“My cardiologist suggested the Watchman™ implant so I could get o blood thinners. It will certainly ease my mind.”
— Larry Minter, DVM
A leader in cardiac disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, Methodist Richardson Medical Center uses some of the latest treatments and therapies like the Watchman™ implant. This innovative device helps patients like Larry Minter, who have atrial fibrillation, reduce the risk of stroke. It can also mean peace of mind. Don’t give your heart to just anyone. Trust. Methodist. For a referral to a cardiologist, call 877-637-4297 or visit MethodistHealthSystem.org/Richardson-Heart
Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Richardson Medical Center, Methodist Health System, or any of its affiliated hospitals. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.
McGuiness Dermatology & Aesthetics boasts a highly skilled staff and cutting-edge technology that is hard to rival. The staff is dedicated to helping all patients with every possible skin condition they might be facing.
The dermatologists at McGuiness Dermatology & Aesthetics are not only board certified and experienced, but they also have a compassion for their patients. Dr. Michael McGuiness and Dr. Leisa Hodges show they care by looking at every skin condition through a unique lens and making sure they get to the root of the problem every time. Also on staff and ready to help in anyway that they can are Casey Ligon, RN, BSN and Karen Adams, PA-C.
McGuiness Dermatology & Aesthetics offers nearly every skin procedure an individual could require. Noninvasive procedures such as dermal fillers, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, microneedling, Ultherapy®, and chemical peels are available, as well as more intense procedures, such as laser skin rejuvenation and laser hair removal.
When patients choose McGuiness Dermatology & Aesthetics, they can get all the skin services they need under one roof. Whether individuals are looking for a cure to a particularly difficult skin disease or simply looking to enhance their appearance, they will always find high-quality services and welcoming staff at McGuiness Dermatology & Aesthetics.
Wylie Insurance Agency is Wylie’s oldest business, almost as old as the city itself! Established in 1898, it has occupied several different locations. The agency has been at its current location, 201 Calloway, since 1985.
John Yeager, owner, purchased the agency in 1973 from long-time residents Rita and Truett Smith. He is a graduate of the University of North Texas and holds the Certified Insurance Counselor professional designation. He has two daughters, Kylie and Kamber, both graduates of the University of North Texas. Kylie is employed at the agency and Kamber is a CPA with Rent-A-Center. The agency staff consist of five employees that are very professional and knowledgeable to serve its growing list of clients. All employees are licensed insurance professionals and have completed numerous hours of continuing education classes to keep them current on an ever changing business.
Wylie Insurance Agency is an independent insurance
agency, which means they offer you a choice of insurance companies. Several different companies are represented that offer different options. All are A rated for financial strength and service. Many agents only represent a single company and cannot offer alternatives. A partial list of property-casualty companies represented include Travelers, Safeco, State Auto, Kemper, Progressive and Union Standard. Life-health companies include Blue Cross, Aetna, United Healthcare, Humana and Cigna. “We stand behind our clients, we represent you and not the insurance companies,” Yeager said.
The agency primarily serves the Wylie area, but also serves the DFW metroplex and the remainder of the state.
John Yeager would welcome the opportunity to serve you and show you what exceptional service is all about. If it’s homeowners, auto, business, life and health, or any other insurance, give Wylie Insurance a try.
In today’s high-tech world, a growing number of families find themselves challenged to raise their children while also seeing to the daily care of an aging parent or disabled family member. Many turn to online resources to assist in the tough choices regarding finding a caring, professional caregiver to assist with loved ones’ daily care.
At some point, due to illness or hospitalization, an elderly parent may require more assistance than their adult children are able to provide. For many, the answer is a home care agency that provides non-medical assistance such as respite care, companionship, transportation, meal preparation, housekeeping, shopping, errands, laundry and medication reminders.
This is where Assisting Hands Home Care comes in. Servicing Wylie, Sachse, Murphy, and the surrounding area, owner Catherine Milian wants to reassure families that her company is dedicated to meeting the highest standards while providing these services. Catherine is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience as an occupational therapist in a wide variety of settings. She has been especially dedicated to assisting patients facing tough challenges like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, autism, and dementia.
“When I treated my patients in a rehabilitation clinic, outpatient clinic, or skilled nursing facility, they would always keep returning to the hospital. They would come to us to recover with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, but then home health therapy was provided. Often, home health only provides minimum hours of services in the home. The cycle repeats – just a few short weeks after being discharged, I would see them either with the same issues or a fracture from a fall.”
Catherine said she felt that her decision to open an Assisting Hands franchise was the only way to stop the cycle. Assisting Hands’ core purpose is to provide exceptional home care that enriches the lives of their clients and provides peace of mind for their families. After many years of continuing education classes for her state licensure as an occupational therapist,
Catherine’s background as OTA is ideal to create care plans which are meaningful in improving the quality of care.
