McKinney & Prosper, TX June 2023

The Why

Choosing a realtor seems like an easy process, but not all realtors are created equal. It starts with THE WHY, which encompasses not just the agent, but the brokerage. Linda Baker embodies THE WHY. With extensive experience, tenacity, and an unprecedented skill level, along with brand recognition, strategic marketing advantage, and unrivaled online exposure with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, your experience will get you what you need: RESULTS.

“She is the best agent on the planet! Unbelievable guidance and consultation throughout the entire process.” - Paul R

Ever Wondered, “How Much Do Fathers Matter?"

Let’s start with the simple answer — the importance of a father is tremendous. Fathers make countless differences in their home and family. However, how much impact you decide to make as a dad is entirely up to you. A father’s gifts of quality time, life-giving words, and positive actions have a long-lasting impact on his children.

As I reflect on fatherhood this month, here are just a few of the ways dads can build up their home:

• A father’s strength can be powerful.

• A dad’s words can be fueling and inspirational.

• Hugs from a dad can be deeply comforting.

• A dad’s smiles can instill joy and confidence.

• Time with a dad can be fun and productive.

• A dad’s physicality can be challenging.

• A dad’s guidance can be life-changing and foundational.

• A father’s correction can be life-saving and life-giving.

• Adventures with a dad can be exciting and memorable.

Let your father, or a father figure in your life, know how much he matters to you. And if you're a dad, let us be the first to say, thank you. You're invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community around you.

Happy Father’s Day!

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Sharon Duffy Thomas sharon.duffy@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

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, Dave Muscari

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bruce Quernemoen, Natalie Diaz, Catherin Chong

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

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Where neighbors can see and be seen.

people through volunteerism and supporting Collin

be a resource for nonprofits wanting to improve volunteer management.

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1: Volunteer McKinney Spirit of Volunteerism Awards. 2: Volunteer McKinney connects

County nonprofits through education and collaboration. 3: A beautiful evening celebrating volunteers at the Spirit of Volunteerism Awards. 4: Volunteer McKinney provides a way for nonprofits share opportunities and needs they have for volunteers. 5: Volunteer McKinney started 25 years ago with the goal of helping local nonprofits recruit volunteers. 6: Volunteers are the lifeblood of many nonprofits. 7: Volunteer McKinney also sought to

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Texas Youth Ballet

Texas Youth Ballet is dedicated to providing an immersive, authentic environment for the study of the art of classical ballet at 901 N. McDonald St., Suite 705, McKinney.

TYB gives dancers the opportunity to grow and learn in a unique, supportive environment. Daily classes emphasize fundamentals of technique, strength and versatility. Their instructors share not only their skills and knowledge, but their willingness to work with each dancer on strengthening their unique skill set.  TexasYouthBallet.org

Jump Into Art Studios

Original, creative and engaging art classes for everyone. Jump Into Art Studios representatives say they love being creative and make things by hand. They offer several types of classes and workshops at their historic home-turned art studio. Jump Into Art Studios staffers promise there's something for everyone at their studio, located at 404 N Church St., McKinney. Contact them at jumpintoartstudios@gmail.com, 214.937.9153 or JumpIntoArt.com .

Woodruff Windows

Woodruff Windows exists solely to help homeowners transform their homes; making them more comfortable, save money on energy costs, drastically extend the lifespan of the HVAC system, increase property value, and heighten curb appeal. They specialize in replacing current original windows with high-quality energy efficient windows. Their company leaders indicate the benefits are many, the investment is fair, and the peace of mind is priceless. Visit  WoodruffWindows.com for more details regarding services.

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TexasAllergyMD

Texas AllergyMD in McKinney is known as a leading allergy, asthma, eczema and food allergy practice that helps children and adults of all ages by diagnosing causes of allergies and providing high-quality, innovative treatments that provide allergy relief. Allergy specialist Nana Mireku MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, has 10-plus years of experience in allergy medicine. At Texas AllergyMD, she offers preventative, personalized care for allergic conditions at 1400 N. Coit Road, #405. Call 888.773.0186 or visit TexasAllergyMD.com

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

Meet The Mayor

Prosper Mayor David Bristol Finds Joy In Serving The People Of Prosper

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS

From flying fighter jets across Europe and the Middle East to co-founding a billion-dollar company, Mayor David Bristol is a well-educated business professional with in-depth government knowledge. He is also downto-earth and invested in Prosper and its residents.

