PROSPER -Life & Luxury Magazine | August 2020

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Life & Luxury Magazine™

August 2020 | Issue 109 WeAreProsper.com

Prosper’s Community Magazine Since 2012

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1450 N Preston Rd, Ste 60 | Prosper, TX 75078

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Tiffany Smith REALTORÂŽ 214.425.3233 tiffany.smith@compass.com

A modern approach to Prosper real estate.

Let Tiffany Smith guide you home.

For Tiffany, home-buying and selling becomes an extension of gracious hosting, her clients treated as treasured guests who become trusted friends. She values both her role as a strategic guide who can point buyers and sellers in a well-informed direction, and as a collaborator, encouraging her clients to take the time they need to make the best decision for their family.

By pairing her old-fashioned, small-town approach with streamlined support from the latest technology at Compass, Tiffany is redefining the real estate experience in Prosper, one family at a time.

All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate, but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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As part of your community, we want to make sure that your children have access to top-notch pediatric health care.

Onsite specialties include: • Gastroenterology • Hematology and Oncology • Nephrology • Neurology • Urology

Onsite specialties coming soon: • Cardiology • Ear, Nose and Throat • Endocrinology • Pediatric Surgery • Pulmonology • Sleep Center

Meet your new neighbors at cookchildrensnorth.org

What’s Inside Family 8

Emotionally Preparing Your Children for Back-to-School Season

Community 10 PISD News: The World Around You

Needs a Hero 12

Prosper ISD Answers Your Questions About the 2020 – 2021 School Year

14

2020 Smile Profiles

18

Bridging the Gap Between Mental Health Illness and Recovery for First Responders

Can’t Grow Anything Under that Tree of Yours?

In Good Taste 24 School-Night Meals that Deliver Taste

at a Low Cost

Fashion & Beauty 26 Tips for Teachers: Dressing Stylish

and Conservatively 28

Life & Luxury Magazine™

August 2020 | Issue 109 Publisher Heather Reynolds Heather@CedarbrookMedia.com Creative Director Jason Reynolds Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com Director of Sales & Marketing Mark Mattison Mark@CedarbrookMedia.com

Homefront 20 On-Trend Kitchen and Bath Upgrades 22

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Photography Jason Reynolds - Cedarbrook Media Group www.CedarbrookMedia.com Production/Design Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Design@CedarbrookMedia.com Editorial Please send editorial considerations to Editor@CedarbrookMedia.com PROSPER - Life & Luxury Magazine PO Box 405, Prosper, Texas 75078 972.347.6231 www.LifeAndLuxuryMagazine.com/Celina Advertising Information For media kits, contact Advertising at

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Contributing Writers Heather Reynolds | Ray Smith Jimmie Gibson | Stacy Cate

6 | WeAreProsper.com

Contributing Photography On the Cover: Rock Hill Softball Field Photo by Jason Reynolds - Cedarbrook Media Group

PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine is wholly owned and published by Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. PROSPER Life & Luxury 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. ©2020. 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 Life & Luxury Magazine nor Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC can be held liable for omissions, inexactness or errors.

CHILDREN + TEENS + ADULTS

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Life & Luxury Magazine Family

Emotionally Preparing Your Children for Back-to-School Season

B

etween sheltering-in-place, online learning and time away from friends, many children will need a little extra support as they head back to school this fall.

Consider these tips from the experts at KinderCare to help you emotionally prepare your children to return to school with confidence, optimism and excitement.

Address Your Feelings…and Theirs

washing, emphasize how your child’s actions can help keep family, friends and teachers safe.

Children often take cues about how to react from their parents. Think about what it takes for you to feel calm and prepared (or even excited) for the start of a new school year. That could mean talking with your child’s teacher or school about the safety precautions they’re taking so you can feel more at ease, taking a few minutes to establish a morning routine or stepping away from news that makes you anxious. Focus instead on the positive aspects of school, like the opportunity your child will have to learn, make friends, interact with others and grow into his or her own person.

“Children may already be apprehensive about returning to school, let alone trying to cope with new safety practices,” said Dr. Joelle Simpson, a pediatric emergency medicine physician and medical director for emergency preparedness at Children’s National Hospital. “Explaining these precautions ahead of time can help your children see them as part of the school day routine instead of something to fear. For parents, remember that while children can get sick from this virus, it occurs less frequently than in adults and at lower rates than the flu.”

“Children need a sense of belonging, and school provides an important connection point for them,” said Dr. Elanna Yalow, chief academic officer for KinderCare Learning Centers. “Nothing builds a sense of community like personal contact with friends and teachers. That connection is essential in supporting a child’s growth and development.”

Try to plan a special activity or some extra family time the week before school starts and encourage your child to participate in the planning.

Set Expectations about What to Expect Before the First Day

Some children may feel ready to go and eager to explore, while others can be more reserved or even fearful of new places, faces and routines.

When your child knows what to expect, it can go a long way in soothing any worries he or she may have about leaving home and going to school.

It’s also important to respect your child’s growing independence and empower him or her to help others. As you explain safety precautions like covering the mouth when sneezing or coughing, or proper hand 8 | WeAreProsper.com

Celebrate the Start of a New School Year

“Remember, children didn’t have time for a clean break and celebration at the end of the last school year, and this can help your child mentally adjust to a new routine and schedule,” Yalow said.

