Village to find out!
And if breakfast tacos are your thing, you can also order their breakfast tacos any time of the day! Throughout the week, Taco Cielo has lots of great specials you can take advantage
of like Taco Tuesday and Burrito Thursdays — where you can get any burrito for $5.99.
972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 3212 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 300 | Flower Mound, TX 75022 14 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2021
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Pushing
Forward With Southern Leisure Spas & Patios by Steve Gamel | photos courtesy of Southern Leisure
N
o parent should ever be told that their child has a life-threatening health condition. But for Cole and Amber Taylor, those words became their reality in the blink of an eye. Shortly after the happiest day of their life, doctors informed the Taylors that their newborn daughter, Madison, had three congenital heart defects.
The news was a lot for any two people to swallow for many reasons. For starters, sweet Madison was only a few days old, having been born on February 23, 2020. Surgeons told them that not only did she have heart defects, but Madison only had a 60-40 chance of making it to her first birthday. The road ahead would be long, confusing, and painful. And on top of that, Cole’s hot tub business, Southern Leisure Spas & Patio, was up in the air because of COVID-19 — making the financial piece of doing everything possible for Madison even that much more difficult. “We were struggling in March and April that year because of COVID-19 restrictions, so I’m telling my wife, ‘it’s been a bad month. I may need to trade my truck in for something smaller. We may need to make some cuts here. I may have to go a couple of weeks without pay,’” Cole was recently quoted as saying in another publication. “Without shattering her emotionally, I was trying to prepare her for what might be coming — on top of everything going on personally.” The good news is that more than a year later, Madison is thriving. Granted, she’s had two open-heart surgeries and has a third on the way. But as her parents
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quickly learned, she has redefined what it means to be a fighter. And, thankfully, Cole’s business has turned an important corner, too! The COVID-19 restrictions were merely a minor setback, and since they’ve reopened, business has been stronger than ever. Suddenly, a family that was facing several hardships personally and professionally is moving forward with unrivaled optimism. At the heart of Madison’s critical care has been their ability to keep the business going. Southern Leisure Spas & Patio prides itself on ensuring the ultimate hot tub shopping experience, offering everything from premium luxury hot tubs, saunas, and state-of-the-art BBQ grills. They have a full-scope showroom and installation professionals who can make your new hot tub the centerpiece of your new backyard oasis. Southern Leisure Spas & Patio is an authorized dealer for industry-leading hot tub manufacturers Bullfrog Spas and Marquis Hot Tubs. They also have other outdoor living brands such as Big Green Egg, Kamado Joe, Blaze Grills, and Sunlighten Saunas. If you can dream it, they offer it!
Cole, a Flower Mound resident, admits that starting the business happened completely by accident. But with help from his father and longtime pool builder, Brad Taylor, they’ve expanded from their first small store of 2,000 square feet to 5,200 square feet. From there, they expanded into Arlington and Richardson, and eventually Austin, Texas. A fifth store was planned for this fall, but that’s been pushed into 2022 because of inventory shortages. “We saw there was a real need in the market for someone who specialized in hot tubs,” Cole said in the article. “Now, we don’t sell pool supplies at all — it’s all hot tubs and barbecue grills.” He added, “Between that first and second store, I learned I couldn’t be involved on a day-to-day basis with every decision. I started trying to put people in place. Nobody can do this by themselves. You’ve got to have the right team and environment and culture.” Thankfully, Cole has always surrounded himself with good people. In late 2013, Garret Loverin, a longtime family friend
and Navy veteran, became the first store’s manager. He is now the general manager and oversees most of the day-to-day operations of the business. Together, they’ve managed to make Southern Leisure a great place where people want to work. Employees rotate a floating day off during the week, so everyone works only five days a week. “Adding stores is great. Profitability is great. But I know if I want to make my work-life balance better, I have to keep people around,” Cole said. “I was able to get some guys who have been in the industry five or 10 years, and they’re young.” Loverin agreed. “[Cole and I] work well with each other — we feed ideas off of each other,” Loverin says. “We see that having the right long-term employees will be a huge key to our success.” And, of course, keeping this beautiful family pushing forward as they do all they can to take care of their sweet Madison — who is every bit the fighter that her parents are.
