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McKinney & Prosper LifestylePubs.com/McKinneyandProsper

NOVEMBER 2018

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Thankful E

FOR THOSE WHO TREAT US

FOR THOSE WHO SERVE US

WE GROW WHERE YOU GO Officially Open in Prosper August 2018 Albin Roach is excited to announce that Jeff Yates has opened a branch office in Prosper. As Prosper has become one of the coolest places to live, we could not resist the opportunity to be the first full-service law firm to open an office and serve its citizens! Albin Roach is committed to be the best law firm in Texas. Our diversity in practice areas allows us to develop comprehensive strategies for all your legal needs. We are confident you will not only like our lawyers, you will also love our results. We hope you will take us up on it.

W E H E L P C L I E N T S R E S O LV E M AT T E R S I N VO LV I N G : Family Law and Divorce Business Transactions Litigation

Real Estate Employment and Labor Law Estate Planning, Probate and Guardianship

Prosper Location: 290 S. Preston Road, Suite 190 Prosper, Texas 75078

Frisco Location: 5665 Dallas Parkway, Suite 200 Frisco, Texas 75034

(Texas Bank building at Preston Road and 1st Street)

(NW Corner of Lebanon and Tollway)

214-423-5101 ALBINROACH.com

Celebrate! with us

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Thankful THIS EDITION IS THE "THANKFUL" EDITION. Thank you to our Editorial Coordi-

NOVEMBER 2018

nator, Tom Bridges; our wonderfully talented photographer, Christie Connell of Azure

PUBLISHER

Photography; and all of our friends who have helped us create this beautiful magazine.

Sharon Duffy | sharon.duffy@lifestylepubs.com

We are extremely thankful for how the magazine has been received. Our intent was always to bring the reader interesting and inspiring articles on the leaders in our

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tom Bridges | tom.bridges@lifestylepubs.com

communities and all that they do to support and give back to the community. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Our advertising partners and those who joined us as inspiring subjects in our articles

Tom Bridges

showed us a great deal of confidence that they would be presented in a manner fitting

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

of their leadership and quality. Thank you to each for having that confidence in "the

Christie Connell

new kid on the block." November's edition is our fifth, and we are blessed to have learned we are truly making a difference. From readers who write us to thank us for introducing them to the people, businesses and practices to our advertisers who thank us for bringing a high-quality publication to the area and those who have given us stories about how the magazine has positively impacted their lives, we offer great thanks for each and every one of you. For example, Lena Smith, Prosper's First Lady, was contacted by a woman who had read the article on Prosper's mayor, Ray Smith, her husband. She learned in that article that the Smiths were raising their grandchildren, as was the reader. Reaching out to Lena to see how they were handling this somewhat unusual circumstance, the two women connected and have become great friends. So, while we always want to bring you material worthy of your time to read, it is these kinds of connections that we hope to create. We truly want to connect and inspire our communities while bringing to you what we have deemed as those worthy of your business or attention. Please do note that each article always lists a favorite charity. We hope you will find at least one that will inspire you to volunteer, support or simply donate—whatever you can, whenever possible. In our endeavors to create our magazine, we have been introduced to some of the most amazing people who are your leaders, whether political, medical or business. We are thankful for each of them as they truly are making McKinney & Prosper amazing places to live!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

Happy Thanksgiving, McKinney & Prosper!

Sharon Duffy, Publisher Sharon.duffy@lifestylepubs.com

514 W 26th St., Kansas City, MO Proverbs 3:5-6

LifestylePubs.com/McKinneyandProsper 6

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

McKinney & Prosper™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the McKinney & Prosper areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in McKinney & Prosper™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate to advanced musician or just learning to play is simply something you have always wanted to do, we have a place for you at The Guitar Sanctuary’s Performance Academy. Our faculty is made up of seasoned professional musicians that work in today’s music business. Our atmosphere and environment is one of encouragement and a commitment to excellence while understanding that making music and an inquisitive spirit is essential to creativity. Music is a powerful catalyst for personal growth. Discover your creative journey at The Guitar Sanctuary’s Performance Academy.

