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KELLY MURRAY Publisher of Murray Media Group kelly@murray-media.com
Welcome to the October/November issue, a celebration of the enchanting fall season, especially the iconic pumpkin! This edition overflows with delightful pumpkin-themed content, from scrumptious pumpkin waffle recipes that will make your taste buds dance, to a guide on must-visit local pumpkin patches where you can create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Dive into the fall spirit and make the most of this vibrant, cozy season.
For those who crave a spine-chilling thrill, we’ve curated a hauntingly delightful list of spooky books and eerie places to explore — perfect for embracing the Halloween vibe! Experience chilling tales and mysterious locations that will send shivers down your spine. Personally, I’m eagerly anticipating the cooler weather finally gracing North Texas, offering a hint of the cozier months ahead, filled with warm beverages, soft sweaters, and crackling fires.
This issue also shines a well-deserved spotlight on our Nonprofit of the Month, the Argyle-based organization For the Love of Orphans. Discover their heartwarming story and learn how they’re making a profound difference in the lives of vulnerable children in Zambia through faith, food, education, and community development. Be inspired by their dedication to service and the hope they’re nurturing in young hearts.
As always, we hope these pages offer you inspiration and enjoyment, igniting your passion for the season and our incredible community. Warmest wishes for a delightful fall!
See ya around town, Kelly Murray
Publisher & Editor
Scott & Kelly Murray
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Shannon Robb
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Writers
Diane Ciarloni, Steve Gamel
Craig Hewitt, Mark Miller
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Miranda Longoria Photography
Letters
South Denton 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 Inquiries Call 972.899.3637 or email editor@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com
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South Denton Living 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. South Denton 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.
© 2025 Murray Media Group
by Craig Hewitt
As the autumn mist rolls in and the veil between the realm of the living and the dead dissipates, Texas reveals its darkest secrets. Steeped in history and lore, the Lone Star State offers a plethora of haunted tales that will send shivers down your spine. From eerie hotels to gloomy cemeteries, here are 10 of Texas’s spookiest spots, where shadows loom and phantoms lurk.
Built in 1886, the Driskill Hotel stands not only as a testament to Texas’s opulent past but also as a focal point for supernatural encounters. Guests frequently report seeing a young bride, believed to have died tragically on her wedding day, roaming the halls, and the sound of eerie laughter often echoes through its grand corridors. The hotel’s history of lavish events and untimely deaths has inspired more than its fair share of ghost stories.
Established in 1839, Oakwood Cemetery serves as the final resting place for many of Austin’s most prominent figures. Rumors swirl of sightings of ghostly mourners dressed in period clothing roaming through the trees. The cemetery’s age and tragic stories of its inhabitants add to its eerie reputation, making it a site steeped in mystery and chilling encounters.
A symbol of Texan pride, the Alamo is also the setting of a horrific massacre. Many believe the ghosts of those who fought and died during the infamous siege still linger here. Visitors often report seeing shadowy figures moving about at night and are believed to be the spectres of the defenders caught in a timeless struggle, making it a poignant place of remembrance intertwined with the supernatural.
Constructed in 1911, the Hotel Galvez has been home to many chilling experiences. Guests have reported sightings of a spirit known as “The Woman in White,” believed to be a bride who drowned in Galveston Bay on her wedding day. The hotel’s rich
history, including the deadly impact of Hurricane Ike, has infused the site with tales of loss, grief, and lingering spirits driven by tragic events.
Once a bustling mining town, Terlingua was left to decay, yet it thrives as a ghostly reminder of lost dreams. The ghostly stories stem from forsaken miners who faced harsh realities and untimely deaths, with numerous reports of incorporeal voices and visions. The desolate state of the town gives visitors a feeling of dread as they contemplate the misfortunes of those who sought riches in the unforgiving desert.
Abandoned and decaying, Yorktown Memorial Hospital is notorious for its haunted reputation. Built in the 1950s, it served as the site of many tragic medical experiments, leading many to believe the souls of tortured patients haunt its halls. Visitors often report strange noises and cold spots, creating an auspicious atmosphere fueled by grim tales of its traumatic past.
