PROSPER Magazine | April 2019

PROSPER Prosper’s Community Magazine Since 2012

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April 2019

THE TOWN | THE PEOPLE | THE PRIDE | WE ARE PROSPER

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PROSPER

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Magazine

C O N T E N T S

April 2019 | Issue #93

8

Town Council Again Oppose Bypass Incursion

10

Meet the 2019 PISD

School board Candidates

14

Children’s Health Signs Agreement With PISD

16

Prosper Magazine’s Person of the Year

20

Meet the 2019 Town Council Candidates

30

Common Answers to Common Landscaping Questions

Published By Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Editorial/Marketing Director Heather Reynolds Heather@CedarbrookMedia.com Production/Creative Director Jason Reynolds Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com Contributing Writers Ray Smith | Celso Martinez | Heather Reynolds Jimmie Gibson | Joyce Godwin Lynne Welch Photography Contributors Jason Reynolds Cedarbrook Studios www.CedarbrookMedia.com Production/Design Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Admin@CedarbrookMedia.com Editorial Please send editorial considerations to Editor@CedarbrookMedia.com Advertising Information For media kits, contact Heather Reynolds at

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PROSPER! For up to date news, events and web-exclusive content visit

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or email her at Heather@CedarbrookMedia.com Visit our website at www.WeAreProsper.com PROSPER Magazine PO Box 405, Prosper, Texas 75078 972.347.6231 | www.WeAreProsper.com A Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Publication

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On The Cover:

Prosper Magazine’s Person of the Year Iris Meneley

Cover Photo by Amanda Baze Hall with Whimsy Hall

6 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

PROSPER Magazine is wholly owned and published by Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. PROSPER Magazine is published 12 times a year. No portion of this publication may be reproduced or copied whole or in part without expressed written permission from the publisher, Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. ©2019. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. The title and all material are protected by international copyright laws and are reserved. Although the greatest of care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine at time of going to press, neither PROSPER Magazine nor Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC can be held liable for omissions, inexactness or errors.

Town Council Again Oppose Bypass Incursion A meeting that the Texas Department of Transportation is calling a MAPO, or meeting for affected property owners, was scheduled for Thursday, March 28 in Prosper to share the latest iteration of the Hwy 380 bypass and gather reaction from residents.

The two-hour meeting started at 6:00pm at Lorene Rogers Middle School, 1001 Coit Road. While the meeting is styled as one for homeowners within 1,000 feet of the bypass option that will be revealed during that evening’s meeting, Prosper officials are encouraging residents to attend and express their sentiments to TxDOT personnel.

The March 28th meeting is designed to gather information only on the bypass option that will be shared that evening.

TxDOT officials have promised to hold additional meetings later this spring on the entire proposal to transform Hwy 380 into an LAR (limited access roadway) similar to US 75 and other freeways.

Those later meetings will be designed to allow residents to share their thoughts on all of the proposed bypass routes, including any that cross into Prosper.

Significantly, the Prosper Town Council passed yet another resolution at the March 26th Council meeting strongly objecting to any bypass 8 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

connector which crosses Custer Road into Prosper’s Town limits, a proposed bypass configuration known as Red Alignment Option B. The Town has consistently maintained that any version of Red Alignment Option B does not comply with the Town’s Thoroughfare Plan. Even so, the Prosper Town Council has not wavered in its support of the current alignment of U.S. Highway 380 within Prosper Town limits expanding to an LAR. While not taking a stand on whether or not a bypass around north McKinney is needed, the Town Council has consistently expressed its strong opposition to any alignment that takes Hwy 380 out of its current alignment within the Town limits. In other words, Prosper officials want Hwy 380 to remain where it currently sits within Prosper, whether as an LAR or in any other configuration.

The resolution passed at the March 26th Council meeting, the third such resolution restating the same position, restricts Town staff from working with TxDOT or any other entity on right-of-way acquisition or any other process or procedure while a Red Alignment Option B type incursion into Prosper is part of the Hwy 380 conversion.

Further, the March 26th resolution includes language that instructs Town staff to contact TxDOT officials in Austin to ask for detailed explanations of why a Red Alignment Option B was ever proposed, as well as explanations on why other proposed solutions to the Hwy 380 transformation are not being examined.

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Meet the Candidates PISD School Board

Kelly Cavender

Prosper School Board Trustee Candidate, Place 3 My name is Kelly Cavender and I am running for Prosper School Board Trustee for Place 3. The main reason I am running for school board is a way to give back to the community and to ensure continuing pride in our schools. As I’ve watched my two children progress through the Prosper School District, I have been extremely impressed with the School District and wanted to do my part to keep the Prosper School District strong.

I earned a bachelor’s degree in Finance and minor in Accounting from Oklahoma State University. I am employed by InterBank as a Senior Vice President and oversee commercial lending in our Dallas Office. I also served 11 years as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff for the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office.

Over the next 6 years the growth that Prosper ISD experiences will be tremendous. Currently there are approximately 14,600 students enrolled in the ISD. It is projected by 2025 we will more than double in size. To meet this demanding growth, Prosper ISD will be asking voters to approve a $1.337 Billion bond package on May 4th. The bond package will help build 9-10 elementary schools, 4-5 middle schools and 2 new

10 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

high schools. It will also include funds for a new administration building, a performing arts center/support service building, a second Natatorium and new buses to accommodate the growth. I was honored to be asked to sit on the initial bond action team that provided the initial planning for the bond issue.

