Frisco, TX August 2023

Kids + Pets

“Tonya does not play! She is a kind person and a savvy, tough business woman...great package. Highly recommend!”

Ashlee H. - Frisco, TX

Known as responsive, excellent communicators to all those they represent, the Tonya Dangerfield Home Team consistently is recognized as a Top Real Estate Seller. Indeed, we received the 2022 Social Media Influencer award and truly enjoy helping clients change their lives.

Tonya Dangerfield, MBA, REALTOR®, Life Insurance Agent

Nick Dangerfield, REALTOR®

Tonya Dangerfield Home Team

Kids And Pets And Vets

This annual edition is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities. Children aren't merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they're the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility and companionship.

I absolutely love my dog, Rigby (also known as Rigamaroo or BooBooBear), who steadfastly sticks by my side and shares life's paw-some journey with me. Here he is in this photo, accompanying me on a flight to California.

What children and pets share in common is that they need us; our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We only have a short time with our kids, so make as many memories as possible.

Additionally, we'd like to join those honoring local women veterans. Frisco Veteran Advisory Committee members and Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney officially proclaimed June 6 Women Veterans Day, thanks to the collective efforts of passionate individuals, including Althea Williams, who we just featured in Frisco City Lifestyle in May. We express our deepest gratitude to Althea Williams for her advocacy and leadership, as well as to the chair and members of the Frisco Veteran Advisory Committee to several representatives of American Legion Thor Anderson, the VFW with Shenna Lawless, Michael Shasteen, Dan McCall, Councilwoman Tammy Meinershagen, Councilwoman Laura Rummel, Councilman John Keaton, Holly McCall and many others for their agreement to make Women Veterans Day a recognized day in Frisco. Your collective efforts help create a community that appreciates and supports our women veterans.

Warm regards,

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Sharon Duffy Thomas sharon.duffy@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Laura Hamby | laura.hamby@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Lucy Thornton

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

William Thomas | william.thomas@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alexis Jacobs, Dorothy Kern

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lesley Carter

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

SHARON DUFFY THOMAS, PUBLISHER @FRISCOCITYLIFESTYLE

Meet

along with his travel blogger mother, Lesley Carter. She packed his traveling bags even before he started

Husband

Father Of One Girl

Lover Of Cars And Airplanes

Singer In A Choir Tap Dancer Living In Prosper, TX

YOUR SMILE

is our specialty

So you’ve been thinking about orthodontics as an adult. It can be scary to take the next step, but after hearing all the reasons to get adult ortho at Jensen Orthodontic Arts, you’re going to run (not walk) to your free consultation with Dr Jensen. Consider why orthodontics should be on your to-do list:

1. It’s Trending: Google “Ortho as an adult” and you’ll learn two things: It’s never too late to get your teeth straight AND, you aren’t alone if you want to get started as an adult.

2. It’s Affordable: You deserve the power of a beautiful smile and the fees shouldn’t hold you back. We provide excellent orthodontic treatment at reasonable prices.

3. It’s A Confidence Booster: The difference a straight grin can make in your personal and professional life is so impactful that you won’t want to push this item off your to-do list.

4. You Have Esthetic Treatment Options: Clear braces, Invisalign, Lingual (tongue-side) braces.

5. Your Teeth May Have Shifted After Braces: What else on our bodies doesn’t change with time?! Teeth wear, settle and shift over time if you don’t do something about it.

6. It’s Good For You: Enjoy better tooth health, avoid potential jaw pain, headaches, digestive issues, or even sleep apnea.

At Jensen Orthodontic Arts, we don’t let anything hold you back from getting the straight smile you deserve. Whether you’re seven or seventy-two, Dr Jensen and his team are here to give you the results that make you happy.

Smiles and Photo by Dr. Jensen

Dr. Doug Jensen, DDS, MS

Board-Certified Orthodontist, Prosthodontist

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @friscocitylifestyle

1: New Roots Counseling held a grand opening gathering in Frisco at 5665 Dallas Parkway, #150. 2: Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney issued a proclamation declaring June 6 Women’s Veterans Day. 3: This proclamation is testament to dedication/commitment of the committee and Althea Williams, She Vets It. 4: Local tennis pro Austin Krajicek was interviewed by national sports broadcasters before playing in Wimbledon. 5: Frisco City Lifestyle Publisher Sharon Duffy Thomas spearheaded a fundraiser to benefit Latter House Decor. 6: Frisco Chamber ambassadors congratulate Dr. Neha Patel (second from left) on opening her optometry office. 7: Frisco Chamber of Commerce members join ReEnvision Eyecare PLLC, 8949 Coit Road, Suite 170, Frisco.