Elected in 2022, Mayor Bristol says he felt it was a calling to run for mayor of the city he loved after former Mayor Ray Smith was term-limited on his third term.

“The US government invested a lot in my education and training, and I felt that I had no other choice but to step up and serve,” exclaims Mayor Bristol. “I wanted to make a positive difference for the future of our community.”

He met his wife, Mendy, in Wichita Falls in 1987 when he was going through pilot training and Mendy was a college student at Midwestern State University. David graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the United States Air Force Academy, and Mendy attended Midwestern State University until they moved to England for six years.

An active-duty fighter pilot from 1988 to 1997, Mayor Bristol flew F-111Fs and F-15Es throughout Europe and the Middle East. After leaving active duty, he was a reserve instructor for 10 years and retired in 2007. He is a combat veteran and has been awarded the

Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, as well as numerous Air Medals. In 2017, he was awarded the Congressional Veterans Commendation (CVC) by Congressman Sam Johnson, and in 2019 served on Congressman Van Taylor’s CVC Board.

In addition to serving his country, Mayor Bristol and Mendy co-founded Employee Solutions in 1997, a regional staffing company with more than $1 billion in sales and creating 3,000-plus jobs, before selling it earlier this year. They also co-founded several other small businesses, which they still operate today.

Mayor Bristol and his family have lived in Prosper since 2001. He says he watched Prosper go from a small town of 2,500 residents to more than 36,000 today.

“I recall standing on the corner of Preston Road and Broadway Street, with then-Mayor Charles Niswanger, back when Prosper got its first blinking light. Today at the intersection of Coit Road and Prosper Trail, there are six traffic lanes where there used to not even be a stop sign.”

Over the past 22 years, the mayor has been dedicated to the town. He served as Town Councilman from 20042008, was a member of the Prosper EDC since 2016, and was President of the EDC from 2021 to 2022. He also serves as the current chairman of the North Central Texas Workforce Board. He also served Sen. Cruz as a member of his Military Academy Selection Committee for seven years.

“We have watched Prosper grow over the past 22 years since we moved here and the thing that holds the community together is the sense of belonging to something bigger and better than themselves,” says Mayor Bristol.

Mendy enjoys volunteering with the Prosper Ladies Association. She and Mayor Bristol are active members of Prestonwood Baptist Church North, where they previously mentored youth and chaperoned choir mission trips. When not serving the community, the couple enjoys spending time with their three grandchildren.

Mayor Bristol and Mendy say it’s the people, Prosper School District, churches and nonprofits that make Prosper so amazing. Mendy says the desire that people in Prosper have to take care of their neighbors is special.

“I love the small-town feel that still exists today. Everyone is your neighbor no matter how far across Prosper they live,” states Mendy. “There is a small-town homey feel here. Everyone looks after each other.”

All three of the Bristol children graduated from Prosper High School. The mayor recalls watching his son play in the 2008 state championship football game and his daughter as a cheerleader on the sidelines, while seemingly the entire town of Prosper showed up in Arlington to watch the game.

“It warmed my heart to see so many people and that feeling continues today,” he says.

Mayor Bristol says he strives to preserve the smalltown feel of Prosper while embracing the future and rapid growth. He believes community involvement drives the town’s small-town, family feel. He says the Town Council and staff are committed to hosting events that strengthen the sense of community. These events include the Mayors Fitness Challenge, a Cinco De Mayo celebration, and the annual July 4th and Christmas celebrations. A new event in the last year was the Veterans Day 5K run.

Community leaders and Mayor Bristol are working together to help Prosper be a wonderful place to live, raise a family and work. They, along with local business representatives, focus on Proper’s success through what they consider five centers of excellence based on the principles of stable tax rates, increasing property values for all residents, and municipal excellence in all things, especially public safety. Those handful of centers of excellence are:

1. Technology to establish Prosper as a digital city, a connected community that combines broadband communications infrastructure with innovative services to meet the needs of citizens, businesses and their government.

