
A Voice That Keeps Giving









The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. Traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child, whether it's smells, sounds, lights, holiday activities or a combination of it all that reflect that best.
This month, we're highlighting the magic of the season and what our community has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. However, while this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community who need assistance or who are alone.
My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace, and that we all remember to take care of each other extending grace, empathy and love.
Happy Holidays!
SHARON DUFFY, PUBLISHER
@MCKINNEYANDPROSPERLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Sharon Duffy Thomas | sharon.duffy@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
William Thomas | william.thomas@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Alexis Jacobs | alexis.jacobs@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alexis Jacobs, Julie Brown Patton, Sue Collins, Leann Parker
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kane Wai, Maroon & White Photography, DoraMarie Herrera
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Texas Giving Machine Returns
Vending
Providing Children Aspirations
Little Hearts Of Hope: Supporting Children During Family Members' Cancer Battles
Griffin: Love Shines
Kourtney White Experiences
Local singer/ songwriter Kourtney White performed Adele's "Remedy" during the blind auditions of NBC-TV series singing contest, The Voice. This is the show's 26th season.
Our attorneys create customized estate plans based on your family structure, life plans, goals, values, principles, and vision. There is no such thing as one-size-fits-all estate planning.
The probate process helps to ensure that your deceased loved one’s estate is distributed according to their wishes. Mourning the loss of a loved one is difficult, and the thought of dealing with legal issues and piles of paperwork can make you feel overwhelmed.
Appointing a guardian is necessary when a person can no longer make or communicate safe or sound decisions about his/her person and/or property or has become susceptible to fraud or undue influence. A special needs trust allows a person with a disability to have money put aside for their care.
Trust administration includes settling any debts, paying taxes, transferring property titles and other administrative tasks that must be handled to close out or settle the estate of the decedent.
Asset protection planning involves making prudent decisions today to protect yourself, your business, and your hard-earned assets from loss due to lawsuits, creditors or bankruptcies.
An effective business plan is not only a roadmap that outlines your goals, strategies, and potential hurdles, but also helps protect your business from death, divorce, or disability by preparing in advance.
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Bed Start, Community Food Pantry and Shiloh Place shared the amazing work they are doing. 2: 100 Women of McKinney will be donating $15,000 to the charity Bed Start. 3: 100 Women of McKinney also will be donating to Shiloh Place and Community Food Pantry. 4: 20th Anniversary Chrysalis Ball held for Boys & Girls Club Collin County. 5: McKinney SWAT Team earned impressive 7th place finish out of 35 teams in five-day competition. 6: Safety Squad presentation at Bennett Elementary from McKinney Fire Department representatives. 7: Mayor Bristol luncheon for active adults held at Church of Jesus Christ in North Texas.
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At Jensen Orthodontic Arts, we combine ART, SCIENCE, and EXPERTISE in orthodontics to customize your smile and improve or reconstruct the function and harmony of your teeth. That alone says a lot, but Dr. Doug Jensen also uses his training in the closely-related specialty of PROSTHODONTICS and dental aesthetics to create wonderful outcomes for unusual or complex dental problems– Think VENEERS, CROWNS, IMPLANT CROWNS, and DENTURES. Dr. Jensen is one of the few dual specialists in both orthodontics and prosthodontics in America, and we are lucky to have his experience in this area. He offers clear orthodontic treatment options including CLEAR BRACES, LINGUAL BRACES, and CLEAR ALIGNER THERAPY to meet your aesthetic needs. Count also on getting treatment rendered efficiently without ignoring the balance that should be present between the teeth, joints and muscles in a properly functioning bite.
Dr. Doug Jensen, DDS, MS
Board-Certified Orthodontist, Prosthodontist
Don’t wait! Come see us for an expert’s Complimentary Evaluation
Get a straightforward assessment and roadmap to the PERFECT SMILE!