972.540.6420 | www.TheGuitarSanctuary.com Adriatica Village: 6633 Virginia Parkway,McKinney, TX

INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2018

FEATURES 14 The Guitar Sanctuary 22 Prosper’s First Lady: Lena Smith Driven yet Empathetic

26 Modern Medicine the Old-Fashioned Way The Dermatology Center of McKinney

14 30

30 An Enduring Gem among Us Griffin Jewelry

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Inspired By

26 Healthy Lifestyle 30 Driver’s Notebook 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice

R EPUTATION

BEST R EA LTOR

MAGAZINE

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GOOD TIMES 1.

North Texas Giving Day North Texas Giving Day is the largest community-wide giving event in the nation. It is an 18-hour giving event designed to empower every person to give back to their community by supporting local nonprofits and causes they care about and build awareness and support for nonprofits.

10.

11.

12.

1. Demonstration by Canine Companions for Independence | 2. Mini Hooves of Love volunteers and miniature horses | 3. SPCA of Texas | 4. Jaymie Pedigo and Stella Stevens from Chestnut Square | 5. The National Breast Cancer Foundation | 6. DFW Labrador Retriever Rescue Club | 7. The Ladies with Love Life Foundation | 8. City Councilman Scott Elliott and Volunteer McKinneyâ€™s Dana Riley | 9. The Samaritan Inn group with Director Rick Crocker | 10. The S.A.L.T. Connection | 11. The Seed Project Foundation | 12. Scoops and Scripture team in their Sundae Best 10

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

AROUND TOWN Saturday, Nov. 3, 7-10 p.m. Order individual tickets through Eventbrite. For sponsorship, group ticket sales or restaurant participation, contact Amber Fulton at amber@embracetexas.org.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: A MCKINNEY CHRISTMAS Thanksgiving weekend marks the 38th year for this hometown Christmas celebration. Visit the 14-block area of McKinney's 165-year-old commercial historic downtown for family activities, food and entertainment. Enjoy a uniquely McKinney Christmas celebration with neighbors and visitors from near

PARTY IN THE PASTURE BY BECKY'S HOPE HORSE RESCUE

and far. It's an unforgettable experience and a great start to the holiday season. Don't miss the tree lighting ceremony! On Friday, Nov. 23, watch faces

The Third Annual Party in the Pasture features

light up at 6:15 p.m. when the city lights a 34-foot

special guests Randy and Mary Travis and benefits

blue spruce Christmas tree that will adorn the city’s

Becky’s Hope Horse Rescue. Enjoy complimentary

square. Admission is free and open to the public.

parking, a silent auction, raffle, open bar, catered dinner, dessert, live music, dancing and friendship. James Dupre will be the opening performer for the third year, and the Rachel Stacy Band is back!

PARKING/TRANSPORTATION There are 12 public parking lots that surround Downtown McKinney.

Nov. 3, 5-10 p.m. at Rock Creek Ranch Center

DATES & TIMES

BeckysHope.com

+ Friday, Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sold out the last two years and tickets WILL NOT be available the day of the event.

+ City of McKinney Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:15 p.m. on Friday on MPAC Lawn on the Kentucky Street side. + Saturday, Nov. 24, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. + Sunday, Nov. 25, 12-5 p.m.Arbor Day in Prosper The Prosper Parks and Recreation Department's 2nd Annual Arbor Day Celebration will be at Pecan Grove Park, 831 Del Carmen Drive, on Nov. 3 at 9 am. Come hear remarks by local dignitaries, and to further urban forestry, Prosper's Boy Scout Troop 365 and Girl Scout Troop 6807 will plant trees in the park. Also, the winner of the 2018 Prosper Champion Tree Contest and the largest Bur Oak in Prosper will be awarded. The trees are planted to reflect hope in the future.