2. Health Care and having a strong focus on attracting premier health care providers to the area, establishing Prosper as a health care hub, particularly a pediatric health care hub, partnering with all of the world-class facilities now locating in Prosper.

3. Partnering with Prosper Independent School District to strengthen Education and help to build out complementary facilities and training programs.

4. and 5. The last two centers of excellence are Community and Wellness to make improvements to the quality of life for Prosper residents, with an emphasis on building community and supporting the health and wellness of all.

“I have a passion to see our community grow and Prosper!”

- Prosper Mayor David Bristol

We value the specific needs of each individual client. Our commitment to provide a superior level of service and attention to detail will be evident as we partner with you through every step of the process.

Husband

Father Of One Girl

Lover Of Cars And Airplanes

Singer In A Choir Tap Dancer Living In Prosper, TX

YOUR SMILE

is our specialty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smiles and Photo by Dr. Jensen

Dr. Doug Jensen, DDS, MS

Board-Certified Orthodontist, Prosthodontist

CRAFTED CULINARY EXPERIENCE

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE DIAZ

CT Provisions Cocktail Parlor & Kitchen Adds New Chef, Live Music, Revamped Handcrafted Menu, Delivery Options

Something new is cooking at CT Provisions in McKinney. Acclaimed Chef Noah Hester has taken the reins as the restaurant’s culinary inspiration and partner. Chef Noah recently was named one of the country’s top culinary talents for the second time by “Best Chefs America.” This prestigious honor recognizes the most brilliant cooks in the country.

“McKinney is lucky to have a chef at his level,” states Steven Terry, CT Provisions owner and general manager. “Chef Noah is fantastic. His creations take us to a new level.”

Noah was born in Austin before moving to Hawaii. Growing up on the Kohala Coast, he says he discovered his love for Pacific Rim flavors at a young age. He was influenced by Alan Wong, one of Hawaii’s first chefs to specialize in Hawaii's Regional Cuisine. He spent his early years working in Big Island restaurants before moving to Nashville to reconnect with his Southern roots. Once stateside, he blended his love of Southern hospitality with the aloha spirit.

Noah is also the brand manager for Bradshaw Bourbon, and creates his own collection of hot sauces.

This chef adds fun and flair to CT Provisions redesigned food menu. New menu items include rabbit cassoulet and Texas quail. His unique menu features locally sourced ingredients and food offerings.

Steven states “under Chef Noah, product perfection and execution are superb. Customers witness great presentation and flair in every dish.”

Steven also is delving into the live music scene at CT Provisions, with a focus on original artists. “We have started booking live music including jazz nights and nationally known singer-songwriters. The addition of live music is a perfect addition to a prohibition style restaurant and cocktail parlor.”

The CT Provisions team also brought on a new web platform called Popmenu. This platform enables CT Provisions to offer delivery and pickup exclusively through their website. This allows them to have direct control over the handling of their products to ensure the same high-quality a customer experiences in-house. This includes a full dinner, cocktail and wine menu.

The restaurant still features an incredible handcrafted cocktail program. From an extensive whisky menu to fine wines and carefully crafted drinks that complement each dish, customers indicate the menu behind the bar is remarkable.

Steven says CT Provisions strives to be just a little different from other restaurants. It has paid off. The restaurant recently won Best Seafood Restaurant and Best Steak Restaurant in the 2022 Star Local Media Readers’ Choice Best of McKinney contest. Timeless. Tasty. Enjoy.

469.631.0707

CTProvisions.com

Chef Noah Hester

CT Provisions Cocktail Parlor & Kitchen highlights an Aperitif and Oyster hour Tuesdays through Fridays from 2-5 p.m., and 1-5 p.m. on Saturdays. Dinner is served Tuesdays through Fridays from 2-10 p.m., and Saturdays 5-10 p.m. Sunday brunch is served from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Reservations are recommended and can be made through the restaurant’s website or via telephone. Customers can join CT Provisions Cocktail Parlor & Kitchen VIP program online to receive updates on exclusive events, secret menus, loyalty rewards, special offers and discounts.

CT Provisions also is available for private events.

The restaurant’s menu is inspired by the idea of simple and honest cooking, using fresh and sustainable ingredients. Its team came about by assembling individuals from all different backgrounds who were tied together by the love for food, people, hospitality, community and rooted in the history and art of classic concoctions.