Nestled in the beautiful Hill Country, this winding stretch of road holds a dark allure to supernatural fanatics. Many speak of ghostly apparitions and mysterious lights, attributed to the spirits of those who died in accidents along this treacherous path. Its ominous reputation makes it an unnerving journey for nighttime travelers.
Old City Park is filled with preserved buildings dating back to the 19th century. Visitors have reported encounters with ghostly apparitions believed to be the spirits of early settlers who linger in the shadows. The park’s rich history and Victorian architecture creates an atmosphere where the past feels alive, making it a part of many local ghost tours.
Presidio La Bahia once served as a military outpost during the bloody Texas Revolution and is infamous for its valorous yet violent past. The ghosts of soldiers who fought and died here are said to haunt the grounds, with reports of apparitions and strange sounds echoing through the fort. A strong sense of foreboding adds layers to its chilling folklore.
The USS Lexington, a WWII aircraft carrier turned museum, is often referred to as the “Blue Ghost” due to its alleged hauntings. Visitors claim to hear footsteps and see the apparitions of sailors who perished during the war. The ship’s hallowed history of loss and sacrifice imbues the vessel with a supernatural energy, as the spirits of lost service members continue their watch.
... In the Best Way
by Madison Reed
Horror doesn’t have to mean hiding under the covers (though no judgment if you do). From timeless Gothic classics to modern scream-worthy hits, here are horror reads that bring the perfect blend of chills and thrills to your autumn evenings. So brew the cider, light the candles, and pick up one of these stories that any fan of the genre should read.
Dracula by Bram Stoker
The one that started it all. Bram Stoker’s immortal vampire tale still feels sharp over a century later. With its mix of mystery, seduction, and dread, Dracula remains the ultimate Gothic chiller, and the reason we can’t look at bats the same way.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Published when Shelley was just 20, Frankenstein isn’t just a monster story. It’s the blueprint for science fiction and
a cautionary tale about human ambition gone too far. If you’ve never read it, prepare to be surprised. It’s more tragic than terrifying, but totally unforgettable.
Haunting
Hill House by Shirley Jackson
Forget jump scares — Jackson’s novel is all about atmosphere. As four strangers move into Hill House to study its paranormal reputation, the question becomes: is the house really haunted, or is madness contagious? Either way, it’s chilling perfection.
The Shining by Stephen King
King at his terrifying best. An off-season hotel, a snowstorm, a failing marriage, and one man’s unraveling sanity —The Shining is the kind of book that’ll make you keep the lights on, even if you’ve seen the movie a dozen times.
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
This 2020 bestseller gave the gothic
horror genre a lush, thrilling reboot. A glamorous debutante ventures into a crumbling Mexican mansion where secrets, spores, and sinister family ties ooze from the walls. It’s creepy, stylish, and utterly original.
IT by Stephen King
If you thought clowns were creepy before, Pennywise will make you avoid the circus for life. This sprawling saga isn’t just a fright-fest — it’s also a nostalgic, heartbreaking story about childhood, trauma, and the monsters we never quite outgrow.
House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski
Equal parts puzzle, nightmare, and cult obsession, this experimental novel about a house that’s bigger on the inside has terrified and fascinated readers for decades. With footnotes, shifting fonts, and labyrinthine layers, it’s a reading experience like no other.
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
The ultimate possession story. Inspired by real-life events, Blatty’s novel about a young girl and the battle for her soul is equal parts terrifying and profound, wrestling with questions of faith as much as fear.
Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin
A newlywed couple, an old New York apartment building, some too-friendly neighbors, and a pregnancy that feels… off. Levin’s novel simmers with paranoia, leading to one of the most unsettling twists in horror history.
The Woman in Black by Susan Hill
Sometimes the simplest ghost story is the scariest. A young lawyer travels to a fogdrenched English village and discovers that the past refuses to stay buried. It’s a slim, elegant novel that proves less can absolutely be more.
Looking for goosebumps with just the right amount of bite? These books deliver chills, thrills, and page-turning suspense for adventurous readers.
Coraline by Neil Gaiman (HarperCollins)
A doorway to a parallel world seems exciting — until Coraline realizes the “Other Mother” isn’t what she seems. Creepy, clever, and unforgettable.
Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine (Scholastic Press)
From haunted masks to ventriloquist dummies with too much personality, these classics remain the ultimate gateway to fun frights.
Small Spaces by Katherine Arden (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers)
A bus trip gone wrong, scarecrows that move, and a bargain with the mysterious “Smiling Man.” Perfectly chilling for adventurous middle graders.
The Eerie Brothers and the Witches of Autumn by Sheldon Higdon (Spooky House Press) When two brothers discover their new town hides unsettling secrets, they must face down witches and a chilling curse. Atmospheric and spooky fun.
These lighthearted picks bring more giggles than gasps.
Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Peter Brown (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) Jasper Rabbit discovers that his favorite snack may be following him home. Playfully spooky with a twist ending.
Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler (Dial Books for Young Readers) A kind witch and her cat pick up new friends on a broomstick ride — until a dragon threatens their fun. Sweet, rhyming, and a little magical.
There’s a Monster in Your Book by Tom Fletcher, illustrated by Greg Abbott (Random House Books for Young Readers) A silly interactive book where kids shake, tilt, and shout to get a cheeky monster out of the pages.
Ten Timid Ghosts by Jennifer O’Connell (Cartwheel Books/Scholastic)
Ten little ghosts try to reclaim their haunted house from a witch who’s moved in. Lightly spooky with a lot of charm.
October is a month for recognizing several important issues including domestic violence awareness, bullying prevention, breast cancer awareness, and reading to young children as part of National Book Month.
Every 83 minutes, someone in Denton County reaches out for safety in connection with domestic violence – a heartbreaking statistic from the Denton County Friends of the Family.
The organization offers free, trauma-informed services that guide survivors of domestic violence toward safety, stability and justice as they work to regain healing and hope.
In 2024, the nonprofit served 5,763 survivors, answered 6,048 crisis calls and texts, and provided an amazing 12,329 nights of emergency shelter. Without their services, many who are experiencing domestic violence would have few alternatives available to them.
It is imperative we get information out to the public that they have a resource available. Too many suffer in silence.
Reach out to Denton County Friends of the Family DCFoF.org to support, volunteer or recommend to someone in need.
‘JUST SAY NO TO BULLYING’ IN DENTON COUNTY
National Bullying Prevention Month is an opportunity to educate children and parents on the seriousness of bullying and its effects. Bullying is physical, verbal, sexual, emotional harm or intimidation intentionally directed at a person or group of people, and it occurs in neighborhoods, playgrounds, schools, through technology and much more.
Research shows bullying is the most common form of violence, affecting millions of American children and adolescents annually, not including the many adults who face bullying.
Targets of bullying are more likely to acquire physical, emotional, and learning problems, and students who are repeatedly bullied often fear such activities as riding the bus, going to school, and
attending community activities. Children who bully are also at a greater risk of engaging in more serious violent behaviors. The children who witness bullying often feel less secure, more fearful, and intimidated.
In Denton County, thanks to the efforts of T-Ronn Hicks, we collectively “Say No to Bullying.”
For the past three years, Denton County Commissioners Court has invited employees to join us in forming a pink ribbon on the lawn in back of our Denton County Administrative Courthouse off Loop 288. And each year, more join us wearing pink shirts, ties, blouses and dresses.
It is an honor to support those who have experienced or are experiencing this disease.
Each year, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. By coming together, we can raise awareness and assist with education, fundraising, and more. More information about Breast Cancer Awareness Month can be found here: BCRF.org.
National Book Month focuses on the importance of reading, writing and literature. It is also a time to volunteer to read to the young children at our schools across Denton County to show them the significance of opening a book.
Books are the foundation of much of our knowledge as adults, which is why we want to encourage reading and writing among our youth. Too many shortcuts are now available and, while they are useful as tools, they should not replace taking the time to read a book or write a poem, letter, or even their own book.
Contact your local school or public library to find out where you can read to children. This month, United Way of Denton County’s Women UNITED is offering opportunities to read to preschoolers across the county at UnitedWayDenton.org/early-childhoodliteracy-initiative. I hope you’ll join their efforts to bring books alive for our little ones.