PROSPER CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL TASTE OF MCKINNEY AT ADRIATIC VILLAGE NOV. 3 Enjoy an evening of live music and local fare at

of the year in Prosper Saturday, Dec. 1 at the new Prosper Town Hall, from 2-6 pm. There will be attractions for all members of the family.

Adriatica Village. Entertainment includes the Maylee

Santa Claus will be there along with food, shop-

Thomas Band, casino tables, live and silent auctions,

ping, rides and other entertainment. Bring the kids,

wine and beer tastings, dancing and more! All pro-

meet your neighbors or simply enjoy the holiday

ceeds benefit Embrace Texas in its efforts to find

season in Prosper!

adoptive families for children lingering in foster care. 12

Come join the family fun at this favorite event

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

Smile and photo by Dr Jensen

DR DOUGLAS JENSEN

You may have known

already that Dr. Doug Jensen is an orthodontist who has been practicing nearby in the McKinney/Prosper area for the last decade. But who knew that he is also a dual specialist in not only the art and science of orthodontics, but in the closely related field of prosthodontics as well? If you weren’t aware, prosthodontics is the specialty of high level understanding of the various dental problems, advanced treatment planning, and the carrying out of the plan with uncommon skill and craftsmanship. People seek prosthodontists when the esthetic stakes are high or when they just prefer a more highly trained specialist from the get go. This blending of specialties provides for a skill set virtually unheard of among dental professionals.

3595 S. Custer Road, Suite 200 McKinney, Texas 75070

(214) 842-8106 JensenOrthodonticArts.com

In addition, he strives to provide what has become hard to find in most orthodontic practices, such as:

• Honesty and sincerity • Staying on time • Sharing progress at each appointment • Sweating the little things • Motivation to get your smile right • Keeping things light and fun But where the rubber really meets the road about you or your child’s teeth and all things smile—that is, expert care performed at the highest level—there is quite literally not a more highly trained and experienced craftsman in this area of dentistry than Dr. Jensen. And on top of that, he is quite inclined to listen to your concerns and work hard to create that beautiful smile you’ve been dreaming about. Come experience a true craftsman and determine for yourself why so many patients refer their friends. Even dentists and other orthodontists themselves come to Dr. Jensen to get their own smile fixed properly. You’ll be pleasantly surprised!

INSPIRED BY

ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES | PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTIE CONNELL, AZURE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Guitar Sanctuary

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

WELL BEFORE HE BECAME THE MAYOR OF MCKINNEY, GEORGE FULLER HAD A VISION FOR MCKINNEY, PART OF WHICH WAS—AND IS—TO MAKE IT THE CULTURAL CENTER OF NORTH TEXAS. Music had always been a big part of his life and brought him the love of his life. This visionary also wanted to expand his love of music to as many as possible. Inspired by a friend who owned a store in Vermont, one of his first steps was to create the Guitar Sanctuary. However, the results of visions don’t just happen. There is a lot that must occur between the foresight one has and fulfilling the dream. The Guitar Sanctuary has grown into a nationally acclaimed entity, known not just for its collection of guitars but as a true sanctuary from the common retail store. It has evolved into a school extraordinaire, giving lessons to about 250 to 300 students per month. Lessons offered include not just guitar but piano, voice, ukulele, bass and cello. The students receive inspiring instruction, and recitals are held in the beautiful adjacent Sanctuary. The recitals are held every eight to 12 weeks according to the time of the year and are great opportunities for the students to show off the progression they have made. But the Guitar Sanctuary didn’t happen overnight. The most important component of any success? The people involved. George picked well; initially Shane Frame and eventually, Brian Meader. Shane, an experienced musician and singer, got a call from George in 2010 to discuss the opportunity to join him in his endeavor. Shane’s grandfather played the guitar in a group when Shane was very young. His grandparents even held dances in their home, pushing furniture aside or even outside to accommodate those who wanted to kick up their heels. Shane was sometimes relegated to sit outside on a misplaced sofa but loved the music that emanated from his grandfather’s beautiful guitar. The story goes that Shane used to get the guitar out and pick on it while his grandfather was out of the house. The guitar apparently was a symbol of a special connection with his grandfather. One time, when his grandfather offered to lend his guitar to a friend, Shane finally got the nerve to tell his grandfather what it meant to him and asked him if he would teach him to play. Shane became good enough that between the ages of 16 and 18 he played with a gospel group out of Houston. Being a high school student, the group would fly him to Houston on Friday after school and then fly him back after his three gigs over the weekend. Then, at 18, he learned how to play the pedal steel guitar and became a highly regarded professional. CONTINUED >