Let your child know how proud you are to see him or her growing up, learning how to be a good friend and exploring and learning about the world. Be sure to talk with your child each school day – what was learned, funny things friends said, the things that seem little but are important to your child.

For more tips about how to help your child prepare for the new school year, visit kindercare.com.

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Life & LuxuryISD Magazine Prosper

The World Around You Needs a Hero Prosper ISD, I am excited to welcome everyone back for the start of the 2020-2021 school year. A special welcome to the families who are new to Prosper Independent School District. We are happy to serve you and your child beginning the first day of school, Wednesday, August 12, 2020.

Prosper ISD remains the fastest-growing school district in Texas. We have a little over 18,500 students enrolled in Prosper ISD and we are ready to serve our students both virtually and in-person learning. This year we will be opening the doors of our brand new high school Rock Hill High School and bus transportation center.

In addition, we will be opening William Rushing Middle School and Sam Johnson Elementary on August 12th. I would like to take a moment to thank the Prosper ISD Board of Trustees for their high level of commitment to excellence. Our facilities in Prosper ISD truly set the standard for high expectations both inside and outside of the classroom and our students and staff continue to exceed our expectations.

As always, we look forward to continuing our robust extra-curricular activities for 2020-2021.

Please feel free to join us for events throughout the year. Each week you will receive the PISD Express which will contain information about the different events and upcoming events that we would love to have you attend and celebrate the moments that matter most to our students. In addition, I will share highlights of the week through a quick video entitled A Few Minutes with Dr. Ferguson.

A new normal will occur in our district on August 12th and it is a new normal that the PISD staff will embrace with love and grace. I want to take a moment to share some words of encouragement from Kevin Brown’s book, The Hero Effect. He shares the following, “Regardless of where you live, the stage of life that you are in, or how you feel about being a hero, the world around you needs a hero. The people you see every day need to be influenced by the extraordinary person you were born to be – a talented, gifted, and positive person who brings great things to your world.” Finding ways to help others realize their ability to be a hero is the magic in Prosper ISD. This is exactly how we will continue the unbelievable culture we have all come to know and love which is centered around a Prosper heart. I am so glad you all are on this journey with us.

We encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and to engage with your campus websites and principal news to stay up to date and in the know. In closing, thank you for your tremendous support of our schools! WE ARE PROSPER! WE ARE ONE! Sincerely, Dr. Holly Ferguson, Superintendent of Prosper ISD Schools

10 | WeAreProsper.com

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Life & LuxuryISD Magazine Prosper

Prosper ISD Answers Your Questions About the 2020 – 2021 School Year

ATTENDANCE

FACE COVERINGS SCREENING How will attendance be taken?

Will face coverings be required?

Will PISD screen students before class starts?

Parents/guardians are expected to screen their students for COVID-19 symptoms each day prior to sending their student to school. Routine daily temperature checks of students by school staff will not be performed.

Any student or staff member who feels feverish or displays symptoms of illness while at school will promptly have their temperature checked and be evaluated by clinic staff for recommended care and/ or exclusion from school. When excluded, the student must be cleared by the campus nurse prior to return to on-campus activity.

All students 4th grade and up and all staff will be required to face coverings in compliance with the executive order per the governor.

Students in this category with specific medical issues may be exempted from this requirement.

Contact the campus principal for the process to request exemption through a formal 504 or Special Education ARD process. Students involved in band will remove masks while playing their instruments while appropriately distanced.

In-Person learning attendance will be taken as has traditionally been taken for attendance at Prosper ISD campuses. Virtual Learning attendance measurement frequency is daily. Under an approved learning plan, students earn daily attendance through daily engagement measure(s). The approved engagement methods are Daily progress in the Learning Management System (LMS), as defined in the approved learning plan; or Daily progress via teacher-student interactions, as defined in the approved learning plan; or Completion/Turn-in assignments from student to teacher (potentially via email, on-line, or mail).

SECONDARY MEALS ELEMENTARY MEALS

RECESS How will meal times be handled for secondary students?

How will meal times be handled for elementary students?

Will children be able to enjoy recess?

Campuses will consider limiting the number of students per recess group.

Staggered schedules can be utilized when needed. All students and staff will be required to use an alcoholbased hand sanitizer before entering the playground and upon exiting the playground. Brain breaks will be implemented as needed, at the discretion of the campus/teacher.

12 | WeAreProsper.com

Students that need breakfast will be able to purchase a “grab and go” meal.

Teachers will monitor in the cafeteria and hallways to ensure social distancing.

Depending on the number of students enrolled in grades K-5, plans for lunches to be eaten in the cafeteria as well as the classroom will be developed accordingly.

Six-foot distance "where feasible" around all occupiable assigned seats will be provided while maintaining the student’s consistent cohort for “in-person” lunches.

Lunchtimes will be staggered by class every 10 minutes with sanitation blocks between hallways.

Depending on the number of students in the school, students may have meals in both the cafeteria and in classrooms.

Cafeteria capacity will be based on current guidelines. Physical distance will be provided around each occupiable seat. Meals will be packaged as “grab and go” to ensure ease of pick up and transport to eating location. Signage and staff will reinforce physical distance and traffic patterns in the cafeteria.

Microwaves will not be provided in the cafeteria due to the opportunity for cross-contamination with a high-touch device. Hand sanitizer stations will be available at entrances and exits of the cafeteria.