Texas Property Sisters Realty Group was named Best of McKinney Realtors at the recent McKinney Chamber of Commerce awards luncheon. Congratulations to Texas Property Sisters co-founders Monica Szewczyk and Julie Williams. Both of the them have lived in McKinney in the Stonebridge Ranch area for more than 20 years. These two licensed Realtors also support 15 local charities and nonprofits.
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Officer Anna Jagneaux and Paramedic Corinne Williams became the first female members of the McKinney SWAT team. Their accomplishment was celebrated by the McKinney Police Department and recognized by city councilmembers. Earlier this year, the two women earned their place on the team via the tryouts. Out of 11 tough applicants, these two powered through grueling physical and mental challenges to earn their coveted “Black Shirts” after a rigorous sixmonth probation.
Allison, of Allison Amores Photography, is a McKinney-based professional portrait photographer who says she’s dedicated to creating timeless and elegant photos for individuals, families, children, youths and businesses -- and yes, even four-legged family members. Meet her sweet Sydney spotlighted here. Allison also handles personal branding sessions, as well as senior sessions, often in downtown McKinney. More details can be viewed online at AllisonAmoresPhotography.com.
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VENDING MACHINE ALLOWS DONORS TO SEND ITEMS TO PEOPLE IN NEED
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
Merry and Bright, Make Holiday Giving Unforgettable: From Dec. 7, 2024 to Jan. 1, 2025, Frisco and McKinney community residents and supporters can tap into vending machines that allow users to donate items such as medicine, clothing, baby supplies, text books, eye exams and livestock for people in need.
These charity ‘Light the World Giving Machine’ vending devices dispense hope and joy by featuring items to donate from seven local and global charities. With the swipe of a credit card, donors can give hot meals, warm shoes, fresh water, school supplies, a soccer ball, jump ropes and even goats, chickens or fish.
The machines work by users choosing one item, inserting a payment card, donors receiving a donation receipt and then the donations are sent to the identified charities.
Sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Giving Machine is part of the Light the World campaign. It provides an instant act of service for people interested in helping those in their community and around the world during the holiday season. Organizers state that 100% of all donations go directly to the participating charities.
The Giving Machine will make its first-ever debut in Frisco at Frisco Square Dec. 7–18. And then, it will move to historic downtown McKinney from Dec. 20 until Jan. 1, 2025, (next to The Guava Tree Restaurant).
This local Texas region is one of 108 cities worldwide to host Light the World Giving Machines in 2024. Five local DFW charities will benefit: The Salvation Army North Texas, Catholic Charities Dallas, Lovepacs, 6 Stones and Agape and two global charities, including Lifting Hands International and Unicef USA.
LightTheWorld.org TexasGivingMachine.org/DFW
“Vend Joy To The World: Seven charities. Thirty items. Countless
LITTLE HEARTS OF HOPE: SUPPORTING CHILDREN DURING FAMILY MEMBERS' CANCER BATTLES
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS
Kerri Steele, founder and executive director of Little Hearts of Hope, understands the emotional impact a family member’s cancer diagnosis can have on children. Through her late husband’s battle with cancer, she says she saw the need for specialized support to help children cope with the fear, anxiety and uncertainty that comes when a parent or sibling battles cancer. LHOH addresses this emotional toll by offering personalized care packages and emotional resources designed for children aged 4-14 years.
“LHOH is more than just a support organization; it's a community committed to making a meaningful difference in the
lives of children facing challenges of having a family member with cancer,” explains Kerri. “Every service offered is designed with children's emotional and psychological needs in mind, ensuring they feel loved, understood and supported.”
The Hope Package Program, LHOH’s flagship service, provides free, monthly care packages filled with age-appropriate activities, books and therapeutic tools aimed at building resilience. The ongoing nature of this support offers children a source of comfort and encouragement, reminding them they are seen and valued during this difficult journey.
LHOH also offers programs like Hugs for the Holidays, which delivers extra emotional support during a time when families typically gather but may feel emotionally fragile due to illness. A Prayer Team provides
spiritual support through dedicated volunteers, uplifting families with prayer and faith-based encouragement.
