PROSPER - Life & Luxury Magazine | July 2023

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Life & Luxury Magazine™ ProsPer’s Community magazine sinCe 2012 July 2023 | Issue 144 WeAreProsper.com
Cosmetic Dermatology Botox, Dysport | Juvederm, Restylane, Sculptra IPL | Stretch Marks | Laser hair removal Microdermabrasion | Chemical peels Skin care evaluation and treatment Medical Dermatology Skin cancer screening | Skin cancer surgery Mole evaluation and/or removal Psoriasis treatment | Wart treatment Rashes evaluated | Acne treatment 1450 N Preston Rd, Suite 60 | Prosper, TX 75078 972-316-4555 McGuinessDermatology.com GENERAL DERMATOLOGY | COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY | SKIN CARE New Location Now Open!! 1450 N Preston Rd, Ste 60 | Prosper, TX 75078
www.ProsperDentistryAndOrtho.com 110 N. Preston Rd. Suite #10 Prosper, TX 75078 Smile Makeovers | Adult/Children’s Braces | Implants | Bridges | Wisdom Teeth Removal | IV Sedation Available Partials/Crowns | Gum Disease Treatment | Zoom! In-Office Whitening | Dentures | Veneers | Root Canal Therapy Most Insurances Accepted & Filed | Emergency Appointments Available | In-Office Sleep Dentistry 972-346-2080 $112 New Patient Special. Exam, cleaning, and X-Rays. $380 value* Free Orthodontic Consultation and Treatment Plan. $400 value Free Electric Toothbrush Heads For Life** Offers have no cash value, and cannot be combined with any other offers. Subject to changes and limitations, call for details. *New patients only, cannot be used with insurance. Regular value $380 includes healthy mouth cleaning, full mouth radiographs, and exam.** After cleaning and with purchase of Sonicare Flexcare Platinum Professional from the practice. Toothbrush head given at semi-annual cleaning/examination. Some limitations may apply. Regular value $155 toothbrush, and $30 toothbrush head 2-pack New Promotions Monthly!
Shop and Compare HEALTH INSURANCE TODAY! 5 Minutes could save you up to 40% on your Monthly Premiums! Contact TIG Today Caring for You and Your Family’s Health Luke Elliott has been a licensed insurance agent serving Collin County for 20 years. He and his family are Proud Prosper residents and look forward to serving their community! Trinity Insurance Group Specializes in Private Health Insurance for Individuals, Families, and Small Business Owners including Traditional PPO, Dental, Vision, Accident & Life in TX, OK, GA, LA, MO, FL & NC. “I finally found a health insurance plan that works for me and my family as a business owner.” Stu and Arlee - Owners of Texas Shiplap Trinity Insurance Group Prosper, TX www.TrinityInsuranceGrp.com @TrinityInsuranceGroup Luke Elliott, M.G.A. 972-571-7458
Ethan, Tammy, Luke & Trinity Elliott Photo by Contemporary Portraits

Sniffles, surgeries, sing-alongs

More than care. Connection.

Hello, neighbor! We want you to know that we’re all in this together. Because “together” is the best way to shape treatment plans made just for your child––ones that are built by a team of doctors, families and patients. That’s what it means to deliver care that connects.

Find care: cookchildrens.org/prosper

Publisher/Creative Director Jason Reynolds Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com

Director of Sales & Marketing Heather Reynolds Heather@CedarbrookMedia.com

Photography Jason Reynolds - Cedarbrook Media Group www.CedarbrookMedia.com

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Editorial

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PROSPER - Life & Luxury Magazine PO Box 405, Prosper, Texas 75078 972.347.6231 www.WeAreProsper.com

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ros P er Life & Luxury Magazine 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. ©2022. 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. A Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Publication www.CedarbrookMedia.com July 2023 | Issue 144 Life & Luxury Magazine Your Community - Your Lifestyle PROSPER | FRISCO | MCKINNEY | CELINA | ANNA | LOVEJOY FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PROSPER! For up to date news, events and web-exclusive content visit www.weareprosper.com Follow us @Weareprosper Contributing Writers Heather Reynolds | Dr. Holly Ferguson | Jimmie Gibson | Stacy Cate What’s Inside Family 8 3 Steps for Safe Fun in the Summer Sun Community 10 Prosper Receives 2022 Tree City USA Growth Award 12 Frontier Parkway Expansion Project Grand Opening Marks Major Milestone in Prosper Transportation Infrastructure in Good taste 14 Fresh Summer Flavors Fit for the Patio Homefront 18 Declutter Bathrooms in 6 Simple Steps 20 Xeriscaping: Drought-Tolerant Landscapes in North Texas Travel 22 5 Budget-Friendly Travel Tips 6 | WeAreProsper.com
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3 Steps for Safe Fun in the Summer Sun