KELLY TWEDELL

Lamar National Bank Recognizing Frisco Community Volunteers

Volunteers are the heart of Frisco and neighboring areas. In support of this generous community, we’re spotlighting some of Frisco’s finest volunteers on a monthly basis. These are volunteers who exhibit passion, reliability, integrity, teamwork, positivity and energy. We salute their contributions of time, effort and talent to Frisco’s needs, causes or missions without personal financial gain.

HELP TO CHANGE LIVES OF HOMELESS, ABUSED OR UNWANTED ANIMALS

Frisco Humane Society (FHS) is an all-volunteer/all-foster home-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill animal rescue organization. FHS provides temporary foster care and medical attention for homeless animals until permanent homes can be found for them. This organization is funded by adoption fees, public donations and fundraising efforts.

Being a foster pet parent is a rewarding, unforgettable experience. However, adoptions open up spaces in foster homes to save other animals. Supporters can donate time for adoption events, fundraising activities or administrative duties. Financial donations provide for medical care and veterinary services.

FHS volunteers showcase adoptable cats and kittens seven days a week at the Frisco Petsmart Adoption Center (Stonebriar Centre), 3333 Preston Road, with adoption counselors on-site every Saturday/Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. ‘Meet and Greet’ adoptable dog events are held at the same location every 1st, 3rd and 5th Saturdays of the month.

To help rescue one pet at a time, call 972.498.8980 or go online to FriscoHumaneSociety.com

6801 Gaylord Pkwy, Ste 101 Frisco, TX 75034

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Southern African Masterworks Exhibition From Nando Collection

Free and open to the public, "If You Look Hard Enough, You Can See Our Future" exhibit is available through Aug. 13 at the African American Museum, Dallas. The exhibition features nearly 60 pieces from emerging, mid-career and established artists, including Zanele Muholi, Vivien Kohler, Anastasia Pather and Portia Zvavahera. The selection of work is drawn from the collection’s strength in portraiture, landscape, cityscapes and abstraction. For hours of operation, go to AAMDallas.org

No Labels Special Needs Learning Center Available

Photography Jonathan Zizzo

No Labels co-owners Erica Jackson and Vallerie Dean established a

learning center that offers homeschooling and tutoring programs for students with special needs. The business, located at 1400 N. Coit Road, Ste. 1202, in McKinney, also offers camps during summer and school breaks with educational instruction, along with life skills training and activities. Both owners say they applied their previous experience as special education teachers. For schedules and rates, visit NoLabelsLLC.com or call 972.998.8183.

Thanks To Frisco Police Volunteers Association

Established in 2001, the Frisco Police Volunteers Association is a dynamic group of men and women serving the city of Frisco. Ascribing to the belief, “Our Community, Our Commitment," the support that FPVA provides residents and the police department is ever-increasing. In 2022, members volunteered nearly 3,800 hours, and the Association’s Co-Director, Bob Burton, was the city’s Volunteer of the Year. So far this year, FPVA members donated 1,472 hours. For more details, email gcottingham@friscotexas.gov.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Frisco

Photography Courtesy No Labels Special Needs Learning Center

Photography Frisco Police Officer Grant Cottingham

NEW ROOTS COUNSELING’S SPECIALIZED THERAPISTS ASSIST FAMILIES WITH GAINING CONFIDENCE, CERTAINTY

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCY THORNTON

HELPING YOUTHS GET THROUGH TOUGH TIMES

The New Roots professionals indicate the most frequent challenge presently affecting families is anxiety, which as a clinical condition, occurs when a person has excessive worry and feelings of fear, dread, terror and uneasiness. Other symptoms may include panic attacks, sweating, restlessness, irritability, fatigue, poor concentration, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing, a fast heartbeat and dizziness.

While the national percentage of youths officially diagnosed with anxiety disorders before the COVID-19 pandemic was 5-10%, Katie says the current percentage is 20-30%.