If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you. Be sure and connect with me and with Denton County on Facebook with the QR codes. bobbie.mitchell@dentoncounty.com |
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Step aboard the historic Schooner J&E Riggin and leave the world behind. This all-inclusive sailing adventure, ranging from three to six nights, begins in Rockland, Maine, and unfolds along the rugged coastline of Penobscot Bay. For couples, families, or solo travelers, it’s a chance to trade schedules for sea breezes and screens for starlight.
We weren’t just looking for a vacation — we were chasing something rare. A true adventure. The Schooner J&E Riggin, a national landmark nearly 100 years old, provides an opportunity to sail Maine’s coastline on a historic vessel. No cruise ship could compare.
Daily, we glided quietly across the water, we saw spruce-lined shores, seaside villages, and the quiet thrill of discovery. Each hour is shaped by the wind and tide, offering uninterrupted views of Maine’s legendary coastline.
We spotted harbor seals lounging on
sun-warmed rocks, porpoises dancing in our wake, and osprey wheeling overhead. Bald eagles perched like sentinels in the pines, and sea birds skimmed the surface in elegant arcs. In mid to late summer, whales sometimes grace the journey. Each sighting was a reminder of how rich and untamed this corner of the world remains.
The Wooden Boat Rendezvous is an annual celebration of Maine’s wooden windjammers —it’s a living tribute to craftsmanship, community, and the enduring beauty of wooden boats. This gathering has drawn boat lovers from near and far, each vessel a floating story.
Rafting up overnight with a flotilla of nine classic wooden windjammer boats, their varnished hulls glowing in the twilight, was a highlight. As the stars emerged, sea shanties echoed across the water—voices rising in harmony, laughter spilling into the night. It was where history met camaraderie and the spirit of Maine’s maritime legacy came alive. A memory we will treasure forever.
Our voyage aboard the historic schooner J. & E. Riggin was a feast for the senses. We dined alfresco on deck—breakfast, lunch, and dinner served with sweeping views of Maine’s rugged coastline. A traditional Maine lobster bake on an uninhabited island at sunset was our favorite meal. With the schooner anchored in the background, we watched as lobsters were boiled in seawater and blanketed with seaweed gathered from the shore—a method the Riggin has honored for over 60 years. It was more than a meal—it was a quintessential Maine experience.
Captains Justin and Jocelyn, the husband-and-wife team behind the 1927 wooden schooner J. & E. Riggin and their hard-working crew, were nothing short of extraordinary. As co-captains and gracious hosts, they infused every moment with warmth, expertise, and a deep love for the sea. From navigating Maine’s coastal waters to sharing meals and laughter on deck, they made our voyage unforgettable.
article and photos by Randee Paraskevopoulos
We live in a noisy world, inundated with people talking, cars, airplanes, running refrigerators and AC units, dogs barking next door, televisions, radios, or podcasts or books in our earphones.
But head out to the Minor Porter Log House in LLELA to experience life in the 1860s, and you’ll discover something our world lacks — silence — aside from cicadas, birds, and the wind whistling across the prairie.
“I’d like to think people head out here for the peace and quiet,” said Helen Munro, a volunteer docent at the log house and homestead area. “It’s something to do to get you away from things artificial or mechanical.”
It’s not hard to get to, just an easy .4-mile walk down the Cottonwood Trail, a wide gravel path wending through wooded areas and prairie restorations-in-progress. Sunlight filters through the canopy overhead, and the only sounds you hear are your footsteps and the natural wildlife.
Pay attention, and you might see armadillos, deer, and many varieties of birds. “There’s a lot of wildlife in here,” said Texas Master Naturalist Dawn Marter. “And it blends in pretty good.”
The log home wasn’t originally in this location. “They wouldn’t have built here originally because there’s no nearby water,” Helen said.
During demolition, developers near where WalMart is located in Highland Village discovered it hidden inside another home — in a common practice of the times, the original logs were covered with siding and additional rooms were added as the family needed more space. It was donated to Lewisville, who moved it to the Lewisville Lakes Environmental Learning Area about a mile north of Old Town Lewisville in 2005 and had it restored.