GRADES

WAYNE BARTLEY How will grades be calculated for in-person vs. virtual learning?

The curriculum covered will be the same in person and virtual so students will be held to the same exact standard when it comes to grading.

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How will rules regarding attendance/absences be modified?

If the student is showing sign of COVID-19 and will need to be out of instruction for an extended period of time, the school will recommend virtual learning so the student can continue learning.

If the student is diagnosed with, Strep, etc. and will return to schools in a matter of days they would be absent (medical excuse, or parent note) and then return to school just like they would under normal circumstances.

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How will STAAR be handled this year?

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TEA has published dates for the STAAR test in the Spring of 2021.

Should we still be conducting education in a virtual format, the state would obviously be forced to make some changes at that time.

For a full list of FAQ’s from Prosper ISD, please visit www.prosper-isd.net/domain/5229.

WeAreProsper.com | 13

Life & Luxury Magazine Profile

Profile

2020

Prosper Family Dentistry has worked to meet the dental health needs of Prosper and its surrounding communities since 2004, when it was the first and only dental practice in town. As the community has grown over the past sixteen years, this practice has grown with it. Despite its many challenges, the year 2020 has been one of noteworthy change at Prosper Family Dentistry.

The first important change is the participation with multiple dental insurance carriers as innetwork providers. Dr. Jill Sentlingar, owner and general dentist at Prosper Family Dentistry, implemented this change as she saw that it aligns with her mission of caring for her community.

The next significant change is the growth from two to three doctors. This summer, PFD welcomed Dr. Summer Bryce to its team of exceptionally compassionate and skilled dentists. Dr. Summer earned her dental degree from the University of Missouri in Kansas City, where she was awarded for academic achievement and skill in pediatric dentistry. She and her husband Kingsley moved to Texas, where they enjoy being active in their church, sports, cooking, and exploring various cultures. Read her bio on the PFD website.

Prosper Family Dentistry operates under a unique perspective of dental care. In Dr. Jill’s words: “We recognize that oral health is an integral part of a person’s overall health. Our emphasis on comprehensive care motivates us to look for underlying health problems that may lead to signs or symptoms in the mouth. We often have conversations with our patients regarding issues like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, and acid reflux. When people understand how these medical problems relate to the mouth, they begin to appreciate the need for great oral health. We love helping our patients make that connection!�

14 | WeAreProsper.com

This unique perspective on a completely healthy mouth includes the integration of advanced technology into the diagnosis and treatment of patients. Dr. Jill, Dr. Cara and Dr. Summer believe that gathering as much information as possible is an essential component of providing patients with comprehensive care.

Our thorough dental imaging includes: Low-radiation digital x-rays, including 3D imaging Zero-radiation transillumination with the CariVu High-definition intraoral photography The doctors at PFD combine thorough oral evaluations, including detailed gum measurements, with imaging to form a complete picture of each patient’s mouth. This picture shows the doctors areas of oral health in which a patient has specific risk factors. By recognizing risk factors, they provide education and make recommendations for preventive measures to lower the patient’s risk for future or worsening dental disease.

Recognition of risk factors is essential to providing dental care that is both preventive and conservative.

Prospective patients can get a feel for the thorough and compassionate relationship-based care provided by Dr. Jill, Dr. Cara, and Dr. Summer through reviews posted by patients on the PFD website, Google and Facebook. Our over 1000 glowing reviews prove that the doctors consistently deliver excellent dental experiences.

To learn how PFD is protecting the health of its patients and team members during this pandemic, visit www.ProsperFamilyDentistry.com.

Prosper Family Dentistry 201 N. Preston Rd, Suite A Prosper, Texas 75078 972-347-1145 www.ProsperFamilyDentistry.com

Profile

Dr. Tom Chandler completed his undergraduate studies at Indiana University, where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology in 1996.

He earned a scholarship from the Army to attend the Case School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland Ohio. While at Case, he served as class president for three years, and student council president his last. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree in 2001. Dr. Chandler was commissioned as a Captain, and served as Dentist for the 75th Ranger Regiment at Ft. Benning, Georgia, where he completed his active duty commitment. He received an Army Commendation Medal for clinical excellence and service, along with the Army Physical Fitness award all three years. Following his service Dr. Chandler completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, 2004. He went on to receive his Fellowship Award from the Academy of General Dentistry in 2005. Dr. Chandler has active memberships in the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, North Texas Dental Association, and Dallas County Dental Society.

Profile

2020

are, they will be able to meet your needs. For those patients who have anxiety towards treatment, they offer several options to make your visit comfortable including Nitrous Oxide, Oral, and IV Sedation.

A happy, well informed patient is the key to a successful Dental Practice.

Dr. Chandler believes what sets him apart from others is his philosophy on Dental Care. He lives his life by the Golden Rule of the Bible‌Do to others as you would like them to do to you (Luke 6:31). When treating his patients, he pretends he is the one in the chair. How he interacts and treats them is the same way he would want someone to treat him. Rarely does this philosophy not allow him to have a successful outcome, and hence a happy patient. Please visit him at www.prosperdentistryandortho. com for more information.