The organization’s impact extends beyond emotional care, connecting families with additional resources such as financial assistance and counseling. The McKinney community plays a vital role in supporting these efforts, through financial donations, volunteerism and community outreach.
LHOH fosters an environment where children can grow emotionally stronger and more resilient by addressing their emotional and spiritual needs. With each package, prayer and act of kindness, LHOH ensures no child faces cancer’s emotional challenges alone.
972.730.2235
LittleHeartsOfHope.org
Griffin: Love Shines While Creating Sparkles That Last For Lifetimes
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
As a family-owned store since 1985, Griffin features jewelry designs ranging from classic to contemporary. From their full-service jewelry store in McKinney at 2811 Craig Drive, this staff offers lab diamonds and moissanite, bridal and engagement rings, fine jewelry, fashion jewelry, custom designs, appraisals and on-site repair services, including watches.
Griffin Jewelry team members indicate the store has the latest in state-of-the-art equipment for jewelry repair. They state their high-tech laser welder is extremely
precise, via applying the same technology used for critical eye surgery. They add that their laser welder allows them to work directly adjacent to precious gemstones with no fear of overheating them. This process also fuses the metal, creating an incredibly strong bond.
Regarding holiday gift shopping, Cherye Walker, Griffin Jewelry owner, says hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The store also is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cherye’s parents, Jack and Fran Griffin, founded the store.
972.548.9192 GriffinJewelry.com
One of McKinney’s own singers/ songwriters made a new name for herself on the national stage.
Kourtney White, 37, impressed celebrity judges of NBC’s singing reality competition The Voice during her recent trial performance of the show’s infamous blind auditions, which aired during October. The show’s season 26 judges are Snoop Dog, Gwen Stefani, Michael Bublé and Reba McEntire. The current season of The Voice premiered on Sept. 23, 2024.
KOURTNEY WHITE EXPERIENCES AMERICA'S BELOVED SINGING TV CONTEST TO FIND BEST UNDISCOVERED TALENT
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DORAMARIE HERRERA
“From being born and raised in McKinney, it was wonderful to put McKinney on TV, no matter what happened with me personally. Many local people I didn’t know reached out, saying they’re proud; it was a great experience for that alone,” shares Kourtney.
When Reba asked Kourtney at the audition how long she’d been singing, she explained she’d grown up singing in church. Reba told her she’d done a wonderful job.
Gwen encouraged her not to leave as upset or discouraged, because she’s “so talented and beautiful.”
“I like your voice,” stated Michael. “I could hear people reacting to you, but that’s the weird part about this show. They can see you and I couldn’t. I wasn’t having that same visceral reaction. But you should feel proud of yourself. To put yourself out here like this takes an incredibly strong human being.”
Interaction from self-proclaimed ‘Brother Snoop’ with ‘Sister Kourtney’ was about returning to the show in a future season with “a church song, giving something with that soul on it” so he could feel her spirit of that voice. He reminded her that he and his fellow coaches also had been told “no” at various points, but to keep going and “stay strong.”
On The Voice, Kourtney sang her version of Adele’s song “Remedy,” launching straight into powerful lyrics of “But when the pain cuts you deep...”
As part of the audition, Kourtney and her mother, Sharon Berry, and her sister, Kristian White, explained how the longtime singer had gone through surgery in 2022 for a rare brain condition, not knowing if she would be able to talk and walk again post-operation. Kourtney says the condition is called idiopathic intracranial hypertension, which occurs when there’s too much cerebrospinal fluid in a skull, causing increased pressure on the brain and optic nerve. She had a second surgery during April 2023 to correct for pseudotumor cerebri.
“They told me it would take a year to relearn how to walk, but I was so determined, I fought every day. I recovered in a month,” Kourtney shared, showing her determined grit.
Singing since she was 7 years old, Kourtney says she was signed as a child artist, but it didn’t turn out to be an upstanding contract. “That crushed my heart, and I stopped singing altogether when I was 17 years old. I worked a 9 to 5 job at a call center to make ends meet.”