On the third Saturday of each month (except July and August), the home is open to the public. Expert volunteers in period dress give tours and answer questions from 10 am to 1 pm.
“The kids are the best, especially the middle schoolers,” said docent Chris Rice, a Texas Master Naturalist who frequently volunteers at the cabin. “They’re curious enough to ask questions and be really interested.” He added that he learns something new every time he’s out there, usually from looking up the answers to what the kids had asked.
Surrounding the home is a typical homestead of the times, including a dugout — a quick shelter dug into the side of a hill where they could live while building. The inside is also furnished with antiques from that era, including a wooden table with two bowls on each leg (water or oil in the outer one stopped ants from getting on the table) and a “refrigerator” (a cabinet with screens on the ends for airflow and to keep flies out). In the corner is a “Texas one-legged bed,” according to Helen, where they could sleep sitting up when they were sick, as it allowed their lungs to clear better than laying down.
One of Helen’s favorite things is to interact with children, showing them how kids would have played before there were batteries in toys. Outside is a bear on two strings you alternately pull to make it climb. Like “Jack jumped over a candlestick,” Helen shows it’s not a candle holder, but rather an actual stick that newly dipped candles would hang over to dry.
She also explains where “Pop goes the weasel” comes from. Similar in look to a spinning wheel but much smaller, is a device called a “weasel” that was used to measure yarn. After tying the end of the yarn to a spoke, a child would spin it, and when it reached a skein, the inside would literally “pop.”
Step back in time for LLELA’s biggest event of the year — Christmas at the Cabin, a beloved tradition for families and individuals alike. Upward of 500 visitors will arrive by hayride to the historic 1870s Minor-Porter log house, where they can dip candles, craft ornaments, enjoy festive music, and drink hot cider.
This cozy celebration is open to all and offers a heartwarming dose of old-fashioned holiday cheer in the beauty of nature. Saturday, December 13 from 10am to 2 pm. Pay a $5 per vehicle fee (credit or debit card only) to enter LLELA, and the Christmas party is free.
DECEMBER 13, 2025 10AM TO 2PM
For more info about the Minor Porter Log House and Homestead, the history of the Minors and Porters, or LLELA, visit LLELA.org. Scan the QR code for Helen's Christmas at the Cabin video tour.
by Beth Hobson and Murray Media
photos courtesy of Texas Health Denton
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton has completed a refurbishment project. The renovations are to its healing garden, a space which allows staff and guests to step away for a moment from the stress a hospital can include.
The garden, which anyone can visit, was officially dedicated on March 8, 2012. Reverend Dr. Trish Matthews, Texas Health Denton’s first chaplain known as Chaplain Trish, was hired in 2010 when Stan Morton was President.
“He told me one of my ‘duties as assigned’ was to develop a garden on our campus because all Texas Health hospitals have one.
“I was to utilize only Denton vendors, and the result was many people catching our vision and coming together to make the dream a reality. Our special thanks to Gayle Strange and her family and Meador Nursery for their donations of time and materials.
"The goal really was quite simple – to create a space that touches most of our senses. Studies have shown that ‘having a place to relax and breathe fresh air might be just what is needed to carry on.’ Some are better able to think and make difficult decisions when connected to nature. We therefore wanted the garden to have pockets of space for conversation and privacy."
The healing garden is centrally located where visitors can grab their lunch or favorite cup of coffee and then weave their way through the garden to find a place to sit. The bridge and fountain are two meaningful features in the garden. An individual can listen and watch as the waters cascade from a fountain into a rock river underneath the bridge.
Chaplain Trish said, “The garden is a place to connect with God, self, and one another.”
The healing garden at Texas Health Denton also houses a memorial arbor that is dedicated to those who have had a pregnancy loss. In the center of this area is a large stone that says, “I carry you in my heart now instead of in my arms.” Services are held in the garden regularly to remember these little ones and their families.
Chaplain Trish gave the lead donation for the current refresh and spoke at the refurbishment ceremony on September 16. “This project is important to me. I feel in so many ways that the healing garden is my legacy of love to Texas Health Denton,” she said with a smile. The renovations made to the garden include a variety of colorful and life-affirming things such as adding new shade of tolerant grass, colorful pots
with plants, wind art, a few statues and pavers, and regrouting the flagstone to make it safer.