With an abundance of activities available throughout the summer months, from swimming and hiking to organized sports and spontaneous backyard games, the sunshine leads to fun almost everywhere you look. It’s important to keep in mind a few safety precautions to help enjoy those moments to the fullest, whether your family’s excitement takes place near the water, at the ballpark or around the neighborhood. Consider this advice from the experts at the American Heart Association for a safe summer.

Stay Hydrated

Hot and humid months lead to more outdoor activities where the warm temperatures may lead to sweating and loss of fluids and electrolytes. Keeping the body hydrated is important for optimal functioning, especially in the heat. Be sure to drink plenty of water by bringing refillable water bottles and containers when summer calls for fun on the go. In addition to drinking plenty of water, you can supplement your intake by eating foods with high water content like melons, lettuce and cucumbers. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of mild dehydration, including a dry or sticky mouth, headache, muscle cramps, fatigue or decreased urination. More severe cases may include nausea or vomiting, confusion, dizziness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing, seizures, or unconsciousness.

Keep Skin Healthy

Taking steps to protect skin starts before you ever step into the sun, as

it may be easy to get caught up in the joys of summer and forget about those damaging rays. Avoiding time spent outdoors in the midday hours helps limit exposure, but it also may not be realistic for busy families with sporting events, pool dates and more. Wearing sunscreen can help reduce the risk of sunburn, skin cancer and early onset of wrinkles; experts recommend using SPF 30 or higher at least 30 minutes before heading into the sun and reapplying at least every two hours throughout long days outdoors. Also consider wearing clothing that protects skin, such as sunglasses, a large-brimmed hat and light, long-sleeved shirts and pants.

Learn CPR

With summer comes rest, relaxation and fun, but it can also bring increased risk with more time spent in the heat and around water. An average of 33 drownings occur in the U.S. each day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with one-third of them proving fatal. Knowing CPR – cardiopulmonary resuscitation – could be the key to saving someone from cardiac arrest or drowning. If performed immediately, it can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival, according to the American Heart Association. However, only about 40% of people who experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest receive help before professionals arrive.

Because about 72% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in homes, you will likely be trying to save the life of someone you love – a family member, spouse, parent, or friend – if called upon to perform CPR. Call 9-1-1, or send someone to do so, then push hard and fast in the center of the person’s chest until medical assistance arrives. Use an AED, if available, following the prompts. If you have been trained, have a pocket mask and are willing and able, give breaths as they are important for children and in situations like drowning. You can learn more about Hands-Only CPR and conventional CPR through resources provided due to the national support of Elevance Health Foundation. Find more ways to keep your family safe this summer by visiting heart.org.

8 | WeAreProsper.com ProsPer - Family
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Arbor Day Foundation Names Prosper a 2022 Tree City USA Growth Award Recipient

The Town of Prosper and Prosper Parks and Recreation Department is proud to announce that Prosper has been honored with the prestigious 2022 Tree City USA Growth Award. Presented by the Arbor Day Foundation, this award recognizes communities that have shown outstanding commitment to effective urban forest management.

A Growth Award is bestowed to a community alongside their Tree City USA recognition for demonstrating environmental improvement and a higher level of tree care. The award recognizes major milestones and annual activities in five categories: building a team, measuring trees and forests, planning the work, performing the work, and building the community framework.

“Tree City USA communities can experience the positive effects of a thriving urban canopy year after year,” said Dan Lambe, Chief Executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The trees being planted and cared for by Prosper are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program helps cultivate a sense of stewardship and pride for the trees the community plants and cares for.”

Prosper’s achievement as a Tree City USA is a testament to the Town’s commitment to environmental sustainability and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The Growth Award specifically recognizes Prosper’s exceptional efforts in expanding and improving its urban forestry initiatives.