In 2017, Kourtney says her cousin pushed her to sing the song she wrote, titled Walk Away. “He recorded it and put it out there online. I woke up to it going viral,” she recalls.
The song was about anguish that comes after realizing a true love relationship just won’t work.
Surprisingly to some, Kourtney says her favorite genre is country music. “I like the storytelling of country songs, especially the ones I can feel every word, like from Sara Evans and Shania Twain. The best songs and singers reflect passion.”
Kourtney asserts that her experience with The Voice has been life-changing in that it was the biggest stage of influential people that she’s ever been on. “I met so many people and learned so much, specifically that I should keep going, no matter what comes,” she says. “God promised me the stage; He didn’t promise me a chair turn. I was where I was supposed to be, sharing this music, inspiring others. The whole experience, in its own way, completed me, and gave me the strength to keep going.”
She says the most stressful part of The Voice journey was the waiting and anticipation of what’s going to happen.
“The aspect I most enjoy about singing is touching other people’s souls. I’ve been through so much, but other people have contacted me to share that I’ve influenced them, or changed and saved their lives. In touching other people’s hearts, it has changed mine,” Kourtney says.
She did just that type of musical communicating when she posted her soulful cover of Chris Stapleton’s song Tennessee Whiskey during 2018, for which some admirers stated left them with goosebumps.
Kourtney eventually ignited her full love affair with singing, songwriting and music. She now is booked to perform at weddings, birthday parties and special events. In fact, McKinney city officials even booked her to sing live at Juneteenth community celebration activities in Finch Park during 2021.
“I’m also traveling to perform, and am dropping five or six records, keeping busy with music now as my career,” Kourtney assures.
One of her fans, Archelle Stanley-Jones posted: “We (your forever fans) know what you’re truly capable of. We love you Kourt. God has something amazing in store for you. You’ve taken the route He’s prepared. Just wait.”
Kourtney’s music can be seen and heard on Facebook, YouTube, Apple iTunes, SoundCloud, Spotify and TIDAL.
- Raj Narayanan
- Madi Duffield
DIY Jar gifts are a thoughtful way to share holiday cheer this season. These particular jar gifts require JUST ADD WATER as instructions for an easy homemade gift that anyone would love to receive.
COOKIE MIX JAR
• store bought cookie mix (labeled add water only). Include instructions to add water and bake (use amount and bake time as instructed on the package you purchased).
HOT COCOA JAR
• hot cocoa mix
• chocolate chips
• mini marshmallows
Instructions: over stove top, bring water (or milk) to a simmer. Add cocoa mix and stir until chocolate chips have melted. Top with marshmallows. Enjoy!
• pancake mix
• maple syrup
Include instructions to add water and bake (use amount and bake time as instructed on the package you purchased). Top with warmed maple syrup.
• pine cones
• dried or fresh greens
• dried citrus
• cinnamon sticks
• star anise
• whole cloves
Add instructions to place contents into a pot on the stove with 8 cups of water. Simmer low for a wonderful holiday aroma.
• Floating candle
• Greens
• Dried citrus and berries
Add water to the jar and light candle to enjoy on a dark winter night.
LeAnn can’t wait to see what you create and give to your family and friends. Tag her on IG @silvertoothhome and #silvertoothhome so she can share. Happy Holidays!
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
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I ASKED MY EXPAT AND TRAVEL-SAVVY FRIENDS TO RECOMMEND BOOKS TO TAKE ME FAR AWAY. HERE YOU GO!
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
BY TONY HORWITZ
Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before. The Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist travels to various parts of the world, following in the footsteps of explorer James Cook.
BY ELIF SHAFAIT
It is 1974 on the island of Cyprus. Two teenagers, from opposite sides of a divided land, meet at a tavern in the city they both call home. The tavern is the only place that Kostas, who is Greek and Christian, and Defne, who is Turkish and Muslim, can meet, in secret, hidden beneath the blackened beams from which hang garlands of garlic, chili peppers and wild herbs. This is where one can find the best food in town, the best music, the best wine. But there is something else to the place: it makes one forget, even if for just a few hours, the world outside and its immoderate sorrows.