November 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

INSPIRED BY

(CON TI N U ED)

Over the next several years, he played for a number of highprofile cover bands. Music was definitely in his blood. Shane opened Shane’s Guitars, selling used and vintage guitars while also giving lessons. But in 1996 he was offered the opportunity to manage Brad Hawkins in Nashville, which led to a publishing deal writing songs. As Shane puts it, after a few years in Nashville you either made it big—or not. While he had a fulfilling stint there, he decided to move back to the DFW area and landed a job at a guitar store. However, during this time, he quit playing the guitar for several years. Eventually, Shane was offered a great job with Ralph Lauren. He became a member of the corporate society. Thankfully, his wife let him know she had married a musician, not someone in a stuffy suit. He started playing again, and as his gigs increased steadily, his return to music was etched in stone. The call from George made it irreversible. Shane joined the store in 2011 as a sole employee. The Guitar Sanctuary was originally located at 5861 Virginia Parkway in the Adriatica Village. Luckily, many of the patrons who came in asked if they gave lessons. The team saw the opportunity, rented rooms next door to accommodate the growth and grew quickly to 50 students with four teachers. In 201XXXXXX, the Guitar Sanctuary moved to its current location, expanding in all areas. They added the Sanctuary hall and a few more teaching rooms, as well as the space for Love Life, the boutique benefitting Maylee Thomas Fuller’s nonprofit. Around this time, Shane had an epiphany. He noticed most of the students were females being taught by older white males. He felt this might be hurting the school’s growth, so he started using some of his stellar students and other younger teachers, which resulted in a much higher growth rate. As the business grew, Shane needed to focus more on the school, so Brian was brought in to handle the retail side. Brian had worked for the largest music store in the country and brought his great experience and drive to the team. If you want to know anything about musical instruments, Brian is your resource. His knowledge and experience have been a great addition to the team.

For more information, visit TheGuitarSanctuary.com.

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

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MCTOWN'S KLOWNZ: TEACHING SAFETY THROUGH HUMOR

Heroes in Disguise ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES 18

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

HAVING JOINED THE MCKINNEY FIRE DEPARTMENT, BRENT ROLLINS HAD ALWAYS KNOWN HIS CAREER SHOULD INVOLVE HELPING PEOPLE.

Only later would he dis-

from across the country their method of reaching

cover he had become a

the kids effectively. Do they know it is working?

member of what he now

Definitely! Brent says when they are not in uniform

calls a "brotherhood sec-

and meet any of the kids, they ask them what

ond to none."

their favorite part of the show was. Each excitedly

He was also the first

brings up a safety hint they learned from the show.

paramedic for McKinney

Brent is "Hoser" in costume. Congratulations

Fire Department; how-

on his 25th anniversary this year! When asked

ever, he never wanted to

when he might turn in his costume, he replied,

climb in the ranks of the

"Probably never. I enjoy it too much and see the

organization

difference we make."

because

he always wanted to be on the front line trying to save lives. As they arrived at a school for a safety program, he was chosen to speak to a class about fire safety.