“I have met many elderly clients and patients labeled with dementia,” she said. “It’s like a catch-all diagnosis for most as they start showing some level of mental decline. However, a diagnosis doesn’t change the fact that there is a person who has his or her likes and dislikes and should have a purposeful life. With Assisting Hands, you can rely on our caregivers to maintain your loved one safe but provide quality care.”
For a complimentary assessment, call 972-982-7207 or contact Catherine Milian, OTA/L via our website www. assistinghands.com/60/texas/allen.
Louis Baca believes in doing things right the first time, which includes writing his own bio. Although he doesn’t typically speak in the third person, it was highly recommended by all the reputable bio-writing critics out there. Louis takes pride in being someone open to sound and proven advice and as a result, it is here he writes about himself.
Since 2005, Louis has spent well over 25,000 hours to become an expert in mortgage finance, which is what makes him capable and qualified to help you decide what options are available for your home financing needs. With over 75+ loan options, Louis is licensed to be able to help homeowners in 22 states.
Each day, he is in the trenches helping people just like you to take a closer look at their situation and draws from his decade-plus experience to provide guidance throughout the process. If you’re lucky enough to find a loan officer like Louis, following his stress-free methods will ensure you have a great experience from beginning to end!
If asked to offer a bit of advice to someone that is unfamiliar with financing or re-financing real estate, he would tell them to not overthink it and to just get started! The start of any journey begins with the first step and in this case, it is setting up a quick 15 minute free consultation to discuss with him your wants, goals, and desires!
It’s not necessarily a matter of IF you can get qualified, more of a matter of WHEN. Louis wants you to know that he will help guide you every step of the way. Connect with him on his Facebook page, LinkedIn, or Instagram! You’ll mostly see pictures of his beautiful wife and four kids. Be sure to check out his website for more information at www.LouisBaca.com.
Welcome to 2019 in the Southeast Collin Corridor!
We are rolling into the new year with a new staff, a new plan and a new attitude about being productive and impactful in the coming year. We hope you are doing the same and cannot wait to see what the year has in store for all of us.
As this is our official first issue of the year, we will look at all of the business develop ment in the area to see what opened in 2018 and what is coming in 2019. The new food and shopping opportunities will keep you from ever leaving our little slice of heaven on concrete, and we also hear there is a higher education facility slated for opening in 2020. Can you guess what that is? If not, you need to look at the cover again.
We have our usual departments returning in 2019, so after reading the current issue, you will have a better knowledge of the Wylie Way everyone talks about and even a Wylie Way Reunion taking place this year. Our pal Jal's son Trace joins us in the back pages with some insight on why you need a will, which is good info to have because where there is a will … we want to be in it !
Other than that, we offer a further preview in questions:
What exactly is KMB?
What local hospital earned a First in the Nation Cancer Designation?
Where is that darn butterfly?
These questions can all be answered by turning the pages of this issue (or clicking the pages if you are reading the digital version) and digging into the events, people and progress taking place in the SCC. Remember, if you are looking for the butterfly, it is hidden in pictures in the magazine; the butterfly on the Connection logo does NOT count. First one to find the butterfly wins a new-for-2019 Connection T-shirt.
Happy 2019 to all and, as always, we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoy bringing it to you!
307 N. Ballard Ave. | Wylie, TX 75098 972-442-2804 • info@wyliechamber.org www.wyliechamber.org
For information about advertising in The CONNECTION Magazine please contact the Wylie Chamber at 972-442-2804 or adsales@wyliechamber.org.
The “Profile of Success” cover photograph and feature article, as well as the “Professional Profiles” are paid advertisements. All are welcome to advertise, Chamber membership is not required. Submit comments and story ideas to Anne Hiney at theconnection.anne@mac.com.
Digital version available online at www.wyliechamber.org
The CONNECTION Magazine ©2019, Wylie Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. The CONNECTION is published bimonthly and mailed free of charge to over 44,750 households and businesses with an estimated readership of over 125,000 in the Wylie/Sachse/ Murphy/Lavon/Parker/St.Paul/Lucas/Richardson/Garland area. An additional 1,200 copies are distributed to our advertisers and local city offices. Contents of this magazine may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for content of all advertisements. Information published in The CONNECTION is the opinion of the sourced authors. The Wylie Chamber of Commerce does not necessarily share the editorial opinions expressed in The CONNECTION magazine. Personal decisions regarding health, finance and other matters should be made after consultation with the reader’s professional advisors.
Just for fun, find the butterfly! Last issue we hid it on page 28 in the photo of Wylie Way Christmas collection gifts. Did you find it?
NOTE: The first person to correctly locate the butterfly and send an email to magnew@wyliechamber.org wins a The CONNECTION T-shirt! (It's not this one!)
Occasionally we make a mistake. Let us know if you find one so we can correct it. We love your feedback - send comments to info@wyliechamber.org. Story ideas are always welcome and appreciated. Thanks for “Connecting” with us!
Wylie Chamber of Commerce 307 N. Ballard Ave. • Wylie, TX 75098 972-442-2804 • info@wyliechamber.org www.wyliechamber.org
It takes but a look around the southeast Collin County area to see that 2018 was a good year for the area’s cities in terms of business and housing construction.
