Embark on a Hills Adventure. in the
Discover the ultimate summer escape at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, where weekends come alive with live music, family-friendly activities, and the best of Austin’s food, drinks, and artisan treasures.
BARTON CREEK LIVE
July 3 and August 29
Back by popular demand, experience the soul of Texas music under the open sky. Enjoy crowd favorites Band of Heathens and Cory Morrow —each bringing their own sound to unforgettable nights of live music. Don’t miss the chance to catch these show-stopping performances in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
RED, WHITE & BLUE BBQ
July 5
Celebrate Independence Day weekend with Texas BBQ, festive cocktails, and live music from Aaron McDonnell & The Neon Eagles , all leading up to a spectacular fireworks finale. For an elevated experience, upgrade to our Star-Spangled VIP Experience with exclusive access to the Mokara Spa pool terrace, gourmet bites, and premium views.
BARTON FEST
August 31
Celebrate the spirit of the Texas Hill Country at this lively outdoor festival featuring local breweries, distilleries, and wineries alongside live music from Ruthie Craft and family-friendly fun. Explore our curated vendor market, where you’ll find handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the creativity of the Austin community.
Celebrating Men
Welcome to our June edition, which celebrates and tells stories about remarkable men in our community. Men are often the bedrock of family stability and emotional resilience. Perhaps except for endearing “dad jokes,” men tend to impart invaluable life lessons, instill discipline and nurture growth as fathers, brothers, sons, uncles, friends, colleagues and partners.
Men are integral to communities in various ways, contributing to economic progress, leadership and social support. They often drive innovation and lead in various sectors, including public service, education and the nonprofit sector. Additionally, men can play a vital role in fostering inclusive and equitable environments for all groups.
Thank you for joining us on this exploration of strength, vision and purpose.
Have a sensational summer.
SHARON DUFFY, PUBLISHER @MCKINNEYANDPROSPERLIFESTYLE
June 2025
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
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Leann Parker, Katie Bobrow, Pat and Gina Neely
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Leann Parker
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Staycation state of MIND
One Resort, Endless Experiences.
Nestled amidst the rolling greens of North Texas, Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa provides the perfect backdrop for your next getaway. Whether you’re planning a staycation with loved ones or reconnecting with golf buddies, take advantage of the resort’s laid back, authentic avor, and curated experiences while making memories to last a lifetime.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Frost Bank presented Grace To Change and McKinney Little Free Pantry with much appreciated gifts. 2: North Texas Concierge Medicine of McKinney celebrated their ribbon cutting with Prosper Chamber of Commerce. 3: Prosper Ladies Association 2025 Boots & Bling Gala raised money for their charitable donations. 4: PLA supports children, families, first responders, and charitable organizations that serve the Prosper ISD area. 5: The Prosper Ladies Association provides opportunities to serve the people and needs of the community. 6: Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County Gala 2025. Cheers to hope, healing and justice. 7: The NOW Massage McKinney, celebrating their ribbon cutting, offers the healing benefits of massage therapy.
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Dear McKinney Community,
My journey with McKinney began in 1988 when I sang backup at a private party in what was then known as The McKinney Market Place. Little did I know that this charming town would become the heart of my life story.
A few years later, I formed my own band and hired my guitar-slinging soulmate, George Fuller. We were married in an El Dorado neighborhood backyard, built our first house here, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Back then, McKinney was a small town of 35,000 residents and one grocery store, and like many of you, we were drawn to its parks, trails and crepe myrtles lining the streets. Today, it has grown to a vibrant city of 220,000 with multiple choices of the best in amenities and we still feel its “unique by nature” appeal.
Our children were raised here as we were involved in planting churches, leading worship and Bible studies, and even started several businesses from our historic downtown to Adriatica. Our investment in McKinney began long before we ever considered entering the political arena.
Through our nonprofit, Love Life Foundation, we have served this community for over 30 years. Taking on a non-partisan role to serve EVERYONE seemed like a natural extension of our mission to reach more people in need.
