Angel Nene Martinez
Tonya Dangerfield, MBA, REALTOR®, Life Insurance Agent
Nick Dangerfield, REALTOR®
That Summer Feeling
As we welcome the warm embrace of July, we're thrilled to bring you an edition that celebrates the joy and exhilaration of summer fun, excitement and adventures. With youths out of school and vacations underway, this is the perfect time to embrace new experiences. Summer is a time for exploring, rejuvenating and volunteering at your favorite organizations. Embrace new possibilities. We encourage you to seize the moment and make the most of this sun-kissed season. Let go of the familiar and embrace the thrill of the unknown. Engage in activities that bring you joy, create memories that will last a lifetime, and savor the vibrant spirit of summertime. I recently did just that by becoming a proud member of the McKinney Rotary Club. It's great to serve our community through the Rotary's 'Service above Self' principal motto and activities.
As always, we're here to inspire and accompany you on your journey. So grab your sunscreen, pack your sense of adventure and let the summer fun continue! Wishing you a season filled with sunshine, laughter and unforgettable moments.
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Sharon Duffy Thomas sharon.duffy@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
William Thomas | william.thomas@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Alexis Jacobs
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alexis Jacobs, Julie Brown Patton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Fredshots Photography, Paul Versluis
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Silver Linings Sober Living celebrating a night of fun, prizes, amazing appetizers and bingo. 2: Congratulations to the 2024 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards: Volunteer McKinney's 25th Anniversary award winners. 3: Hutchins BBQ owner Tim Hutchins participating in New York brisket fest in FOX Square. 4: McKinney Economic Development Corporation and McKinney-Unique by Nature at the Byron Nelson. 5: Love Life Foundation's Women in Service annual luncheon featuring inspiring three community faith leaders. 6: Celebrating Leadership of McKinney's graduating class of 2024 sponsored by the McKinney Chamber of Commerce. 7: Another great Smiles Charity McKinney event in the books. Thank you, Dr. Buchanan.
business monthly
Haiman Hogue Helps Families Protect Money, Preserve Estates
Haiman Hogue is a faith-based estate and family protection planning and elder law firm designed on the foundational belief that they are “faithfully serving God, clients and community" in everything they do. They offer free educational events and are willing to provide a guest speaker for professional organizations and civic groups. Their office is located in Frisco at 5300 Town and Country Blvd., Ste. 200. For questions, phone 469.893.5337 or visit HaimanHogue.com
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Heidi Riddles Provides Outstanding Loan-Related Customer Service
Heidi Riddles is a licensed residential loan originator/broker for American Mortgage. Heidi says she provides her clients with knowledge, support, simplicity and amazing customer service. Her No. 1 goal is to assist individuals and families by being their advocate through the entire lending process and continuing that relationship and support after the transaction closes. "I'm very aggressive in shopping different loan products to ensure the best fit with the best rate," she says. Visit Heidi.ZipForHome.com.
Love Life's Middle School Backpack Drive
Items needed include sturdy backpacks, five-tab index providers, wide ruled composition books and spirals, highlighters, washable broad-tip markers, colored pencils, No. 2 yellow pencils, purple washable glue sticks, 2-inch 3-ring binders, wide-ruled paper, clear top pencil bags with grommets, 8 ounce hand sanitizer, black fine tip dry erase markers, earbuds. Drop off by July 24 to Love Life Market (inside the Guitar Sanctuary), all McKinney Starbucks locations, The Stix Icehouse and TUPPS Brewery.
Did you know…
That an Orthodontist is a dedicated specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of the smile? So don’t even think about having your general dentist attempt to correct you or your child’s bad bite, crooked teeth or wacky smile.
Photos & Smiles by Dr. Jensen
PGA FRISCO Something for Everyone
One Resort, Endless Experiences.