For some it was the tried-and-true method of long-range planning while others found the perfect plan was the ”let’s do it ourselves” approach.
Whatever the method, local economic development personnel said they are looking forward to cultivating the continuing trend and a fruitful 2019.
Wylie Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)Director Sam Satterwhite sums up Wylie’s business overview and outlook succinctly. “2018 was a great year … but we’re looking ahead to an even better 2019!”
Businesses opened and announced plans to con struct in existing retail centers, and redevelop ment along Hwy. 78 continued with the opening of Chick-fil-a.
Woodbridge Crossing, the Target-anchored center on FM 544, announced plans to construct 24,000 square feet of inline space between Kohl’s and Dollar Tree.
The new tenants will include Ulta, Sketchers and an 8,000-square-foot spec retail space.
Planned is an additional 5,400-square-foot building next to McAlister’s occupied by MOD Pizza and space for one additional retailer, according to information from the WEDC.
Woodbridge Centre, the Kroger-anchored cen ter also on FM 544 near the intersection of Country Club, saw the arrival of Credit Union of Texas and Pet Supply Plus in 2018. Also announced was the lease of the last remaining end-cap to Burgerim – a high-end, gourmet burger establishment.
The opening of the Chick-fil-a was the result of an almost decade-long plan to reshape the look of Hwy. 78 through Wylie.
The nine-year strategic plan targeted the redevelop ment and revitalization of specific properties on Hwy. 78
“Over the past decade, the WEDC assembled seven properties and in the process was able to retain and relocate several local businesses,” Satterwhite said. “Mann Made and Exco, both primary employers, were able to relocate to industrial parks here in Wylie.
“The overall redevelopment freed up more than 5 acres of prime commercial property, created three retail pad sites and forever changed the landscape along Hwy 78.”
Construction is now underway on a second pad site that was recently sold to a developer with plans to build a 10,000-square-foot, multi-tenant building.
The facility is planned to include a Schlotzsky’s Austin Eatery, dentist and hair salon with 3,500 square feet of restaurant space not yet leased.
“The WEDC still retains a 1.4-acre pad site which is currently being marketed for full-service restaurant users,” Satterwhite said.
Due to limited inventory and high demand, Satterwhite said the development of industrial and warehouse flex space continues to trend upward.
“Overall project activity in Regency Business Park has been at all-time highs with projected construction of at least 100,000 square feet anticipated in 2019,” he said.
In 2018, the WEDC worked with community repre sentatives and local industry as well as Wylie ISD to hold the first Manufacturing Appreciation Day. “With the help of the WISD Career & Technical Education administrators, educators and the students, the event was a huge success and provided nearly 120 students and educators with an eye-opening peek at the hightech world of manufacturing … right here in Wylie!" Satterwhite said.
The WEDC plans to make Manufacturing Appreciation Day an annual event.
No look at Wylie’s 2018 growth would be complete without acknowledging the groundbreaking of Collin College’s Wylie Campus. This educational facility “will draw students, shoppers and diners into our commu nity along with providing a valuable resource for busi nesses and citizens for years to come,” Satterwhite said.
The campus is being constructed on about 100 acres on Country Club Road across from the Wylie Municipal Complex. The first phase of development includes three multi-story instructional buildings that function as the library, campus commons and student center with conference facilities, according to infor mation from the college.
The project is scheduled for completion in June 2020.
Compiled by Donnita FisherSachse EDC’s CEO Leslyn Blake said 2018 was an incredible year, “surpassing the successes of years past!”
“During 2018, we launched Backyard on 5th, the first new business in the 5th Street District, which was a tre mendous success,” she said. “Not only did Backyard on 5th bring additional dining options to Sachse, but caught the attention of prestigious land developers. The EDC board of directors is currently finalizing the selection of a developer that will ultimately design and construct a mixed-use development in the 5th Street District that will add life to Sachse, through the addition of a walkable downtown! Selecting a developer and beginning con struction on the 5th St. District development will make everlasting changes for not only Sachse’s economy, but also our identity.”
Backyard on 5th Street is a food truck eatery and gath
ering place. Open from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, the family-friendly space includes a bar, live music and a children’s playground. Last sea son musicians playing the space included for mer American Idol contestant Jason Castro and Brave Combo.
The Backyard, located at Fifth Street and Alexander Road, is closed for the winter but will reopen in the spring. For more information on when the food trucks will reappear, follow the Backyard on 5th page on Facebook.
In addition, the 5th Street District welcomed a second business in 2018, Sachse Florist.
Sachse residents were granted more food and drink options in 2018 and will have even more this year.
Woodbridge Corners saw the grand opening of Spec’s Wines, Spirits, and Finer Foods in late 2018. Breakfast lovers gained additional options in 2018 with the open ing of Waffle House at Oak Grove Plaza at Hwy. 78 and Murphy Road, and Woodbridge Café in Sachse Plaza at Hwy. 78 and Ranch Road.