We’ve shared countless moments with you,, playing music at weddings, funerals, festivals, and nonprofit galas, and I’ve had the honor of singing our National Anthem at more occasions than I can count. Together, we’ve marched against bullying and supported families during some of the most unimaginable tragedies.
More than half of my 66 years have been spent in what George proudly calls the center of the universe, a sentiment borrowed from his friend David Craig. And now we lovingly refer to McKinney as the greatest city in the country.
Some of our favorite moments were at elementary schools with Reading Across America and Career Day, and cheering on the sidelines at various sports events including my favorite Halos and Special Olympics.
A real highlight has been being part of the host committee for the Byron Nelson and their move to McKinney that will remain until 2035 (and hopefully permanently) and recently, we watched the Texas Open Pickleball Championship at our beautiful new state of the art tennis facility. Our amazing MISD stadium has also hosted the D2 College championships to bring even more excitement to our town.
Some of the most precious memories include playing music on floats for our parades, and the unique reverse parade during a Covid July 4th, where cars drove by stages and floats lining our historic square. Who can forget the parking lot celebration drive-by for our senior living centers?
During “snowmageddon” in February 2021, we answered the call with all of you to support hundreds of people in dire need. The gratitude expressed by the community was overwhelming. These are just a few of the beautiful ways McKinney stands out to me. We are #mckinneykind and #mckinneystrong, and this is by far the most philanthropic town I’ve ever encountered. It has been an incredible honor serving with you and representing you these past eight years as your First Lady. My grandson Carter still believes that literally—so you can imagine how old he thinks I am!
You have embraced me in all my hippie ways, and I hope you will remember that my life purpose is to be authentic and relational. I truly believe we were created to love one another through our actions. I’ve grown so much and been enriched by participating in all the diverse cultures that make McKinney home, and I embrace them all as we continue to celebrate our differences together.
I am incredibly proud of George and the leadership he has demonstrated these past eight years as Mayor. Despite numerous challenges and obstacles, he pressed on with fervent discipline. The sleepless nights and daily grind of meetings have taken a toll on our life, but we have never regretted it. George has poured into this community, accepting nearly every invitation, responding to countless emails and phone calls, assisting our elderly, and his favorite, mentoring our young people. We are all here together to make this world better, so in all that we do, let’s think it through with peace, love, and kindness.
Now, we look forward to more loving life, riding bikes, playing golf and pickleball, taking dance lessons, and of course, making music from our soul. I love meeting and engaging with you in our community. So don’t be shy—please say hi and introduce yourself and expect a hug. . I hope to see you around this beautiful community we call home.
45TH Annual BASKETBALL CAMPS
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
NANCY LIEBERMAN AND T.J. CLINE BASKETBALL CAMPS TEACH LIFE-CHANGING LESSONS ALONG WITH THE GAME
Youths aged 5-17 years can secure unforgettable basketball experiences at the upcoming Nancy Lieberman and T.J. Cline Basketball Camps July 14-17 and July 28-31.
“Hoopers will develop their basketball skills while learning life-changing lessons, like leading a healthy lifestyle, making positive choices and building unshakable confidence,” shares Nancy, a two-time Basketball Hall of Famer and two-time Olympian, as she celebrates 45 incredible years of empowering young athletes, nationwide.
Nicknamed “Lady Magic,” as a nod to Earvin “Magic” Johnson of NBA fame, Nancy is regarded as one of the greatest figures in American women’s basketball. Starting with being a member of the USA team to the 1976 Olympics in Montreal in the first women’s Olympic basketball team competition, she, after turning 18, became the youngest basketball player in Olympic history to win a medal, when the U.S. team captured the silver.
Conducted along with Nancy’s son, professional player T.J. Cline, the camps will be held in Frisco at Fieldhouse USA, 6155 Sports Village Road. T.J. is currently a professional basketball player in both the BIG3 basketball league and overseas. He’s a member of the Israeli national basketball team.