Prosper Dentistry & Orthodontics 110 N. Preston Rd, Suite #10 Prosper, Texas 75078 972-346-2080 ProsperDentistryandOrtho.com

Dr. Chandler married his wife Jennifer in 2006, and they have two beautiful boys - Vince and Max. He loves spending time with his family! He also enjoys music, sports, and the outdoors. Dr. Chandler and his family moved to Prosper in 2014, and he loves everything about the area. He enjoys practicing and being involved in the community where he lives. His patients are his friends, and he likes seeing them in the office and around town. Dr. Chandler believes what makes his practice different from others is that he has a wonderful team of individuals who truly care about their patients, and making the office a warm comfortable environment to have your dental work done. He offers a wide variety of Dental Services at his practice, including everything from cleanings, fillings, and root canals; to braces, extractions, and dental implants. Whatever your circumstances WeAreProsper.com | 15

Life & L

Life & Luxury Magazine Profile

Achieving optimal dental results often requires collaboration between a restoring dentist and a dental surgical specialist. At Texas Dental Surgery, they offer the complete scope of surgical procedures as their office has an oral surgeons, John-Michael Stewart, DMD and Andrew Arango MD, DDS, and periodontist, Stephen Walker, DDS, MS. For patients requiring multi-specialty treatment, this encapsulates the treatment, insurance, appointment trips and ultimately reduces stress for our patients.

They believe that close communication with your referral dentist provides the best care for their patients. They board certified and accept numerous PPO insurance plans. Their partnership allows a team approach of two different specialists for your care. The doctors are all natives of North Texas and are excited in being valued members of the Prosper community.

Profile

2020

John-Michael Stewart, DMD (Oral Surgeon) Dr. Stewart is originally from Dallas, Texas. He attended Cistercian Preparatory School and Southern Methodist University. For the Mustangs, he was the place-kicker on the football team and was awarded Kodak All-American in 1993. After college, he went to Boston University School of Dental Medicine.

He graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1998 with his dental degree. His interest in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery led him back to Dallas for residency with the single aim to become a leading oral surgeon in the United States. He completed specialty training at the University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Memorial Hospital in 2004. During this time, he received a medical degree from UT-Southwestern Medical School in 2002 and was certified as a legal practicing oral surgeon.

Stephen Walker, DDS, MS (Periodontist) Dr. Walker is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Periodontology. He grew up in Dallas and attended Baylor College of Dentistry. While at Baylor, he was a member of the Odontological Honors Society and was selected to receive the Oral Biology Award and Merritt-Parks Award in Periodontics. After earning his D.D.S. degree, Dr. Walker continued his education in Periodontics 16 | WeAreProsper.com

at Baylor College of Dentistry. At the end of his three-year residency, Dr. Walker received his certificate in Periodontology and Master of Science degree.

During his periodontal residency, he served as chief resident and conducted research analyzing the bone response to a new implant surface. His research was published in the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants.

Andrew Arango, MD, DDS (Oral Surgeon) Andrew earned his bachelor’s degree from Saint Louis University. He continued his education at The University of Texas-Health Science Center in Houston, where he received his dental degree. Dr. Arango became drawn to surgery during dental school and went on to attend medical school at the University of Texas-Health Science Center in San Antonio. After graduating medical school, Dr. Arango completed an internship in general surgery and then completed a residency in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Texas-Health Science Center in San Antonio.

As an oral & maxillofacial surgeon who is both a licensed physician and a licensed dentist, Dr. Arango is uniquely qualified to perform surgeries of the face and of the oral cavity. He practices the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with an emphasis in orthognathic/reconstructive jaw surgery, sleep apnea, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstructive surgery. He also has special interests in dental implants, wisdom teeth, bone grafting, and facial trauma.

Their procedures include, but are not limited to: Extraction of Wisdom Teeth Dental Implants, Implant supported denture surgery Bone and Gingival Grafting Exposing Impacted Teeth for Orthodontists Gingival Contouring for Esthetics Treatment of Gum Disease TMJ and Orthognathic (jaw) surgery Texas Dental Surgery 469-296-8680 1180 N. Coit Rd, Suite 40 Prosper, Texas 75078 www.TxDentalSurgery.com

Profile

Life & L

SERVICE AND SMILES REMAIN THE SAME

The moment you step through the doors at Bietsch Orthodontics, you’ll

know you’re somewhere special. The warm smiles and cheery greetings from our front desk staff will make you feel at home and that warmth extends throughout our practice. Our clinical and customer service team members have been chosen because of their skills, training, and commitment to patient care. They are personable and genuinely enjoy building real friendships with our patients and families. Our team members know the difference a beautiful smile makes in a person’s life and are thrilled to help you achieve your best smile!

2020

Profile

Dr. Bietsch is a veteran in orthodontics with over 21 years as an orthodontist. Dr. Bietsch offers leading edge technology, a highly skilled team and friendly chair side service to all his patients. When not in the office treating patients, you will find Dr. Bietsch treating patients at all Prosper, Celina and Gunter Schools on the fully equipped Bietsch Brace Bus. Our Brace Bus saves teachers, parents, and students time with an average appointment time of five minutes out of class. We are committed to making orthodontics easier for families while offering the very best service and treatment in the area.

PROTECTING AGAINST COVID-19 Our scheduling coordinators minimize the chance of exposure in our office by sending out reminder texts, emails, voicemails and calls to our patients advising them if they have a fever of over 99 degrees that they should not come in and reschedule there orthodontic appointment.

