McKinney & Prosper, TX August 2023

“Tonya does not play! She is a kind person and a savvy, tough business woman...great package. Highly recommend!”

Ashlee H. - Frisco, TX

Known as responsive, excellent communicators to all those they represent, the Tonya Dangerfield Home Team consistently is recognized as a Top Real Estate Seller. Indeed, we received the 2022 Social Media Influencer award and truly enjoy helping clients change their lives.

Tonya Dangerfield, MBA, REALTOR®, Life Insurance Agent

Nick Dangerfield, REALTOR®

Tonya Dangerfield Home Team

Kids and Pets Edition

This annual edition is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities. Children aren't merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they're the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility and companionship.

I absolutely love my dog, Rigby (also known as Rigamaroo or BooBooBear), who steadfastly sticks by my side and shares life's pawsome journey with me. Here he is in this photo, accompanying me on a flight to California.

What children and pets share in common is that they need us; our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become.

Warm regards,

SHARON DUFFY, PUBLISHER

@MCKINNEYANDPROSPERLIFESTYLE

August 2023

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

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Laura Hamby | laura.hamby@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Alexis Jacobs | alexis.jacobs@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Lucy Thornton | lucytphotog@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alexis Jacobs, Julie Brown Patton, Angela Broockerd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Julie Brown Patton, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

“The

team you can trust – with a reputation built on results”

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Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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Tag your Instagram photos with @mckinneyandprosperlifestyle

1: The P-Town Throwdown is Prosper's annual Pickleball Tournament. 2: Tacos with Cops is the McKinney Police Department's largest community-wide event of the year. 3: The McKinney community got to know their Neighborhood Police Officers at Tacos for Cops. 4: Prosper Chamber of Commerce welcoming the grand opening of 30 Minute Hit. 5: MCDC Board and staff kicking off their Saturday 'Cleaning Up Trash' at Bonnie Wenk Park. 6: McKinney Police Association's annual golf tournament. Thank you for serving and protecting our great community.

7: Award winning McKinney Rotary members recognized for service above self.

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Our state-of-the-art skin analysis is the key aspect of our complimentary consultations. VISIA scans your individual facial characteristics and analyzes pigmentation, pore size, porphyrins, UV spots, sun damage, texture, and wrinkles to assist our highly trained providers to design a skin care treatment program that is catered to your specific complexion and goals.

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business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Help Provide More Life Chances: Collin County Animal Services

Collin County Animal Services shelters all lost/stray pets from McKinney, Prosper, Frisco and Farmersville, but cities provide their own animal control services. The staff performs animal control duties as well as sheltering all lost/stray pets from all unincorporated Collin County areas, too. Animal visitation hours: Tuesdays through Fridays, 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays (no visitations). To report a lost animal, call 972.547.7292 or animalshelter@collincountytx.gov. Donations gratefully accepted.

Prosper Chamber, Collin College Collaborate On Leadership Development Series

Prosper Chamber of Commerce and Collin College's Corporate College representatives joined forces to present an exclusive leadership development series tailored specifically for local businesses. This partnership aims to equip individuals and teams with essential leadership skills through a comprehensive program consisting of six classes held over six months. Individuals can enroll in either specific classes of interest or the full six-month bundle. Classes held at Collin College Celina Campus, 2505 Kinship Parkway. Email: corporatecollege@collin.edu.

New MedSpa Opens In Prosper

Perfectly Made Aesthetic Boutique recently held a grand opening at the boutique's location in Prosper at 307 East First St., Suite 20, commemorated with demonstrations, food trucks, a beverage truck, giveaways and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The staff's advanced practitioners offer hair restoration, PRP microneedling, derma fillers, salt facial, ultherapy and other services. Call 469.888.6374 for additional details or book an appointment online at PerfectlyMadeMedSpa.com.

Want to be featured?