“Camps go beyond the court with high-energy demonstrations, skill-building drills and inspiring
“WE’RE
DEDICATED TO transforming athletes BOTH ON AND OFF THE COURT. WHETHER YOUR hooper’s TAKING THEIR FIRST BASKETBALL STEPS, OR COMPETING AT advanced LEVELS, OUR PROGRAMS ELEVATE THEIR skills, confidence AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE GAME.”
“FROM SMALL GROUP SESSIONS TO private coaching OR ELITE TEAM OPPORTUNITIES, WE HELP every player DISCOVER THEIR POTENTIAL AND greatness .”
lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork and goal-setting,” adds Nancy.
Each camp session costs $275 for 30 hours of skills and drills.
“Campers work on improving their shooting, ball-handling, defense and basketball IQ in a fun and supportive environment. Whether they’re a beginner or a seasoned player, we welcome all athletes eager to learn and grow,” T.J. adds.
Nancy Lieberman Charities focuses on improving outcomes for underserved youth in the areas of education, mental health and wellness, as well as career/life preparedness.
Hannah Reynolds, NLC program coordinator, says, “Our array of programs, such as Dream Court, scholarships for education, basketball camps, partnerships with HBCUs, lectures on racial and social justice, mentorship programs and STEM/technology initiatives, collectively contribute to the
well-being, self-esteem and career achievements of the young girls and boys who we’re privileged to serve.”
Hannah states the group’s “Day at the Office” mentorship program offers 20 high school students each quarter the unique chances to be immersed in an office environment alongside Nancy, board members and key business leaders from hosting companies, during 1.5-hour mentorship and leadership sessions. She adds that the program’s core focus lies in fostering self-assurance, bolstering confidence and honing decision-making skills among the students. Each participant is equipped with an iPad and personal business cards.
972.473.2121 LiebermanElite.org
Nancy Lieberman // Photo provided by Nancy Lieberman Charities
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!
Veneers
Photos & Smiles by Dr. Jensen
DEDICATED To Refreshing House Exteriors, Replacing Roofs
TEXAS FOREVER GENERAL CONTRACTING HANDLES HAIL DAMAGE, OUTSIDE HOME REPAIRS
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
Protecting home improvement investments is essential for long-term structural integrity and property values. Identifying caring contractors to aid in that protection may be even more critical. Enter Texas Forever General Contracting, whose crews handle the spectrum of exterior repairs, including roofing, gutters, windows, exterior paint for siding repairs, new fence builds with staining and garage door replacements.
Owner and Texas native Ryan Gentry lives and breathes the name of his company, literally hanging his shingle, so to speak, on integrity, dependability and quality-driven results.
“For all residential projects, our goal is to complete the roof in one day,” Ryan explains. “We coordinate multiple crews when needed, and always go the extra mile to protect each property, laying tarps, covering windows and pools and adjusting for weather conditions,” Ryan explains.
He says attention to detail extends to fence and paint work, too. “If it’s too windy or wet to spray stain or paint, we wait. There’s no point in rushing a job if it’s going to compromise quality.”
Regarding hail damage, Ryan urges homeowners to prepare before storm season strikes. “Having a trusted roofer already vetted and ready to go takes the stress out of post-storm chaos,” he says.
Ryan says his team uses a proven method for evaluating damage, including signs such as gutter dents, shingle fractures and other damaged collateral. They also back up their assessments with detailed photos.
For insurance claims, Ryan says they’re happy to provide storm data and photos of roof damage for insurance reports. “We also guide homeowners toward the best decisions about if or when to file insurance claims,” he adds.
Ryan even applies his passion for Texas to his marketing mascots. Along with his fictional character, Roofus the armadillo, he incorporates a live, Texas Longhorn named Boogie, who exemplifies strength, Texas pioneering spirit, resilience and adaptability.