Our future generations depend on leaders who have a vision to make sure they are not only receiving a great education but also becoming a successful member of society. We need to make sure that we continue to put our children’s education and safety first and not personal agendas before students’ best interests. I feel the school board must maintain its focus and continue its path of making sure Prosper ISD remains a top rate school that all can be proud of.

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PROSPER Magazine April 2019 | 11

Meet the Candidates PISD School Board

Jeremy Sandusky

Prosper School Board Trustee Candidate, Place 3 My name is Jeremy Sandusky and I am running for the Prosper ISD (PISD) School Board Trustee Place 3. If elected, I will represent the students, families and educational staff within our district, as well as our community members as a whole.

There are a vast array of needs and desires within our district. As a Board Trustee, it is my goal to be your representing voice. I will stand up for the gifted and talented, for those requiring individualized educational plans or special needs programs, and for every student, parent, faculty member, and community member. I will advocate for all levels of educational needs and work to guide the Board’s attention to changes that are needed to improve our school district and community. I will serve you and your family with the same diligence and consideration I give my own family.

Our district is growing at a very rapid rate. I want to be the voice that facilitates bridging gaps with as minimal disruption as possible. Students and families form communities within our community that are a source of support, comfort, and security. Constant movement between new schools opening, splitting neighborhoods and only offering limited specialized classes on few campuses causes unrest. Calculated boundary planning is a priority of mine for the growth to allow community planning.

If approved, the bond will provide resources for new transportation options, however students should be on routes that are quick, efficient, and using safe traffic patterns closest to their home residences.

12 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

With technology advancements and more access than ever to social media, safety and security is also an extreme priority. The district and community should be in constant conversations on training, practicing, and collaborating all types of protocols from safely dropping off and picking up students in the carpool line, to visitors allowed on campuses additionally responding to bullying and substance abuse. The degree of additional training that is provided to paraprofessionals, administrative staff, substitutes, and campus volunteers all entrusted with our students, should be clearly defined, easily understood, and accessible for review.

I want PISD to be a place where every student matters. I want you to feel like you are not only heard but have a voice in your student’s future.

I will consider it a great honor to serve you and our community as an elected Board Trustee. I will listen, advocate, and be a voice for you upon election. I would greatly appreciate your vote and look forward to working with you and the other PISD Board Trustees.

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PROSPER Magazine April 2019 | 13

Children’s Health Signs Agreement to Become ‘Official Pediatric Health Care Partner’ for Prosper ISD The 10-year deal showcases the commitment from Children’s Health to the Northern Market with naming rights to Prosper’s premier athletic complex

Children’s Health, the eighth largest pediatric health care provider in the nation and leading pediatric health care system in North Texas, furthers its commitment to the Northern Market today by joining forces with the Prosper Independent School District (ISD), the fastest growing school district in Dallas-Fort Worth, as its Official Pediatric Health Care Partner.

As the Official Pediatric Health Care Partner of Prosper ISD, Children’s Health will support the district with a 10-year sponsorship that includes naming rights for the school district’s premier athletic complex opening in August, educational and promotional collaborations between the two entities, and a full spectrum of sports medicine, athletic health care and virtual health services for schools and youth sports organizations in the Prosper ISD service area.

“We recognized early on the significance and promise represented in the fast-growing, vibrant communities like Plano, Frisco, Prosper, Allen and countless others in Dallas’s northern suburbs,” said Jeremiah Radandt, executive vice president of the Northern Market for Children’s Health.

“Prosper is an incredible community focused on providing the best education and services to its residents. We are excited to form a longterm partnership with Prosper ISD and be the official pediatric health care partner for the children and families of Prosper as they grow.”

14 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

As part of the agreement, the Children’s Health Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine will offer athlete-centered sports medicine services and care to promote wellness and mitigate the risk and effect sports injuries have on student athletes. This includes on-site sports medicine and athletic health care services during school sporting events, including sideline medical and athletic trainer support with immediate access for injury evaluation and consults. Children’s Health will also work closely with parents, coaches and athletic trainers to provide Prosper ISD athletes with comprehensive medical, nutrition, sports performance, training, care and recovery services.

“Children’s Health is one of the most respected and recognized health care providers in the country, and we are thrilled that they will be our long-term partner to provide quality care and services to our students, parents, faculty and fans,” said Mary Lou Smith, Prosper ISD school board member.

Long-Standing Commitment to Northern Market The pediatric health care partnership with Prosper ISD is the latest example of Children’s Health’s long-standing commitment to Dallas’s northern suburbs. Children’s Health recognized the importance of the burgeoning communities in Collin and Denton counties more than 15 years ago when

it began planning the development of its Plano facility. When Children’s Health Plano opened in 2008 as a comprehensive satellite facility, fully mirroring the Dallas hospital’s academic medical center operation, it became widely lauded as the first suburban children’s hospital of its kind.

Since that time, Children’s Medical Center Plano has earned recognition by the American Nurses’ Credentialing Center as a Magnet facility with its nurses ranking among the top 8 percent in the country for excellence in patient care. Today, Children’s Health Plano includes a full-service pediatric hospital with a 24/7 emergency room featuring more than 30 specialties, including a variety of multidisciplinary pediatric health and wellness services, such as the Children’s Health Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, Sports Performance powered by EXOS and the state-of-the-art Live Oak Surgery Center. These and other services will feature prominently in the Prosper ISD partnership.