“We are thrilled to receive the 2022 Tree City USA Growth Award,” said

Parks and Recreation Director, Dan Baker. “This accolade highlights the hard work and dedication of our staff and community in nurturing and preserving our urban forest. We are honored to be recognized for our ongoing efforts to create a greener and healthier environment for our residents.”

The Arbor Day Foundation, founded in 1972, has become the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees, boasting over one million members, supporters, and valued partners. With a vision to lead the way toward a world where trees are used to address critical survival issues, the Arbor Day Foundation has played a vital role in planting nearly 500 million trees worldwide since its inception.

The presence of trees within a community is invaluable, offering a range of benefits such as reducing energy consumption, cooling temperatures, purifying the air and water, increasing property values and providing habitats for wildlife. Prosper’s commitment to effective urban forest management demonstrates its profound understanding of these advantages and its determination to create a sustainable and thriving environment for its residents.

About the Arbor Day Foundation:

The Arbor Day Foundation is the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees. Since its establishment in 1972, the foundation has played a significant role in planting nearly 500 million trees worldwide. Through its members, partners, and programs, the Arbor Day Foundation educates and engages stakeholders and communities globally in its mission of planting, nurturing, and celebrating trees. For more information, visit arborday.org.

ProsPer - Community 10 | WeAreProsper.com
@ B E L L A A L L U R E S A L O N B E L L A A L L U R E S A L O N . C O M T H E G A T E S O F P R O S P E R

Frontier Parkway Expansion Project Grand Opening Marks Major Milestone in Prosper Transportation Infrastructure

After months of anticipation and collaboration between the Town of Prosper, the City of Celina and Collin County, June 28th was the date set to celebrate the grand opening of the newly expanded Frontier Parkway. The expansion project, a joint effort between the municipalities and county, represents a significant enhancement to the region’s transportation infrastructure. The completion of this ambitious project is a testament to the close partnership between Collin County, Prosper and Celina, who have collaborated tirelessly to make this vision a reality.

The grand opening celebration took place at the northwest corner of Children’s Health Stadium located at 2000 Stadium Dr., Prosper, TX. This momentous occasion was attended by officials, community leaders and members of the public, who were invited to witness the unveiling of this new major thoroughfare.

Frontier Parkway, previously a two-lane blacktop road, has undergone a comprehensive transformation, resulting in a modern divided, concrete, four-lane roadway. This expansion also includes provisions for future expansion to six lanes, ensuring that the infrastructure can accommodate the projected population growth in both Prosper and Celina.

One of the highlights of the project is the construction of a new bridge over the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BSNF) railroad tracks, which bisects both Prosper and Celina. The addition of this overpass will significantly enhance mobility, improve safety for motorists and reduce response times for emergency vehicles, making travel across the tracks more efficient and secure.

“The Town of Prosper is thrilled to celebrate the opening of Frontier Parkway,” said Prosper Mayor David Bristol. “This roadway will ease traffic congestion on one of our major east-west roads and provide greater and safer access to schools, neighborhoods, and local businesses. I am grateful for our strong partnership with Collin County and the City of Celina, and I look forward to working together on future infrastructure projects as we all continue to lead through these days of unprecedented growth.”

“Celebrating the completion of the Frontier Parkway project is an exciting milestone for drivers in our region,” said Celina Mayor Ryan Tubbs. “I appreciate the collaborative work with our partners in Collin County and Town of Prosper, and I am certain that this thoroughfare will positively impact residents, businesses, and schools served by this busy roadway. The City of Celina looks forward to future opportunities to work together with our neighbors to expand our shared roads as we grow.”

“Collin County has been anticipating the opening of Frontier Parkway for many years now, and I am so pleased that the time has finally come to celebrate this tremendous milestone,” said Commissioner Susan Fletcher. “This project encompassed the meticulous planning of Collin County, the Town of Prosper and the City of Celina, who overcame numerous design challenges over the years. I am so grateful for their committed partnership, and that we will now have a much safer thoroughfare, capable of handling our continued growth. Not only does this facility provide infrastructure for schools, residents and local businesses, it also removes the longstanding barrier to mobility of having to wait for a train to finally clear the roadway. This is an enormous win for our entire community.”