Collaborating with whole families to support and empower children: "We know that tweens and teens are sometimes the toughest to understand and can be the hardest to help, so that's why we partner with parents to learn exactly what the pain points are," affirms Katie Zuverink, LPC-S, founder of New Roots Counseling, newly opened in Frisco at 5665 Dallas Parkway, #150.

Katie says they provide therapy for youths and coaching for parents to determine the best ways of supporting everyone involved. In addition to Katie, on staff are a parenting specialist (Meagan Jackson); therapists (Katy Branchflower, Sabrina Henderson, Abigail Scallan, Avery Clement); and a life coach (Ashley Williams).

Additionally, New Roots professionals offer services in couples counseling, family counseling and adult counseling for anxiety, depression and other issues, such as career development. Katie also is a mediator and collaborative divorce facilitator.

Meagan says while some nervousness among all youths is typical, and even beneficial, under new circumstances, such as changing schools or starting a new extracurricular activity, it's time to further explore a child's mindset when anxiety suddenly surrounds pre-established activities. "For example, children may be used to going to swim club sessions three days a week, and therefore already know what to expect. And so far, they've handled it well, and seemed to have enjoyed it," she explains. "But then, they push back and state things like, 'coach always makes me do (fill in the blank).' They may not voice that it's really not about the coach. It's actually their anxiety kicking in, and that can cause them not to participate."

Another example usually occurs as related to social factors, and it's when a child previously liked or loved playing at another child's house, and then firmly doesn't, or voices they hate to do so now, adds Meagan. "It's about routine things they pull away from, and it helps to know

Katie Zuverink, founder of New Roots Counseling

if they're just changing preferences as they age or if it's something deeper."

The counselors at New Roots indicate signs that teenagers may need help include:

• Constantly seeming or feeling sad, hopeless, worried, fearful, anxious or angry

• Withdrawing from family and friends

• Changing their sleeping/eating habits

• Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Abandoning activities/hobbies they once enjoyed

• Experiencing a sudden drop in performance

• Feeling restless; unable to settle down or focus

• Engaging in self-harm behaviors (cutting, hitting)

• Talking about death or expressing suicidal thoughts

• Abusing alcohol or drugs

Meagan says parents often make therapy appointments, sharing that they have no idea what's causing stress in their children and that they don't know how to address their situations.

Some parents, in the process of assisting their children to learn life lessons, encourage them to 'buck up,' summon their courage and handle situations. And, Meagan agrees that people "can't let anxiety always win."

Sabrina Henderson

New Roots Counseling Team

She suggests that parents can support their children by saying something to the effect of: "I can tell you're really worried. We can deal with this, though. How can I help you?"

However, Meagan adds that it’s important to know if a child is in an emotional place where the 'get back in there' direction is helpful, or if they need more skills and tools before asking them to jump back into specific activities or situations.

A recent area that's been causing anxiety in teenagers is driving and securing a driver's license. Meagan says it's usually due to teens recognizing the risks and responsibilities of driving, and saying 'no thank you' to the opportunity. In those cases, she recommends parents tell their children that they believe their child can handle those responsibilities and follow up with some tools to help with it.

"In these cases, we assist parents with how to coach their children through such challenges when they're outside the therapy room," Meagan says.

Regarding younger children, Katie says "the littlest kiddos can have the biggest feelings," so again, their therapy plans are based on realistic but compassionate support.

New Roots Counseling specialists have been trained in a specific therapy geared just toward children between the ages of 3 to 8 years. Because children of this age don’t yet have

Meagan Jackson

the vocabulary needed to share their feelings, their worries or their confusion about what’s going on in their world, Katie says kids communicate through play. "Our therapists use an evidence-based treatment called Play Therapy to work with children."

Play Therapy is a way of interacting with children that honors their unique developmental levels and looks for ways of helping in the “language” of children, which is play. Licensed mental health professionals therapeutically use play to help their clients, most often children ages 3 to 12 years old, to better express themselves and resolve their problems.

Play therapy works best when a safe relationship is created between the therapist and client, one in which the latter may freely and naturally express both what pleases and bothers them.

"Through our approaches, children gain empathy, problem-solving skills, self-control, social maturity and resilience,” explains Katie, “while parents gain the ability to understand their child's behavior and what it means, confidence in how to respond, and how to develop a better overall relationship with their child or children."

Katie says they know when factors in someone's house start to spin out of control, those families' entire worlds can start to feel off-center. "We can help get them back on firm footing. We do offer immediate openings to assist with urgent situations, and we take some popular insurance plans."