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

Photography Courtesy of Collin County Animal Services

Photography Prosper Chamber of Commerce

Powering The Future, Panel By Panel

The Solar Scouts Pioneer Path To Sustainable Energy, Reducing Carbon Footprint With Solar Energy

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS

Photo by Bruce

In a world where environmental consciousness and fiscal responsibility are becoming increasingly intertwined, The Solar Scouts team members positioned themselves as a leading solar energy company. The company’s motto, ‘Solar Scouts exists to align sustainable conservation with fiscal conservatism,’ encapsulates its core values.

“The Solar Scouts aims to help homeowners and businesses save money immediately and in the long term while leaving a positive impact on the planet,” says Nicholas Manto, 2009 Prosper High School graduate and owner of The Solar Scouts.

Launched in 2020, The Solar Scouts was born out of Nicholas’s long-standing conservation and thrifty mindset. Having previously worked with a standby backup generator company, he recognized the immense potential of solar energy and decided to start his own venture. Today, the company serves McKinney and other North Texas areas, rapidly growing its clientele with its dedication to sustainable conservation and fiscal conservatism.

Nicholas says the key benefit of installing solar panels is the reduction in electricity costs and environmental impact. By generating electricity through solar panels, homeowners and businesses can significantly minimize their dependence on the grid, resulting in lower bills and reduced stress on the overall electrical system. With Texas relying heavily on coal and natural gas for electricity production, he says the transition to solar energy can help mitigate the environmental effects of traditional energy sources.

Nicholas emphasizes the company’s meticulous project planning, which involves creating a customized project plan based on factors, such as home size, shade, sunlight and optimal results. Flexible funding options are available to suit different needs. The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond installation, offering maintenance, repair and technical support after installation, partnered with a 25-year warranty.

Due to the company’s holistic approach, Nicholas prides himself that they go beyond mere installation, taking the time to understand customers’ existing infrastructure and recommend energy-efficient solutions before determining the power requirements. The comprehensive knowledge of system workings, tax implications and energy reduction strategies ensures there are no surprises for clients, he adds.

As solar energy continues to gain popularity, Nicholas anticipates exciting trends and innovations in the industry. The Solar Scouts professionals remain at the forefront by actively exploring new technologies and retrofitting them into their systems. By constantly expanding their toolbox, they can provide even greater value to their clients. Nicholas stresses the importance of continuous learning and improvement, positioning The Solar Scouts as a trusted resource for solar energy solutions.

214.843.4238

TheSolarScouts.com

As solar energy continues to gain popularity, Nicholas Manto, owner of The Solar Scouts, anticipates exciting trends and innovations in the industry.

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

Prioritizing Mental Health: Nurturing Well-Being In Children And Adolescents

IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORTING EMOTIONAL WELLNESS FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS AND OVERALL DEVELOPMENT

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS

Mental health challenges among children and adolescents are a growing concern in today’s society. Dr. Lucy Underwood, owner and Licensed Professional Counselor at Underwood Counseling & Consultation, PLLC, sheds light on common issues and offers guidance for parents navigating their children’s mental well-being.

A study conducted from 2014 to 2018 called The Project To Learn About Youth Mental Health (PLAY–MH) revealed that ADHD,

anxiety problems, behavior problems and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders among children. Depression and anxiety have shown an increasing trend over time, with anxiety being the most prevalent condition followed by symptoms of oppositional defiance and ADHD.

Parents play a crucial role in identifying signs of mental health issues in their children. Dr. Underwood advises parents to look for significant changes in their child’s learning, behavior or

emotional regulation that cause distress and impact daily functioning. If symptoms persist and interfere with school, home or play activities, a mental health disorder may be present.

Open communication is key to fostering a supportive environment. Dr. Underwood encourages parents to lead by example, discussing both their accomplishments and struggles. Engaging in problem-solving discussions and providing guidance empowers children to develop healthy judgment, problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities.