About Children’s Health Children’s Health is the eighth-largest pediatric health care provider in the nation and the leading pediatric health care system in North Texas, providing a full spectrum of health care services—from daily wellness and primary care to specialty visits and critical care. Holding eight diseasespecific care certifications from The Joint Commission, Children’s Health has been consistently named one of the nation’s top pediatric providers

by U.S. News & World Report. The Children’s Health system includes Children’s Medical Center Dallas, as well as Children’s Medical Center Plano, Our Children’s House inpatient rehabilitation hospital, multiple specialty centers, rehabilitation facilities, home health, physician services and the Children’s Medical Center Research Institute at UT Southwestern.

For more information about Children’s Health, visit www.childrens.com.

About Prosper ISD Prosper Independent School District (ISD) is a public school district based in Prosper, Texas, and is the fastest growing school district in DFW. Located in Collin County, a portion of the district extends into Denton County. Student enrollment in the district has grown by more than 8,200 students during the past five years and today comprises approximately 14,600 students who attend nine elementary schools, two middle schools and Prosper High School. To meet future projected growth, the district will add two new elementary schools in 2019, a third middle school during 2019 and a second high school during 2020. The district is also opening new facilities including a football stadium with 12,000 seats and a natatorium complex, set to open during 2019. Prosper ISD is classified by the University Interscholastic League as a 6A School District.

In 2018, Prosper High School was recognized as the 2018 Class 5A Lone Star Cup Champion and is currently in the top 10 in Class 6A.

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PROSPER Magazine April 2019 | 15

PROSPER Magazine’s Person of the Year

Prosper is the place where everyone matters…and these four individuals are gracious and giving leaders who make Prosper the amazing place that it is! Our community is growing at an unprecedented rate, but the one thing that we all continue to strive for is that small town feel. We are excited to announce this year’s Prosper Person of the Year nominees – they love our town and work endlessly to make it a fun and safe place to call home. While they would not generally seek out this recognition, we are Prosper Proud to celebrate them and all that they do for our community! We’d like to share with you again the reasons these fine Prosper people were nominated for this award: Wayne Bartley Wayne Bartley loves the town of Prosper and the people who live here. He spends countless hours serving the community through Cornerstone and the Prosper Chamber of Commerce. Whenever there is someone in need, the first person that I think to call is him. He will drop whatever he’s doing to help, say a prayer or find necessary additional resources. He is a strong family man who loves Jesus and loves to network! Wayne is a successful Realtor because he is driven by building relationships and doing what is best for his clients and friends. He loves to support local businesses and can often be found networking as much for others as he does for his own business. I am so happy that the Bartley’s chose Prosper to call home all of those years ago!

Holly Ferguson Holly Ferguson has served in PISD for over a decade. She started as a Principal at Rucker Elementary then moved over to Rogers Middle School. She now works in Central Administration as the Associate Superintendent. When Dr. Watkins was injured last summer, Mrs. Ferguson stepped into his role, leading the district with grace and humility – just as Dr. Watkins would have expected. She has a way of making students, parents, teachers and administrators feel encouraged, loved and appreciated. I think Mrs. Ferguson is the epitome of what makes Prosper great!

Chris Kern Chris Kern is a jewel to have in Prosper. He does so many things behind the scenes that many would never even know about. He and his wife Gina are the masterminds behind the Coat Drive for Cornerstone Christmas. His servant heart is evident in all that he does – you can always find him at Town Council meetings, community events and doing great things for Prosper. He also runs a very informative Facebook page that keeps the people of Prosper in the loop about what’s coming around town. Because he spends so much time researching and attending Council meetings, he KNOWS what is on the horizon for Prosper and is one of the best sources of information for our town.

Iris Meneley I am thrilled to nominate Iris for this honor! She does so much for the children in Prosper and has given many of them several opportunities that they may not ever have otherwise. Her leadership at Texas Amps and Axes is second to none, and the students there are blessed to have her in their corner.

She created a youth band, Amplified, and has secured several big performances for them over the last year. She is instrumental in the development of these young musicians. We are lucky to have her in Prosper!

16 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

Person of the Year

Congratulations to Prosper’s Person of the Year…

IRIS MENELEY!!!

Iris Meneley is the quick-witted Chairman of the Prosper Chamber of Commerce and proud Co-Owner of Prosper’s very own, Texas Amps & Axes: Shop and School of Music. While only in their third year, Texas Amps & Axes, has quickly solidified their place in the heart of Prosper, even scoring “Best Music School in Far North Dallas” from Living Magazine. Iris is married to her best friend and high-school sweetheart, Jon, who clearly has the patience of a saint for putting up with Iris’s awful puns and her obsessive love for 80’s music. Together they have two crazy cuties, Jazzy, a competitive dancer aged 9 going on 16 and Hendrix, their wildly funny three-nager, who would love to teach you how to do the Macarena. Iris holds a degree in Business Management from Dallas Baptist University and a minor in Sarcasm from no place in particular. Her work history showcases a wide variety of roles including, Junior Bookkeeper, Store & Events Manager, Social Media & Public Relations Coordinator and Senior Account Executive - none of which prepared for the level of ChaosCoordination it would take to be Wife, Mom, Boss Lady & Chairwoman all at the same time.

What is your favorite thing about Prosper?

I love what a tight-knit community Prosper is. I love that any time I walk into HoneyLu’s, Kroger’s, or one of the restaurants, I see one of our students or their family, or someone I know from in the community. Regardless of how much Prosper grows, the community at large is committed to keeping this warm, tight-knit feel! It truly is the nicest, most polite and welcoming community I’ve ever had the opportunity to live in.

How long have you lived here?

I’m relatively a newby, having only lived here for these last 4 years. I actually grew up in a small town much like Prosper, so it feels like home to me!