Immerse yourself in a world of endless experiences at the Monument Realty PGA District, located within the Omni PGA Frisco Resort campus and adjacent to the PGA of America headquarters. Discover a vibrant hub of excitement and camaraderie where you can unwind with an outdoor movie under the stars or be captivated by live entertainment. Indulge in delectable dining options indoors or soak up the lively atmosphere outdoors, and be sure to explore the luxury shopping experiences. It’s all happening at the Monument Realty PGA District.
July Events District Dining
July 4
Fireworks on The Fairway
July 5
80’s Mix Tape Band Concert
July 6, 12, 19, 26
Family Movie Night
July 13
ESCAPE: A Tribute to Journey Concert
July 21
National Ice Cream Day at Margaret’s
July 24
Tequila & Tacos
Lounge
at Top Golf
Featuring slow-smoked BBQ, and six hitting bays and stunning fairway views
Lounge at Top Golf
Featuring chef-driven dishes, craft cocktails, and Topgolf Swing Suites
Ryder Cup Grille
Featuring American culinary favorites and craft cocktails with stunning golf course views.
Margaret’s
Ice Cream
The perfect spot for one-of-a-kind gourmet coffee, ice cream, and other sweet treats.
Exploring Multifunctional Backyards
DFW Fence Pro: Creating Beautiful And Functional Outdoor Living Spaces
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS
A backyard is more than just a space; it’s an extension of a home. Converting an outdoor area into a multifunctional space is ideal for relaxation, entertainment, or dining, no matter the weather. Beyond just elevating a day-to-day living experience, an outdoor living area also boosts the property’s value, making it a smart investment for the future. The DFW Fence Pro team specializes in custom fencing and outdoor structures in the DFW area, designing attractive and functional outdoor living areas.
“DFW Fence Pro isn’t just about fences,” says Blake Luby, owner of DFW Fence Pro. “We are a onestop shop for elevating any outdoor space.”
DFW Fence Pro has been serving the DFW area since 2013. With more than a decade of experience, Blake says they've built a reputation for excellence in crafting custom wood fences, iron fences, pergolas and custom patio covers.
“We are committed to quality craftsmanship, integrity and customer satisfaction,” states Blake. “Choosing DFW Fence Pro means selecting top-quality design, materials and service to bring outdoor dreams to life.”
DFW Fence Pro offers comprehensive residential and commercial fencing services, including installation and repair of cedar, pine, spruce, wrought iron, chain link fences and custom gates. Its expertise extends to crafting elegant iron fences, adding a touch of sophistication and durability to any outdoor space. A fence is not just a barrier. It extends the living space, adds privacy, enhances beauty and security, and sets the tone for the yard. With so much depending on a fence design, choosing the right custom wood option can be daunting. Blake emphasizes that DFW Fence Pro is committed to guiding customers through the decision-making process, ensuring they find the perfect fence to meet their needs and complement their home’s style.
“We are committed to quality craftsmanship, integrity and customer satisfaction.”
Blake says he and his team are passionate about creating top-tier outdoor living experiences. Going beyond mere practicality, Blake aims to craft outdoor settings that surpass clients' expectations, enhancing their enjoyment and satisfaction with their outdoor spaces.
Pergolas not only provide shade and shelter but also enhance the look of a backyard or garden. DFW Fence Pro team members design custom patio covers that combine functionality and style to create cozy outdoor living spaces. Decks are perfect for uneven ground, providing a flat outdoor space with beautiful views. They offer year-round usability, including colder seasons, with the option to incorporate heaters and fire pits. Decks present a simpler installation process compared to patios, making them a favorable choice for areas with minimal grading requirements. An outdoor kitchen can be a perfect addition to any home, especially in North Texas with its
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mild winters. It allows outdoor cooking nearly year-round, enhancing the backyard living space. Cooking meals outside keeps the mess and smells away from the indoor kitchen. It also expands the entertaining space for hosting gatherings. With lighting, heaters and fans, the outdoor kitchen can be used in various weather conditions. Investing in an outdoor kitchen upgrades a home’s living area and encourages outdoor relaxation.