The construction of the expanded Frontier Parkway and the overpass was skillfully managed by Mario Sinacola and Sons, who oversaw the project from start to finish. The total cost of the project, including engineering, right-of-way acquisition, and construction, amounted to approximately $34.6 million. Funding was provided through collaborative efforts by the county, the two municipalities and the North Central Texas Council of Governments.

Frontier Parkway holds immense significance for the region, as it borders the campus of Prosper High School and provides access to the Prosper ISD Stadium, the Natatorium and Frontier Park. With its expansion and new overpass, the Parkway will play a crucial role in facilitating better connectivity, enhancing safety, and improving the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

The grand opening of Frontier Parkway represents a monumental achievement in the area’s transportation infrastructure. Officials from the Town of Prosper, the City of Celina and Collin County extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in making this project a success and appreciate the community for joining in the celebration of this momentous occasion.

ProsPer - Community 12 | WeAreProsper.com
@CedarbrookMedia 972.347.6231 CedarbrookMedia.com Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com SENIOR | PORTRAIT | SPORTS | ACTION | TEAMS

Fresh Summer Flavors Fit for the Patio

Gatherings in the summer sun are all about easy, convenient recipes combined with the joy warm weather brings. Spend those special occasions with those you love most and make this summer one to remember with flatbreads, sliders, and sweet treats for all to share.

Keeping cooking simple means more time on the patio or in the backyard engaging with guests, and these Chipotle Chicken Flatbreads, Chicken Shawarma Sliders and Lemon Cheesecake with Fruit let home chefs skip complicated kitchen duties without skimping on flavor. Visit Culinary.net to find more simple summer recipes to share with loved ones.

Summery Flatbreads for Family and Friends

When dining outdoors with family, friends and neighbors, there are few things better than a tasty dish the whole family can enjoy like these Chipotle Chicken Flatbreads. Perfect for al fresco entertaining when served alongside a fresh salad, they’re simple to make and allow guests to personalize with preferred toppings before popping in the oven. As a colorful and fresh dish, it’s an ideal meal for get-togethers on the patio. For more summer recipe ideas, visit Culinary.net.

CHIPOTLE CHICKEN FLATBREADS

Recipe adapted from butteryourbiscuit.com

2 flatbreads

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 clove garlic, diced

4 chicken tenders, cooked and cubed

1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

1/2 cup ranch dressing

1½ teaspoons chipotle seasoning

2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, chopped

Preheat oven to 375 F.

Place parchment paper on baking sheet and add flatbreads. Sprinkle cheese on flatbreads. Top with garlic, chicken, and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bake 16 minutes until cheese is melted.

In small bowl, mix ranch and chipotle seasoning.

Drizzle ranch dressing on flatbreads and sprinkle with cilantro leaves.

ProsPer - In Good Taste
14 | WeAreProsper.com

Shareable Sliders for a Nutritious Summer Meal

Fresh, mouthwatering foods hot off the grill are a sure sign of summer fun. Hosting sunny get-togethers this year can be made easy when you show off your grilling skills with a simple, nutritious, and flavorful recipe. These Chicken Shawarma Sliders are a delicious example of how to grill healthy summer meals without forgoing favorite flavors. They’re part of a curated 12-recipe collection of healthy, balanced dishes from the snacking experts at family-owned Fresh Cravings, known for its chilled salsas, hummus, and other dips, which teamed up with eMeals, America’s leading provider of meal plans.

“These sliders are a fantastic – and healthy – option for your next gathering,” said eMeals Senior Nutrition Writer and Editor Rachel West, RD. “The marinade uses a mix of pantry-friendly dried herbs and fresh garlic to give the lean grilled chicken breast some oomph. The lettuce and red onion add cool crispness and crunch to the sandwiches while Fresh Cravings’ creamy, flavor-packed hummus gets some nutritional bonus points by providing a dose of protein and fiber.” Find the entire recipe collection by visiting emeals.com/campaign/Fresh-Cravings-Healthy-Eats.