Khalil Martin's stage name is "Blaze." Blaze demonstrates the breadth of the team's outreach, as he always says, "Stand up, don't stand by; be a buddy, not a bully."

He enjoyed working with the kids and feeling like

Jason Newell has competed in an international

he was making an impact, but he learned that the

clowning competition and with Ringling Brothers

fireman's outfit eventually lost its excitement for the

and Barnum and Bailey Circus. His character

kids, detracting from attention. He quickly learned

is "Siren," who, like the others, changes with the

he would rather be teaching the prevention of fires

program from cowboy to politician, caveman to

as opposed to having to go put one out.

circus performer and more. The team never does

Thus, he entered into the realm the team calls "edu-tainment," and the basis for McTown's

the same show twice to a class since it would lose their attention.

Klownz was born. Initially, a few of the other

Terry Carr joined in as "Bucky." He also loves teach-

firemen volunteered to help him in different

ing these youngsters all kinds of safety rules. His

ways. They soon realized the impact Brent was

motto—"Remember, the perfect smoke alarm is one

having on the kids and decided they would like

that works!"—encourages kids to go home and ask

to be part of this inspiring program. Now this

their parents to check their smoke alarms.

team has grown to a total of five "Klownz," all of

The latest member is Eric Daniels, known

whom love what they are doing, which is know-

as "Plug." His stage name comes from having

ing they can make a difference in how kids can

been the video and sound guy who kept the per-

still be a kid but more safely.

formers "plugged" in.

The team has gained national recognition and

"If every show teaches just one child about an

are guest instructors at a four-day conference

aspect of fire safety that can be applied at home,

in Arizona each year teaching fire departments

that's all that matters!" he says.

For more information, visit McKinneyTexas.org/325/McTown-Klownz.

November 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

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PROSPER'S DRIVEN YET EMPATHETIC

FIRST LADY: LENA SMITH ONCE UPON A TIME, THERE WAS A YOUNG MAN WHO LIVED ALONE WITH HIS TWO DOGS. One day, when the dogs got loose, the man met a driven young woman. Their initial "blind date" was only allowed with another couple. However, she said the handsome, tall man was a perfect gentleman, and they hit it off quite well. They started dating, and as they say, the rest is history—kind of. She kidded him for a long time about letting the dogs get loose to possibly meet another! Mayor Ray Smith was the fortunate dog owner who courted the equally driven and active Lena, now Lena Smith, the First Lady of Prosper. They have been married for 28 years and are both still active, driven and empathetic.

ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTIE CONNELL

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

Lena started selling onsite homes in Arkansas and moved to Dallas in a similar position. Her career blossomed in 1995 as she became sales manager for USHOMES, a dual-role selling and managing some of the other salespeople. Two years later, she took on the role of vice president, but only after she had to learn a second phase of the business: how to build them as well. She built 30 homes while showing her style: a pink hard hat and a tool belt that had pockets for her lipstick, make-up, hairbrush, and other accessories—just no hammer. The company was eventually bought by Lennar Homes in 2002, and Lena landed a national sales position with Bowen Family Homes. In this position, she opened numerous locations throughout Texas and Florida. But then, in 2006, the doorbell rang. The Smiths' home was turned upside down. On the doorstep were their two grandchildren who had to come live with them. Being in their 50s with three sons of their own, taking on two preteens was certainly a jolt to their lifestyle. Lena had always brought significant income into the household, but due to the changes in demands for the family, she could no longer work. After the initial shock wore off, she and her husband, Ray, came up with a plan and altered their lifestyle to adjust to all the new love that had just entered their home. But her drive was always to do more than raise her family. In 2014, she founded the Prosper Ladies Association. Organizing what was initially a small group of about 20 women, she formed the nonprofit organization and served as president for three years. The group has grown to more than 300 members and has proudly supported, started or funded such entities as the Lunch Light Ministry, Prosper Angel Tree and a scholarship program. As life eventually stabilized, Lena decided she could go back to work, but she wanted to work for herself instead of a company. In 2016, she connected with her contacts in the real estate business. Using her skills as an interior designer, she began bringing in substantial income again. Now she has the Lena Smith Group, Monument Realty. Once you meet her, you see that she has as much drive and energy as ever despite her demanding schedule. When asked about her duties as First Lady of