What is your vision for Prosper?

I would just hope that regardless how big we get that we remember our roots, that we all strive to foster a love of community within each generation that comes around; that we continue to be a community who is always there for those in need and willing to lend a hand to a stranger. Change and progress will always exist, but I feel strongly that Prosper will always be a place where everyone matters. I think for our community, we each make that choice daily!

Photos by Amanda Baze Hall with Whimsy Hall

How do you feel like you make a difference in our community?

Music impacts people to their very core. I’ve been blessed with the incredible opportunity to share music with so many families in Prosper.

Our students and their families are an extension of my own family. Having the opportunity to work with kids of all ages and kids at heart fills me with such joy, but it also affords me with a chance to show our students positive ways to deal with their emotions, ways to cope with what’s going on in and around them, and a way to teach them the importance of selfesteem. Our students never enter our studio without being greeted by name because I need and want them to know that I see them and that they are valued. They know that my office is always open to them and they can come and celebrate or complain about what’s going on in their lives with me. They never leave the studio without hearing me holler after them to “Make Good Choices,” because I want to remind them that the choices we make carry weight! I work very hard to not limit this to just our students, but to include our parents and siblings - they matter just as much to me.

I love getting to know them each as individuals while they wait for their sibling/child/spouse. Every parent has my cell phone number, I make sure they know that I am ALWAYS available to them - whether it’s to partner on much-needed tough love, offer advice, whether the need; investing in my families is vital to me. I am a firm believer that what we take in, we push out into the world. I give them an opportunity to learn music so they can share the music of their heart with those around them. Honestly, these kids are making a bigger impact in my life than I’ll ever make in theirs because they fill me with laughter every day!

Who are you when nobody is looking?

Fortunately, or unfortunately for those around me, I am consistently me Goofy, sarcastic, 80’s Lovin’ Me. That means that 90% of the time someone sees me I’ll have a coffee in my hand and a least 3 puns queued up and ready to go, and usually at least 1 earbud in with 80s Power Ballads playing.

If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?

My Grampy! He passed away when I was 5 but I have these wonderful vivid memories of him. To this day I have an extreme love of Wheel of Fortune and Butter Pecan ice cream, both of which originated with evenings I spent in his lap in his incredibly 80s mustard yellow lazy boy recliner. I would give anything to get to spend an hour with him and share a bowl of ice cream with him!

PROSPER Magazine April 2019 | 17

PROSPER Magazine’s Person Prosper Person of the Year Nominee…Wayne Bartley!

Prosper’s Person of the Year Nominee…Holly Ferguson!

Wayne has been married to his wonderful wife, Amy, for 23 years and have a beautiful daughter, Kelsie Bartley, who is a Sophomore at Oklahoma State University. He enjoys being at the lake with his family and loves to play golf.

He is a REALTOR® at RE/ MAX Performance Group here in Prosper. He believes that this community and area is easy to sell because he and Amy love living, playing and working here. He also enjoys being on the Board for Cornerstone Assistance Network and seeing the difference this organization makes in our community helping people in need.

My husband of 21 years is David Ferguson. We have two amazing boys that are Prosper ISD students.

Cade is 17 and Ty is 13.

My job is to serve Prosper ISD as the Associate Superintendent.

My hobbies include shopping, therapy shopping, and online shopping :)

Photo By Jason Reynolds, Cedarbrook Media Group What is your favorite thing about Prosper?

My favorite thing about Prosper is that people rally together to help each other when someone is in need.

How long have you lived here?

We moved to Prosper 11 years ago.

What is your vision for Prosper?

My vision for Prosper is that we will always continue to work together to make sure people in our community are taken care of, feel valued and that we have each other’s back. To be what our town motto says - A Place Where Everyone Matters.

How do you feel like you make a difference in our community?

Any person can make a difference where they live by just being kind, loving people and doing an honest day’s work. I try to love God and serve people.

Who are you when nobody is looking?

I’m Asleep :) If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?

I would like play a round of golf with President George W. Bush. I admire his leadership and his ability to lead teams. Appreciate his servant’s heart and humor.

What is your favorite thing about Prosper?

My favorite thing about Prosper is hands down the people. When I stop and think about the numerous students, teachers, staff, leaders, parents, and community members over the years that have made me a better educator, leader, mom, wife, daughter, aunt, and an overall better person I am in complete and utter amazement. Prosper is truly a gift from which I have received so many blessings and I will be forever grateful.

How long have you lived here?

I actually do not live in Prosper. I have worked in Prosper ISD for the past 12 years and I spend my days and most of my nights in Prosper celebrating the amazing talents of our students and staff.

What is your vision for Prosper?

Moments matter in Prosper and connect us all at a deeper level. My vision for Prosper is that it continues to be a community that rallies in moments of joy as much as it does in moments of devastation. The community is such a unique and special gift that truly allows Prosper to continue to prosper.

How do you feel like you make a difference in our community?

One of the most impactful leaders in my career is Dr. Drew Watkins. When he first hired me, I asked him what he needed me to do and his response was, “BE AWESOME!” I was not exactly sure what his definition of awesome was, but I committed to give my best to meet his expectation. I hope that I have made a difference in Prosper by bringing a little AWESOME to the community each day.

Who are you when nobody is looking?

What you see is what you get with me minus the heels on the weekends :) As I tell all of our new employees, you have to be the same person on Wednesday night that you are on Saturday night because our students deserve it and our community expects it.

If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?