Hat Creek Burger Company, an Austin-based fast, casual restaurant, will open in 2019.
Other businesses under construction and opening in 2019 include Golden Chick, a Mediterranean restaurant, and a barbecue restaurant on Hwy. 78; Enterprise Rental and Marvel Carwash at Woodbridge Corners; and 7-11 will be opening on the PGBT at Miles Road.
Internally, the SEDC staff grew with the addition of Brad Weber, a full-time marketing specialist.
“Since Brad’s arrival, we have aggressively launched a ~continued
FulFer and associates, inc., began planting its roots in downtown Garland back in 1972. It was at that time that Donna Fulfer (now founder, owner, and president of Fulfer and Associates, Inc.) began working for a CPA firm in a clerical capacity. She fell in love with the world of accounting. Raising two children, alongside her husband Bobby, she made the sacrifice to return to school. Donna earned her CPA designation in 1984 and, as they say, “the rest is history!” Always striving for more ways to help her clients, Donna became fully licensed as a Registered Representative in 1986. Donna soon became a partner in the firm for which she began with a job of “answering phones and emptying trash cans and ash trays,” as she is famous for saying. In 1992 she bought out the entire practice and it morphed into its current form of Fulfer and Associates, Inc. Donna continues to further her education, as evidenced by her CFP® designation in 2004.
Deonna Fulfer Osborn is Donna and Bobby’s youngest daughter. Donesa is the oldest and teaches in Garland ISD. Both girls grew up in the business, but initially chose different career paths. Through a series of life events, one child, and two degrees later, Deonna officially joined the business in 2003. Her focus of education and expertise soon became the investment side of the business, and she was fully licensed as a Financial Consultant by the end of the following year. Taking after her mother’s nature of a continual need to serve and acquire knowledge, Deonna soon decided to return to school to obtain necessary coursework to sit for the CPA exam. She earned her CPA designation in January of 2011. Deonna proudly serves as the vice-president of Fulfer and Associates, Inc. They initiated the W.O.W. (Women of Worth) group for the firm and hope to continue to grow this sector, aimed at addressing the exclusive financial needs of women.
Donna and Deonna enjoy working side by side (on most days!) Their partnership adds a unique atmosphere to the firm. You almost feel like you are walking into a family, and many clients have said that Donna, Deonna, and some of the other ladies have become a part of their extended family. Fulfer and Associates, Inc., prides itself on its many long-standing clients and the faith and trust those clients continue to place in them. “Our business is all about relationships,” Donna said. “People have to know you care. And we honestly do care!” Donna and Deonna always feel there is room for more in this diverse family. The firm was fortunate enough to become enmeshed into the Wylie community through Deonna’s involvement in her daughter’s school. Hope, now a sophomore at Wylie High School, is her only child and absolutely the light of “Mamaw’s” (Donna’s) eye. At WHS, Hope is actively involved in theatre and choir and enjoys being a part of the Pirate culture. “There is no other place to raise a child like Wylie ISD. We are small enough to share in community victories, sorrows, and hometown events. We also have the conveniences of larger towns and the many opportunities to be held for our children. I feel blessed to be here and to raise Hope here every day,” Deonna said.
Fulfer and Associates, Inc., is a full accounting, tax planning, and financial services firm that is dedicated to providing clients with the finest level of care and experience that they deserve. Tax preparation, payroll, sales tax, and bookkeeping are just a few of the accounting services offered. On the investment side, retirement planning, college planning, investment strategy portfolios, and life insurance, are some of their areas of expertise. Please visit the website at www. fulferandassociates.com for more expansive information and a complete description of services offered. Go pay them a visit, and you might just want to become the newest member of the family!
Melissa Hailey, Broker-Owner of North Texas Top Team Realtors, gives an exclusive look at the real estate market in Collin County. As the 2017 Realtor of the Year for Collin County, and the 2018 President of the Collin County Association of Realtors, she is a trusted source for all of your real estate questions.
Over the past 6 years home values have increased steadily in Collin County. In fact, the average sales price year over year has grown by over $100,000 during this time. This is a HUGE WIN for home owners.
Average YTD Sales price
Dec 2013 Dec 2014 Dec 2015 Dec 2016 Dec 2017 Dec 2018 $270,480 $294,673 $317,495 $342,771 $364,600 $372,768
Both new construction homes and resale homes are still selling quickly in Collin County. The average time it takes to sell a home currently sits at 50 days across Collin County (as of December 2018). This includes homes in all price points. Keep in mind that homes priced at $250k or less will sell faster, while homes priced over $500k will take longer to sell. To put it into perspective, as of December 2017, our average days on market was 42 days.
With the interest rates rising in 2018, and sales prices holding firm at the top of the market, you can’t afford to wait to make a move. If you are considering selling your home, NOW is the time to move while the prices are still holding firm. If you are considering buying a home, NOW is the time before rates rise any further making the monthly payments less affordable.