When patients do arrive for an appointment, reception staff conduct an outdoor screening for patients and family members as well as take their temperatures. Our team adheres to standard contact and airborne precautions, including the use of eye protection, face shield, N95 mask, gloves, and equipment UV light treatment daily. Our fulltime sterilization technician disinfects our office after each patient and manages patient and visitor access along with the movement within our office.

Your safety is our top priority.

Bietsch Orthodontics 221 N. Preston Rd, Suite A Prosper, Texas 75078 972.347.2222 www.BietschOrthodontics.com

Dr. Tom Bietsch

WeAreProsper.com | 17

Life & Luxury Magazine Community

Bridging the Gap Between Mental Health Illness and Recovery for First Responders

By Ashley Henson

Photo by Jason Reynolds - Cedarbrook Media

P

rosper is now home to a unique mental health program helping first responders across North Texas. 3 ForTheLove is a non-profit organization started by Jennifer and Brian Halley in June 2018 to help meet the growing need for first responder support through counseling, peer support, and customized treatment plans. In the Fall of 2018, 3FTL joined forces with Dr. Marcy Henson, DNP APRN FNP-C of Family Focused Care to provide comprehensive treatment for fire, police, EMT’s, and other first responders.

In 2018, Jennifer and Brian Halley felt called to serve local first responders by using their unique skills and experiences. The mental health problems that first responders encounter as a result of their heroic, yet traumatic experiences are astounding. According to the 3FTL website, “Currently the First Responder suicide rate has surpassed their line of duty deaths.”

Brian and Jennifer were motivated to action because of the struggles they saw facing local heroes, and 3 ForTheLove was born. Now, 3FTL’s Board of Directors is made up of Jennifer and Brian Halley, Dr. Marcy Henson, DNP APRN FNP-C, Derek Martin, a systems developer and integrator for Microsoft, and Shawn Brightman, captain for the Frisco Fire Department and shift safety officer.

3FTL is spearheaded by Jennifer Halley, who serves as owner, president, and treatment coordinator. Jennifer currently holds a B.S. and M.S. degree, and she just completed her second master’s degree in Psychology with a focus on trauma. Her experience with her own mental health and her marriage to Brian, who has been a firefighter and paramedic for over 19 years, have provided her with the knowledge and skills to assist first responders through their mental health journeys.

Jennifer’s partner in therapy, Jester, is a favorite around the office. Jester is a one-and-a-half-year-old golden retriever who assists Jennifer with loving and comforting first responders during their treatment. He was donated 18 | WeAreProsper.com

to 3FTL by Patriot Paws, an organization that trains service dogs to sense and soothe anxiety. When patients have to talk through difficult traumas, Jester is right there to lay his head in their lap and bring them comfort.

Jester has learned to pray for his patients before each visit by bowing his head and holding hands with Jennifer, and there is always a treat waiting for him after he says amen.

The 3FTL program involves extensive counseling with Jennifer and two trauma counselors, careful management of medications by Dr. Marcy Henson, DNP APRN FNP-C, and peer support groups led by Brian and Shawn. The program is intensive and involves EMDR therapy, a form of psychotherapy specifically designed to alleviate the anxiety surrounding traumatic events in PTSD patients. The program also includes counseling and peer groups for the spouses of the participants, who help provide the necessary support and encouragement to participants even when they are not in the office. Each participant has his or her own customized treatment plan, and the team works hard to ensure everyone receives the support they need.

If you would like to support 3 ForTheLove, you can donate through their website to assist first responders with the financial portion of their recovery. You can also volunteer to work with Patriot Paws to help train dogs like Jester to help patients through their recovery. Sometimes, the greatest support you can offer is a smile or a simple “thank you.” Next time you encounter a first responder, make sure you thank them for their commitment to keeping us safe.

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WeAreProsper.com | 19

Life & Luxury Magazine Homefront

On-Trend Kitchen and Bath Upgrades

K

itchens and bathrooms remain among the top picks for homeowners looking to upgrade because their functional contributions to the household can’t be overstated and they typically provide high return on investment.

If you’re considering a renovation project for either in-demand space, consider some of these on-trend ideas from Doug King, CR, MBA, owner of King Contracting, Inc. and president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

KITCHEN Bigger Functional Spaces: Not only do many kitchen renovations result in added square footage, they also add practical features to make living and entertaining more comfortable and enjoyable. When it comes to physical space, a popular choice is removing or relocating walls to make the room larger.

This added space can be instrumental in adding an island or peninsula for bar seating, which many homeowners view as a necessity when it comes to entertaining. Other features like icemakers, tall wine refrigerators and 20 | WeAreProsper.com

walk-in pantries are high on the frequent request list. Another growing trend is a kitchen designed for two, complete with a second full-size sink, dishwasher and microwave drawer, along with a larger island.

Clever Storage: Making the most of storage space has always been a top desire, and homeowners are getting increasingly clever about how to maximize their cabinetry. Drawer organizers are in high demand, along with pull-out waste baskets that hide recycling bins within. Another popular approach is large base cabinets with pivoting shelving mechanisms for storing large items like mixers and other taller countertop appliances. Making use of every inch of space is common; even the toe-kick area for drawers are proving useful to hold smaller items or put kid-friendly essentials in easy reach.