She adds that their experts also are happy to work with school counselors, pediatricians, occupational therapists, or whoever is the "whole care team" for individual children.

The New Roots specialists remind that specialized training is essential regarding therapy for children, and that the youth-oriented therapy process and treatment is not the same as with adults.

214.307.2167

NewRoots-Counseling.com

“Through our approaches, children gain empathy, problem-solving skills, self-control, social maturity and resilience,” explains Katie, “while parents gain the ability to understand their child’s behavior and what it means, confidence in how to respond, and how to develop a better overall relationship with their child or children.”

Abigail Scallan

Avery Clement

Ease Back Into School Year

Tutor Doctor Education Expert Provides Tips To Help Prepare Youths For School

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

Frisco City Lifestyle asked educational consultant Sandy Tutwiler to share ideas and tips about how to best prepare students for the inevitable return to school. Teachers often think of the first month of school as an adjustment period, where kids learn classroom routines and get acclimated to behavior expectations. By following and adapting Sandy’s recommendations, families can get a beneficial jump on a successful academic year.

1. DO YOU PROVIDE ASSISTANCE ACCORDING TO EDUCATION LEVELS OR BY SUBJECTS?

We have tutors for all ages/grades from K–adult learning and all subjects. We also have specialized tutors who can help with test preparation for SAT/ ACT or ISEE.

2. HOW DO YOU ASSESS IF YOUTHS CAN BENEFIT FROM TUTORING?

Everyone benefits from tutoring! In fact, 50% of our students aren’t having trouble in school. They’re tutoring with us for enrichment or to get and stay ahead.

3. IN WHAT WAYS ARE YOUR TUTORING PROGRAMS DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS?

We tutor one-to-one at students’ homes or online. We customize tutoring solutions and programs to the needs of students. We also communicate with teachers so we can stay in lockstep with what they’re teaching. We provide parents with a report after every tutoring session, which explains what the tutor covered and how the student is progressing. We’re locally owned and operated. Our tutors also are local.

To set a reasonable, new education mission, Sandy recommends talking to children about their goals for the upcoming school year. “Encourage them to set realistic expectations and discuss strategies to achieve those goals. Emphasize the importance of effort, perseverance and a positive attitude towards learning,” she says.

972.846.4510

TutorDoctor.com/Frisco-McKinney

Sandy Tutwiler

1. Re-establish routines: Set regular wake-up and bedtime hours to adjust sleep schedules.

2. Visit school: Familiarize them with the surroundings and location of classrooms, cafeteria and restrooms.

3. Organize school supplies: Go shopping together. Let children pick out their own backpacks and supplies.

4. Establish communication with teachers: Open lines of communication to ensure smooth transitions.

5. Create homework/study area to minimize distractions: Stock it with necessary supplies.

6. Approach school safety: Discuss safety protocols; emphasize the importance of following them.

7. Encourage social connections: Help children reconnect with friends they haven't seen over the summer. Arrange playdates/social gatherings and rebuild friendships before school starts.

8. Foster positive mindsets: Highlight fun aspects of learning, opportunity to make new friends, and joy of discovering new aspects.

Owner/Education Consultant  Tutor Doctor of Frisco and McKinney

Frisco 2-Year-Old

First American To Visit All Continents

"To raise well-rounded kids, who grow up to become global citizens, you must explore the world with kids." ~Travel Melodies

Max Smith, presently a 3-year-old who resides in Frisco, is the youngest American to visit all seven continents: North America, South America, Asia, Africa, Oceania, Antarctica and

MAX CARTER AND HIS MOTHER SCHEDULED TO VISIT 10 COUNTRIES IN EUROPE YET THIS SUMMER

Max with his mother, Lesley Carter, at Cliffs of Moher, Ireland.

Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai

Gorilla Guardians Village Rwanda

Max with his father, Cord Smith.

Europe. Remarkably, he set the record during his second year of life!

His mother, Lesley Carter, says she began planning trips while pregnant with Max. This step came naturally to her as founder more than a decade ago of travel blog  Bucket List Publications. As a Canadian native, she says at age 8 she took her first solo flight to visit relatives. "I loved the feeling of independence," she recalls.