What a great question! I actually would love to have lunch with the very first class I ever taught. Most people do not know this about me, but my first teaching assignment was at Prosper Elementary in 1998. I was fortunate that Jana Thomson, who was the principal at that time, saw something in me and was willing to give me my first chance. I would love to have lunch with my first class to apologize for all of the things I messed up and to thank each of them for teaching me what Prosper was all about and for instilling a love for teaching so deep in me that I could not imagine doing any other job in the world. They were truly a special group of kids that changed my life for the better.

18 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

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of the Year Prosper’s Person of the Year Nominee…Chris Kern!

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Who are you when nobody is looking?

A normal person hoping to always keep my focus on what is important while balancing work, family, and service. Praying I make the right decisions but always relying on God who is the source of reliable strength in any circumstance (2 Corinthians 4:6-7).

If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?

Eugene Peterson. Although he passed last year, while on earth he had a great presence of personal peace with God. I have enjoyed many of his books over the years, but I would have loved to lunch with him and gleaned just a little more on how to live a joyful, God-focused life at a slower and deeper pace.

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How do you feel like you make a difference in our community?

God calls us to do good and share what we have (Hebrews 13:16).

Shortly after moving here, we worked to get involved in the community.

To pay attention to our neighbors. To participate in community events.

To support local businesses and local organizations. We involved our kids! I faithfully attend Town Council meetings and have served on several town committees. I try to share things that I learn or think will be of interest to Prosper residents through my public Facebook page (Chris Kern – Prosper, TX). Currently, I serve on the boards of multiple non-profit organizations including Cornerstone Assistance Network, Prosper Lions Club, and Miracle League Sports. I am a regular supporter/volunteer with Prosper Historical Society, Prosper Veteran’s Memorial, Bethlehem Place, and Clothe-A-Child.

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What is your vision for Prosper?

Prosper is a true community. I believe that small town values and families are what make Prosper great. We love that and we do not want that to change as we grow. With the inevitable growth, my vision is that Prosper attracts new families who are committed to maintaining the same smalltown feel. Families focused on being engaged with their neighbors and serving the community with enthusiasm in a wide variety of ways.

When families and neighbors are involved in their town, we can make a difference that lasts.

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Building your Business is OUR Business

Photo By Stephanie Kingston Photography How long have you lived here?

Our family has lived in Prosper since 2013.

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What is your favorite thing about Prosper?

The people!

Prosper residents truly live out our town motto of being “a community focused on families, committed to small town ideals, and providing a quality living experience for all residents.”

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Chris Kern has been married to his wife Gina since 1999.

They have three children: Elizabeth (18), Ethan (15) and Caroline (12). In his professional career, he is focused on strategy and analytics for major business operations.

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ProsperFarm@aol.com www.ProsperingFarm.com PROSPER Magazine April 2019 | 19

Meet the Candidates Prosper Town Council

Mike Korbuly

I

Prosper Town Council Candidate, Place 1 I am Mike Korbuly and have proven my leadership and continued commitment to help create a quality of life that mixes good homes with good businesses. I am endorsed by the Collin County Association of Realtors with support, encouragement, and endorsements from numerous local business owners, Town leadership, and many pillars within the community.

Our most pressing issue is keeping 380 on 380. I have and will continue to publicly support the “RED” residents of Prosper in this fight. I will continue to uphold my oath to our residents regarding public safety.

Public safety and town services must continue to be evaluated, planned for, and funded. Approving a $12.5 million police headquarters building and increasing our ISO rating to Class 1 is something I am very proud of. I have listened to our chiefs to ensure they have the buildings, equipment, training and personnel they need to keep our community safe and protected. I will continue to make sure each new development does not stress our public services but enhance them.

I will continue to uphold our vision and ordinances but have also shown a willingness to listen to our residence concerns and take the proper action and steps needed. I am prepared and ready to call audibles if something is needed or does not fit today as proven with the repair of the Windsong Ranch Roads failure and my support of the redesign of Coit Road. Too this, I want to ensure we have certain roads on the west side of Prosper completed prior to the congestion we face today. We must Plan ahead and include the planning of the ISD in our vision. I want to continue to take definite steps to both preserve the feel of our downtown and revitalize it with the right kinds of incentives and infrastructure. Our vision must not just include today’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) but one that will give future councils a roadmap to what we have started.

20 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

have proven to actively work with our award-winning finance staff to keep our credit rating high by monitoring our expenses carefully, while at the same time, ensuring services are properly funded. I have continued to keep property taxes constant since my first election in 2012. While our tax rate remains at 52 ½ cents, this does not mean we have not all felt a tax increase due to the increase in property values. I have committed, and will continue to push for, adjustments in our Homestead exemption rate to try and relieve this continued increase in property value.

My family, much like many others, moved here to enjoy a high quality of life, and the Town has a definite role in ensuring that the quality remains high for all residents. I aided in securing a new solid waste contractor, Community Waste Disposal (CWD) now providing five-day-a-week service, curbside bulk pickup, a monthly bulk drop-off point, spring cleanup event, and brush/clippings in paper sacks weekly pickup. I continue to work with and serve our youth sports leagues PASO board member.

Parks and Recreation, Code Compliance, Planning, Development Services and all the appropriate department heads to push for a quality of life that continues to improve with each new development.

I am Mike Korbuly and seek your vote and continued prayers for reelection to Town Council Place 1.

What does “Right” look like?