Feature-rich Appliances: Appliance manufacturers are adding all kinds of bells and whistles, and those features are increasingly attractive to homeowners. Upper-end appliances are becoming more mainstream as homeowners discover features the more expensive models offer for ease of use and comfort. Larger freezer and column-style refrigerators are especially growing in popularity.

Local Expertise Innovative Approach Real Integrity S TA C Y C AT E BATHROOM Spa-like Setting: One long-term trend that is still in top demand for the master bath is design that mimics a serene spa. This plays out in cooler colors like white, blues and grays. Glass tiles are taking on a bigger role with many homeowners using them as artistic focal points in showers or opting for pebble-like tiles that spill from walls onto the floor.

Upscale Practicality: Little touches that may have once gone unnoticed are now trending as opportunities to add elements of style.

For example, curbless showers with offset lineal drains are preferred to traditional centered circular versions. Similarly, homeowners are upping the ante with lighting such as fixtures integrated with fans and mirrors, and even below floating vanities for ambient light at night.

One more place you might find lighting: on the bidet, which is also an increasingly hot addition in the master bath.

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A Splash of Tech: Whether it’s used to control smart features or simply add entertainment like TV or soothing music, technology has a permanent place on the list of bathroom trends. The available features make it easy to make a full escape from the daily grind of life.

Find more inspiration and trending ideas for your next home improvement project at remodelingdoneright.com.

WeAreProsper.com | 21

Life & Luxury Magazine Growing Prosper

Can’t Grow Anything Under that Tree of Yours?

Consider a Good Groundcover!

By Jimmie Gibson Jr. owner of Absolutely Bushed Landscaping

G

round covers are low-growing plants; usually less than 12 inches tall, that spread to form dense mats which bind and hold the soil in place. Many also have a season of effective bloom. Turf grass is the most common ground cover. However, sites that are less suitable for turf grass, such as slopes, steep banks, and shaded areas, can often grow other ground covers successfully.

A well-established ground cover generally requires less maintenance than the typical turf grass lawn. Ground covers are not totally maintenance-free, nor will they always tolerate conditions that will not support a turf.

There are many ways of trying to control weeds. We can remove them by hoeing them out or by burning them with a flame gun! We can try to prevent them growing by putting down mulches. Each of these methods has their advantages and disadvantages and each has situations where they are applicable. This month, we will look at another method of controlling weeds - by growing carefully selected plants that can spread to cover the ground and that will out-compete the weeds.

Primary Advantages of Ground Cover: 1. By covering the ground with a carpet of vegetation, it prevents the germination of weed seeds.

2. When established, it prevents the ingress of perennial weeds.

3. It protects the soil from erosion and water loss. This can be particularly useful on steep slopes.

4. It acts as an insulating cover for the soil, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

5. It is living mulch that helps to build up humus levels in the soil.

6. Very low maintenance!

Selecting a Ground Cover When deciding which ground cover to plant, consider the plant’s height, spread, blooming period, seasonal foliage color, texture, drought tolerance, and whether it is deciduous or evergreen. The planting site also will affect your choice because each ground cover has specific

22 | WeAreProsper.com

requirements. Some of my favorites include Mondograss (Dwarf and Regular), Liriopes (lots of varieties here, but mostly see Big Blue, Variegated and Silver Dragon around here), Vinca (Minor and Major), Asian Jasmine and Purple Wintercreeper.

Preparing the Soil A soil test will indicate the site’s fertility and pH. Most ground covers prefer a slightly acid to neutral soil (between pH 6.0 and 7.0). If the soil is low in nitrogen, incorporate enough 1:2:0 or 1:2:1 fertilizer to apply 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, or about 30 to 40 pounds of 5-10-5 per 1,000 square feet. Applying highly available phosphorus as a starter fertilizer is beneficial for root initiation and plant establishment.

Many ground covers develop crown rot in heavy clay soils that don’t drain well. Adding coarse organic matter, such as composted or aged manure, peat moss, or compost can improve the drainage of heavy clay soils and increase the water-holding capacity of light sandy soils. Rototill or spade the soil to a 6-inch depth and thoroughly incorporate the organic matter at a rate of two to three bushels per 100 square feet. A good quality brand of Landscaping Mix helps too!

Soil preparation can cause serious erosion on steep slopes. Working the soil across the slopes in 12- to 24-inch wide bands alternated with undisturbed soil will help reduce erosion. Mulching the slope with a fiber mat will further reduce erosion while conserving moisture and reducing weed competition.

Planting Ground covers should be planted in the spring or fall. However containerized stock can be planted anytime during the growing season if proper planting and maintenance procedures are followed.

The number of plants needed depends on the spacing of the individual plants their rate of growth and how fast you want the space to fill in.

You may want to densely plant a small, highly visible area for rapid fill,

but a large area may require sparser planting, with several years being allowed for covering the site.

When planting rooted cuttings, don’t allow them to dry out. Plant them at the proper depth and firm the soil around the roots to ensure good soil-root contact. Watering small sections as you plant will prevent the roots from drying out. Ground covers can be planted in either straight or staggered rows. Staggered rows help reduce erosion on slopes by retaining runoff.

Watering Water new plantings thoroughly and regularly until the roots become established. Once established, water as needed for the ground cover you’ve selected--each type has different requirements--but apply at least 1 inch of water at each watering to moisten the entire root zone. Applying less water results in a shallow root system which makes the planting more susceptible to drought injury.