CHICKEN SHAWARMA

SLIDERS

Recipe courtesy of eMeals Registered Dietitian Rachel West

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika

1/2 tablespoon ground cumin

1/2 tablespoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 package (12) slider buns

1 container (17 ounces) Fresh Cravings Honey Jalapeno Hummus

1 package (8 ounces) shredded lettuce

1/2 small red onion, sliced

In zip-top plastic bag, use meat mallet or heel of hand to pound chicken to even thickness. Cut into 2-inch pieces and place in large bowl. Add oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt and cayenne; toss.

Cover chicken and chill 8 hours, or up to 2 days.

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken 4-5 minutes per side, or until done.

Serve chicken on buns with hummus, lettuce, and onion.

WeAreProsper.com | 15

Unforgettable Fruity Flavor

Summertime often brings cravings for fresh fruits that add a hint of sweetness to warm-weather gatherings. Serving up a delicious dessert for family and guests starts with favorite produce in this Lemon Cheesecake with Fruit.

The touch of tangy tartness is enough to bring loved ones to the dessert table even after a filling meal as fresh lemon juice in the cheesecake base is complemented perfectly when topped with orange slices and raspberries. Garnished with mint leaves, this brightly colored treat is even sweeter when shared with loved ones. Find more sweet summer desserts at Culinary.net.

LEMON CHEESECAKE WITH FRUIT

1¼ cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup butter, melted

2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

3 eggs

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 orange, peeled and separated

8 raspberries

3 mint leaves, for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 F.

In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs, fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until center springs back when lightly pressed. Chill in refrigerator until completely cooled. Arrange orange slices around border of cake and place raspberries in middle. Top with mint leaves.

16 | WeAreProsper.com ProsPer - In Good Taste

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18 | WeAreProsper.com ProsPer - Homefront

DECLUTTER BATHROOMS IN 6 SIMPLE STEPS

Due to their small size and heavy usage, bathrooms can become messy, cluttered areas for many families. For those with smaller bathrooms, storage solutions can be even harder to find. Consider these organization tips to make your bathroom a clean and functional space for every member of the family:

Assess the Mess

Go through all the cabinets and drawers to clear out unused makeup, health care products and medications. Make sure the items you keep are used on a regular basis. Items used sparingly should be placed in an alternate location.

Go Vertical

Medicine cabinets can quickly get stuffed when combs, toothpaste and other toiletries are stored horizontally. Use organizer cups with suction adhesives to contain items vertically and save space.

Hang Up in Style

Old coat racks and ladders make perfect solutions for larger families to hang multiple towels. Snag an old one from a thrift store and paint it a bright hue, like red or turquoise, for a stylish bathroom accent piece.

Avoid Spills and Squirts

Hair products, such as gels, mousses, or hairsprays, can create sticky, tough-to-clean messes if liquid escapes the container in a drawer or cabinet. Avoid such mishaps by placing these types of items in plastic tubs instead of directly in the drawer or on a shelf.

Divide and Conquer

Bathroom drawers can become unruly if not organized. To keep items separate and tidy, insert dividers, such as those used for kitchen utensils. These often come in fun materials, such as bamboo or stainless steel, to add a fresh look.

Assign Cabinets or Drawers

Try to use a large enough cabinet so each member of the family has his or her own space or drawer. This can help limit the number of items high-maintenance family members can bring into the small area. Plus, it makes it easier for everyone to find their things.

WeAreProsper.com | 19 WAYNE BARTLEY 972.658.5108 | WB@MONUMENTSTAR.COM WAYNE BARTLEY, REALTOR® Caring for Clients and Community 15550 Preston Rd | Frisco, Texas | 469-644-7665 www.prestigepp.com Dream it.. Build it.. Live it.. Now Open inside our Showroom!
Find more tips to transform your bathroom into a clean, organized environment, regardless of its size, at eLivingtoday.com.

Xeriscaping: Drought-Tolerant Landscapes in North Texas

The arid climate of North Texas presents a significant challenge for homeowners and landscape enthusiasts seeking to maintain lush, vibrant gardens. However, there is a solution that not only conserves water but also creates beautiful, sustainable landscapes: xeriscaping. Xeriscaping involves designing and implementing drought-tolerant landscapes that require minimal irrigation. This essay explores the concept of xeriscaping and its application in North Texas, highlighting its benefits, principles, plant selection, and essential techniques.