DFW Fence Pro also specializes in pouring concrete for patio covers, sheds, and other structures, offering stamped concrete options that mimic high-end materials at a lower cost. Customers can choose from a variety of patterns and colors to create a personalized outdoor space tailored to their preferences.
Blake says DFW Fence Pro believes in a personalized approach to every project. “Whether you prefer a classic, modern or eclectic style, our team works closely with every customer to create an outdoor area that reflects their taste and lifestyle.”
DFWFencePro.com
“We believe in a personalized approach to every project.”
FANTASTIC FIREWORKS PLUS STAYCATION
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘Fireworks on The Fairway’ is the biggest event of the year at PGA Frisco. Join the group’s second annual Independence Day celebration at the acclaimed Monument Realty PGA District on the Omni PGA Frisco Resort Campus.
This event is complimentary to attend but requires advance online tickets (tickets will not be available on-site and all attendees need one, including infants and children). Pre-purchased parking ($20-$50) is required. Food, beverages, carnival games and face painting will be available for purchase on-site.
MUSIC:
Downtown Fever will bring high-energy musical entertainment throughout the evening. Sing along and dance to hit after hit.
FOOD:
Grab a bite from one of 13 food outlets, including local food trucks or one of the PGA Frisco restaurants, such as Ice House and Lounge by Topgolf. The team at Margaret’s Cones & Cups will scoop up sweet treats.
FAMILY FUN:
PGA Frisco carnival booth games will offer prizes to lucky and skilled players. Some of DFW’s most talented face painters will be available.
DRONES AND FIREWORKS:
It wouldn’t be Independence Day without a celebration in the sky. This celebration will include a modern, dynamic drones’ show followed by traditional, world-class fireworks. Bring blankets.
PGA Frisco golf facilities, including The Swing and The Dance Floor, will be closed during this event.
• 6 p.m. Parking lots A & B and event gates open
• 6-9:30 p.m. Downtown Fever Band, carnival games, food trucks, face painting
• 9:20-9:30 p.m. Approximate drones’ show
• 9:30-9:45 p.m. Approximate fireworks
To reserve tickets and parking, visit FireworksOnTheFairway. eventbrite.com .
Omni PGA Frisco Resort’s Fireworks on the Fairway package is available for July 4-8. It includes deluxe rooms, VIP seating, gifts and complimentary self-parking. Reserve stays at: OmniHotels.com/hotels/ PGA-Frisco/Specials
Additionally, through Labor Day, Omni PGA Frisco Resort guests can experience the SUMMER OF GLOW, an enchanting mix of rejuvenating activities, kid's crafts, happy hours and varied entertainment. Weekend glow parties allow guests to play 9-holes of mini golf on a course lit up with neon colors or to gather around the glow of firepits to roast perfect s'mores. Every Saturday night, the resort hosts synchronized, mesmerizing drone shows in the sky.
YOUTH (9-12 YRS)
JUNE 26-27
10AM - 12PM | $125
JULY 24-25
10AM - 12PM | $125
EST 2023
TEEN (13-17 YRS)
JUNE 26-27 1PM - 3PM | $195
JULY 24-25 1PM - 3PM | $195
This summer camp is FUN and focuses on teaching kids safe and responsible firearms handling and fundamental marksmanship skills. Donʼt miss out on this opportunity for the young people in your life to learn about gun safety and markmanship in a safe and professional environment. Seats are limited. SCAN THE QR CODE SIGN UP FOR OUR TRAINING CLASSES
C . R . A . S . E .
CIVILIAN RESPONSE TO ACTIVE SHOOTER EVENTS
This is FREE CLASS is offered to the community to you learn what to do if confronted with an active shooter event.
WOMEN’S SITUATIONAL AWARENESS
In this FREE CLASS you will learn how to access potential threats and understand the decision making process to remain safe in everyday public settings.