Controlling Weeds Control weeds to enable the newly planted ground cover to form a dense mat. When properly established, ground covers can successfully compete with weeds. Hand weeding is effective but can be time consuming.

Mulching is a practical way to reduce weeds.

Nonaggressive annual flowers can also be used to fill in spaces in a new planting. They help shade out weeds but do not inhibit the spreading growth of the ground cover. Be sure to provide enough moisture for both plant types so competition is not an issue.

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Pre emergent herbicides can be used to control weeds in large plantings. Dacthal, Treflan, Dimension and Dymid can be used on most ground covers, but always check the label for specific information on the particular plant. If perennial weeds, such as bindweed or annual grasses, are a problem, consider fumigating the site with Vapam after preparing the soil.

Wait at least two weeks before planting and cultivate the soil again to be sure the chemical has dissipated.

Mulching Mulching serves many purposes in a ground cover planting. Two to four inches of mulch around the plants helps control weeds, maintains a more constant soil temperature, conserves soil moisture and reduces erosion on slopes. However, be aware that mulching Ground Cover areas can also result in significantly slowing the growth rate of your new ground cover. If you just absolutely hate the thought of weeding, then Ground Cover with mulch may be a good fit for you. 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.

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WeAreProsper.com | 23

Life In &GLuxury ood Magazine Taste

School-Night Meals that Deliver Taste at a Low Cost 24 | WeAreProsper.com

Regardless of what back to school looks like this year, preparing family meals throughout the week does not have to be a challenge.

Shopping at a store like ALDI can stretch your budget and help you make five different meals over five days for about $5 a meal pretax for a family of four.

Using a mix of kitchen staples you already may have, along with fresh ingredients, you can make delicious, affordable recipes for the whole family. Simply select a protein or main ingredient and explore versatile ways to build other meals around it during the week.

Grilled chicken breasts are ideal for on-the-go lunches or weekday dinners. Busy parents can get dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes with an easy Chicken Cacciatore in the pressure cooker or simple prepahead Chicken Enchiladas. These convenient dishes make it a snap to add variety by substituting chicken with shrimp, beans or vegetables.

Serving organic produce, fresh and frozen meats, seafood and onthe-go snacks can be easy when you shop at a store like ALDI for the back-to-school season. Plus, you can find foods to fit any dietary style without breaking the bank.

PRESSURE COOKER CHICKEN CACCIATORE Recipe courtesy of “Pinch of Yum” on behalf of ALDI 1-1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts or chicken thighs flour 1 pinch salt, plus 2 teaspoons, divided 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 onion, diced 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup chicken broth 1 bell pepper, diced 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes 4 tablespoons butter capers (optional) parsley, plus additional for topping (optional) lemon preferred pasta Parmesan cheese (optional)

1/4 teaspoon cumin salt, to taste pepper, to taste Enchiladas: 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed 10 ounces diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese, divided 16 ounces restaurant-style salsa, divided 10 whole-wheat tortillas Optional Toppings: Diced avocado Plain Greek yogurt Cilantro Preheat oven to 400 F. Spray 9-by-13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

In medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook onion until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer to large bowl and set aside.

To make chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin and salt and pepper, to taste. Add chicken to same skillet over medium-high heat. Cook 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Use fork and knife to shred chicken.

To make enchiladas: In large bowl with cooked onion, add shredded chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, green chilies and 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese. Use spoon to mix well.

Pour 1 cup salsa on bottom of greased pan and use spatula to spread evenly. Scoop about 1/2 cup chicken and veggie mixture into each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam side down in pan.

Top enchiladas with 3/4 cup salsa and remaining shredded cheese; use spatula to spread evenly.

Cover pan tightly with foil and bake 25-30 minutes. Remove from oven; serve hot. Add avocado, yogurt and cilantro, if desired.

Find more family meal solutions at aldi.us.

Dredge chicken in flour and pinch of salt. Turn on sauté function on pressure cooker. Add oil; sauté chicken 2-3 minutes on each side.

Remove and set aside (chicken will finish cooking later).

Add onion, mushrooms and garlic. Sauté until softened. Add broth and let sizzle out.

Add chicken, bell pepper, tomatoes and remaining salt to pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure 15 minutes. Release pressure.

Shred chicken. Stir in butter, capers, parsley and lemon. Serve with preferred pasta and top with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

EASY CHICKEN ENCHILADAS WITH BLACK BEANS Recipe courtesy of “Wellness for the Win” on behalf of ALDI Nonstick cooking spray 1 medium onion, chopped Chicken: 1 pound chicken breasts 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder

WeAreProsper.com | 25

Life & Luxury Magazine Fashion

Tips for Teachers: Dressing Stylish and Conservatively

W

hether it’s your first year or your 25th year working in education, it’s never too late (or too early) to get your work wardrobe in check. Whether you’re the one covering the morning announcements or have to worry about finger paint stains on the daily, here’s the A+ work wardrobe that will last all year long.

INVEST IN BASICS Investing in the essentials can make or break your morning.

Just think, if you start with a strong foundation, all you have to do is add in fun pieces to simplify your life and bring a little bit of fun and spirit to your daily outfit rotation. Our biggest piece of advice? Find perfectly tailored trousers, a black pencil skirt, a smattering of solid blouses and one pair of comfortable, go-to work shoes. The rest will follow.