LENA SMITH

Prosper, she relates that it is nothing more than what she was doing before, which is trying to help those around her. She has always found peace and gratification in helping others, whether a single soccer mom, a new business or simply anyone with challenges—physical, emotional or otherwise. When asked about the charities she feels are really outstanding, she notes ManeGait.org and MinuteManResponse.org. November 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

modern medicine

the old-fashioned way THE DERMATOLOGY CENTER OF MCKINNEY ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES | PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTIE CONNELL

HAVE YOU NOTICED A CHANGE IN HOW YOUR PHYSICIAN’S OFFICE OPERATES? Do they now have multiple offices with multiple doctors who rotate through them? Do you often see a different doctor or maybe a physician’s assistant only? This has become the norm for many practices. Want to see the same doctor every time? One who actually gets to know you so visits can be personalized and efficient? One who can follow you for years so the doctor seeing you this visit doesn’t have to rely on notes to catch up on your medical history?

As you speak with Dr. Ralston, you quickly get the sense of being in the hands of a very skilled physician. This is bolstered by con-

Dr. James Ralstonof the Dermatology Center

fidence from all the Best Doctor awards in the lobby. Among his

of McKinney understands and has modeled his

awards, he has been voted Best Dermatologist seven years in a row

modern practice on the “old-fashioned” concept

by McKinney Magazine.

of individualized medical care. He and his wife,

He received his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical

Rachel, who efficiently manages the practice,

School at Houston and completed his dermatology residency at the

are extremely proud of the manner in which they

State University of New York while serving as chief resident. He also

have developed a “family” of patients.

completed a fellowship in cutaneous oncology and photodynamic ther-

Dr. Ralston prides himself in not just treat-

apy at the prestigious Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo. There he

ing diseases affecting the skin, but addition-

explored leading-edge technology to develop less invasive methods to

ally reversing the signs of aging. His practice

treat skin cancer and pre-cancers. Dr. Ralston has contributed textbook

embraces the latest technology, such as

chapters and articles to medical literature and was awarded Best Clinical

devices to help him detect skin cancer earlier

Science Report from Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Furthermore, Dr.

and multiple lasers and devices for body con-

Ralston has had additional training in skin surgery including Mohs

touring, nonsurgical lifting, removing wrinkles,

micrographic surgery. He is board certified in dermatology.

painless laser hair removal and the latest in

All his life, Dr. Ralston has looked up to his grandfather, who was a

tattoo removal. He performs a wide variety of

first lieutenant and survived the invasion of Normandy on D-Day. He was

cosmetic procedures and is a perfectionist art-

seriously wounded in France months later and was awarded the Purple

ist who does all cosmetic injectables such as

Heart. Unfortunately, he died from melanoma when Dr. Ralston was a child.

Botox, Dysport and fillers himself to ensure the

Dr. Ralston was named after this great man and decided his life’s goal

best and most natural results.

would be to prevent others from losing loved ones to melanoma. The office is celebrating its 10th anniversary this month. Dr. Ralston and his staff speak of having been able to watch patients young and old become much healthier through their care.