3 4 5 6 7

Training is important no matter how long you’ve been a shooter. If you are new to the sport of shooting, learning proper grip, foot positioning, and how to properly lean into the shot are critical for your success. If you have been shooting for years you need to practice to avoid falling into any bad habits, you can pick up over time. Classes are now available at The Range in McKinney. Call or stop by to sign up. Our classes range from beginner to advanced including private lessons, women only classes, LTC , Constitutional Carry and more. We have male and female instructors who are certi ed with the USCCA and/or the NRA and have spent years training. Our goal is for you to become an accurate shooter and to shoot safely.

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“A GREAT PLACE TO GET YOUR LTC”

The Range in McKinney is designed with eighteen twenty- ve yard climate-controlled lanes, classrooms and the rst ever immersive 300 degree video simulator available to civilians in Texas or the surrounding states. Choose from real-life police and military scenarios, shooting long distance, and competing in timed and scored competitions.

Active and retired military, veterans, and rst responders receive a 20% discount on memberships, lane fees and classes. If you are looking to plan a completely unique personal or corporate event, give us a call. We are open to the public. Come over and checkout The Range in McKinney – and see what all the fuss is about. See you at The Range!

Power With The Sun

SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION FROM DFW ROOFING PRO IS 'CLEAN, RENEWABLE, COST-EFFECTIVE'

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

Now that temperatures are rising, so are most residents’ electric bills. Summer heat typically also prompts a boom in interest in solar-powered electricity.

Installing solar panels in home roofs with the DFW Roofing Pro team begins with a consultation to determine the feasibility and cost of a solar installation. Company owner Blake Luby says they consider a variety of factors, such as one’s energy usage, the size and orientation of roofs, number of rooms being covered and any local incentives or rebates that may be available. “Based on this information, we provide a detailed proposal and cost estimate for the installation,” he says.

While there are hundreds of roofing contractors in the Frisco/McKinney/Prosper/ Dallas-Fort Worth region, it’s the “Pro” designation in the DFW Roofing Pro name that sets them apart, asserts Blake. They offer professional roofing services to both

residential and commercial customers, including complimentary roof inspections.

In addition to all-things-roofing, DFW Roofing Pro services include gutter repair and installation; garage door repair and installation; drywall repair; painting (exterior, interior, garage doors, fences and decks); and siding repair and installation.

During the solar panel installation process, Blake says the team takes great care to protect existing roofs and ensures that the solar panels are installed properly and to code. “We use only high-quality solar panels and components to ensure that systems are reliable and efficient. Once the installation is complete, we provide customers with thorough instructions on how to use and maintain their solar panels.”

James Albergo, DFW Roofing Pro solar director, confirms that summer months in Texas usually start the chant among homeowners of ‘kill the bill,’ meaning $200 per month electricity bills on average. “Electric bills are like always having an unfixed

financial loan. When, with solar, there’s no down payment, and it’s appealing to homeowners to know they can almost immediately break-even, or at least quickly start saving money normally spent for electricity,” he says.

Two other benefits from solar, James says, are that it’s a way to hedge against inflation while also increasing one’s property value through securing an eco-friendly home. Plus, he reminds us, homeowners can get a 30 percent tax credit for transitioning to solar power.

Homeowners can expect to pay $15,000 to $100,000 for a solar conversion project, depending on a whole range of factors. “Not everyone’s house is a perfect candidate for solar, but we’re happy to conduct a free energy assessment to know for sure,” James says, indicating that military veterans receive a discount on such projects.

One interesting trend is that James says Texas is either the first- or second-fastest growing state in solar energy CONTINUED >

installations, running neck to neck with California installations, depending on which statistics are reviewed from ranking sources such as EcoWatch.

Anyone who is concerned about the electricity grid going down can have a battery backup component installed as part of their overall solar system, even at a future point after the initial installation, James verifies.

“We usually can outfit homeowners with a solar system within 45 to 60 days. And we can take care of paperwork or assist with approvals for homeowners associations, if customers would like us to,” James says.