“We didn’t just stop there with these refurbishments. We trimmed up the trees to let the light in so that what we planted would have a greater chance to grow and thrive. We cleaned out dying trees and shrubs, added in mulch, rock and new plants to fill in blank spaces.
“The hospital will also continue to provide seasonal color twice a year. The wood and stone benches were also replaced with ones that will handle the weather better over time. Finally, the plexiglass covering
our stained-glass pieces were replaced so they can be clearly seen once again.”
One of the garden's new statues is a set of stones that are stacked together. These stacked stones, eloquently known as a “cairn,” represent a spiritual practice to mark the importance of a space, a way to memorialize someone or something, or a step in a journey.
These refurbishments would not have been possible without the help of The Hoe and Hope Garden Club's commitment to the community of Denton, The Rich Barker Foundation, and President Virginia Williams. These organizations all provided
“The garden is a place to connect with God, self, and one another.”
A garden is a living space and will therefore require constant care and upkeep. If you would like to donate towards this ongoing project or check out the recent renovations at the garden, visit TexasHealth.org/Foundation
significant donations under the leadership of our Texas Health Resources Foundation Annual Giving Specialist for the North Region, Alicia Barker. Alicia's vision and tenacity saw this project through.
Chris Merrill from Bare Roots also deserves many thanks for meeting countless times with organizers to make the dreams come to life.
Thank you one and all!
Sheriff Tracy Murphree
At the end of 2024, the Denton County Sheriff's Office installed eight Flock Safety cameras strategically positioned around our facility. Flock Safety is a comprehensive public safety system that integrates hardware such as license plate readers (LPR), cameras, and gunshot detection, combined with machine learning.
The value of the Flock Safety system is its use assisting communities, businesses, and law enforcement agencies in effectively investigating, solving, and preventing crimes.
Flock Safety’s partner network includes over 1,000 businesses, among them four of the NRF Top 10 Retailers, seven of the 10 largest shopping malls, and 10 of the 40 largest U.S. health systems. These partnerships involve major businesses, retailers, residential communities, and other private sector entities that use Flock Safety cameras for security, including Academy Sports and Outdoors, Lowe's, Home Depot, Homeowner’s associations, apartments, schools, and universities.
These cameras contribute to the overall safety of our residents and are proven
We're currently hiring for multiple full-time and part-time positions in both law enforcement and administrative and maintenance support roles. Visit the website below to find out about all the openings and to submit an application. GovernmentJobs.com/Careers/DentonCounty/Sheriff
If you or anyone you know is interested in starting a career in law enforcement, apply today and be a part of a great organization.
tools for crime reduction, as well as aiding law enforcement in solving numerous cases including kidnappings, human trafficking, stolen vehicles, Amber alerts, and missing persons.
It is important to know that the Flock system is designed with privacy in mind. It does not collect personal information, nor does it use facial recognition technology. Instead, it captures vehicle data through still images, avoiding video recording or continuous tracking of individuals.
While a person may appear briefly in an image, the system cannot search for, identify, or filter personal data, ensuring the privacy of our residents remains protected.
This camera system is a valuable asset to the county, and we look forward to the upcoming improvements and positive impacts it will bring.
Megan Elmore experienced a life-altering transformation during her initial visit to Africa. The warmth of the people, beauty of the culture, and resilience of the communities deeply resonated with her, turning her planned short-term service trip into a lifelong calling — founding and serving as executive director of For the Love of Orphans, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Argyle.
Megan's journey began in Zambia as an intern in a micro-loans program. She was inspired by the determination and sacrifices of the families she worked alongside. However, she observed that many children were still left vulnerable — orphans without safe options and communities in dire need of hope.
After completing her internship, Megan felt compelled to continue her work in Zambia. Alongside local partners, she established an orphan care center focused
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on providing love, dignity, and opportunities for a brighter future. This seed of compassion blossomed into For the Love of Orphans, a ministry that now brings hope through education, feeding programs, and community development.