SOURCE: CCAR Pulse ReportsBuying or selling a home is the most important financial commitment you will ever make. Make sure to hire a professional who can provide advice and expertise to help you navigate the complexities of your real estate investment. The North Texas Top Team REALTORS can educate you so that you can make the best decision for your specific situation. For a free consultation, please call 855-324-HOME.
• Graduate of Realtor Institute
• Texas Monthly Five Star Professional Award Winner (2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012)
• Instructor for the Texas Real Estate Commission
• Texas Affordable Housing Specialist
• Graduate of Texas Realtor Leadership Program
• 2017 Realtor of the Year, Collin County Assoc. of Realtors
• 2018 President of the North Texas Realtors in Action Foundation
• 2017 Small Business Women of Today Award, Altrusa USA
• 2018 President of the Collin County Assoc. of Realtors
• ePRO Certified
• Certified Residential Specialist
• Short Sale & Foreclosure Specialist
• At Home with Diversity Designated
Serving North Texas for over 13 years, the North Texas Top Team Realtors have been providing expert real estate advice to home buyers and sellers. For your free consultation call 469-759-3899. NorthTexasTopTeam.com
social media campaign for the Sachse EDC and Backyard on 5th,” Blake said. “We have big plans for expanded marketing in 2019!
“For the first time, staff and board members exhib ited at the North Texas Commercial Real Estate Expo in Downtown Dallas and are currently preparing to exhibit at the International Council of Shopping Center’s Red River States Conference and Deal Making Event, where we will promote Sachse to several hundreds of brands and brokers. During this event, we will unveil some very exciting news about development on the President George Bush Turnpike – more big news for 2019!”
During 2019, Sachse EDC “will focus on attracting desir able brands through working with brokers and seeking them independently,” Blake said. In addition to exhib iting at local and regional events, the corporation will be exhibiting at the International Council of Shopping Center’s Recon event in Las Vegas in May.
“While representatives of the EDC have attended both ICSC events historically, this will be our first time exhibit ing,” Blake said. “We’re incredibly excited about the year ahead!”
Murphy welcomed considerable growth and development in 2018.
“Exciting new restaurants have arrived or are on the horizon,” said Jared Mayfield, director of community and eco nomic development.
R Taco, a taco restaurant found through out the Metroplex, has opened on Murphy Road just a few paces from the intersection of FM 544. Murphy has also welcomed Pie Five Pizza and 10 Degree Hut rolled ice cream. Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream is expected to open within the year.
Work will soon begin on a Taco Cabana at the south east corner of FM 544 and Murphy Road, the city’s busi est intersection.
“Perhaps the most exciting addition in the upcoming year will be Jason’s Deli; the vaunted fast-casual chain will be located in the new Timber Ridge Center on FM 544,” Mayfield said. “Though still under construction and seeking tenants, the center will be the future home to a Verizon Wireless retail store and Floyd’s 99 Barbershop.”
Other new business centers include Evans Crossing, home of R Taco, Pie Five and Code Ninja’s, a center where youth learn coding skills. Other retail centers under construction include the Full Spectrum Center and the Glen Ridge Professional Building, both of which are located on North Murphy Road.
The Maxwell Creek Center at FM 544 and Maxwell Creek Road is completed and fully leased, Mayfield said. A notable new service within this complex is Pet Suites of America, a pet boarding and grooming service.
New health services in Murphy include Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, ATI Physical Therapy, Glazer Family
Dentistry, and McGuiness Dermatology.
The city continues to see smaller residential develop ments take shape.
Bluff Creek Estates on South Maxwell Creek Road is the site of 113 new homes by K. Hovnanian, each with a minimum lot size of 11,000 square feet. Oasis Spring Manors on North Murphy Road will soon be home to 33 new custom homes by First Crescent Enterprises. Murphy Meadows in far northeast Murphy has seen the comple tion of 21 upscale townhomes with several more under construction.
“One of the larger challenges Murphy faces is the lack of larger tracts of land to develop; however, market pres sure is causing some considerable redevelopment of smaller tracts as developers seek to be creative in order to enter Murphy’s desirable market,” Mayfield said.
Lavon has experienced a 54 percent growth in sales tax from $286,962 in 2017 to $443,381 in 2018.
Likewise Lavon experienced a 13 percent growth in property values, according to the certified value report of Collin County Appraisal District. The appraised val ues grew from $290,142,411 in 2017 to $327,757,309 in 2018. New construction in 2018 was $9,758,986, and
new voluntary annexation was $902,988 in value. The average value of a home in Lavon grew from $228,994 to $246,095.
“Lavon numbers show the growth!” said Pam Mundo, executive director of the Lavon Economic Development Corporation.
And she doesn’t think it will slow down in 2019.
“In 2019, there will be significant new residential developments. Lavon has approximately 7,000 resi dential lots pending and in some level of city review,” Mundo said.
Some of those include the 150-lot Lavon Farms devel opment on FM 2755 currently under construction. Traditions Phase 2, Bear Creek East, Bear Creek South, the Lenart Development and the MA Development all are in various stages of review by the city.