Once Lesley graduated college, she says she backpacked around Europe, and knew she "was hooked" on traveling. When she became pregnant with Max, she wanted him to break the record for being the youngest American to visit all 50 states, however COVID-19 interrupted those plans. Instead, she set their sights on him being the youngest American to visit every continent. She reveals Max’s traveling bags were packed before his first words were spoken.

During 2022, they touched down in Dubai, Ireland, Fiji, Rwanda and Uganda.

Since being born on April 13, 2020, Max has visited 22 countries and 18 US states. From riding sand dunes in New Mexico to sailing on ships in Maine, Lesley believes Max has crossed off more bucket list adventures than most adults. He’s cruised on the largest cruise ship in the world, learned to ski in Colorado, experienced lobster fishing in Maine, rode horses in Texas and raced go-karts in Oklahoma. His love of animals led him to swimming with stingrays, feeding rhinos, giraffes, elephants, llamas and goats, snorkeling with sharks and interacting with penguins and sea lions.

"While in Asia, Max swam at the largest water park in Dubai, held a falcon, surfed sand dunes and rode camels. He stayed at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai’s most iconic resort and Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, a luxurious 5-star resort with stunning views," she adds.

His African tour with Africa Adventure Safaris was filled with wild animals ranging from tree-climbing lions to hundreds of hippos. Max also trekked zebras on foot and met the Gorilla Guardians Chief. He crossed the international border between Uganda and Rwanda; even straddling the equator.

In Europe, Lesley relays Max passed sheep and castles on the way to the Cliffs of Moher. He sailed on Galway Bay and danced a local jig in one of the most famous pubs. Starting in Dublin, Ireland, he explored from coast to coast with stops in Cork, Galway, Limerick, Clifden and Sligo.

"Max enjoyed the laid-back life in Oceania," she says. "He visited Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji, where he took daily boat trips, hiked to a waterfall and snorkeled with thousands of fish."

All before he turned 3 years old, Max visited the final two continents during this February via a Celebrity Cruises’ Infinity cruise for a 14-night Antarctica cruise that visited Argentina, Falkland Islands, Uruguay and Antarctica.

Lesley says through these adventures, Max's tender heart soaked in the beauty of diversity. "He embraced new languages, tasted unfamiliar flavors and danced to distant melodies. He learned love is universal, found in warm smiles of strangers and shared laughter with newfound friends. The world became his playground."

Lesley admits she doesn't believe Max will remember all his travels from this young age, but says his experiences and exposure to different cultures and countries will shape him into a worldly, accepting, social child. "Those values and appreciation for the world will follow him throughout his life."

World Missions Adventure

MOVING FORWARD FOR YOUTHS LOCALLY AND AROUND THE GLOBE

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

World Missions Adventure, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, exists to make positive, lasting differences in the lives of others, all around the world as well as locally, says Mark Blum, Frisco-based CEO and missions director of this new initiative. He's also the relationship manager at Frisco-based Elevated Roofing, LLC.

Overall, Mark says the group's volunteers conduct medical clinics, kids camps and leadership training. They also construct playgrounds in orphanages and remote villages.

"I really enjoy taking people on mission trips so they have that true 'giving experience' that comes with those undertakings. It changes the long-term lives of

those going on missions, and opens their eyes to talents and gifts they didn't even know they had," he says.

Mark and his wife, Debbie, launched this nonprofit during this January, and in May received confirmation that their nonprofit status was officially complete.

"Our vision is to bring joy, comfort and healing to the poor and hurting, especially orphans," Debbie says.

This new effort has been 40 years in the making for Mark, who worked for a decade with evangelist and religious broadcaster Pat Robertson. Additionally, Mark worked with Morris Cerullo, an American Pentecostal evangelist with whom he traveled extensively around the world for ministry. Mark presently

also still sometimes travels with Frisco-headquartered evangelistic group Bernie Moore Ministries International through which Bernie and Nicole Moore conduct crusades to large crowds.

To date, Mark says he's visited 65 countries.

At a local level, Mark says they help those without homes, and will assist others affected by natural disasters, such as tornadoes, within a day's drive of the Frisco area. He adds that they plan to collaborate with local humanitarian organizations such as Refresh Frisco and Frisco Family Services.

"The art of giving brings true happiness and so much personal satisfaction," Mark assures.