Early intervention is paramount when addressing mental health concerns in children. Assessing risk factors and protective factors helps identify potential issues. Mental Health America describes four categories—Health, Safety or Security, Resources and Relationships— that encompass factors influencing mental well-being. Addressing harmful factors and promoting helpful ones in each category can support children’s recovery and resilience.

Differentiating between typical teenage moodiness and more serious mental health issues can be challenging. Dr. Underwood

suggests avoiding negative reactions to mood swings and setting clear boundaries. Understanding that teenagers are going through significant internal and social changes is crucial. Paying attention to changes in behavior, interests, weight and participation in activities can help identify warning signs that may necessitate professional help, she states.

Parents can best support their children by seeking professional assistance. Mental health professionals can evaluate contributing factors and provide appropriate interventions. Additionally, scheduling checkups with pediatricians or family doctors can help identify underlying health issues. Consistent routines, quality sleep and balanced nutrition are vital for overall well-being.

Incorporating specific practices into daily routines can enhance children’s mental health. Spending quality time without distractions, engaging in creative activities, and nurturing self-esteem are beneficial. Encouraging healthy social interactions, such as outdoor activities and travel,

promotes positive connections and stimulates the brain in a neurochemical way.

To manage stress and anxiety, Dr. Underwood emphasizes the importance of consistent sleep, good nutrition and socialization. Parents should set realistic expectations aligned with their child’s developmental capabilities and teach healthy problem-solving skills.

By understanding the challenges and implementing effective strategies, parents can play an essential role in supporting their children’s mental health and fostering their overall well-being. Seeking professional help and maintaining open lines of communication create a strong foundation for children and adolescents to thrive in today’s complex world.

469.712.9134

UnderwoodCounseling.net

PROMOTING POSITIVE MENTAL HEALTH: STRATEGIES FOR PARENTS

• Show healthy ways to cope with emotions.

• Create a safe space for children to express their feelings.

• Establish routines to provide stability and security.

• Don't shy away from discussing difficult subjects.

• Teach children how to manage and express emotions in a healthy manner.

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL, BOOSTING ACHIEVEMENT

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS

Academics Plus: Trusted Supplemental Education Partner For Enhanced Academic Performance

Academics Plus staffers are dedicated to improving students’ academic performance and fostering a love for learning. With 30-plus years of experience, Academics Plus team members say they consistently deliver remarkable results, helping more than 6,000 students excel academically while instilling a sense of personal excellence from their location in McKinney at 175 S. Ridge Road, Suite 700.

Over the past year, Academics Plus experienced significant growth, adding additional staff while serving more than 80 students from 13 local districts, plus multiple private and charter schools. Despite challenges following the pandemic, Academics Plus staffers remained steadfast in supporting students and ensuring their success.

Academics Plus Owner/Director Stephanie Talley says academic institutions have faced unprecedented challenges in the past year, but Academics Plus has adapted to meet the evolving needs of students. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of in-person learning, highlighting the value of face-to-face interaction, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. While technology plays a role, Academics Plus focuses on equipping students with the tools needed to think independently, handle rigorous expectations, and rely on their own cognitive abilities.

As students and parents begin a new academic year, Stephanie offers valuable advice to ensure success. She encourages parents to initiate communication with their child’s teacher, sharing important information about their child and establishing a partnership. Daily reading and math practice also are emphasized, regardless of the

student’s age. She reminds, “Finding articles and materials that align with children’s interests helps develop verbal skills and encourages a love for learning.”

Stephanie also stresses the significance of routines in academic success.

“Academic success is like exercise. There’s a need for consistent practice over time to prevent skills from atrophying,” she adds. “Daily routines not only help build confidence but also ensures that students stay on top of their work and are prepared for the demands of their studies.”

Academics Plus professionals distinguish themselves from other learning centers by offering personalized instruction tailored to each student’s needs and focusing on building a strong academic foundation that has a long-term impact. Stephanie and her staff also take on the role of an advocate, helping parents navigate the education system, understand the terminology, and make informed decisions for their child’s academic journey.