Megan's biggest motivation is her unwavering passion for supporting vulnerable children in Zambia. Staying organized and maintaining a balanced schedule allows her to effectively lead For the Love of Orphans while making a lasting impact. In addition to her nonprofit work, she serves as a virtual assistant, supporting her livelihood in Argyle. Megan also prioritizes personal fulfillment through fostering with Humane Tomorrow, attending church and women's Bible study, and cherishing time with family and friends.
Relocating to Zambia presented numerous challenges for Megan — adjusting to a new culture, navigating limited resources, and making difficult decisions about which children could join the orphan care center family. Despite the hardships, Megan's commitment never wavered, and she now sees the fruits of her labor as many of those children pursue higher education. For the Love of Orphans currently
sponsors 12 children who are getting their college degrees.
Through her experiences, Megan learned the importance of patience, resilience, and commitment. She prioritizes both her professional and personal passions.
This year, For the Love of Orphans marks its 10th anniversary with an exciting event.
Boots & Blessings, scheduled for October 29 at Marty B’s, promises to be a memorable fundraiser that celebrates a decade of impactful work. The organization, which is dedicated to empowering vulnerable children in Zambia, provides essential support through hot meals — 430 meals per week, — clothing, education, faith development, and a path to employment.
Boots & Blessings will feature a fun-filled evening of delicious food, live music, raffle items, and more, with 95% of donations directly supporting the children. As a community-driven effort, the fundraiser
is set to bring together individuals and businesses from Argyle and beyond to commemorate the accomplishments of For the Love of Orphans and contribute to its ongoing mission. Visit their website at FortheLoveofOrphans.org to donate raffle items, become a business sponsor, or buy tickets or tables.
by Craig Hewitt
eterans Day offers our community the perfect opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military. Supporting local veterans is not just our civic responsibility but a heartfelt expression of gratitude for their bravery and sacrifice. Here are five definitive ways you can make a difference in the lives of our local heroes.
1. Volunteer with Local Nonprofits
To truly make a difference, consider volunteering your time with local nonprofits dedicated to their service. The Denton County Military Veterans Peer Network (DentonCountyMVPN.org) provides peer support, resources, and assistance for veterans navigating various challenges. Similarly, United Way of Denton County (UnitedWayDenton.org) partners with organizations that help veterans find essential services and support. Dedicating your time can be empowering for these heroes and for yourself.
2. Participate in Local Veterans Day Events
Engaging with your community during Veterans Day observances can create a strong sense of unity and appreciation. You can check your community, or attend the Flower Mound Veterans Day Ceremony will take place on Sunday, November 9 at Flower Mound High School, where residents can gather to honor our local heroes. Alternatively, consider participating in the Veterans Day Freedom Run in Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 15, or the Dallas Veterans Day Parade hosted on Tuesday, Nov. 11 in Fair Park.
3. Support Local Veteran-Owned Businesses
Pay homage by supporting veteran-owned businesses. Many veterans have turned their skills and experiences into successful ventures. You can find a list of such businesses by contacting your local Chamber of Commerce. Your patronage can help these heroes transition to civilian life while bolstering the community’s economy.
Veterans often face challenges when integrating back into the workforce. Local businesses can support veterans by prioritizing hiring and offering mentorship, resume writing, or interview training. Creating internship programs tailored for veterans can also provide them with essential experience, helping them readjust successfully and find meaningful employment.
Take time to remember and honor our veterans through simple acts of remembrance. Consider visiting a military cemetery to pay your respects, leaving flowers at grave sites, or flying the American flag at home. Additionally, small gestures like buying a meal for a veteran or donating to programs like the Wounded Warrior Project can make a significant impact, reminding them they are not forgotten.
You may have some old rechargeable devices containing lithium-ion batteries that you’re wondering what to do with — cell phones, laptops, tablets, power tools, electric toothbrushes, wireless headphones, vaping devices, and other rechargeable devices with lithium-ion or nickel metal hydride battery.
Bring them to us! It’s fine to bring your rechargeable device without removing the battery — just erase the data on your sensitive gadgets.