FINDING FINANCIAL FREEDOM
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS
Natalie Kime Consulting: Expert Guidance On Budgeting, Investments, Financial Planning Empowers Individuals To Reach Long-Term Goals
Understanding and managing personal finances is critical for achieving long-term goals, mitigating risks and seizing opportunities for growth. When people actively engage in their financial planning, they’re prepared for the future. Natalie Kime Consulting is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to achieve financial independence.
Natalie Kime says the importance of taking responsibility for one’s financial and investment decisions has never been more critical. Natalie emphasizes that no one else will manage your finances for you. The task of digging into one’s financial details
and keeping track of expenses can seem daunting, but it’s essential for achieving financial freedom and independence.
“Over the past two years, hyperinflation has made it more vital than ever to maintain a budget and review it regularly. This practice ensures that individuals can adjust to higher costs and rising expenses without draining their savings or relying on credit cards, which can lead to long-term financial problems,” explains Natalie. “By staying on top of their budget, people can make necessary adjustments to avoid financial pitfalls and continue saving for the future.”
For those unsure where to start, Natalie advises getting a solid financial education. It’s crucial for a financial professional to educate clients about overall financial principles and how specific recommendations align with their values and goals. Without this understanding, individuals risk mismanaging their hard-earned money and financial plans. Creating an extensive budget that tracks all income and expenses is another critical step. For those needing guidance, working with a financial
professional can be invaluable. Natalie believes meeting with a financial professional to discuss short-term, mid-term and longterm goals is also essential. This discussion helps identify existing financial assets and any gaps that need addressing. While not all gaps can be immediately filled, having a plan to follow is crucial for long-term success.
“The impact of inflation and rising interest rates has necessitated changes in many people’s financial plans,” says Natalie.
Natalie observes that many individuals are now prioritizing expenses more carefully to make ends meet. The reliance on credit cards and consumer debt has increased as emergency savings have dwindled. There has also been a noticeable reduction in large purchases with many clients delaying home buying, vehicle purchases, and travel. Natalie has also seen an increase in people starting their own businesses or taking on second jobs to boost income and create more financial freedom.
When exploring financial and investment options, Natalie suggests five key points:
1. Financial help doesn’t have to be expensive. Natalie Kime Consulting is free, and no investment minimums are required.
2. Building wealth doesn’t require a large initial investment. Starting early with a small amount can lead to significant savings and retirement funds.
3. Knowing the numbers and sticking to a budget is crucial.
4. Dream big. Visualize the ideal future and find opportunities to make those dreams a reality with proper financial education and a customized plan.
5. Work with a trustworthy financial professional, who is committed to building a relationship and regularly communicating. If your financial professional is unresponsive, it’s time to find someone who will prioritize your needs.
Ultimately, the ability to build wealth is accessible to anyone willing to learn, plan and take action, regardless of their background. Natalie believes that “it’s not about where you start but where you want to go.” With the right guidance and mindset, anyone can achieve financial independence and create a legacy of wealth for future generations.
Tune in to Natalie’s podcast, “Nickles and Dimes: Finding Financial Freedom,” aimed at providing listeners with insights and strategies for managing their finances effectively.
Natalie Kime's Recommended Steps For Financial Empowerment:
1. Educate Yourself: Gain a solid financial understanding.
2. Budget Wisely: Develop a comprehensive budget plan.
3. Consult a Professional: Discuss short-term, mid-term and longterm goals with a financial advisor.
- Raj Narayanan
-
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
| PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CORNERSTONE RANCH
ABUNDANT LIFE THROUGH THREE PS FOR RANCHERS WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
REDISCOVER CORNERSTONE RANCH
Photo by Fredshots Photography
People. Place. Purpose. This exact path and combination for empowering adults with special needs to live abundant lives is thriving at Cornerstone Ranch, a sanctuary that provides compassion, service and education.
volunteers weekly at local nonprofits); developing life skills (to reach highest level of independence via grocery shopping, home care, meal preparation and personal grooming); healthy living (through balanced diets, daily exercise
“PROVIDING LIFELONG, ENRICHING CARE WITH UNIQUE PURPOSES.”