Benefits of Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping offers numerous advantages, particularly in waterscarce regions like North Texas. Firstly, it significantly reduces water consumption by up to 75%, helping to conserve this precious resource and minimize strain on local water supplies. Additionally, xeriscaping reduces maintenance requirements, as drought-tolerant plants are better adapted to survive in the region’s harsh conditions. By incorporating native plant species, xeriscape landscapes provide habitats for local wildlife and promote biodiversity. Moreover, xeriscaping can increase property value, as it presents an aesthetically pleasing and lowmaintenance option for homeowners.

Principles of Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping is guided by several core principles. Firstly, careful planning and design are essential. This involves analyzing the site’s soil, microclimates, and water availability to determine the best placement of plants and hardscape features. Secondly, efficient irrigation systems are crucial. The use of drip irrigation, which delivers water directly to the plant roots, minimizes wastage through evaporation or runoff. Mulching, another key principle, helps conserve moisture, suppresses weed growth, and insulates the soil. Selecting native and drought-tolerant

plants adapted to the region’s climate is vital for xeriscaping success. These plants have evolved to withstand the challenging conditions, requiring minimal water and maintenance.

Plant Selection for Xeriscaping

When choosing plants for xeriscaping in North Texas, it is essential to consider their adaptability to the region’s harsh climate. Native plants, such as Texas sage, Blackfoot daisy, and Mexican feathergrass, are excellent choices as they have developed natural resistance to drought and thrive in the local environment. Additionally, these plants provide habitat for pollinators and contribute to the overall ecological balance. Another consideration is incorporating succulents and cacti into the landscape. These plants, including agave, yucca, and prickly pear cactus, have adapted to survive in arid conditions by storing water in their fleshy leaves or stems. They add unique texture and visual interest to the xeriscape garden while requiring minimal watering.

To create visual diversity, it is advisable to incorporate plants with varying heights, colors, and textures. This can be achieved by combining ornamental grasses, such as muhly grass or purple fountain grass, with flowering perennials like purple coneflower or Mexican hat. Incorporating evergreen shrubs like rosemary and yaupon holly can provide year-round interest.

Essential Techniques for Xeriscaping

To maximize water conservation in xeriscape landscapes, several techniques should be employed. Proper soil preparation is crucial, as it affects water retention and drainage. Adding organic matter, such as compost, improves soil structure and enhances its ability to retain moisture. Creating berms and swales can help direct water flow and capture rainwater, allowing it to slowly infiltrate the soil. Applying an adequate layer of mulch around plants is essential for reducing water loss through evaporation and suppressing weed growth. Organic mulches like wood chips or shredded bark are preferable, as they

20 | WeAreProsper.com ProsPer - In
Good Taste

gradually decompose, enriching the soil with nutrients.

Efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation or soaker hoses, should be installed to deliver water directly to plant roots, reducing water waste. Additionally, incorporating rainwater harvesting systems, such as rain barrels or cisterns, can provide an alternative water source for irrigating the landscape during dry periods. Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure the health and vitality of the xeriscape garden. This includes periodic pruning, weeding, and monitoring for pests or diseases. Proper maintenance also involves adjusting irrigation schedules based on seasonal needs and weather conditions.

Xeriscaping offers a sustainable and visually appealing solution to landscaping in the waterscarce region of North Texas. By implementing xeriscaping principles, selecting native and drought-tolerant plants, and utilizing efficient irrigation techniques, homeowners can create landscapes that thrive in arid conditions while conserving water resources. The use of xeriscaping not only reduces water consumption but also provides numerous benefits such as lower maintenance requirements, increased biodiversity, and enhanced property value. Embracing xeriscaping in North Texas demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible landscaping practices.

Question: Jimmie, I love the look of Agave. Are there certain varieties that do better here in Prosper? We just moved here less than a year ago and our neighbor said she plants the prettiest ones, but they always die.

P. in Prosper

Answer: Welcome to Texas Jennifer! Yes, sometimes the “prettiest plants” are not the heartiest plants! Probably safe to go Whales Tongue Agave Here! They seem to be the least needy and make it through our winters just fine!

Question: Jimmie, I know your company designs and installs Backyard Courts for family’s kids to play on. What would you say is the minimum size space I would need for a Half Basketball Court?