It is coming to the aid of Windsong Ranch neighbors with roads failing and taking immediate action to respond with corrective measures. It is turning “Red” with the residents of Prosper to take on TXDOT and their undermining process of identifying an alignment for the U.S. 380 Limited Access Roadway that does not impact the residents of Prosper. Reducing 6,500 previously approved apartments in half. No tax increases while also saving millions by reducing past interest rates. Opening of Fire station #2 “The Coop”. Approving and placing an order for a Ladder Truck. Approving a 12.5 mil. Public Safety Complex. Succeeding in the adoption of a Special Purpose District. Volunteering and supporting the needs of our youth Sports Leagues which are development driven, relaxed, and community friendly.

“Right” It is living in a community made-up of neighbor’s which have always risen above their own needs to support or come to the aid of other’s.

I humbly ask for your vote for Prosper Town Council Place 1 on May 4th, to keep “Right” in Prosper.

Email: mk4prosper@gmail.com @MK4Prosper

Collin County Voters:

May vote at Prosper Town Hall for early voting and at the PISD Adm in Building on Election Day.

Denton County Voters:

May vote at any Denton County polling site for early voting, but must vote in their precinct on Election Day. Prosper Fire Station No.2 will serve as a polling location on Election Day only.

Political Ad paid for by Mike Korbuly

PROSPER Magazine April 2019 | 21

Meet the Candidates Prosper Town Council

Marcus Ray Prosper Town Council Candidate, Place 1

In 2004, my wife and I moved to Prosper with our five young children.

Our draw to Prosper was probably similar to yours. Gwen and I wanted to live in a family-centered community with amazing schools, close to the DFW metroplex for work purposes, but not too far from our families who lived in neighboring cities.

Over the last 15 years, I’ve been privileged to work alongside Prosper’s council members who graciously volunteer their time and talents for our town. In 2006, I was appointed to the original Town Charter Committee that established the framework for Prosper. I have volunteered or served in many of the local organizations in and around Prosper some of which are coaching with PYSA, inaugural Prosper CERT, various church and school events and Board Member for our community HOA. Most recently, I was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Planning and Zoning Committee that concluded in September of last year. Sitting on these committees in an official capacity and speaking to my neighbors and other Prosper residents, I see the need for a fresh, prepared and inclusive perspective on the Town Council.

22 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

I would be honored to bring my 25-plus-years of executive leadership, business optimization and lean operational improvement experiences to our town. Having specialized in corporate integration and transformation, I will add significant value to Prosper. We live in the ‘Fastest Growing Community in North Texas’ and are known as a ‘Destination District’ for our award-winning school system. Our population has more than quadrupled since 2004. The comprehensive plan from 2012 shows the complete population density build out for Prosper to be approximately 69,000 people. With an estimated population of 26,000 in 2019, we must aggressively pursue our infrastructure build out, work to reduce the homeowner tax burden, and fight to keep 380 on 380.

Whether you are a legacy Prosper resident whose family roots run deep, moved here for the reasons my family did, arrived through a company relocation or have friends and family already in Prosper, YOU are what makes Prosper great and I want to represent you. Vote to elect Marcus Ray for Town Council, Place 1.

Let us Build

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Meet the Candidates Prosper Town Council

Steve Thomas Prosper Town Council Candidate, Place 4 My wife and I chose to raise our children in Prosper during their formative years and the town is our home. We enjoy the sense of community and appreciate the athletic, academic and other opportunities it affords our youngest residents. We are committed to public service and I look forward to the opportunity to further serve the community through Town Council.

I am a corporate audit executive for a Fortune 50 company and have two decades of experience in business and technology. I have worked with startups, non-profits, government and corporations. I have served on state-level and town boards, most recently the Prosper Parks and Recreation board. I live in Gentle Creek with Rhonda and our three children. Rhonda is a former teacher and remains active in the Prosper ISD. She serves on the Prosper Library Board and volunteers with Cornerstone.

I am committed to promoting transparency and accountability. I will represent your interests in public council and in executive session. I will be accountable for oversight and governance of our town during its next phase of growth and development.

I favor building strong relationships between our Town with neighboring municipalities and the Texas Department of Transportation to assure that the quality of life and transportation concerns of our residents are addressed in a fair and equitable manner. Keeping 380 on 380 will go far to support this initiative.

I am aligned with Governor Abbot’s proposal to slow Texas property tax growth. This approach would prevent counties and school districts from 24 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

collecting more than a 2.5 percent increase in property tax revenue than they did in the previous year without voter approval. This approval requirement would enable residents to determine if current taxation is commensurate with the desired level of town services.

Continued population increase will require more careful consideration of issues related to planning and zoning, and general land use. Town Council must be accountable for overseeing an environment that embraces smart growth and encourages development of amenities that residents want. My vision, one I share with a majority of the community, is for Prosper to remain differentiated from many of the region’s suburbs.

Necessary steps require council men and women who are accessible to their neighbors, transparent in their intentions, and accountable for their actions.

As our town enters its next phase of anticipated growth, common objectives between Town Council and the ISD are vital. Although each entity has a different charter and area of governance, we should align on growth initiatives and assure our actions are complimentary to meet immediate and long-term goals.

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Meet the Candidates Prosper Town Council

Meigs Miller Prosper Town Council Candidate, Place 4 Since 2004, my wife, Tori and I have called Prosper home. This is where we have raised our 2 daughters, Kyndall (22) and Sterling (20) from kindergarten thru twelfth grade in the Prosper School District. I have been blessed to serve our community as a Prosper Town Councilman since 2008, serving as past Mayor Pro-Tem, Deputy Mayor Pro-Tem, and serving on several committees and boards. I also volunteer my time serving on the Ute Trail board for Sky Ranch Christian camps since 2010 as well as help at local area charities. I currently serve as a deacon at Prestonwood Baptist Church where my family and I have been members since the early 1980’s. I am currently the Senior Vice President of Sales and Business Development for a national logistics company headquartered in Frisco, TX, where my skill set and experience in leading and achieving large multi-million dollar opportunities in a fast growing environment help support the needs of a Town experiencing the same.