As another school year begins, Academics Plus staffers say they’re recommitting to increasing each student’s academic performance while creating an atmosphere of empowerment, enhancing the joy of learning, and encouraging personal excellence in school, home and community. “Our goal is to remain a trusted partner for students, parents and the community,” Stephanie states.

972.548.8788  AcademicsPlus.com

STEPHANIE TALLEY

Six Tips To Increase Youths' Academic Success

1 | Read Daily:

Encourage your child to read for at least 15-20 minutes every day. Reading improves verbal development, comprehension and critical thinking skills, laying a strong foundation for academic success.

2 | Do Math Daily:

Dedicate 5 minutes each day to practicing math facts. This simple exercise helps build numerical fluency and strengthens problem-solving abilities.

3 | Get Enough Sleep:

Ensure your child gets sufficient sleep each night. A well-rested mind is better equipped for learning, long-term memory retention, and cognitive function.

4 | Check-In:

Check-In: Take the time to genuinely connect with your child each day. Show them that you care and be actively involved in their academic journey.

5 | Prioritize Mental Health:

Help your child find balance and manage stress. Mental health is crucial for maintaining focus, motivation and overall academic performance.

6 | Nutrition Matters:

Provide a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and nutritious foods. A healthy diet supports attention span and overall brain development, optimizing your child's ability to learn and concentrate.

SAFE HAVEN FOR EVERY CHILD

Texas – Connecting Willing Hands With Opportunities To Serve Children In Foster, Adoptive, Kinship Care

Embrace Texas, a nonprofit organization based in McKinney, has been a beacon of hope for children and families in the foster care system since its inception in 2007. Led by Executive Director Denise Kendrick, Embrace Texas plays an essential role in supporting and empowering foster and adoptive parents, while also providing vital resources and services to children in need.

Denise’s journey as the executive director of Embrace Texas is deeply rooted in her personal experiences as a foster parent. Denise and her husband, Bruce, have four biological children and have adopted five children from foster care.

“Foster care and adoption are a part of our family’s story. We didn’t set out to be a ‘mega-family,’ but we’ve learned along the way that the plan God has for us is always better than the plans we make for ourselves,” says Denise. “The nine children who are ours forever are the greatest blessing of our lives.”

The inception of Embrace Texas was born out of the desire to connect foster and adoptive families, providing them with a supportive community. Denise and Bruce recognized that the unique challenges faced in parenting foster children required a different approach. They say they sought to create a space where families could come together, share their experiences and receive encouragement. Initially, Embrace Texas relied on volunteers, but as the demand for support groups, respite nights, and a foster closet grew, the organization expanded, and a full-time staff was established.

In 2017, after Bruce’s tenure as executive director, Denise took the reins. Her passion for the cause and her firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by foster parents have shaped the organization’s vision and mission.

While Embrace Texas is based in McKinney and primarily serves Collin County, its impact extends beyond those boundaries. The organization welcomes children and families from any child-placing agency, adoptive families, and kinship families who wish to participate. Denise says by providing services and programs at no cost or low cost, Embrace Texas ensures the most vulnerable children and families, often from low-income backgrounds, receive the support they desperately need. The group acts as a bridge between the local church community and the needs of children in foster care, facilitating a powerful connection and fostering compassion and action.

In 2022, Embrace Texas opened Collin House, a safe and nurturing space for children entering the foster care system while awaiting placement. Many children, due to a shortage of foster families, find themselves in extended-stay hotels or Child Protective Services offices during this vulnerable period. Collin House provides these children with a warm and welcoming environment, offering them stability and dignity during a challenging time. With a dedicated staff and the support of volunteers who provide homecooked meals, Collin House has become a vital resource for children in need.

Embrace Texas actively partners with various organizations in the community to amplify its impact, adds Denise. Love Life Foundation, Direction 61:3, CASA, Collin County Children’s Advocacy Center, and many others work alongside Embrace Texas, providing unique services and support. Corporate sponsors and service groups also contribute to the organization’s events and programs, further strengthening their ability to serve the community effectively.