As a family-owned roofing company, Blake says they keep the project lines of communication open with their customers, whether dealing with a storm damage insurance claim, simply replacing roofs or handling siding, painting and fencing services.

He adds that DFW Roofing Pro is a licensed electrical contractor within Texas, which means they are fully qualified and certified to handle all solar needs.

972.979.1070

DFWRoofingPro.com

“We understand transitioning to solar energy can be a big decision, and we’re here to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.”

Founded By Navy SEAL/Dallas Native Stephen Holley, Carry The Load Restores True Meaning Of Memorial Day

NATIONAL MOVEMENT TO HONOR FALLEN HEROES

ARTICLE BY DAVE MUSCARI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARRY THE LOAD

How did you spend Memorial Day? Was it at a family barbecue, checking out sales at the mall, or spending a leisurely day in a pool?

Ask veteran Navy SEAL and Dallas native Stephen Holley, and he’ll tell you he spent it loaded down with a backpack, walking for hours, and cheering others on to do the same while fundraising in the name of fallen heroes at an event known as Carry The Load.

Holley and Clint Bruce, another veteran Navy SEAL, founded Carry The Load in 2011 with a straightforward mission: restore the true meaning of Memorial Day.

Back then, Carry The Load was a one-day march at White Rock Lake that lasted 20 hours and 11 minutes, included a couple hundred participants, and supported various veteran groups in the area. Now, it's a national movement that reaches throughout the United States.

The annual Dallas Memorial March now happens on Reverchon Park and part of the Katy Trail. Veterans, first responders, and everyday Americans march, pitch in, and lend support along the way. And longtime executive director Debbie Wright says moving to the Katy Trail was critical.

“Instead of circling the lake,” she says of the previous route, “the activity of walking down and back on the Katy Trail, passing people and sharing stories along the way is what it’s all about.”

In 2022, Carry The Load raised $2.25 million in peer-to-peer fundraising while covering 20,000 miles and 96 rallies in 48 states. Since 2011, Carry The Load has raised more than $38 million.

The money raised peer-to-peer during May goes directly to a number of groups who support military veterans, as well as fire, rescue, and police personnel, and their families, in times of need.

But none of this happens without caring volunteers. “Since the beginning, there's been a growing number of local people who have been involved for more than 10 years, many of whom live in the Park Cities,” Stephen says, gratefully.

Some of the groups receiving funds in 2023 include Adaptative Training Foundation, Assist the Officer and Heroes on the Water.

Stephen has hundreds of stories that illustrate the lifeblood of the effort. One year, unexpectedly walking through Memphis, a mom showed

up with her son whose dad had died in military, he recalls.

“We kept walking with them and came upon a construction site,” Stephen says. “Clearly puzzled by what he saw, a random construction worker leaned out and asked, ‘What the heck are you guys doing?’ When they shared their emotional story, the big burly construction worker started to weep. That's the magic of the relay: complete strangers who have no relationship with each other, making an important emotional connection. That’s what we’re all about.”

After all the years, and miles, what continues to motivate Stephen? “The impact Carry The Load has made on countless Gold Star families,” he answers. “It also offers those who didn’t serve a way to show their support.”

The movement continues to gain in popularity, and participation, while providing shrewd new innovations and enhancements along the way. Carry The Flag, an educational program designed to inspire patriotism among youth, was added in 2017. Then two years ago, the "Lessons From The Front" podcast began. So far, they’ve produced 70 episodes.

“It’s like being on the relay where we hear meaningful stories valuable to the listener and healing for the guest sharing their story,” says Todd Boeding, the show’s host and a veteran Marine and Carry The Load board member.

Debbie says Carry The Load plans to go deeper in markets already established in North Texas and across America. And where does Stephen see Carry The Load in 10 or 20 years from now?

“Our fondest hope,” he replies, “is that all of America is honoring Memorial Day.”

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Realty Photography Made Simple

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS

STONEBRIDGE VIDEOGRAPHY PROVIDES HIGH-QUALITY VIDEO, PHOTOGRAPHY FOR REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESSES

When buyers start their home search online, high-quality photos are what often get their attention. A good photographer is important when listing a home or commercial property for sale. Stonebridge Videography is an award-winning company located in McKinney, offering a wide range of video and photography production services, residential and commercial real estate, 3D virtual tours, and aerial video and photography.