Ryan says Boogie is a remarkable, registered Longhorn steer that’s one of very few that can be ridden like a horse. “He’s very intelligent, gentle and loves to be rubbed and scratched. He
Ryan Gentry grew up in Memphis, Texas. He worked construction jobs during high school and college. Building on his marketing degree, he held various corporate roles, handling hail/wind consultations for insurance carriers. He was chief operations officer of a different roofing company before launching his own business during December 2023.
got the name Boogie because everything he does is S-L-O-W. Sometimes he just needs to boogie. His best friend is another Longhorn steer named Gus, who is one year older than Boogie.”
Boogie is available for ranch visits, corporate gatherings, educational events, grand openings, commercials and photos, Ryan shares, and he has scheduled him for local trunk-or-treats and select events so that local children can pet him and take pictures with them.
“We also just had Boogie at a PTA event for Curtsinger Elementary in Frisco,” he adds.
Boogie resides at Circle 25 Ranch, which is owned and operated by Ryan’s friends, Matt and Lauren Douglas, also fans of all-things Texas. In fact, the number ‘25’ in the ranch’s name comes from Matt’s Texas A&M football number on the back of his Aggie jersey. The ‘circle’ was named in honor of a little cafe in Matt’s hometown of White Oak named Circle W.
New to Texas Forever General Contracting services this year are patio coverings and pergolas.
“We monitor the track records of materials and recommend those items that last longer, so our customers get the best return on their investments. We recommend only Class 3 and Class 4 shingles rated to 130 mph for wind,” Ryan assures.
“If our customers move, my goal is to still keep them as customers. It’s all about trust and solid relationships.”
214.738.1640
Talley Dough, Onward Ho!
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
Gregorio, Mike Talley’s sourdough starter, helps him make delicious breads for others to enjoy. Under his business, Talley Dough, he admits he simply loves to bake bread.
The name Gregorio, of Spanish, Italian and Portuguese origin, means “watchful,” “alert,” or “cautious.” Mike, who holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and now works in hospital finance, says he had a college professor by that name and he always liked it.
“I started with baking cookies as a kid, then made normal yeast bread. One day, a friend and I were goofing around, watching videos of sourdough bread baking techniques. I then read books, and started my sourdough journey about eight years ago during 2017,” Mike says.
He reveals his first sourdough starter “croaked” after a couple years, but his current one turned five years this May after he started it from-scratch. At the point he started Gregorio was when he also applied for his license to start a home-based cottage bakery.
“Sourdough starters are like having a pet. You feed them, water them, clean up after them,” he says.
While Mike sometimes offers sourdough banana bread, baguettes, babka and cookies, his bread and butter (required pun) product is his sourdough loaves for $10 each. He mainly sells at Farmersville Market, which is the first Saturday of each month.
“I also take special orders for porch pickups, and am open to deliveries on a case-by-case basis,” he adds.
“More fan favorites are Cheddar jalapeño roasted garlic sourdough, as well as oatmeal or peanut butter sourdough cookies,” he says.
For anyone thinking about working with sourdough, Mike recommends committing to consistency. “You get to know your dough, its personality, and how it changes with the seasons, such as different hydrations and rising times.”
214.973.9725
Orders@talleydough.com
Mike Talley
Mike Talley, founder of Talley Dough, offers sourdough loves, sourdough banana bread, baguettes, babka and cookies.
Top left: Yucca Rostrata, Pin Cushion Flower Scabiosa Blackfoot Daisy, Rock Rose, Echinacea Coneflower Texas New Gold Lantana, Turks Cap, Russian Sage Autumn Sage, Texas Sage.
4-YEAR PROGRAM
MOMS AND SONS
YOUNG MEN’S SERVICE LEAGUE PROVIDES UNIQUE SERVICE, LEARNING, LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR HIGH SCHOOLERS
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
Mothers and sons serving communities together can result in profound bonds. One charitable group is filled with ideas for those diverse service options. Texas-founded during 2001, Young Men’s Service League is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit national organization. However, the local region now is blessed with multiple YMSL chapters.