972.317.1011 SouthernLeisureSpas.com 1175 Justin Rd Flower Mound, TX 75028
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Amazing ‘Central’ Arizona by Terri Guthrie | photos courtesy of Terri Guthrie
S
mack dab in the center of Arizona, you’ll find some of my favorite areas in this amazing state! We’ve been visiting here since we lived in Phoenix back in the 80s, and it still calls our name. It’s really easy to get to…just fly to Phoenix and drive north! Clarkdale is a fun destination in the Verde Valley with old western mining roots. There, you will find the Arizona Copper Art Museum and the famous Verde Canyon Railroad, which offers a four-hour picturesque ride in a classic locomotive. Nearby is the National Monument, Tuzigoot. This is one of the fascinating ancient ruins of the Sinagua People, dating back 1,000 years! Jerome is an old mining town that sits high on a hillside with stunning panoramic views of the Verde Valley. It’s known as “The Largest Ghost Town in America.” This area boomed into a Billion Dollar
Travel: Ask The Expert
Copper Camp seemingly overnight! Once called the “Wickedest Town in the West,” Jerome now features museums, shops, galleries, and great restaurants like the Haunted Hamburger! Sedona is known as “Red Rock Country” and is one of Arizona’s most popular destinations. It’s set against dramatic, red rocks and cliffs and is an outdoor lover’s paradise — especially for hikers! Accommodations range from inexpensive to luxurious spa resorts and spiritual retreats. We love the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a Catholic chapel that is built high
into the red buttes. Another favorite is Tlaquepaque – an iconic Sedona Arts and Crafts Village. The architecture is beautiful as well as the numerous towering sycamore trees! Oak Creek Canyon is a gorgeous river gorge only four miles upstream from Sedona. Driving through the canyon is an adventure with lots of switchbacks and breathtaking views. This has to be one of the most dramatic drives in the entire U.S. amidst the stately red rock formations, lush green canyon vegetation, and Oak Creek’s pristine waters! And these are just a few of the reasons why Arizona is so amazing!
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APRIL 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILL | 19
K
athy O’Keefe is a remarkable woman. She’s exceedingly compassionate, sharp as a tack, and she can recall the smallest numerical details from events that happened years ago. She is also Flower Mound’s self-proclaimed “Drug Lady.” After the drug-related death of her son, O’Keefe founded the 501c3 organization Winning the Fight in 2011 to provide drug education to Flower Mound’s youth and to provide resources to families struggling with the disease of addiction. “On March 20, 2010, we lost our 18-year-old to an accidental overdose of Xanax and heroin,” O’Keefe said. “God immediately said, ‘You need to do something.’” After her son, Brett O’Keefe, overdosed three times, was hospitalized and attended rehabilitation programs, Kathy O’Keefe found that she - and her community - were in dire need of practical, informative drug education. “We took a breath, and we realized that we lacked education, we lacked support, we lacked resources. It created isolation,” she said. “We brought a strategic plan to the community and said, ‘What do you need?’ Ultimately, we needed a conduit between kids and resources.”
Winning the Fight by Rebecca Beer | photo of group by Kathy O’Keefe
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In 2010, O’Keefe said that despite three teens dying from heroin use within a few miles of one another, Flower
Mound didn’t have a narcotics unit
specifically designed to investigate
incidents involving narcotics. Eventually, a massive DEA investigation led to the
indictment of 17 individuals for heroinrelated crimes.
“I thought, ‘Something big is going
on here,’” she said. “Kids were dying so quickly.”
WTF exists as a pipeline that connects
schools, parents, and kids to potentially life-saving information. In August 2014, WTF released its first documentary
entitled, “Not Me.” O’Keefe said 641 parents, adolescents, and members
of school administration attended the film’s screening. Since then, WTF has
Photo names from the front: Kathy Duke (President), Chris Robinson, Kathy O’Keefe (Executive Director and Founder). Back: Michael Hall, Cassandra Forest, Missy Distel, Mark DeWitt and Crystal Godsey
released two other documentaries
detailing the real life danger and issues behind drug use.