For more than 30 years, Bruce Quernemoen was an executive in corporate America, however, he says he always had a passion for videography and photography. In 2010, he turned that passion into a business when he and his wife, Lynn, started Stonebridge Videography. At that time, he primarily focused on wedding videography. In 2015, after retirement, Bruce turned his focus to business and real estate videography and photography, with twothirds of his business being corporate and events and the remaining being real estate. Then COVID-19 happened.

“When COVID hit, all my corporate business went dead almost overnight,” states Bruce. “It was then I decided to pursue real estate full-time.”

Bruce says it all started with a phone call from a title company asking him to partner in hosting Zoom webinars for real estate agents, helping them understand how to host virtual open houses. From April 2020 to May 2020, they hosted 12 webinars for 300-plus real estate agents, and his client base exploded.

“I love it. Real estate is my passion,” exclaims Bruce. “I love helping people sell and buy properties.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRUCE QUERNEMOEN

Bruce in Action

Bruce offers a variety of residential real estate services. Listing video and photos includes an aerial and walkthrough video with high-resolution wide-angle pictures. A lifestyle video shows real-life people living in key features of the house, such as the kitchen, living area, game room, and outdoor pool and patio areas. Agent bio videos are 90 seconds highlighting an agent’s unique services and expertise.

For commercial real estate, Bruce offers aerial and walk-through videos and high-resolution wide-angle pictures. Commercial real estate projects include office buildings for sale or lease, large timber ranches, equestrian training facilities and deer hunting facilities.

Virtual tour videos are a casual way to walk a buyer through a property, entering literally every room. 3D tours and floorplans are a popular, interactive way for buyers to virtually tour listings. These tours are an easy way to make listings stand out. Bruce produces real estate 3D virtual tours and floor plans using a software application by Zillow and a Ricoh Theta Z1 360 Degree Spherical Camera.

Stonebridge Videography is FAAcompliant with the use of a DJI drone. Aerial photos and video give real estate listings an elevated perspective. These stunning aerial views showcase the curb appeal that listings need in a demanding market. Bruce uses a drone on every job.

When a Realtor gets a listing, and they contact Bruce for photos and videos, he'll then spend one to three hours on-site getting photos, walk-through videos, and aerial photos and videos. In a typical week, Bruce will do eight to 12 jobs throughout the DFW area.

Bruce prides himself on his fast turnaround time. He provides Realtors with edited photos within 24 hours, and videos, tours and floorplans within two days. He says he takes a professional approach to each assignment. "Before every job, I send out a checklist so that when at the property the agent and owner know what to expect."

Bruce uses bracketing in his photography, so each image is taken at

different exposures, with editing to create HDR imaging, giving every photo the look of a magazine picture.

“Stonebridge Videography is a one-stop-shop for anything a Realtor would need to list a property,” says Bruce. “Not every photographer can say that.”

StonebridgeVideography.com

“Attention to detail, superior photos and video, and thoughtful customer service are the cornerstones of my business.”

All Aboard For Father's Day

TrainTopia Immerses Visitors Into Miniature World Of Railways, US Scenery

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY

TRAINTOPIA AND MUSEUM OF AMERICAN RAILROAD

Trains truly transcend all ages. Want to take grandfathers, fathers, stepfathers, uncles, pet dads and other father-figures on a quick, multistate trip for Father's Day? TrainTopia in Frisco provides visitors with a tour of the American Southwest, via a 2,500-squarefeet layout that showcases destinations from Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Texas, all at 1:24 scale/“G” Gauge model.

This year, TrainTopia staffers indicate they are offering $2 off the walk-up admission price to dads on Father's Day, June 18, between 1-5 p.m. Ticket prices are $10 each for adults, aged 13 years and older; and $5 each for children, ages 3 to 12 years old. (The Father's Day discount is not valid for online sales.)

TrainTopia reflects one man’s lifetime travel experiences and love of trains: the late Stephen Sanders. Steve invested more than $1 million (estimated value) and 20,000 man-hours into creating this extraordinary, one-of-a-kind tour of the American Southwest, woven together by seven operating rail lines. The exhibit is a gift of Steve's wife, Jane Sanders, and her daughters, and was made possible by Amanda and Brint Ryan, of Dallas.