Cornerstone Ranch founders David and Cynthia Heaton say they first began to think about creating a place such as the ranch during 1999 when they realized special needs youths lacked a stepping stone into independent living after high school. In 2004, the Heatons purchased 42 peaceful acres of land outside McKinney, and they built a 10,000-square foot ranch home for this nonprofit purpose. In 2006, the first Cornerstone residents moved in. During 2011, the group added a non-residential day program that now serves 50-plus adults with special needs.
Presently, 'Ranchers' at 3933 CR 317 improve various levels of personal growth and find joy as they find their life's purpose through new opportunities, activities and support.
"Cornerstone Ranch has a unique, faith-based approach to family style living that fosters safe and nurturing relationships, and a lifelong home for our Ranchers," says Cynthia Heaton, executive director.
Cynthia explains that the group's six programming pillars are: serving (each resident and day program participant
and sports); learning (classes to further develop math, reading, health management skills, plus daily devotionals and Bible studies); working (developing vocational skills and working in various enterprises, including making candles and homemade jam); and having fun through organized and impromptu activities.
Robin Vestal, Cornerstone Ranch development director, notes that with the program, community engagement isn't just an activity; "it's a cornerstone of our mission."
She says Ranchers not only find a nurturing community there, they also actively contribute to the larger neighborhood. "This year, the Ranchers' dedication was recognized when they were honored as the 2024 Volunteer Group of the Year by Volunteer McKinney. Through initiatives like serving at Samaritan Inn and delivering Meals on Wheels, our Ranchers demonstrate the powerful impact we can all make by serving others. Their unwavering commitment not only enriches their lives but also strengthens the entire community, showcasing the profound impact of service and connection."
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To get involved at the ranch, tours can be requested. The staff is always looking for great volunteers to help serve alongside residents or on the property, says Charlotte DeRuyter, volunteer coordinator.
Additionally, passionate individuals are sought to join the Ranch’s professional team. “If you have a heart for service and a desire to contribute to a thriving community, here, every staff member plays a pivotal role in nurturing the potential of each Rancher, making every day a chance to change lives for the better,” Cynthia explains.
Organizations, such as the City of Frisco, City of McKinney, Citizen’s Church, Stonebriar Church, The Parks Church, Breckenridge Village, Brookwood Community, Hugs Cafe & Greenhouse, ManeGait, McKinney Special Olympics, My Possibilities and The Nathaniel Foundation, serve or have served as supportive partners.
Business and corporate partners include entities such as Craig International, Eversource Wealth Advisors, HEB, Insperity, Simpson Strong-Tie, Wells Group and Titan Consulting.
Kirt Ruby, chair of the Cornerstone Ranch board of directors and senior product manager of Interstate Battery, says: “Cornerstone Ranch offers more than just support; it provides a loving environment where individuals are cherished, connections deepen and personal growth flourishes. This is why supporting our cause is not just an investment in a place, but in a vibrant future where every person discovers their true potential.”
"GOD
HAS CRAFTED EACH OF OUR CORNERSTONE RANCHERS UNIQUELY AND WONDERFULLY."
To assist with the ranch’s objectives, Alexis Moore, the group’s development coordinator, says those interested can provide one-time or recurring gifts. “There also are other ways to make an impact and change the lives of our Ranchers through donor advised gifts, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, corporate matching, legacy giving and IRA qualified giving.”
This year’s Cornerstone Ranch Barn Bash, an event to raise awareness of the special needs community, is slated for Nov. 2. The event is scheduled to have gourmet food trucks, live music, a petting zoo, hayrides and bounce houses. Tickets will be available online or at the event.