Recognizing the vital part mental health plays in reducing drug use, WTF staff
“Our most recent documentary is called
and volunteers provided 313 referrals to
shown it at McKinney high schools and
facilities to ensure adequate resources
‘Just Once,’” O’Keefe said. “We’ve
middle schools for two semesters.” O’Keefe emphasized that drug
education needs to start earlier than when many parents think. “This conversation needs to be in middle school,”
she said. “We also need to pay attention to
mental health. We have
to start paying attention to why kids are
mental health professionals, visited 26
are provided, and attended 18 seminars
focused on mental health in 2019 alone. “There are lots of really good things that
happen, but you’re battling Satan,” O’Keefe said. “It’s a horrid
If you NEED me, CALL me.
self-medicating.” O’Keefe believes school may
have been a major factor in her son’s self-medication with drugs.
“Brett hated school because his
battle. It’s exhausting.”
Another aspect of WTF’s mission is providing
resources specifically
to parents in families
affected by drug use.
The organization hosts a
revitalization retreat geared
toward parents of children
suffering from drug dependence.
stigma of addiction that often
exacerbates drug use and leads to further loneliness.
“Our biggest thing is don’t sit in
isolation,” she said. “If you have a
problem, come forward, get help. You don’t need to be alone.” O’Keefe said families can
request help by contacting WTF via wtf-winningthefight.org.
You can also request help by calling
the number listed on WTF’s website O’Keefe’s personal cell number.
“My phone number’s everywhere,” she said. “If you need me, call me. If you’re in a jam, call me. Just reach out.”
The one-day retreat has five different
Despite leading a group dedicated
feelings and experiences.
youth for the past 10 years, O’Keefe
therapies to help parents process their
ADHD made it difficult for him to
“These parents have PTSD,” O’Keefe
a point where he didn’t want to go
hours of the night expecting a phone
work,” she said. “His anxiety grew to
said. “You know, they’re waking up at all
to school anymore.”
call saying their kid is in jail or dead.”
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O’Keefe hopes to fight the
to saving the lives of its community’s insists that she’s simply dedicated to a higher purpose.
“I didn’t do this,” she said. “God is doing this. He’s just using me.”
APRIL 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILL | 21
THE FUTURE Of
WORKSPACE by Jean Eisenmann | photos courtesy of Venture X - The Realm at Castle Hills
C
o-working is a business office concept that combines the flexibility of working independently with the more structured setting of a traditional office environment — all from a shared workspace. More and more businesses and self-employed professionals are gravitating toward co-working to experience that energized community environment and the advantages of having corporate amenities at their disposal.
In February 2020, Venture X – The Realm at Castle Hills opened its doors as a best-in-class membership-based workspace community. This 31,000 square-foot facility on the 3rd floor of The Realm at Castle Hills in Lewisville is centrally located to shopping, restaurants, and DFW Airport. Contained within its impressive setting are all the tools business professionals could ever hope for to grow their companies and succeed. This is an especially perfect concept for entrepreneurs, startup companies, small/ medium businesses, and teams. No leases or long-term contracts for office space rentals are required, just flexibleterm memberships, including month-tomonth, to accommodate your changing needs. Several membership levels are offered to suit various businesses, and all
provide superior quality contemporary workspaces. Options include community membership with open desk space, dedicated desks, and over 90 private offices that accommodate 1 to 100 people. Private offices are outfitted with high-end furniture, filing cabinets and chairs, creating a space that is turnkey and move-in ready. In addition to all these options, if you simply want a virtual office premium business address with a private mailbox rental service, that’s available to you. If all that weren’t enough, memberships include access to meeting rooms equipped with high-speed internet, audio/ visual presentation equipment, and the use of copiers, printers, and scanners. A 4,000 square foot spacious common area on the first floor is accessible to members and beneficial for your business events, casual meetings, and networking. You also may choose to eat lunch at the café or help yourself to the free coffee and tea bar. The team even arranges for membership luncheons and happy hours throughout the year. What kind of dream team has the talent and dedication to oversee Venture X –
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The Realm at Castle Hills? “Our team is diligent about creating engaging, motivating work environments so our members can focus on their businesses while we take care of the rest,” said Community Director Angela Hampton. “In just this first year, it has been a pleasure to interact with members and assist whenever called upon.” Even when not called upon, this team is mindful of their members. After February’s devastating winter snowstorm, the offer was made to waive March’s rent! Venture X – The Realm at Castle Hills is owned and operated by local entrepreneurs. Currently there are nine locations in the DFW area, and more all across the U.S. Others are in Canada, UK, Costa Rica, Spain, Mexico, India, and the United Arab Emirates. As a member, you have access to use and work from any of them as you travel!