Jane says her husband had been fascinated by trains ever since he boarded one as a boy at Dallas' Union Station to travel to camp in Colorado. His personal train collection began when the couple ran a hobby shop. It eventually grew to include more than 200 locomotives and cars made by Lehmann Gross Bahn of Germany.

TrainTopia is located at the Museum of the American Railroad. Founded in 1962, this nonprofit Texas corporation is dedicated to celebrating the heritage and exploring the future of railroads through historic preservation, research and educational programming. The museum collects artifacts and archival material from

the railroad industry to exhibit and interpret their significance in American life and culture.

Kellie Murphy, the museum's COO, says the layout features scenic highlights and miniature populated areas, soaring through the Rocky Mountains, logging camps and once-popular tourist destinations. Also included are scenic oil fields of West Texas, the spectacular Palo Duro Canyon with its dramatic hues and colors, and the famous Palo Duro Drive-In with its operating movie screen and 1950s cars. This visual journey concludes in a 1960s downtown Dallas, complete with an animated Main Street, spotlighting a bustling union station.

"The layout also includes a horse ranch and replica of the Hotel Settles in Big Spring, Texas.  TrainTopia’s lighting show transitions from sunrise to sunset several times during a visit, which brings new elements of the layout to life," she adds.

She says they also host field trips for local students.

Proceeds from TrainTopia benefit the museum, Kellie says, with the exhibit's air-conditioned space provided by the City of Frisco's Community Development Corporation.

TrainTopia is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1-5 p.m.

Outside the museum, guided walking tours can be scheduled at select times, says Bob LaPrelle,  the museum's executive director/CEO since 1988. He's a 30-year veteran in the field of historic railway preservation and museums.

Bob is president of the HeritageRail Alliance, and chairs the Museums Advocacy and Recommended Practices Committees, making annual trips to Washington, D.C. He also serves on the board of the London-based World Association of Tourist Trams & Trains (WATTRAIN).

“Highlights include scavenger hunts for mini hidden 'treasures' on the layout, and a spectacular light show that transitions from sunrise to sunset several times during visits.”

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Interested in joining the museum’s volunteer team? Then email John Garbutt, director of programs and services at jgarbutt@historictrains.org.

John says all museum supporters are proud to be stewards of one of the premier railroad collections in the United States.

"The evolution from State Fair exhibit to world class repository of rolling stock, buildings and ephemera was made possible in large part by a devoted fellowship of

volunteers," he adds. "These individuals possessed the vision and determination to ensure the survival of these monumental and irreplaceable treasures. Our volunteers are an active part of the museum and we depend on their services to help us educate and reach out to all generations."

Volunteer services include being a docent, helping during special events and giving tours. John says museum volunteers range from model railroading fans to retired railroad workers and everything in-between.

LEARN MORE: TrainTopia is a year-round, indoor destination presented by Frisco-based Museum of the American Railroad at 8004 N. Dallas Parkway. It’s a permanent exhibit at the Frisco Discovery Center, which also is home to Black Box Theater, Frisco Art Gallery, Sci-Tech Discovery Center and National Videogame Museum.

“The TrainTopia setup is nearly identical to the way it was displayed by the Sanders family in their home until the entire set was donated to the museum.”

DONATIONS

Three different financial levels to support the museum are available:

1. Frisco Firefly: $45 annually; up to four complimentary scheduled walking tour admissions per visit to the museum.

2. Royal Limited: $70 annually; one complimentary copy of the book Images of Modern America: Museum of the American Railroad , plus up to four complimentary scheduled walking tour admissions per visit to the museum.

3. Santa Fe de Luxe: $100 annually; one year subscription to Classic Trains magazine, plus up to four complimentary scheduled walking tour admissions per visit to the museum.

Additionally, the museum participates in the Kroger Community Rewards Program through Kroger matches a portion of eligible grocery purchases with a quarterly check to the museum. Simply enroll for Kroger Plus Shopper’s Card and create an online account at Kroger.com . Within one's personal account, enroll under the Community tab on the left side of the screen and find Organization Name: MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN RAILROAD with Organization Number KD519

HistoricTrains.org

Sugaring is a safer way of hair removal for all skin types and the benefits will leave your skin thanking you for your gentle kindness.