469.424.1887
Cornerstone-Ranch.com
Stress
Miss MCKINNEY 2024
NATALIE DUPRÉ HELPS OTHERS FOLLOW THEIR DREAMS AND GROW THROUGH PASSION PROJECT
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS
Natalie DuPré, the current Miss McKinney 2024, is dedicated to helping others pursue their passions.
As a young girl, she dreamed of a career in musical theatre and aspired to become a Broadway star. However, she later decided to change her college major and career path to broadcast journalism and Creative Media Industries. Working as Texas Tech Athletics’ in-game host and then at two professional sport organizations in Oklahoma City, her journey showcases her commitment to following her passions and encouraging others to do the same.
Growing up in McKinney, Natalie takes immense pride in representing her hometown. Inspired by her mother, the first Miss McKinney in 1990, she joined the Miss Texas organization.
“This city means so much to me, and I’ve been truly blessed by the connections and community I have made here,” Natalie says.
Through The Passion Project, Natalie advocates for others to find and pursue their passions. She says she encourages stepping out of one’s comfort zone to discover new interests. Consequently, she began a podcast that focuses on people who’ve successfully pursued their passions.
She shares, “The Miss America organization helps women discover and follow their dreams.”
Natalie adds that she believes in finding what one is passionate about and approaching it with consistency and discipline. She emphasizes the importance of trying new things and not fearing failure, as every experience leads to growth.
“I don’t have it all figured out, but pursuing passions is how you can fulfill a meaningful life, even without all the answers,” Natalie states.
For Natalie, it’s not about the glitz and glam; it’s about personal and professional growth and helping the community. She believes everyone has a gift that can benefit others, and she’s dedicated to helping people realize and use their unique talents for the greater good.
AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST
Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa
Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.
Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.
Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. The expansive, 18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur
Hills, allows golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.
A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen. Scheduled kids activities are available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property.
The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farmto-table dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place or eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace.
After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com
ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE
Why continue to “rent” one-time-use electricity from an unreliable grid, with rising electricity rates?
Guarantee your electricity cost and ensure you always have power when you need it most with onsite solar generation plus a backup power solution.
Ask your tax professional how a Tax Credit or Bonus Depreciation could offset your tax liability.
Now,whenyou’re“home-free”youcanbe “electricity-bill-free”too!
Al Fr es co STYLE
Spending time outdoors and enjoying friends and family over good food and drinks is a great way to enjoy the season’s beautiful weather. From the fresh flower arrangements, produce, and herbs, this earthy spread is brimming with character and flavor. The earthy ceramic and clay vases give the perfect vessel to fill with organic cut herbs and handpicked wildflowers. We arranged a beautiful medley of Queen Anne’s lace, mint, sage, rosemary, lavender, lamb’s ear, nigella, buddleia, oregano, dill, feverfew, and geranium to name just a few of these beautiful blooms. We love a good home-cooked menu mixed with a signature drink, so we paired our meal with a delicious craft cocktail. Buttermilk brined fried chicken was a must for this outdoor party. A delicious peach bread pudding with salted vanilla caramel cream rounded out our meal for the perfect sweet treat. We wanted to share a few of our favorite recipes for you to try at home. Enjoy!
FARM-TO-TABLE ENTERTAINING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL VERSLUIS
Buttermilk Brined Fried Chicken
INGREDIENTS:
Dried spice mix
• 2 tablespoons white pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 5 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons fresh black pepper
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons cayenne
• 1 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 teaspoons onion powder
• Palm kosher salt
Buttermilk Brine
• 4 cups buttermilk
• 1 bunch fresh sage
• 1/2 of spice mixture
Dredge
• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• Whole cut up chicken or 2 bone-in breasts, 2 thighs and 2 drumsticks
To cook
• 4 cups shortening
INSTRUCTIONS:
Marinate chicken in brine for up to 24 hours. Place chicken in large Ziploc bag and pour marinade over top. Add fresh sage and store in fridge. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a baking rack with a sheet pan for raw chicken and one for cooked chicken. Add remaining spice mixture to flour mixture. Whisk together well. Heat shortening to 350 degrees. (Preference is cast iron Dutch oven) Pull chicken out of buttermilk mixture and let drip. Coat firmly in flour mixture and set on raw chicken rack. Complete each piece of chicken. Heat oil to 350 degrees. Place 2 or 3 pieces of chicken in oil and cook 3-5 minutes per side. Place on cooked chicken rack. Put cooked chicken in oven to complete cooking for 15 minutes. Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving!