While on Town Council I have championed, along with other leaders, to maintain the quality and excellence in our community I believe our residents have come to expect. I’ve encouraged our investments in valuable commercial developments at key corridor locations as well as in our downtown area. I’ve supported superior residential developments protecting the value our residents expect from a growing community.

I held a seat on the Town’s Comprehensive Plan Committee where we reviewed and updated our vision for the Town always looking to raise the bar with respect to standards and value. I’ve held a position on the Town’s Executive Development Team since its formation in 2012, working with developers and staff to ensure an effective and efficient process to ensure responsible development in our community. I have voted on a fiscally responsible town budget maintaining a high caliber 26 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

and standard of services the town expects, providing the best Fire and Safety departments, Town Staff, Parks, Planning and Infrastructure, all without raising the tax rate and improving our Bond Rating. Lastly, I have been a strong supporter of our ISD serving on the ISD Bond committee in 2007 and remain supportive of the upcoming ISD bond election in 2019.

My vision for Prosper remains the same as it did in 2008, maintaining a small town feel and preserving our history while embracing the inevitable growth that will come to our community. Supporting quality developments and expecting excellence in our Town staff and services. I remain true to my convictions that the Town Council has three main priorities, responsibility over the Town Manager, approve the Town budget, and consent to policy. It is at that level the Town Council should remain focused and not based on personal agendas or social media viewpoints.

I believe I have the experience required to passionately serve the Town of Prosper for another term. I’ve learned a lot serving on the Council, experiencing the pre-growth wave and slowdown of 2008 to now our tremendous season of growth we are experiencing today. I believe that experience is vital as we plan and prepare for what future councils can expect and hopefully help to pave the roads for them. I have demonstrated consistent discernment in my decision-making process and have been a reliable voice of the people of Prosper. Therefore, I’m asking for your vote again on May the 4th so that I may serve you for another term.

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Meet the Candidates Prosper Town Council

Richard “Rick” McGrath Prosper Town Council Candidate, Place 4 As a father of four and a Prosper resident, I believe that no moment is more important in the history of Prosper than now. I am committed to serve Prosper as we grow into a suburban community. We have one chance to pour the foundation of our community, my focus is getting it right the 1st time.

The most pressing issues for Prosper will be: building our infrastructure, managing commercial development, and safeguarding high-quality residential development. In all three of these situations, I believe that we need to focus on the future and build enduring value into every aspect of our community.

We are coming to a crossroads in our history in Prosper. Our small town is being overtaken by rapid suburbanization and our town leaders need to adjust to this dynamic. We must effectively scale our city services and amenities to meet these growing demands, while keeping our town motto “A Place Where Everyone Matters”. Prosper has always been committed to small town values and focused on families and building a quality living experience for all residents.

28 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

I have built a solid track record of community service and leadership.

Serving on the Town’s Parks & Rec Board, leading & serving local charities, and supporting various community functions, I want to continue my service to Prosper residents with my “Community First” approach on Town Council! Together we’ll build a town to enjoy today and be proud of in the future!

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Growing Prosper

Common Answers to Common Landscaping Questions Well it is that time of year again! The cold and the rains have subsided a bit and spring has officially sprung indeed! It’s the time when everywhere I go, everyone I know (and some I don’t) say “Hey Jimmie, I have this plant” or they frantically reach for their iPhone and say, “Can I show you a picture of this real quick?

What would you do in this area? What the heck is this weed and how do I get rid of it?” Don’t get me wrong, I love you all and it is still very humbling that people care enough to want my opinion. So I thought I would write this column with some of the more frequent dilemmas that all these friends of mine may deal with. I hope it at least helps some of you kind Prosper folks!

Part of the joy of landscaping is the care and maintenance you give to your yard. Depending on the type of plantings and the size, some gardens can require constant full-time care.

If you’re not a big fan of yard maintenance, it might be wise to design a yard that’s easy to care for. The first thing to remember with any “landscape” is that it’s a living, breathing entity. Even the simplest, easy-to-care yard will need watering, feeding, cleaning, and disease prevention.

Consider the following list of these spring projects around the yard: Flower Beds and Planting Areas: The amount of time spent here will depend on your plantings. Some plants require constant attention; others are relatively maintenance free. Most flowerbeds contain perennials, which are plants that come back year after year…but expect some to die off over the winter. Check the condition of plants during this spring and replace dead plants with new ones.

Cover ground with an organic mulch (I prefer real shredded Cedar). This will help the soil retain moisture and keeps weeds to a minimum. Many flowers do best when you 30 | April 2019 WeArePROSPER.com

dead-head them (pinch off spent blooms), which encourages more flower growth. After the first hard freeze, cut back all the branches of your plants. And cover plants with mulch to protect them during the cold winter months.

Refuse Removal: During the fall, many plants lose their leaves.

This leaf material makes a great natural mulch to cover and protect your plants against the cold winter. Remove all leaves from the lawn areas. The layer of leaves can restrict the amount of light reaching the lawn and trap water near the roots. If you have too many leaves, many cities offer leaf-pick-ups with their trash pick-ups or you may use to begin a composting area.