With their incomparable list of amenities and tools for success, the clear choice is Venture X – The Realm at Castle Hills to support your business’s growth and success. Angela explains, “Our motto is ‘your dream is our dream and our members’ success is our success.’ We truly believe it.” www.LiveLocalMagazines.com
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THERE REMAINS
NEED A
by Denton County Judge Andy Eads photo courtesy of Judge Andy Eads
W
In the last week of March, we held four vaccine clinics at Texas Motor Speedway, inviting more than 50,000 individuals to receive shots. By the first week in April, we began vaccinating individuals who registered on our Vaccine Interest Portal after Gov. Abbott opened access to the vaccine to all adults. In fact, Denton County opened its portal to all adults the very same day the state made the announcement. On March 26, we had a total of 447,825 individuals on our waitlist with only 51,842 remaining to be scheduled for appointments. We’ve been
e have come a long way this past year together in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic - from the early days of grappling with the unknown to where we are today distributing COVID-19 vaccinations to all adults who want one.
Currently, our COVID-19 cases are
• 122,593 first doses and 51,799
hospitals are returning to handling
vaccine through an ongoing
dropping to September levels, our normal procedures, and our businesses are bustling.
However, we do know there remains a
need to help support our economy, non-
profits, residents, businesses, and more — as everyone has been affected by this year-long crisis.
With the $147 million CARES funds from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, we were able to provide:
• $38.9 million in more than 2,400
grants to Denton County businesses
• More than 35,000 boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables to feed the hungry
• 20,000 in turkeys, hams, and chickens to provide protein
• $6.5 million plus for rental assistance, helping 4,242 households with rent, mortgage, and utilities
• Providing millions of dollars to our communities to help them with COVID-19 costs
able to vaccinate individuals within weeks, if not sooner, after they sign up. We anticipate continuing vaccination clinics at Texas Motor Speedway for
second doses of the COVID-19
the next few weeks, continuing a 16-
efficient process
attention, even with the White House,
In the third week of March, we rolled out the Consolidated Appropriations Act
Emergency Rental Assistance program to
provide $23 million to assist families earning 50% to 80% average median incomes
with rent, utilities, and other ancillary costs. Through the CAA ERA program, landlords and tenants work together to apply for all
rent in arrears through March 2020 as well as a potential rent coverage up to three
months ahead if the need is demonstrated. This program will help our landlords and
property owners become whole and, in turn, our banking system as well. Of course, the
real effect is keeping people in their homes
lane process that has garnered national which requested footage of our process before setting up their federal drivethrough clinics across the country. We also worked with several partners, Denton County Transportation Authority, and Span Inc., to provide transportation for individuals who do not have access to a vehicle or need specialized assistance to get to the Texas Motor Speedway. Individuals can call 940-243-0077, and arrangements will be made either by riding a bus at one of two locations in Denton and Carrollton or through a SPAN bus or through a volunteer with our local
without a big rent bill hanging over
Rotary Clubs. Both have played a huge
their heads.
role in volunteering.
We are currently in talks about the American
In fact, we’ve had more than 4,400
for Denton County. As we plan, we’re talking
hours to help us with the vaccination
looking long-term to see where these funds
County comes together in times of
Rescue Plan and the $172 million earmarked
volunteers serve more than 26,400
with groups around the county as well as
clinics. That alone shows how Denton
can do the most good.
need to get things done.