Answer: Hello Billy! Each court we install is custom. However, we do not recommend going to much smaller than 30’ X 30’ to allow for a 3-Point Line to be hand painted on the court. Until next time… Happy Gardening Everyone!!

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. WeAreProsper.com | 21 Specializing in Mohs Surgery and Radiation Therapy as well as all other dermatologic conditions! 1050 S. Preston Road, Suite 120 Celina, TX 75009 972.390.9002 | www.mdbarrows.com MATTHEW BARROWS, MD CHRIS HIXON, DO Now Open in Celina! Acne Rosacea Eczema Itchy Skin Psoriasis Cysts & Warts Shingles Rashes Scaly Skin Dermatitis Our 12 Convenient Locations: MCKINNEY | ALLEN | ROCKWALL | DALLAS | GREENVILLE | GAINESVILLE SUNNYVALE | FORNEY | ANNA | ADDISON | DENTON | CELINA 972.347.6231 | CedarbrookMedia.com | Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com SENIOR | PORTRAIT | SPORTS | ACTION | TEAMS @CedarbrookMedia CEDARBROOK Media Photography Design

5 Budget-Friendly Travel Tips

For many people, traveling is about exploring new cultures, landscapes, cuisines, and ideas. However, the cost of the trip is still one of the most important considerations when booking a vacation.

In fact, according to a survey conducted by Slickdeals, a one-of-a-kind online community of shoppers working together to shop smarter and save more, 81% of respondents listed total cost as their top consideration followed by a desire for kid-friendly experiences at the destination and discounts or deals on transportation and lodging.

Even amid reported concerns about inflation (56%), increasing flight costs (51%) and gas prices (49%), 84% of families plan to spend the same amount or more on travel this year as last. Among the respondents, 42% plan to spend between $1,501-3,000 and 15% plan to spend $5,000 or more on travel.

While traveling is undoubtedly an investment, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Consider these tips from Pete King, deal expert for Slickdeals, to save money as you begin planning your next excursion.

Set your budget with hidden costs in mind. When setting budgets, many people stop at the basics like transportation, accommodations, and entertainment. Make sure to factor in additional costs such as pet care, food, checked luggage fees and airport and hotel parking so there are no surprises at the end of the trip.

Look for deals. Being open to a variety of destinations and travel dates can help you score the best deals. If you’re tired of switching between

booking sites or searching online for bargains, consider browsing the latest travel deals on the Slickdeals Travel Page where community members share some of the best travel deals on the internet, which can save you time and effort when looking for savings on your trip. You can even set deal alerts to be notified when deals pop up for your desired destination.

Bring an empty water bottle. While Transportation Security Administration regulations don’t allow you to bring most fluids through security checkpoints in airports, packing an empty water bottle in your carry-on or personal item can save you from high costs inside the terminal. Once you’re through security, simply fill your bottle at the nearest water fountain. An added bonus: You can take the full bottle on the airplane to stay hydrated during the flight without having to rely on the small complimentary beverage on board.

Pack less than you think you’ll need. Many people overpack, and that can be a costly mistake. A single checked bag can cost as much as $50, and some airlines charge extra for a ticket that includes a carry-on. For a weekend trip, keep it simple with a carry-on or backpack, and for longer adventures, keep in mind nobody at your destination will likely know you wore the same jeans two days in a row.

Find the right rewards credit card. If you have a rewards credit card, you could get cash back when you make certain purchases. You could get a percentage back on groceries, travel, dining and more. For example, with a travel rewards credit card, you earn points or miles that can be redeemed for future travel plans. General travel cards earn points or miles on virtually every purchase, regardless of airline or hotel chain, while co-branded cards that align with a specific airline or hotel reward users with more points for loyalty spending and provide additional benefits like free checked bags or a free night’s stay on your card anniversary. Find deals on travel and more at Slickdeals.com/travel.

22 | WeAreProsper.com ProsPer - Travel
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It’s no secret that emergencies happen when we least expect them. But when they do happen, you can count on us to be ready to handle your emergencies with advanced, compassionate care that’s close to home and with wait times typically under 10 minutes. As part of one of the largest health care systems in North Texas, Texas Health Prosper is here for you with emergency-trained physicians on the medical staff and clinical personnel prepared for serious injuries and illnesses. So you can rest assured you and your family are in caring hands.

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 9-1-1.

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