CONTINUED >

November 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

(CON TI N U ED)

Several patients have come in thinking they had a simple skin issue only to have Dr. Ralston identify the symptoms of a much greater underlying problem. No wonder he is known as the “doctor for doctors.” Having treated patients in the area for 10 years now, the clinic has great pride in how their treatments have not just helped patients physically but emotionally as well. Many diseases of the skin may be embarrassing for the patient, but once treated, the patient’s self-esteem and emotional outlook on life can be tremendously improved. Young people have initially come in with severe acne, possibly with their head down and hair combed over their face. After treatment, they come in with a fresh hairdo, their head held high and new levels of confidence. Excellent results are achieved through the use of the latest research and technological products from devices to injectables. More importantly, the results are due to the excellent patient-physician relationship that can be developed only in the type of setting the Dermatology Center of McKinney offers. Match that with the approach of evidence-based medicine, and you know you will get the best outcome possible. Dr. Ralston and Rachel enjoy living in McKinney with their three children. They are very active in the community. If you are suffering from any skin disorders and would like to have a skilled physician and excellent staff not just treat your skin but know you well enough to know how your symptoms may interchange and reflect a more serious issue, then you need to go see Dr. James Ralston at the Dermatology Center of McKinney.

For more information, visit DermatologyMcKinney.com.

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

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November 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

DRIVER’S NOTEBOOK

An Enduring Gem among Us GRIFFIN JEWELRY

ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTIE CONNELL

THERE ARE CERTAIN THINGS YOU WANT TO LOOK FOR WHEN SHOPPING FOR JEWELRY. Your first glance into a store can tell you a lot about the kind of product and services they offer, plus a sense of pride in what they do. Your first glance into Griffin Jewelry will speak volumes as you immediately note the numerous reasons this shop has endured and prospered in McKinney for almost 35 years. Founded in 1985, Cherye Griffin Walker took over the reins in 2007, continuing her family’s tradition of honesty, guaranteed quality and exceptional customer service. Cherye’s amazing staff plays a huge role in States, many who were referred to them by

why Griffin Jewelry is the only remaining store

Having an experienced jeweler onsite sets

of the eight that were in McKinney when it

Griffin Jewelry apart from many other jewelry

began. A very low staff turnover ensures great

stores, offering simple repairs like sizing and

Once you experience Griffin Jewelry, you

relationships with valued customers.

soldering, to the most complex of repairs on

will understand why they have received

cherished heirloom pieces.

McKinney Magazine’s Top Award every year

Another reason for their success is their

other satisfied customers.

the award has been presented.

commitment to fair pricing and the foresight

Custom design is a huge part of Griffin

to offer not only exceptional, unique pieces

Jewelry’s business, allowing young couples

Griffin Jewelry also takes pride in giving

of fine jewelry but also many choices of

to help create one-of-a-kind pieces that

back to the community supporting local

designer fashion jewelry such as Waxing

represent their tastes and personalities.

organizations such as SmilesCharity.com

Poetic, Sorrelli, Bella Rose and Qudo.

Griffin works with clients across the United

and ManeGait.com. Please get involved!

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

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N OV E M B E R

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

3 TASTE OF MCKINNEY BY EMBRACE TEXAS

The Sanctuary at Adriatica Village

Come enjoy live music and local fare

For more information, email skennedy@heardmuseum.org

call

972.562.5566 x241.

11 VETERAN'S DAY GIVE BACK E.J. Wills Gastropub

In honor of Veteran's Day, E.J. Willlis Gastropub will donate 11 percent

at Adriatica Village. Hometown eater-

MCKINNEY HALF MARATHON

ies will provide mini portions of their

Cinemark Movies 14

riors

signature dishes to try. Your ticket in-

For the third year, Minuteman Disas-

this worthy cause. See article on p.

cludes unlimited food tastings, two

ter Response has been presented

XXXXXXXXXX.

beer/wine/soft drink tickets, live music

the great opportunity to benefit from

by The Maylee Thomas Band, casino

the McKinney Half Marathon. Now

tables, auctions, dancing and more!

in its 6th year, this race has grown

Benefiting children needing adoption.

to become a very popular event for

See AROUND TOWN section for

runners of all ages. MDR Team mem-

more information.