Pam Rosener, founder and CEO/president of YMSL’s national board of directors, says the group represents more than
12,900 moms and 14,600 young men as part of 194 chapters across 22 states.
Members of YMSL are moms and their teenage sons, who volunteer together to serve their local communities during his four years of high school.
“YMSL offers moms service opportunities and time together with her son(s) to grow their relationship and to instill in him a heart of service to last a lifetime,” explains Pam.
In addition to service, as part of its four-year comprehensive program, Pam says YMSL teaches leadership and life skills to develop young men to become capable, confident and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.
YMSL philanthropic partners include 4,600 local and national organizations, such as Wreaths Across America, Cure Childhood Cancer, Ronald McDonald House, The Miracle League, Best Buddies,
Photo credit: YMSL
ACEing Autism, Reach Out & Read, Meals On Wheels America, The Backpack Coalition, Village Harvest, Trusted World, Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity and The Salvation Army.
The foundation of the YMSL program revolves around community service hours served together by our mothers and sons, Pam says. “Each year our members are required to serve at least 20 hours in support of chapter approved philanthropies in their area.”
In addition, a four-year, YMSL educational curriculum incorporates important life skills lessons in areas such as social skills (college planning, job interviewing,
“HIGH SCHOOL YEARS GO BY FAST, MAKE THE MOST OF THEM.”
public speaking); making good choices (money management, alcohol/drug prevention, nutrition); and practical skills (CPR, car maintenance, first aid.)
“Monthly meetings bring together grade-level young men to develop leadership skills and learn from outside expert speakers. The young men are in charge of running their meetings and take turns presenting to the group on various subjects,” explains Pam. “Moms hold separate meetings that cover topics specific for them. Both moms and young men are required to serve in a job or leadership position within YMSL. In the spring, every YMSL chapter hosts an awards banquet to recognize and
celebrate the achievements and growth of our young men and the impact of our organization in various communities.”
In 2010, YMSL launched an annual philanthropy event called the “Ultimate Gift” project for local chapters, with the goal for each chapter to find a way to give an “Ultimate Gift” back to their community. Some past YMSL Ultimate Gift projects have included the construction of playgrounds; makeover of apartments; painting of shelters/facilities; exterior painting of homes; and landscape cleanup etc.
Pam spotlights her inspiring book, co-authored with Jim Stovall: Giving The Ultimate Gift: Transforming Communities & Cultivating Compassion: A Look at the Young Men’s Service League. The book, released during March 2024, also supports mother-son relationships via letters crafted by young men from various corners of the country, inspired by the Ultimate Gift projects.
In essence, the cornerstone of this YMSL program is the opportunity for moms and sons to spend quality time together serving their community. Pam states, “During this time, sons learn about other’s needs, and they also learn about their own character and gain a new respect for the mother/son relationship. Our goal is to instill a heart of service, love of community and respect for all.”
LOCAL YMSL CHAPTERS: McKinney: YMSLMcKinney.org Prosper: YMSLProsper.org
United McKinney: YMSLUnited.org YMSL.org
Pam Rosener, Young Men’s Service League founder and CEO/president
Photo credit: YMSL
DIY At Home Theater
Our family had so much fun creating this At-Home Movie Theater party for our son Ezra’s 8th birthday. All you need is a projector and an outdoor space, but I wanted to jazz it up just a little bit more.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY LEANN PARKER
TICKET BOOTH
I created a ticket booth and concession stand for a full movie theater experience to ensure that our movie night felt like our guests were actually going to a movie theater and not just our house. In an attempt to achieve that, we set up a ticket booth at the front door using our kids’ old puppet theater.
Materials:
• Tickets
• Ticket Booth (optional)
Before entering our theater (aka our backyard), I set up a shadow box for guests to place their entry ticket.
PEGBOARD DISPLAY WALL
I love displaying food in a creative way at our parties. I made this simple DIY Popcorn Display Wall as a statement piece in our concession stand. We have also used it in many other ways for other parties such as a donut wall, bagel wall, pretzel wall and more. You can easily recreate your own for your next party.