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS

Embrace

Denise says Embrace Texas plays a critical role in the foster care system, extending the length of time foster parents participate in fostering by 400% compared to the state average. Embrace Texas ensures foster parents are well-equipped to care for children who’ve experienced trauma. The organization’s efforts to find forever families for children awaiting adoption and their dedication to helping teenagers transitioning out of foster care are known for being pivotal in changing lives and building brighter futures.

Embrace Texas managers rely on the support of volunteers, donors, as well as foster and adoptive parents to fulfill the nonprofit’s mission. Volunteers can prepare meals for children at Collin House. Small groups and churches can sponsor events and provide volunteers.

“I know not many people hop out of bed on Monday mornings excited to go to work, but that really is how I feel. The work is hard, rewarding, and sometimes heartbreaking, but I get to be part of an incredible team,” exclaims Denise. “Our culture at Embrace is very collaborative. This allows the talent and gifting of each team member to contribute to the overall excellence we’re committed to.”

Embrace Texas is a testament to the transformative power of compassion, support and community. Through their dedication to serving children and families in the foster care system, the Embrace Texas team creates lasting change in the lives of countless individuals. The organization continues to expand its reach, leaving an indelible mark on the community and beyond.

469.617.3174

EmbraceTexas.org

“Foster care and adoption are a part of our family’s story. We didn’t set out to be a ‘mega-family,’ but we’ve learned along the way that the plan God has for us is always better than the plans we make for ourselves.”

“SLM, Sergio and his team are awesome. From proposal, to work, quality and to completion - all aspects were great. I highly recommend them. SLM also worked well with the overall project and were very flexible. I have nothing but positive things to say about SLM. I highly recommend them and they will be doing multiple other projects for me.”

- Raj Narayanan

“We used the team at SLM when remodeling our house. They were able to complete everything from taking down walls and remodeling our kitchen to converting our garage into an office. Sergio, Jessica, and team were incredibly easy to work with and really listened to all of our requests and concerns. I’d recommend SLM to any friends/family.”

- Madi Duffield

Direction 61:3

HELPING AGING-OUT FOSTER CARE YOUTHS TO BECOME INDEPENDENT, THRIVING AS ADULTS

As a faith-based organization, the purpose of Direction 61:3 is to help youths transition from foster care into society as thriving adults, says Myron Wilson, the group’s founder and executive director.

“We consider the building of relationships with foster youth prior to aging out as imperative to their success. Special events, skills and career assessments, fun days, and foster family support are all components to helping foster youth prepare for their shift out of the foster care system,” adds Myron, who has a doctorate degree in theology/theological studies.

Registered with the state of Texas in 2017, this ministry has full nonprofit status as a 501(c)(3) organization and was

licensed in December 2020 by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services as a child placing agency. At what’s fondly called “The Farm,” the main office and 4.7-acre property that will provide for future foster/aged out community of homes and programming facilities, is relocated just north of Baylor Hospital in McKinney. With a variety of tiny homes to larger foster homes, this location will have the potential to house up to 50 youths. Additional residential properties of the nonprofit in Collin and Denton County include Oak Creek Place, Brotherhood, Heritage House, Zoie’s Place, Tony’s Place and this summer will include the newest residence, Anchored.

The value of providing physical, emotional and educational support among aging-out foster youth is evident,

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

given that foster care national statistics indicate there are approximately 400,000 youths (newborn to 21 years old) typically in foster care across America. On average, a child in foster care can experience eight or more different placements during their time in care. Eighty percent of youths in foster care struggle with mental health, compared with approximately 18 to 22 percent of the general population. Less than 3 percent of youth who age-out of foster care will earn a college degree.

“When our youth aging out of foster care are provided a sense of belonging in a stable, loving and encouraging environment, we can forever change the direction of their lives for the better,” explains Myron.