Representatives of the group just participated in a mission trip during June to Antigua, Guatemala, during which they ministered to the Mayan people, and conducted a threeday medical clinic, kids camp, construction, as well as evangelism. The next scheduled mission trip is to Thailand on Oct. 7-15. Mark explains that this trip will be medical in nature, but one doesn't need to be a medical professional to attend.

Mark adds anyone wishing to financially donate to this tax-deductible cause can do so on the group's website or text the word GIVE to 877.649.1959.

858.248.7747

WorldMissionsAdventure.com

THE CHOICE FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY IN FRISCO

PHYSICAL THERAPY | REHABILITATION | HAND THERAPY

CALL US TODAY AT 972-712-9693 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Frisco Physical Therapy is joining ACHIEVE PHYSICAL THERAPY & PERFORMANCE as a valued part of their team. Our name may be changing, but our experience, dedication, and loyalty within the community remain strong. We look forward to a continued partnership with all of our patients and referring physicians in order to help keep Frisco active and healthy.

AT ACHIEVE PHYSICAL THERAPY & PERFORMANCE, FRISCO, our number one priority is the patient. We strive to provide individualized treatment with hands-on, compassionate care. We do not rush our patients or our clinicians. Rather, we perform comprehensive evaluations and encourage patient input for treatment planning and goal setting.

We accept most insurance including Medicare & Worker’s Comp.

7548 Preston Rd, STE 145, Frisco, TX 75034 ACHIEVE-THERAPY.NET | 972-712-9693

Helmed by brothers Tim and Trey Hutchins, Hutchins BBQ offers a variety of the best, authentic Texas barbecue in the Dallas area. Our long-standing commitment to the craft has led to recognition among the “50 Best BBQ Joints” by Texas Monthly three times running.

We’re honored to uphold the traditions of Texas BBQ and admire the innovations of new generations of pitmasters joining the ranks. Whether you’re old school or new school, there’s something for everyone at our family table!

Visit us in McKinney, Frisco or online for your dining and catering needs. Visit us online at hutchinsbbq.com

Make Perfect Pupcake

Recipe For Homemade, Peanut Butter Dog Cake Is Paw-some For Birthdays, Special Milestones

Dorothy Kern is a math teacher turned professional food blogger for 12-plus years. She says she’s a super picky eater who somehow became a food blogger, but that she never met a dessert she didn’t like. Find more recipes for humans alike from her online at  CrazyForCrust.com She covers cakes, pies, dips, savory dishes, breads, breakfast choices, no-bake options, snacks, candies and healthy-specific alternatives. She’s authored the cookbook:  Crazy for Cookies, Brownies, and Bars: Super-Fast, Made-from-Scratch Sweets, Treats, and Desserts.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3/4 cup flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter

• 2 tablespoons oil

• 1/4 cup applesauce unsweetened

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons honey

DIRECTIONS:

01. Preheat oven to 350 degree F. Line a 6-inch round cake pan (or a 9×5-inch bread pan) with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.

02. Stir flour, baking soda, baking powder, peanut butter, oil, applesauce, egg and honey. Pour into pans. Bake 20 to 30 minutes, until browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.

03. To make frosting, beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.

04. Frost cake as desired. One can double the frosting recipe and torte the cake (cut the cake in half horizontally) to make it a two-layer cake.

05. Store covered in refrigerator for up to three days.

ARTICLE BY DOROTHY KERN

SAFE HAVEN FOR EVERY CHILD

Texas – Connecting Willing Hands With Opportunities To Serve Children In Foster, Adoptive, Kinship Care

Embrace Texas, a nonprofit organization based in McKinney, has been a beacon of hope for children and families in the foster care system since its inception in 2007. Led by Executive Director Denise Kendrick, Embrace Texas plays an essential role in supporting and empowering foster and adoptive parents, while also providing vital resources and services to children in need.

Denise’s journey as the executive director of Embrace Texas is deeply rooted in her personal experiences as a foster parent. Denise and her husband, Bruce, have four biological children and have adopted five children from foster care.

“Foster care and adoption are a part of our family’s story. We didn’t set out to be a ‘mega-family,’ but we’ve learned along the way that the plan God has for us is always better than the plans we make for ourselves,” says Denise. “The nine children who are ours forever are the greatest blessing of our lives.”