GIVE TRENDS A TRY The rules of workplace wear have shifted…but before you dive headfirst into the season’s latest trends, be sure to check with the student (and teacher) handbook. Leave the off the shoulder tops at home, but do swap in the seasonal silhouettes—like flared sleeves and hems, feminine details, and the color palette du jour.

DRESS TO IMPRESS Your schedule is packed! From molding young minds to meeting the parents, there’s no time to do a quick change in between the bell. Instead, style outfits that will last all day long and pull double duty for the meetings on your schedule. You can never go wrong with a classic button-up, but sharpen it up a with a jacket that you—like a lightweight moto or a sharp trench.

CLASSROOM COMFORT Comfort is key when it comes to outlasting your students.

Flowy tops, relaxed dresses, and pants with stretch will earn you straight A’s in style points and help you get through the day. When it comes to footwear, get feet-friendly styles like ankle boots, flats, and fashion sneakers.

Are you more of a to-do list or checklist person? Here’s your staple pieces at a glance: Perfect-fitting jeans A wrap-front dress that flatters your shape Easy-to-wear button-up blouses Search out knee-length skirts, think flattering A-lines and pencil skirts in graphic prints A chic blazer with key details (think: bold lining & gold buttons) Work slacks that fit you like a glove.

Wrap-front dresses that flatter every figure A textured, heavyweight cardigan A lightweight cardigan for summer (AC-proof!)

Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to be voted “Best Dressed” by year’s end.

Article compliments of Stitch Fix Visit http://www.stitchfix.com to schedule your fix!

26 | WeAreProsper.com

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WeAreProsper.com | 27

Life & Luxury Magazine Beauty

Wake Up Refreshed Simple Ways to Begin your Morning

Ready, set, go. Just as you would set off at the starting line of a race, this hectic pace is how mornings begin for many men and women.

Instead of waking with dread to face another hectic morning, consider these tips for a healthier way to ease into your daily rituals. While these activities may require you to allow extra time, you may be pleased with the productive results.

MEDITATE A practice that has been around for thousands of years may still be one of the best stress busters for hurried mornings. To start, find a place in your home that is free of noise and distraction. Practice sitting still, with eyes closed, and focus only on your breathing. Using deep, controlled breaths, try to steer your thoughts away from negative and stress-inducing thoughts.

28 | WeAreProsper.com

STRETCH While the most health-conscious person may opt for a morning sweat-athon, working in some stretches can also be beneficial. When you awake, think about oft-used muscles, and extend each one for 15 – 30 seconds.

ACTIVATE Give your brain some fuel in the morning while also doing something nice for your mind. For example, journaling is a gentle way to ease into your morning and get your brain firing. If you can’t think of a topic, simply write down a few affirmations for the day, revisit a pleasant memory from your past or scribble down a goal for the week. Journaling can be an uplifting way to engage the mind and express gratitude for the day ahead.

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WeAreProsper.com | 29

Life & Luxury Magazine Travel

Try a New Way to Travel

D

espite the COVID-19 pandemic, families are still finding ways to make the most of unusual schedules to plan a getaway. With more flexible work and school arrangements, many families are embracing the idea of a “flexcation,” an emerging travel trend where families rent vacation homes later in August, September and October, consider staying longer to mix work and play, and often get better value in high-demand locales.

“Though this year has been incredibly difficult for families, it’s inspiring to see how they have become resilient and resourceful by choosing alternative ways and dates to take vacations,” said Lish Kennedy, vice president of brand marketing at Vrbo. “More flexibility in our work and school schedules is allowing families to enjoy a welcome change in their surroundings and a relaxing break together.” If you missed out on your family’s annual summer trip this year or just want to take advantage of more flexibility in your work and school routines, consider these reasons to take a flexcation:

Save Money and Avoid Crowds Prices for vacation rentals typically drop during shoulder season, the time period after Labor Day and before the holiday travel season. Families not tied to strict in-person school or work commitments can benefit from fewer crowds and lower prices by choosing later travel dates. For example, you can find drops of at least 20% in average nightly rates for vacation homes in popular destinations like Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Cape May, New Jersey; and Ocean City, Maryland, through October compared to prime summer travel dates.

See Familiar Places in New Ways Traveling during a different time of year lets you see favorite destinations from a different perspective. It’s a chance to create new family experiences together, like seeing the leaves change colors or visiting the beach when temperatures are milder.

Stay Longer Travel data from Vrbo indicates families want to take longer vacations.

With the ability to work remotely or complete online assignments anywhere there’s a Wi-Fi connection, there’s no need to cut a weekend trip short to get back in time for class or punch the clock on Monday morning. If a full week isn’t realistic, you might consider an extra-long weekend, extending your trip from Thursday – Monday instead of the more traditional Friday – Sunday.

Enjoy a Change of Scenery According to a study from New York University, people feel happier when they have more variety in their daily routines, such as going to novel places and having a wider array of experiences. After months of sheltering in place, a flexcation may be an ideal way to reestablish a healthy sense of balance.

Before you go, be sure to research how COVID-19 might affect your travel plans, including any travel restrictions, quarantine policies or changes in hours and access to popular attractions in the area. It’s also a good idea to make sure you understand and verify details about your accommodations before you make reservations, such as enhanced cleaning procedures at the property and flexible cancellation policies.

Start planning your next trip at vrbo.com.

30 | WeAreProsper.com

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