Those wishing to assist this group can consult their Amazon Wish List, which highlights sought-after items such as gift cards, bedding, household goods and cleaning supplies.

Another way to assist is to provide respite care for the group’s house parents, especially for weekends or evenings. One such volunteer, Angie Jones, says, “My simple involvement with Direction 61:3 has been a great blessing in my life. I don’t think people realize the many ways to get involved directly or indirectly that help our foster youth. It has not only made a difference in their lives, but mine, too.”

Myron says, “There are many more youth aging out of foster care that need our help. With the generosity and resources available from our churches, families, businesses and community as a whole, together we can impact more lives and ensure youth aging out of foster care will thrive as adults.”

214.544.9055

Direction613.org

Start the new school year with confidence at Academics Plus. We’ve been wow-ing classroom teachers since 1991.

• Enrichment and Remedial K-12 Programs

• Diagnostic, prescriptive, individualized instruction

• A+ students average 1-2 years of growth in just 48 instructional hours

DOG gone GOOD

Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

|

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup milk or half and half

• 3 cups oatmeal

Directions:

In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.

Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly kneed. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).

events

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

AUGUST 3RD

The Hoppers

PRESTONWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH, NORTH CAMPUS | 11:00 AM

In 2022, Gospel musical family, The Hoppers, celebrated 65 years of delighting audiences with soul-stirring, uplifting music. This multi-award winning group performed for presidential religious inaugural ceremonies, New York’s Carnegie Hall, singing conventions and church platforms. The Hoppers are comprised of family members Claude and Connie, son Dean and his wife, Kim, son Mike, plus Dean and Kim's daughter, Karlye.

AUGUST 4TH-12TH

Agatha Christie's Popular Comedy: Murder on the Orient Express

MCKINNEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, COURTROOM THEATER

The exotic Orient Express is about to go off the rails. With a train full of remarkable suspects and an alibi for each one, it’s the perfect mystery for detective Hercule Poirot. So wax your mustache and hold onto your passport for what has now become the most highly produced comedy-mystery in the world. Tickets:  McKinneyPerformingArtsCenter.org

AUGUST 12TH-13TH

Family Campout

HEARD NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY | 5:00 PM

This campout offers groups an evening of fantastic discovery after hours, while experiencing what it’s like to be a member of the Heard’s nightlife. Programs include team-building activities, the opportunity to experience Texas wildlife and more. The sanctuary is a nonprofit and natural science education center. Spots are limited. Learn more and secure tickets at HeardMuseum.org/all-events

AUGUST 19TH

Sips Of Summer

111 SOUTH TENNESSEE STREET, MCKINNEY | 12:00 PM

The Downtown McKinney Sips of Summer event takes place from 12-6 p.m. Attendees will enjoy sipping and strolling through the streets of downtown McKinney tasting 20 unique cold beverages. Vendors will be set up on the lawn at the McKinney Performing Arts Center. A scavenger hunt with a grand prize will prompt attendees to visit each vendor booth.

AUGUST 19TH

Heard-Craig Granddaughter Tea Celebrating Picasso

HEARD-CRAIG CENTER FOR THE ARTS | 11:00 AM

Take granddaughters to a Tea and Program (about Pablo Picasso) in the elegant Heard-Craig Center in downtown McKinney. The short program begins at 11 a.m. and is followed by a Tea Luncheon and tour of the lovely Heard-Craig mansion. Tables of six are available for those who would like to bring a group to the event. Tickets: Eventbrite.com

AUGUST 31ST

PINK Trail To Awareness

1001 WINDSONG PARKWAY, PROSPER | 9:00 AM

This 5K Family Run/Walk benefits Susan G. Komen for the Cure. It will include food trucks, a  live band and bounce houses. The first 100 participants to register will receive a free event T-shirt (registration is day of at the event).

Want to be featured?

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

Treatment Areas

Backyard Chickens

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages.

There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things To Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple hen house can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through Spring and Summer and into the Fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily, or even twice a day.

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.