bers and equipment will be on site to

3 THIRD ANNUAL PARTY IN THE PASTURE Rock Creek Ranch

The Third Annual Party in the Pasture with special guests Randy and

show what they do. GetRacing.org/ mckinney-half-marathon.html

of every order to Hope for the Warorganization. Help

support

8:03 AM BELIEVE MCKINNEY 5K, 10K AND 1-MILE FUN RUN Historic Downtown McKinney

9 MCKINNEY KIWANIS CLUB ANNUAL BBQ

mckinney-5k-10k-1mile-fun-run 8:03 a.m: 10K Wheelchair 8:05 a.m: 10K 8:15 a.m: Santa Chase 8:23 a.m: 5K Wheelchair

First Christian Church

8:25 a.m: 5K

Mary Travis, benefiting Becky’s

The McKinney Kiwanis Club will hold

8:35 a.m: 1 Mile

Hope Horse Rescue. Enjoy compli-

its annual BBQ Dinner and Silent

mentary parking, a silent auction,

Auction Fundraiser on Friday, Nov. 9

5K/10K Awards: Awards will be

raffle, open bar, catered dinner,

from 5-7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for

given to the Masters male/female in

dessert, live music, dancing and

adults and $5 for youth 14 and under.

5K and 10K and overall male/female

friendship. James Dupre will be the

All proceeds go to the Foundation to

winners in the 5K and 10K. Age group

opening performer, and the Rachel

fund scholarships and support the

awards will be 5-year increments.

Stacy Band is back!

community. For more information, call

See AROUND TOWN section for

972.658.5018.

more information.

3 FALL NIGHT HIKE

10 POP! GO THE CLASSICS Faubion Auditorium

Heard Museum

Beloved pianist Mac Frampton with a

Explore the thrilling sights, smells and

six-piece group performing classical

sounds of night with Heard Trail Guides.

music in pop format. Their repertoire

Night hikers will be encouraged to

includes Rossini's "William Tell Over-

We are always accepting submissions

sharpen their senses to be able to spot

ture," J.S. Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's

for events you'd like to see included

signs of animal life and learn more

Desiring," Gershwin's "Rhapsody in

in our Calendar section. Submis-

about the inhabitants of the Heard.

Blue" and many more. Fresh interpre-

sions are accepted via the Contact

Cost: $14 nonmembers; $12 Heard

tations, the perfect crossover concert.

Museum Members

Classical music with a twist of POP!

McKinneyandProsper.

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

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November 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

LOCAL’S CHOICE

Heroes Serving Heroes ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES

FOUNDED IN 2006 BY THE FAMILIES THAT PERSONALLY WITNESSED OR WERE AFFECTED BY WAR, ESPECIALLY POST-9/11, HOPE FOR THE WARRIORS GREW OUT OF THE MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C.· Their approach is to provide all facets of care through various programs. It isn't just the warrior that needs help to restore themselves, but their families as well. Their efforts are offered across the country. Gus Cabarcas, community development manager for the DFW area, is a military and NYPD (during 9/11) veteran. He spoke recently at the McKinney Chamber of Commerce breakfast and emphasized Hope for the Warriors' goals and what support they need. He stressed the comprehensive nature of the program to provide physical, emotional, mental and family support. To date, the organization has assisted about 20,000, but the program is growing and providing even more impact. In 2017 alone, more than 6,000 warriors were served almost 11,000 services. The program offers not only comprehensive clinical benefits but also services to transition the soldier back into society, like A Warrior’s Wish and Drive for Hope; and many sports programs, like Run for the Warriors and Team Hope for the Warriors. These services help return their lives to as normal a state as possible. For example, A Warrior's Wish provides a better quality of life and serves to provide gratifying experiences. In 2018 alone, 20 of the wishes will be granted. More than 180 Wishes have been granted thus far. Your donations will be used wisely as this organization has been designated as a "Best in America" by the Independent Charities of America, is accredited by the BBB's Wise Giving Alliance and has earned a four-star rating from Charity Navigator for seven years in a row.

For more information, visit HopeForTheWarriors.org.

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | November 2018

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