Materials:
• Pegboard. I chose the 4ft square size at Lowe’s for $10 and spray-painted it white.
• Frame (optional). I bought two 1x4’s for $5 each, cut two pieces 4ft long and two pieces 3.5ft long, stained Minwax walnut, attached to pegboard with screws through the back.
• Twine to string popcorn bags. Or, if you’re using the pegboard display for donuts, bagels or pretzels then use golf tees hot-glued into holes from behind!
• Clothespins to hang popcorn bags.
• Popcorn bags
CONCESSION STAND
My daughter handed out tickets for guests to use to “purchase” their popcorn, candy and drinks at the concession stand.
Materials:
• Popcorn Machine (optional)
• Popcorn
• Popcorn flavors for guests to get creative!
• Candy - Use boxes rather than bags for movie theater vibes!
• Soda - Use bottles rather than cans
• Napkins
• Cupcake toppers & plates (if it’s a birthday celebration)
• Reused boxes and spray-painted them white for guests to easily carry their snacks
SET THE SCENE!
FINISHING TOUCHES
I cut out red stars (from foam sheets) and stuck them to the floor (with adhesive putty) to lead guests through the house to the concession stand and back outside to where our movie was going to take place. Finally, our guests could choose their seating on chairs or blankets around our yard. I also set up a little bug-spray table for people to grab as needed. Dramatic play, even as an adult, is so much fun! Who says staying home can’t be just as entertaining?
I hope you have as much fun at your party as we did! I’d love if you tagged me @silvertoothfarmhome so I can see your At-Home Movie Theater too!! In reflecting on the party, my son said that “the best part of the night was eating candy with my friends.” After all, people are what matter most!
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USING THESE TIPS YOU CAN MAKE A DELICIOUS HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE.
A good barbecue sauce is comprised of a variety of the same six components. The key is to discover what style you enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Oh, and taste often during the preparation process to adjust if so desired.
SOMETHING SWEET
This can be honey, cola, molasses, preserves, brown sugar, or syrup. This caramelizes as you cook, bringing those smoky, sugary flavors.
SOMETHING TANGY
Think vinegar, mustard, or citrus. This is what brings the zing to your sauce.
SOMETHING SPICY
This provides your heat: a hot sauce is a great choice. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 teaspoon for every cup of sauce you’re making.
SOMETHING LIQUID
It can be beer, water, chicken stock, soda, or wine. Start with about 1/2 a cup and see what happens.
SOMETHING TOMATO
You’ll most likely use ketchup, but you can also use tomato paste.
THE SPICE COMBINATION
This can depend on your liking and taste and can include anything from onion powder to garlic powder to chili powder to allspice to cayenne pepper to mustard powder to liquid smoke to cumin to Worcestershire sauce and more. Start with a teaspoon of salt, and keep tasting as you experiment with your desired spices.
HOMEMADE
BBQ SAUCE
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups ketchup
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 5 tablespoons brown sugar
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
DIRECTIONS
In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1 hour 15 minutes.
Recipe and information courtesy of Pat Neely and Gina Neely.
“SLM,
“We
- Raj Narayanan
SUMMER GRILL
RECIPES
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
THESE DELICIOUS RECIPES ARE LIGHT, BRIGHT AND FEEL LIKE SUMMER
The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t disappoint. These pair well together or can stand on their own!
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place skirt steak into gallon freezer bag
2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl and mix. Pour over steak and marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
3. Bring skirt steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for one hour.
4. Get your grill hot on one side and medium on the other.
5. Once the grill is ready, wipe excess marinade off steak. Starting on the hot side, place skirt steak on grill for 2 minutes per side, attaining a nice sear.
6. Transfer steak to the cooler side of grill and cook until the internal temp is 130°. Let rest for 10 minutes (temp will rise while resting).
7. Carve and serve. This dish pairs well with beans and rice or served as tacos. Following is a chimichurri sauce that compliments it nicely.