Peach Bread Pudding
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 loaf brioche
• 5 fresh peaches
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 eggs
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Dice peaches into medium dice. Place peaches, white sugar, and butter in saucepan. Cook until sugar is dissolved and peaches are soft. Mix all other ingredients together. Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan and add peach mixture with brioche pieces and then add milk mixture. Bake for 45 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes before cutting.
El Ahumado
“Spanish for Smoky”
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces Reposado tequila
• 1/2 ounce aperol
• 3/4 ounce lime juice
• 1/2 ounce agave nectar
• 1/4 ounces luxardo cherry syrup
• 1 spritz of Mezcal
INSTRUCTIONS:
Lightly sweet, pleasantly bitter. The Mezcal adds just a hint of smoke to make a beautifully balanced, interesting cocktail.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS JULY
events
JULY 1ST
Prosper's Pride In The Sky Independence Day Celebration
Frontier Park | 5:00 PM
Prosper's annual Independence Day celebration features patriotic activities, food trucks and vendors. It promises to be a wonderful evening of celebrating Prosper and America overall, complete with live music, a kids zone, food, the Posting of the Flags, games and fireworks set to music.
JULY 2ND
Yoga At Windsong Ranch
Prosper | 10:00 AM
The class is open to all and will meet on the lawn outside of the Windsong Ranch Commons for an hour. Cost is $20 each. RSVP to hannah. crichton@hannahshealinghouse.com. This class is offered Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout this month: July 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25 and 30.
JULY 3RD
Power Women Growth Group
First United Bank - McKinney Craig Ranch | 11:00 AM
Power Women Growth Group, or PWGG, was founded by Elizabeth Mahusay for the purpose of bringing together powerful women who desire to connect, grow and build deep relationships with other powerful women. Each month there is a mastermind topic and a member of the group provides the growth segment. Bring your lunch.
JULY 4TH
Red, White And BOOM!
Historic Downtown McKinney | 10:00 AM
The Red, White and BOOM! Independence Day celebration continues with downtown events that include a hometown parade and a Yankee Doodle block party. Families also can explore the many dining and shopping options that downtown has to offer. Red, White and BOOM! is presented by the City of McKinney. For more information about the parade or block party, email contact-mainstreet@mckinneytexas.org.
JULY 4TH
Fireworks And Concert
Gabe Nesbitt Community Park | 5:00 PM
These festivities will be held at Gabe Nesbitt Community Park with music, food, kids’ activities, a concert and a fireworks display. All activities are free and open to the public; for more information about the event, email contact-parks@mckinneytexas.org. All parking is free. At designated parking areas, attendants will guide vehicles to a parking spot. Paved parking will be filled first.
JULY 13TH
McKinney Margarita Stroll
Historic Downtown McKinney | 11:00 AM
Sip, shop and stroll while tasting margaritas in Downtown McKinney. Participants will receive a Margarita Stroll cup and a map that directs participants to the mouthwatering margaritas. Tickets are $35 each. Traffick911 is the beneficiary of this event, which concludes at 7 p.m.
Faithfully Serving God, Our Clients and Our Community
ESTATE PLANNING (WILLS & TRUSTS)
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.
PROBATE
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.
GUARDIANSHIP & SPECIAL NEEDS
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
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
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.
BUSINESS PLANNING
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.