Hedge and Tree Trimming: Shrubs and trees need seasonal trimming.

Get a pruning instrument and cut off any dead branches. You may also need to prune back live branches that are getting out of control. Many hedges need to be re-shaped several times a summer. Electrical hedge sheers reduce a lot of arm strain on larger hedges. Do not prune or trim during the fall.

This will stimulate growth during a time when the plants should be starting their dormant phase.

Insect Control: Nature has a cycle of life, and insects are a part of that. Most healthy plants stay relatively insect-free. For the occasional infestation, consider using natural methods of removal.

Sometimes a plant can be washed down with a strong stream of water. Or many garden centers sell other insects (like ladybugs) to get rid of bugs and worms. Chemicals are also a choice; however, you should use extreme caution when applying them. They will not only harm “bad” bugs, but “good” bugs too.

They can also harm household animals, birds, children and adults when applied incorrectly.

Consider using household “natural” chemicals to control insects. (For example, placing a shallow plate filled with beer in your sluginfested garden often will attract then kill the slimy critters who chew holes in leaves.)

Spring Clean-up: This rite of spring signals the start of the growing season. Most gardens will need a good raking to clean out the leftover leaves and trash that have built up over the cold months. Consider applying a fresh layer of mulch to protect the fresh shoots from a late zapping of frost. This mulch will also keep the ground moist and cool during the summer months and keep weeds at a minimum. And over time, the mulch will work its way into the soil and revitalize it. For best results, choose a mulch made of small organic pieces--”bark fines” or another shredded material work well.

Mulch made from larger wood pieces (like cedar strips or cypress) will take a bit longer to break down into the soil.

Weeding: Ughhh! They just keep coming back!

Removing the entire unwanted “weed” by its roots is the surest way to get rid of it. Herbicides do work but use extreme caution when applying. They will not only kill the “weed” but also other nearby plants.

In planting beds, you can keep weeds to a minimum by covering the soil with an inch or two of mulch.

Mowing: The frequency depends on how much you water and feed your lawn. Mowing once a week is typical. Don’t cut the blades of grass too short. Longer grass is healthier and retains water better. Many mowers come with “mulching” option that cuts the grass into tiny bits and returns them back to the lawn. This returns important nutrients back to the soil and reduces the amount of fertilizer you need.

It also eliminates the need to bag the grass.

Sprinkler Maintenance: A well-designed, professionally-installed sprinkler system should need little maintenance over time. However, you will need to “winterize” it during the fall and start it up during the spring. Your system has several pipes that can freeze and burst during winter. Either drain or “blow out” the water from the pipes in mid fall when your yard has gone dormant. Also turn off the timer so it can’t accidentally start during the winter. In

the spring, you’ll need to re-start the system by turning on the timer and possibly turning on a master valve. (Check your system guide for details.) You can go to the Town of Prosper website to check current water restrictions in place and set your system to accommodate.

Feeding: Your yard needs food! Your lawn may need 2 to 5 feedings per growing season. And your growing beds could also use some food.

Chemical fertilizers work, however, there are several natural organic options too. Generally a 3-1-2 ratio works well for our soils.

Weed Prevention: An inch-thick layer of mulch will keep your planting beds relatively weed-free. The best weed-prevention for lawns is a healthy lawn.

Grass is a plant that grows thick and bushy when healthy. This usually will choke out any other “weeds” that could grow there. Exceptions are plants like crabgrass. These grow from seed every year. Some chemical fertilizers come with a “pre-emergent” which kills the seeds in the spring when the plants are dormant.

Core Aeration: Aerate your lawn as needed (probably every 3-5 seasons). This reduces the soil compaction and allows air and water to cycle in and out of the soil. Your lawn will thank you by growing thick and healthy every year. This will also improve drainage.

Thatching: This is a layer of dead grass that builds up over time just above the soil surface and needs to be removed. Regular aeration often removes a lot of thatch. You can also “de-thatch” your lawn in the early spring with a special machine.

Do it while the lawn is still dormant, or else you can damage your lawn.

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Perennial or Annual: When planning your flowerbeds, remember that a perennial plant is one that, once planted, will come back year after year but just looks good when its blooming, while an annual is one that is planted for only one season but looks great most of the time.

I Promise to allow more time and space for your questions in my next column, I have been extremely busy at work helping our clients! I hope some of this answered a few of them, if not you know where to find me friends!! Until next time...Happy Gardening!!

-Jimmie.

Send your landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at http://www. absolutelybushedlandscaping.com or jimmie@absolutelybushed.com Jimmie is a Prosper resident and the owner of Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Company, an award winning, family and veteran owned and operated business created in 1980 to provide the highest quality custom Outdoor Renovation available to homeowners in the Dallas Ft. Worth area.

JT Harvey Jr 214-396-5858 ext. 4002 jtharvey@innovativeavs.com www.IHAAVS.com PROSPER Magazine April 2019 | 31

Postal Customer

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S.POSTAGE PAID Prosper TX Permit #68

Prosper Summerfest June 1, 2019 Frontier Park 1551 W. Frontier Parkway In Prosper

Music Food Trucks Vendors Inflatables Games For The Kids The Movie How To Train A Dragon On A Giant Screen At Dark!

To stay up to date on this event, find us on social media at @ProsperMagazine You can also get more information by visiting www.WeAreProsper.com

If you would like Sponsorship information, or would like to apply to be a vendor at any of our events, please contact Heather Reynolds - Heather@CedarbrookMedia.com or call 972-347-6231