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

JUNE 2ND - 3RD

27th Annual Texas Music Revolution

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

MCKINNEY | 3:00 PM

More than 75 bands on 15 stages will perform, including: FRIDAY: Charlie Robison, Kevin Fowler, Chris Knight, John Baumann and more. SATURDAY: Shane Smith & the Saints, Adam Hood, Micky & the Motorcars.

JUNE 3RD - 4TH

Outdoor Mural Fest

MCKINNEY COTTON MILL |

10:00 AM

MillHouse and the Cotton Mill Partners invite guests to attend their second juried Mural Festival. The festival will be held Saturday, June 3, and Sunday, June 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. MuralFest is open to the public free of charge. Muralists will be commissioned to paint 18 original designs on the southeast walls of the historic Cotton Mill.

JUNE 3RD

A Walk in the Park

MYERS PARK & EVENT CENTER | 9:00 AM

This free event is an opportunity to stroll each of the Earth-Kind Gardens that are situated across the park. Be sure to wear walking shoes, take pictures, ask questions, or just simply enjoy the beauty of Myers Park. Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and activities for the kids.

JUNE 10TH

Heard Museum Second Saturday Bird Walks

HEARD NATURAL SCIENCE

MUSEUM & WILDLIFE

SANCTUARY | 8:00 AM

These bird walks are intended to help beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. There are also plenty of opportunities provided for participants to ask questions from experienced birders. Prairie, woodland, and wetland habitats are included in these walks. Visit HeardMuseum.org for additional details.

JUNE 16TH

Free Concert: Maylee

Thomas Band

HUB 121 | 6:30 PM

Travelin' Jed starts off the night at 6:30 p.m. and the Maylee Thomas Band takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. Dine at one of the on-property restaurants, Fork and Fire, Wine A Little, The Elwood BFD, or ChopShop Sports Garage before the show begins, or enjoy the dinner and the show from the patios at ChopShop that overlook the amphitheater.

JUNE 17TH

Downtown McKinney

Craft Beer Walk

DOWNTOWN MCKINNEY

CRAFT BEER WALK | 12:00 PM

The Downtown McKinney Craft Beer Walk takes place noon to 6 p.m. in Historic Downtown McKinney. Attendees will enjoy sipping and strolling through the streets, tasting 20 unique craft beers. Vendors will be set up on the lawn at the McKinney Performing Arts Center right in the middle of the square in Downtown McKinney. Have a fun Father’s Day weekend.

JUNE 17TH

Juneteenth Celebration

FINCH PARK | 4:00 PM

Enjoy live musical performances, food trucks, business merchants, and family activities. No admission fees. For further details, go online to McKinneyTexas.org .

JUNE 19TH - 23RD

WinShape Camps for Communities

LIFE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH

WinShape Camps for Communities brings the ultimate day camp right to neighborhoods, combining fun, faith and friendship into an action-packed week. Campers completing grades K5-5 cultivate their God-given skills and talents in a mix of indoor and outdoor moments, physical activity and creative play, with epic adventures at camp all day. Tickets: WinShapeCamps.org June 19th at 8 a.m. – June 23rd at 5 p.m.

JUNE 22ND

FREE Downtown McKinney Public Art Walking Tour

ALL TOURS LEAVE FROM VISITORS CENTER AT 200 W. VIRGINIA | 11:00 AM

Attendees will visit downtown murals and other pieces of public art, as well as an art gallery/studio or two, as the tour guides, local artists all, tell attendees more about the artists and the stories behind the art. Water, coffee, and snacks are provided. For questions, reach out to 972.547.2058 or email:  info@visitmckinney.com. No admission or reservation required.

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MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

LEARN ABOUT HIS FAMILY TREE

Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

GO ON A BIKE RIDE

Find a local trail you haven’t tried before, load up the bikes and set out for a day of riding. Finish off the day with a nice meal out after all your hard work.

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, nature-filled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

MAKE A TIME CAPSULE

Dig a hole in your backyard and have Dad help the kids gather items around the house (like a current newspaper or flyers) and put them in a waterproof bag.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.