CONNECT WITH US
If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you. 940.349.2820 | andy.eads@dentoncounty.com | www.Dentoncounty.gov/countyjudgenewslettersignup www.LiveLocalMagazines.com
APRIL 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILL | 25
Ally’s
“I knew she and her
Wish F
family were okay in terms of basic needs – food, shelter, and clothing. But what about hope and joy?”
by Diane Ciarloni | photos courtesy of Ally’s Wish
lower Mound resident Missy Phipps knew Allyson Hendrickson. But she didn’t really know her. The two ladies attended the same church, and they were quick to nod and smile at one another at Sunday services. Missy knew Allyson was married with three little boys, and she knew Ally had cancer.
as memories and then move to make
“The part about the cancer really
a loose plan. They opened their energy
weighed on me,” she recalled. “I mean, I knew she and her family were okay in
terms of basic needs – food, shelter, and clothing. But what about hope and joy?
establish time for making fun memories All the while, she couldn’t stop thinking
wish grantee.
about Allyson.
about hospitals, treatments that made her
God laid on my heart the missing puzzle.
strongest memories of their mom be
Allyson,” she continued. “All of a sudden,
miserable, and her bald head? That just
It was fun memories! The same kind I
Phipps continued tending to her
successful real estate business with Keller Williams as well as her four children,
daughters Natalie and Madeline and twins Adysson and Rocco. She’s high-energy and always busy, but she never fails to 26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2021
They brainstormed. They came up with
reserves, and they went to work, selecting
“I still couldn’t shake the feeling about
shake the feeling.”
Phipps called three like-minded friends.
with her kids.
And those three little boys. Would their
didn’t seem right to me, and I couldn’t
those wishes happen.”
make with my kiddos. Allyson was a young mother who cherished her kids. But she was dying, and she would never see
them grow up. She was going to leave
this world, and their most vivid memories would be what I mentioned earlier –
hospitals, no hair, and horrible treatments. I knew there must be a way to find out
what these young moms wished to leave
Allyson Hendrickson as their first
Paperwork was drawn up, and Ally’s Wish was born as a non-profit corporation
organized and operated exclusively for
charitable purposes. The specific purpose is to provide a last “wish” to young,
terminally ill mothers with small children. The goal is to create a memory for the
family that will last a lifetime. The road to
implementing these wishes is through the provision of services, gifts, transportation, lodging, or any other “wish” the mother
may express. The 501c3 organization caps each wish at $5,000 and secures money through fundraising and donations.
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“That all happened just seven years ago,” Phipps said. “We really didn’t know what we were doing. We simply took an idea God dreamed up for us and started running with it. We’ve granted 200 wishes so far, and there are 200 moms on our waiting list. We have an unbelievable number of out-of-state and even international requests. Last year, in just one day, we had 30 moms fill out wish requests.” There was so much to learn for four ladies who had never done anything like this. How do you organize fundraisers? Which ones are most effective? How creative should we be? What are the rules and regulations that must be followed to avoid violating the 501c3 requirements? How do we get the best deals, and how do we find sponsors? It was akin to being caught in a tornado, but they knew they needed to hang on for the ride.
“Most of the wishes are for trips, with Disney World and Hawaii being the most popular,” Phipps said. “Some wish for a backyard makeover with a swimming pool so the family can make memories at home.
We’ve even had wishes for movie rooms. “Allyson, our first mom, and our original inspiration, kept a blog for her three sons called 3 Little Cowboys. She wished for it to be published. Allyson is gone, but the book is still available at www.AllysWish.org.” The date for the annual Boots & Blessings Gala is April 22. It is the organization’s premier fundraiser and will be held at an open-air venue at Marty B’s. The 5k run is the second fund-raising event. Also, in 2020, Alliance Energy presented a $100,000 check to Phipps after Ally’s Wish won their non-profit contest. Ally’s Wish was named Non-profit of the Year in 2019 at the Unity in Communities luncheon hosted by the Lewisville Chamber of Commerce, Flower Mound Chamber, and the Highland Village Business Association. And the future? “I dream big,” Phipps said with a chuckle. “Do we want to grow? We’re already growing. We just have to keep up. That’s only one of the places where God comes in – again and again.”