Consumer devices contribute to the world’s fastest-growing waste stream. Recycling lithium-ion batteries can reduce the cost and environmental impact of our electronic devices like small consumer rechargeables. Yet today, less than 5% of small-format lithium-ion battery devices — literally hundreds of millions each year — are not recycled, leading to valuable critical minerals sitting unused in junk drawers and posing safety hazards. Households who do recycle make a significant, positive impact.
The Pilot Knob Rotary Club (PilotKnobRotary.com) is partnering with two high schools: Advanced Placement Environmental Science students of Guyer High School and their teacher, Stephanie Riley, and Braswell High School’s class and Dr. Anna Seibert. The event is under the umbrella of the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group Esrag.org/Lithium-Ion-Battery-Recycling
We’re working with Redwood Materials, a lithium-ion battery recycler in Nevada. Their CEO is J.B. Straubel, former Chief Technology Officer and a co-founder of Tesla, who is passionate about protecting the environment and reducing the environmental impact that comes from mining materials used in electric vehicles and consumer devices. Whether a laptop or an electric vehicle, lithium-ion batteries use the same elements on the periodic table.
What’s perhaps even more incredible is that these metals can be recycled almost infinitely — metal atoms don’t change or degrade, and so old devices can become new EVs or battery storage units without any trade-offs to performance or battery life.
November 8, 2025 10 am - 2 pm
John H. Guyer High School, Parking Lot B 7501 Teasley Ln., Denton, 76210
Ray Braswell High School, Front Lot 26750 E University Dr., Aubrey, 76227
Contact Mike Weaver 940-391-9614
mikboy327@gmail.com
Redwood can recover over 95% of the critical minerals and rare earth elements from these batteries. Redwood’s goal is to make consumer recycling frictionless and free so that the public can responsibly recycle and maximize overall sustainability of all products.
Rotary Clubs, like Pilot Knob, are working all over the US to educate and facilitate lithium-ion battery recycling.
Please note that we’re only after lithium-ion and nickel metal hydride batteries and small consumer rechargeable devices. Redwood Materials will recycle them free of charge!
Please don’t bring single-use alkaline batteries. Those are safe to discard in the trash if you haven’t found a convenient recycling location.
Recipe and photos by Kris Longwell and Wesley Loon of HowToFeedaLoon.com
hen the leaves are changing colors and the temperatures are dropping, this breakfast is absolute fall perfection.
Ingredients
For the Whipped Cinnamon Honey Butter
½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
For the Pumpkin Waffles (or pancakes)
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
cup sugar
2 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp allspice
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp Kosher salt
5 tbsp unsalted butter cubed and chilled
1½ cups whole milk
¾ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 large eggs lightly beaten
cooking spray if needed (for waffle iron)
For Serving
Whipped cinnamon honey butter
Warmed maple syrup
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
Make the Whipped Cinnamon Honey Butter
Combine all of the butter ingredients in a large sturdy bowl. Use a hand mixer to beat until combined and fluffy. Transfer to a bowl and keep at room temperature until ready. You can chill butter for about 10 minutes before serving to help get a more solid scoop.
Make the Pumpkin Waffles
1. Place the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and salt in your food processor and pulse to combine.
2. Add the cubed butter and pulse about 10 more times, until the butter resembles small peas.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, pumpkin purée, and eggs. Slowly stir in the flour/butter mixture and continue stirring until a batter forms (there will be visible chunks of butter).
4. If your waffle iron is not nonstick, spray it with cooking spray or use a paper towel to apply a little vegetable oil. Preheat the waffle iron to your desired setting.
5. Ladle enough of the batter over the grid to just fill all of the crevices. Lower the lid and ook until golden brown, 4 to 7 minutes (depending on the size of your waffle iron).
6. Serve at once with a dollop of whipped cinnamon honey butter on top, along with warmed maple syrup and chopped pecans.
On Saturday, September 27, the Lake Dallas community came together to celebrate a the 50th anniversary of the Lake Dallas Public Library. For five decades, it has served as the heart of the community, connecting residents to the resources, technology, and inspiration they need to create, learn, and grow. As it looks to the future, the Lake Dallas Public Library remains dedicated to fostering curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning for generations to come.
Commitment to Excellence plaque presented by FLDL to the Lake Dallas Library