*Outside skirt steak is a more tender cut than inside skirt steak, for this recipe outside skirt is recommended. Do not use too much lime as the citrus can cook the meat before putting it on the grill, resulting in a tougher texture.
SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK
INGREDIENTS:
• 2lbs. Outside skirt steak*
• 2 Tablespoons lime*
• 2 Tablespoons finely,
chopped cilantro
• ¼ Cup olive oil or avocado oil
• ¼ White onion, finely chopped
• 1 Tablespoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
CHIMICHURRI
INGREDIENTS:
• ½ Cup parsley, finely chopped
• ½ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 Cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Red chili (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ½ Teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. You can make this in the late morning and let it sit for around 4-6 hours, or you can make it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to take it out and get it to room temp before you serve it, as olive oil hardens in the fridge. Serve over skirt steak or tacos.
ROASTED CORN SALSA
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 Ears sweet corn
• 10oz. Cherry tomatoes
• ¼ Cup lime juice
• 1 Finely chopped jalapeno or serrano (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ¼ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ Cup white onion, chopped
• 2 Cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Grill corn, you do not need to soak the corn beforehand.
2. Place corn on the grill (inside their husks) over medium heat turning every few minutes.
3. After 10 to 12 minutes shuck the corn and put the cobs back on the grill for 2-4 minutes rotating frequently to achieve that charred look and flavor.
4. Cut the corn from the cob, place in bowl and add all other ingredients. Let the mixture meld for about an hour and serve with tortilla chips or as a taco garnish.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 5TH, 12TH, 19TH, 26TH
Active Adult 55-Plus
The 407 Rec Center | 12:00 PM
Join others to play Canasta for an hour in Prosper. Canasta is a Rummy-family card game, typically played by four players in two partnerships, where the goal is to form melds (sets of three or more cards of same rank) and score points, ultimately aiming to reach a target score or “going out.” Email: programs@prospertx.gov or call 972.569.1160 with questions.
JUNE 6TH
Fleetwood X Concert: A Tribute To Fleetwood Mac
HUB 121 | 8:00 PM
Bring chairs and blankets for a free outdoor concert by Fleetwood X. Listen to great music and enjoy food and drinks from on-site restaurants. There will also be a concession stand next to the stage. Note: no outside food or drinks allowed. There's surface parking as well as parking available in the two-story garage.
JUNE 7TH
Sweet Treats And Big Hearts
Braum's Ice Cream & Dairy Store | 2:00 PM
Join a fun day of ice cream, good vibes and giving back to the community. Donations being collected for children assisted by the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County to find safety, support and healing. Items needed: gently used stuffed animals, blankets, books, clothing, art supplies and toys to provide comfort to these children during their journey.
JUNE 7TH
Guided Trails At The Heard
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary / 9:30 AM
Experience the ecology geology flora and fauna of the Heard Sanctuary. Led by trained guides, groups will spend 45-60 minutes hiking this unique landscape. Adult tickets are $15 each; children tickets are $11 each; Heard members get 50% off ticket prices. Find more details online at HeardMuseum.org/other-programs/#trail
JUNE 7TH-8TH
Wellness & Harmony Festival
McKinney Cotton Mill | 11:00 AM
Join a weekend filled with relaxation, rejuvenation and positive vibes to promote wellness and harmony through various yoga sessions, meditation practices and holistic workshops with 80-plus sessions through the weekend. Entry is free. Immerse into a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by like-minded individuals looking to find balance and inner peace, whether a seasoned yogi or just starting your wellness journey.
JUNE 14TH
Juneteenth Celebration
Finch Park | 4:00 PM
City of McKinney officials have hosted the annual Juneteenth event for four years. Every year, this event continues to grow with the support of a committee of key leaders and organizations within the community, so residents can enjoy cultural experiences, learning and fun for all ages. Questions? Call 972-547-7480 or email contact-PARDspecialevents@mckinneytexas.org.
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