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APRIL 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILL | 27
28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2021
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Things 5TO DO TRINITY RIVER KAYAK CO. TrinityRiverKayak.com Trinity River Kayak is a destination adventure company located on the Elm Fork of the Trinity River in Coppell, Texas. Their Urban Adventures run 22 miles of the Elm Fork River with two three-hour runs and two six-hour runs. Fun for the whole family. DENTON COMMUNITY MARKET DentonMarket.org Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon April through November at 317 W. Mulberry St. in Denton, Texas. Denton Community Market is a producer-only art and farmer’s market in downtown Denton. Featuring live music, kids’ activities, local farms, local artists, food trucks, food vendors, and more!
TEXAS-TULIPS 10656 FM 2931, Pilot Point, TX 76258 TexasTulips.com Smell the tulips north of Dallas and enjoy the Sunnyside of life! Stroll through their wonderful tulip field of six acres, and pick your own tulips to create your own tulip bouquet. You can choose from thousands of tulips in exuberant different colors to be packed in pretty paper! Open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
BARNHILL VINEYARDS 11917 County Road 509, Anna, TX 75409 BarnHillVineyards.com Beautiful sunsets, fantastic live music, and wide open skies. Experience country life with their Texas vineyard, horses, donkeys, split-rail fence, and rustic barn at one of the more popular LIVE music events in North Texas. Texas wine - S’mores - Food Trucks - Open Fire! photo courtesy of BarnHill Facebook page www.LiveLocalMagazines.com
BENDT DISTILLING CO. BendtDistillingCO.com Spend an evening enjoying scratchmade craft cocktails in their one-of-a-kind whiskey garden under the big Texas sky! With a rotating seasonal cocktail menu and a variety of whiskey and non-whiskey distilled spirits, they offer vibrant flavors for every palate. Check out their website for Distillery Tours too! APRIL 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILL | 29
What is Cinco de Mayo? by Susan Neuhalfen
C
inco de Mayo (or May 5), a national holiday in Mexico and drinking holiday in the U.S., celebrates the victory of a small Mexican militia over the French army three times its size and much better equipped for battle. Though not a major victory,
the victory at Battle of Puebla was a huge moral victory for Mexico, proving they could defend their country and eventually force the French to withdrawal. We are happy, of course, because being a border state we have become slaves to their food and Margaritas. Here are a few recipes that you can make this May 5th memorable as we toast the underdogs.
CARNE ASADA GREEN CHILE RICE
(MMG employee authentic family recipe)
Ingredients •
5 lb (1 lb per person usually) of thin sliced Beef Steaks
Ingredients
AVOCADO MARGARITAS (recipe from Curra’s Grill in Austin) Ingredients •
2 C. crushed ice
•
6 oz Tequila of your choice
•
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced
•
2 oz triple sec
•
4 oz lime juice
•
pinch of cilantro
•
salt
Put ice, tequila, avocado, triple sec, lime juice and cilantro in a blender until smooth. Serve with or without kosher salt on the rim. Yields 4 servings. 30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2021
•
1 ½ cups cooked rice
•
4 lb bag of oranges
•
2 cups chicken broth
•
Chef Merito Carne Asada Seasoning
•
3 whole, fresh roasted green chiles, skinned and chopped OR 1 (4 oz.) can chopped green chiles
•
1 large glass pan to hold/marinate meat in
•
Outdoor grill
•
½ teaspoon salt
•
½ teaspoon garlic salt
•
½ teaspoon ground pepper
•
1 ½ cups Monterey Jack Cheese (can substitute with Pepper Jack Cheese), shredded
•
1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
•
1 cup Sour Cream
Cut oranges in half then set aside to use later. Take out a slice of steak and place it in the glass pan. Squeeze orange half over one side then shake the steak seasoning over the meat. Flip and then drench the other side with more orange juice and shake the seasoning on it. Take out another slice of steak then repeat the process over the already drenched piece underneath it. Marinate until the all of the meat is in the pan. If you have any orange halves left, squeeze over the meat. If you want extra orange flavor you can grate some of the rind over the meat. Cover and let marinate for 2-4 hours. Grill and enjoy with corn or flour tortillas!
Mix Monterey Jack cheese, seasoned cooked rice, sour cream and green chile. Lay in 8x10 pan. Add layer of Cheddar Cheese. Sprinkle the top with Paprika. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for 5 more minutes.
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