Commercial development is also beginning to respond to Lavon’s growing market, Mundo said.
“Lavon Business Park on Hwy. 205 and Lavon Circle has a new 5,000-square-foot industrial building underway,” she said. “Lavon welcomes Crown Label Products to the city and looks forward to the city’s first manufacturing business.
In the retail sector, Lavon will have a new O’Reily Auto Parts store on Hwy. 78 to the east of L & D Automotive.
At Lake Road and 78, the new retail building saw the opening of the Domino’s restaurant in late 2017 and a 5 Flooring and Plus store in 2018. A new restaurant is pro posed for 2019.
Also in retail, the Lavon Pharmacy is expected to open soon and a new skin care spa salon will open at the retail buildings on Hwy. 78.
“There is a major retail center planned for Hwy. 78 and FM 6 as part of the Lenart Development and a retail cen ter with pad sites available is at Hwy. 78 and Hwy. 205,” Mundo said.
Charles W. Smith and Sons Funeral Homes opened its fifth location in September 2018 at the northeast corner of Hwy. 78 and FM 6 at Lakeview Cemetery.
Other significant projects include the expansion of the city sanitary sewer treatment plant for capacity, which will double to handle the new growth. This expansion is expected to be completed in mid-year 2019. •
“I started out as a newspaper reporter and publisher in South Texas after graduating from UTEP in El Paso,” said Allen Lenth EA, MBA, founder of Allen Lenth Financials, Inc. and Executive Tax Solution.
“Then Operation Desert Storm started, and my country called. Both my uncle and father are Vietnam-era veterans, and when it came to choosing between a career emulating Ernest Hemmingway or GI Joe, I followed the gunpowder.”
Allen served in the 1990s as an infantryman, trained as a Special Operations Communicator, and finished his career as a Psychological Warfare Operations Specialist.
“I used to dream in Morse Code while training and read traffic signs in code while driving. It was crazy,” he said.
After serving in the 1990s, Allen got out just in time to catch the tail end of the dot-com boom and bust and opened his own small business consulting company.
“My wife Felicia and I created and operated SentryTEK, Inc. in Houston with a staff of nearly 20 engineers, trainers and consultants. We helped tiny ‘ma and pa’ shops and big oil companies and manufacturing firms like Exxon-Mobile, and Lyondale Petrochemical as our clients,” he said.
“Our job was simple; we would go in and conduct either IT or business operations surveys, show them their strengths and weaknesses, and then just ask them what they wanted to do about it. More often than not we would win a deal and help them develop and build a new technology platform or train them on basic bookkeeping, sales, marketing, operations and forecasting.
“We opened up shop here in the Wylie, Sachse, Murphy area about a year ago with a passion to help start-ups and small businesses get on top of their bookkeeping,” Allen explains.
“What we found was a lot of folks just don’t get the tax game. And now that there are new laws and regulations, many are starting to panic; but trust me, small businesses have everything to gain with the new Section 179 Deductions.
“After filing a few late returns, this past year, we learned that there is a real need for some tax expertise. We spent a good part of 2018 getting up to speed on tax law, and now I am an Enrolled Agent, licensed to practice before the IRS on behalf of my clients and anyone else who may be facing the daunting ‘IRS boogie man.’
“During tax season, we are prepared to file all types of returns for anyone with a pulse. Out of season, we are eager to help late filers, non-filers, and, of course, many businesses and charities operate on a fiscal year so they file out of season. We are ready for all of it.
“One last note is that we also have banking products such as prefilled debit cards or prepaid tax return checks that we issue to clients who want to get their Tax Refunds quicker than when the IRS sends them out – which can be anywhere from four to eight weeks.”
Visit www.ExecutiveTaxSolution.com to sign up for our free monthly newsletter and receive year-round tax tips.
Community leaders formed the North Texas Municipal Water District in the early 1950s out of concern for the dwindling groundwater supplies. Initially serving 32,000 people, NTMWD, located on Brown Street and Highway 78 in Wylie, now provides vital water services for over 1.7 million people in nearly 80 communities, including Wylie, Sachse, Murphy, Lavon, Lucas, St. Paul, Parker, Richardson, and Garland.
One of the fastest-growing regions in the country, the North Texas area is expected to double in size by 2050. Reflecting NTMWD’s commitment to con tinually embark on new ways to sustain the water sup ply and maintain services for its ever-increasing number of customers, ground was broken on May 25, 2018, for the first major North Texas reservoir in 30 years. The new Bois d’Arc Lake in Fannin County will help meet long-term water needs for communities across 10 North Texas counties.
NTMWD will build, own and operate the new 16,641-surface-acre lake, located northeast of the City of Bonham. By comparison, Lake Lavon measures 21,400 surface acres. Dam construction is expected to take three summers, and then, depending on rainfall, the
lake should be filled to an operational level in another two years. NTMWD plans to begin delivering water from the reservoir in 2022, which will provide a firm yield of 108 million gallons of water a day for residents and busi nesses served by NTMWD. A firm yield is the amount of water that can be supplied to cover water needs even during the driest conditions we have ever experienced.