BY GERALD DURRELL
Three classic tales of childhood on an island paradise - My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives and The
Garden of the Gods by Gerald Durrell - are available in a single edition for the first time in The Corfu Trilogy
Just before the Second World War the Durrell family decamped to the glorious, sun-soaked island of Corfu, where the youngest of the four children, ten-year-old Gerald, discovered his passion for animals: toads and tortoises, bats and butterflies, scorpions and octopuses. Through glorious silver-green olive groves and across brilliant-white beaches Gerry pursued his obsession . . . causing hilarity and mayhem in his ever-tolerant family.
BY ABRAHAM VERGHESE
Cutting for Stone is a novel written by Ethiopian-born, Indian-American medical doctor and author Abraham Verghese. It is a saga of twin brothers, orphaned by their mother’s death at their births and forsaken by their father.
BY ORHAN PAMUK
The author is a Nobel-laureate Turkish novelist. The book, set in Istanbul between 1975 and 1984, is an account of the love story between the wealthy businessman Kemal and a poorer distant relative of his, Füsun.
DECEMBER 2024
DECEMBER 2ND
Sensory Photos With Santa
Prosper Townhall Lobby | 5:00 PM
Families of children with special needs are invited to a sensory-friendly visit with Santa. This special event will go from 6-8 p.m. in the lobby of Town Hall. Enjoy visits with Santa, take family photos, and enjoy a Christmas craft and refreshments in a quiet, comeand-go environment suitable for families of all ages and abilities.
DECEMBER 7TH
Prosper Christmas Festival
Prosper Town Hall | 3:00 PM
Get ready to experience a wonderland of holiday-themed attractions combined with cozy spaces to mix, mingle and shop. Festivities include Santa’s Workshop, Kids Christmas Shoppe, Horse-drawn Wagon Rides, Kid Zone, Santa’s Selfie Station, Community Stage performances, cookie decorating and twinkling exhibits packed with gifts and goodies. Just before 7 p.m., gather for the Community Tree Lighting and spectacular drone show.
DECEMBER 14TH
25th Annual McKinney
Rotary Christmas Parade Of Lights
Historic Downtown McKinney | 6:30 PM
The Christmas Parade of Lights is an annual event for the McKinney Rotary Club, which uses the donations raised to fund local, regional, national and international projects focusing on six areas: promoting peace; preventing diseases; providing access to clean water and sanitation; enhancing maternal and child health; improving basic education; and literacy and helping communities develop.
DECEMBER 16TH
Not Rocket Science Trivia
The Celt Irish Pub | 7:00 PM
The Celt in historic downtown McKinney serves favorites such as fish ‘n chips, shepherd’s pie, Scottish egg, bangers and mash, Guiness stew and other Irish dishes. The restaurant’s menu also offers American fare like burgers, sliders, sandwiches and salads, as well as wide range of desserts. Compete during this trivia-fun evening for house cash and prizes. Sláinte!
DECEMBER 19TH-22ND
Myers Park and Event Center | 3:00 PM
Christmas JoyPark inspires everyone with the true joy of Christmas as some prepare to honor the birth of Jesus Christ. This is a one-of-a-kind event that blends the fun and the faith of Christmas into one enjoyable experience. Bring the whole family and make unforgettable memories together at this event. Tickets: 2024 Christmas JoyPark (regfox.com).
DECEMBER 20TH-JANUARY 1ST
The Guava Tree Cuban Cafe & Cantina | 9:00 AM
The Giving Machine helps donors spend the Christmas season spreading holiday cheer. These red vending machines with a heart allow participants to donate to seven local and two global charities. Lift someone in need this Christmas. Come to the machines for a holiday experience that enables everyone to feel the joy of giving.
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