The inception of Embrace Texas was born out of the desire to connect foster and adoptive families, providing them with a supportive community. Denise and Bruce recognized that the unique challenges faced in parenting foster children required a different approach. They say they sought to create a space where families could come together, share their experiences and receive encouragement. Initially, Embrace Texas relied on volunteers, but as the demand for support groups, respite nights, and a foster closet grew, the organization expanded, and a full-time staff was established.

In 2017, after Bruce’s tenure as executive director, Denise took the reins. Her passion for the cause and her firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by foster parents have shaped the organization’s vision and mission.

While Embrace Texas is based in McKinney and primarily serves Collin County, its impact extends beyond those boundaries. The organization welcomes children and families from any child-placing agency, adoptive families, and kinship families who wish to participate. Denise says by providing services and programs at no cost or low cost, Embrace Texas ensures the most vulnerable children and families, often from low-income backgrounds, receive the support they desperately need. The group acts as a bridge between the local church community and the needs of children in foster care, facilitating a powerful connection and fostering compassion and action.

In 2022, Embrace Texas opened Collin House, a safe and nurturing space for children entering the foster care system while awaiting placement. Many children, due to a shortage of foster families, find themselves in extended-stay hotels or Child Protective Services offices during this vulnerable period. Collin House provides these children with a warm and welcoming environment, offering them stability and dignity during a challenging time. With a dedicated staff and the support of volunteers who provide homecooked meals, Collin House has become a vital resource for children in need.

Embrace Texas actively partners with various organizations in the community to amplify its impact, adds Denise. Love Life Foundation, Direction 61:3, CASA, Collin County Children’s Advocacy Center, and many others work alongside Embrace Texas, providing unique services and support. Corporate sponsors and service groups also contribute to the organization’s events and programs, further strengthening their ability to serve the community effectively.

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS

Embrace

Denise says Embrace Texas plays a critical role in the foster care system, extending the length of time foster parents participate in fostering by 400% compared to the state average. Embrace Texas ensures foster parents are well-equipped to care for children who’ve experienced trauma. The organization’s efforts to find forever families for children awaiting adoption and their dedication to helping teenagers transitioning out of foster care are known for being pivotal in changing lives and building brighter futures.

Embrace Texas managers rely on the support of volunteers, donors, as well as foster and adoptive parents to fulfill the nonprofit’s mission. Volunteers can prepare meals for children at Collin House. Small groups and churches can sponsor events and provide volunteers.

“I know not many people hop out of bed on Monday mornings excited to go to work, but that really is how I feel. The work is hard, rewarding, and sometimes heartbreaking, but I get to be part of an incredible team,” exclaims Denise. “Our culture at Embrace is very collaborative. This allows the talent and gifting of each team member to contribute to the overall excellence we’re committed to.”

Embrace Texas is a testament to the transformative power of compassion, support and community. Through their dedication to serving children and families in the foster care system, the Embrace Texas team creates lasting change in the lives of countless individuals. The organization continues to expand its reach, leaving an indelible mark on the community and beyond.

469.617.3174

EmbraceTexas.org

“Foster care and adoption are a part of our family’s story. We didn’t set out to be a ‘mega-family,’ but we’ve learned along the way that the plan God has for us is always better than the plans we make for ourselves.”

Direction 61:3

HELPING AGING-OUT FOSTER CARE YOUTHS TO BECOME INDEPENDENT, THRIVING AS ADULTS

As a faith-based organization, the purpose of Direction 61:3 is to help youths transition from foster care into society as thriving adults, says Myron Wilson, the group's founder and executive director.

"We consider the building of relationships with foster youth prior to aging out as imperative to their success. Special events, skills and career assessments, fun days, and foster family support are all components to helping foster youth prepare for their shift out of the foster care system," adds Myron, who has a doctorate degree in theology/theological studies.

Registered with the state of Texas in 2017, this ministry has full nonprofit status as a 501(c)(3) organization and was licensed in December 2020 by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services as a child placing agency. At what's fondly called "The Farm," the main office and 4.7-acre property that will provide for future foster/aged out community of homes and programming facilities, is relocated just north of Baylor Hospital in McKinney. With a variety of tiny homes to larger foster homes, this location will have the potential to house up to 50 youths. Additional residential properties of the nonprofit in Collin and Denton County

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

include Oak Creek Place, Brotherhood, Heritage House, Zoie's Place, Tony’s Place and this summer will include the newest residence, Anchored.