Marvin Fuller, appointed by the City of Wylie, has served on the NTMWD Board of Directors for 22 years and recognizes the importance of this new water source. “The Bois d’Arc Lake is critical to meet the long-term needs of our rapidly growing service area,” he said. “We’re excited to have construction underway on this long-awaited project.”
Work that is underway on the lake and related projects includes:
• a 2-mile-long, 90-foot-high dam;
• a 110-foot-tall raw water intake tower;
• a raw water pump station capable of moving up to 236 million gallons per day; and
• 35 miles of raw water pipeline;
Since the groundbreaking, workers continue to clear trees and fences from the dam foot print, as well as excavate and re-compact earth for the dam itself. Construction at the dam site is now going vertical, as workers have poured concrete at the intake tower, and work has started on the raw water pump station. Southwest of the dam, crews are extending FM 897 from Highway 82 to CR 1396 and making progress on the new, 1.3-mile-long bridge that will span the lake. Installation of the raw water pipeline that will transport water from the lake will begin this year with its completion expected in 2021.
Additionally, the district plans to expand the north ern portion of its water system with the construction of
an initial 70-million-gallons-per-day treatment plant and initial 210-million-gallon terminal storage reservoir in Leonard, as well as a 25-mile-long treated water pipeline connecting in McKinney.
Extensive research and coordination was involved in the planning for the mitigation that will replace trees, grasses, wetlands and wildlife habitat on land that will be covered by the new lake. During the permitting pro cess, NTMWD worked with fed eral, state and local agencies, along with environmental organi zations, on mitigation plans that are included in the construction permit granted by the United States Army Corp of Engineers. As part of the permit, NTMWD will establish new vegetation on a 15,000-acre ranch northeast of the reservoir, and another 2,000 acres southeast of the lake near Bonham. It is estimated that five million trees will be needed for the mitigation project.
“This project is historically significant in terms of permitting, planning, and smart development,” said Tom Kula, NTMWD executive director. “While the permitting process took two years longer than expected, Bois d’Arc Lake will be built using the latest environmental and
mitigation standards. This proves new reservoirs can be built responsibly. This is an example that it’s possible to support smart development and take care of the environment at the same time.”
Construction of the project and other system improvements is estimated to cost $1.6 billion. The Texas Water Development Board has already approved $1.477 billion in low-inter est funding for the proj ect through the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas program, which is anticipated to save NTMWD and ratepay ers over $230 million in financ ing costs.
“The NTMWD board and staff have worked with many stakeholders to make the critical new water source possible,” said Terry Anderson of Mesquite, a member of the NTMWD board. “The board, representing the 13 member cities, has focused on meeting the needs of the growing communities in our region while being good stewards of our financial resources.”
NTMWD staff worked closely with officials from Fannin County, the City of Bonham and other communities on long-range planning, development, and roads around the lake and recreational facilities. With assistance from
reservoir designer Freese and Nichols and input from the local community, Fannin County leaders developed a comprehensive plan to help manage development, recreation, and protection of the natural environment around the new lake.
NTMWD will build three boat ramps at future recreation areas on the lake and provide space for the local county sheriff at the lake operations center. The district also worked with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department on plans to build fish habitat areas in the future lake.
Over a decade in the making, Bois d’Arc Lake will benefit residents across growing communities of North Texas for generations to come.
“This has been a tremendous team effort, and we appreciate the support of all involved in the process,” said Kula. “It is a great example of the value and importance of regional water planning and collaboration among cities for the shared need of a long-term, reliable water supply.”
For more information about the project or any aspect of the services provided by the District, visit ntmwd.com. •
This time of year most business owners are looking in the rearview mirror to plan for the new year. Let’s also take a look at the last year (or three) and see what it can tell us. This data is from our Multiple Listing Service and isn’t quite the complete picture, however the trends are pretty solid indicators of what’s been and a little about what might be (some new construction and private/direct sales are not reported).
SACHSE WYLIE
Year 2016 2017 2018 2016 2017 2018
New Construction 737334167241321
Pre-owned Sales 361395356738889830
Total Homes Sold 45048540892111301152
Average Days on Market 494543363441
Average Sales Price $291$300$310$260$280$298
MURPHY LAVON
Year 2016 2017 2018 2016 2017 2018
New Construction 132675327115
Pre-owned Sales 289276233128107100
Total Homes Sold 302303240181134215
Average Days on Market 424144302828
Average Sales Price $373$394$400$234$256$265
All four cities show increases in average sales price and the days on market seems stable. Sachse and Murphy are nearing build out with just small pockets of new construction. Wylie is the heavy hitter with lots of new construction opportunities. Lavon is incredibly affordable, especially since the completion of the Highway 78 expansion.
What does this mean to you? Your homes are continuing to appreciate. If you are thinking about selling, the market continues to be strong however I am starting to see more inventory on the market … maybe we will tackle that view of the market in the next issue.