The value of providing physical, emotional and educational support among aging-out foster youth is evident, given that foster care national statistics indicate there are approximately 400,000 youths (newborn to 21 years old) typically in foster care across America. On average, a child in foster care can experience eight or more different placements during their time in care. Eighty percent of youths in foster care struggle with mental health, compared with approximately 18 to 22 percent of the general population. Less than 3 percent of youth who age-out of foster care will earn a college degree.

“When our youth aging out of foster care are provided a sense of belonging in a stable, loving and encouraging environment, we can forever change the direction of their lives for the better," explains Myron.

Those wishing to assist this group can consult their Amazon Wish List,

which highlights sought-after items such as gift cards, bedding, household goods and cleaning supplies.

Another way to assist is to provide respite care for the group's house parents, especially for weekends or evenings. One such volunteer, Angie Jones, says, “My simple involvement with Direction 61:3 has been a great blessing in my life. I don’t think people realize the many ways to get involved directly or indirectly that help our foster youth. It has not only made a difference in their lives, but mine, too.”

Myron says, “There are many more youth aging out of foster care that need our help. With the generosity and resources available from our churches, families, businesses and community as a whole, together we can impact more lives and ensure youth aging out of foster care will thrive as adults."

214.544.9055

Direction613.org

Rendering for The Farm.

Backyard Chickens

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages. There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Oh and bonus – they make you breakfast.

The eggs from backyard chickens are the best—tastier and fresher than any store-bought eggs. Much of the day, the birds entertain themselves, picking at grass, worms, beetles, and all of the good things that go into making those delicious farm eggs. Plus, with their keen eye for insect pests, chickens make for great gardening companions.

Chickens can provide family companionship, fun, entertainment, sustainable fresh food, and plenty of poop that gardeners prize as a natural fertilizer/composting material. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor.

Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 12TH

The Prego Expo

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON DALLAS FRISCO HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER | 12:00 PM

Event features: Building a Dream baby registry with product demos on must-haves; parenting seminars; baby shower games and contests; selfie stations for baby bump pics; and shop Expo-only deals. All attendees will be entered to win grand prizes, including strollers, car seats, baby carriers. VIPs get a Swag Bag valued at more than $200. Admission ranges from $20 to $100.

AUGUST 12TH

Roll With The Council

TBD AT PRESS TIME | 10:00 AM

Take a bike ride with City of Frisco elected officials at a conversational pace. Routes are a combination of on-street and city hike and bike trails with distances ranging from 5-10 miles. Pedal the city and learn about Frisco while riding through city parks, discovering Frisco Public Art and more with participating city councilmembers. Phone: 972.292.5000.

AUGUST 12TH

Double Down For Dravet

TOYOTA STADIUM NEW ROOM – HALL OF FAME CLUB | 7:00 PM

Join Dravet Syndrome Foundation supporters for an evening of fun and fundraising organizers indicate will include heavy appetizers, drinks and casino games, plus silent/live auctions. Formerly known as severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (SMEI), Dravet is a genetic epilepsy. This event concludes at 11 p.m. Sponsorships are available. Advanced ticket purchases required. To purchase tickets or address questions, visit  DoubleDownForDravet.org

Family Story Time

FRISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY STORYTIME ROOM | 11:00 AM

Intended audience for this gathering is children who are walkers through 5-year-old toddlers. Join librarians for songs, rhymes, books and fun. Space is limited. Tickets available at Youth Services desk starting an hour before the program. Any person needing an accommodation for a disability should contact the Library at 972.292.5669, by email library@friscotexas.gov, or in writing five business days prior.

Kazha

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON DALLAS FRISCO HOTEL CONVENTION CENTER & SPA | 12:00 PM

This power rock band was founded in 2009 by Japanese singer/songwriter Kazuha Oda and a guitarist Hideki Matsushige. They often are categorized in Hard Rock or Heavy Metal. They used to be a four-piece band but became three piece with Kazuha being a bass/vocal. After releasing the first album "Overture," they've been touring the United States and Mexico.

Courtney Marie Live

EIGHT 11 PLACE | 6:00 PM

Musician Courtney Marie will be Live until to 9:30 p.m. at this wine bar that's also has craft beer and food location. She plays songs of Fleetwood Mac and Train to Harry Styles to Matchbook Twenty and Taylor Swift. Reservations are recommended since seating is limited. Make reservations at Eight11Place.com .

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