Jeanie Marten Real Estate are your local experts; living, working and playing in these very communities. Call us today with any of your real estate questions.
Gene Ryan has been in the insurance and financial services industry for 20 years. Gene met his wife Rachelle in 2011, and they were married in 2012. Rachelle, a native Texan, was anxious to move back home, and in 2016 they made that desire a reality. Through a friend of the family, the Ryans learned of an opportunity in Wylie – the Farmers practice that had been operating since 2008, whose owners were looking for an experienced agent to take the helm. Coming to Wylie that July, they instantly fell in love with the area. Rachelle decided to join the practice, and they took over for Tracey Lear in January of 2017. “We are service oriented,” Gene said of his Farmers office. “A lot of agents do not want to do service work, but in our office, everyone pitches in to help. Our customers have our cell phone numbers so they can reach us at any time. We believe we work for them and that they hired us for a reason. They need to be able to reach us.”
Gene’s office is family owned and operated, and he said that he and Rachelle believe in establishing a sound relationship with staff and clients, including educating clients so they can make informed decisions. He also said his faith plays an important role in his life and business. “God is a priority in our conduct as professionals. We pray every day for His guidance in our business.”
The Ryans are quite involved in the community and value the opportunity to help others and make a difference. The company’s mission statement reads, “I will serve my community, clients, and coworkers as an example of strength, honesty, integrity, understanding, and accountability.”
Gene said that he has reviewed many policies for families and businesses, and that he often finds mistakes. Those mistakes can be very expensive to the client. “We want to help that family or business protect what they have so they can plan for the future. The recommendations we make are the same ones we would give to our own family members and that we use in our business.”
Did you know all the Farmers commercials are based on actual claims? A personal friend experienced one of those scenarios in real life...the one with the dog that burns down the house. The commercials are funny, but it takes a servant’s heart to do what they do.
Gene Ryan Agency specializes in all lines of personal and commercial policies. Gene focuses on business policies, and financial services, while Rachelle handles home, auto, and life insurance. Lynsey Pittman handles personal lines and specialty products like motorcycle, boat and rental properties.
Farmers Insurance / Gene Ryan Agency is located in historic downtown Wylie at 308 N. Ballard Ave. He and his staff look forward to meeting the next and newest honorary members of the family!
Feb. 8: Sachse Daddy/Daughter Dance – 7-9 p.m. Okay girls, grab your dads, put on your dancing shoes and get ready for a night of fun, games and activities, music, dance and snacks. A picture will be taken and given to each couple to remember this occasion. Registration is required and can be done online or by calling 469-4290275. Location: Laurie Schwenk Senior Activity Center, 3815 Sachse Road, Building A, Sachse. Cost: $15 per couple + $5 for each addi tional daughter. Info: www.cityofsachse.com
Feb. 16: Wylie Education Foundation 15th Annual Boots ’n Barbecue Gala – 6 p.m. Last year, Boots 'N Barbecue hosted 545 guests, sold 205 auction packages, gave away $1,000 in cash, spot lighted local craftsmanship & unique experiences in the live auction, raised $142,000, and shared lots of laughs. All this while chasing down a live chicken. You do not want to miss this! Get your seats now, ticket sales will close on Feb. 14. The online auction opens Feb. 8. Location: Southfork Ranch, 3700 Hogge Dr., Parker. Tickets & Info: WISDFoundation.org
Feb. 16: In-Sync Exotics Valentine’s Pancake Breakfast – 7 a.m.-10 a.m. Panthers, Pumas, and Pancakes oh my! Come join us for coffee, juice, fruit, and all-you-can-eat pancakes! Afterward, take a self-guided tour around the sanctuary. Location: 3430 Skyview Dr. Wylie. Cost: Adult $25, Seniors $15, Kids $15, Under 4 Free Contact: 972-442-6888 Info: tinyurl/ISEVaLPan2019
Feb. 16: City of Murphy’s 3rd Annual Daddy/Daughter Dance – “Winter Wonderland” 6-9 p.m. Fathers this is the perfect time to sweep your daughter(s) off her feet by whisking her away to the dance! Perfect way to bond and enjoy a special evening just the two of you. There will be a DJ, dancing of course, games, food, photog rapher, raffle, and more. But you must pre-register! Location: Murphy Community Center - 205 N. Murphy Rd. Murphy. Contact: 972-4684068 Info: murphytx.org/670/Daddy-Daughter-Dance
Feb. 17: East Dallas Bridal Fair – 12-4 p.m. Join Wylie and sur rounding area merchants showcasing how our area is a one-stop shop for all your wedding needs! Spend the afternoon with the area's bridal experts. Your big day is coming, and we are ready to help you plan the wedding of your dreams! Location: The Brown House, 301 N. Ballard Ave., Wylie. Info: www.eastdallasbridalfair.com
Feb. 23: Murphy’s Annual Rainbow Trout Roundup – 9-11:30 a.m. Come on out and join us either rain or shine for our 3rd Annual Rainbow Trout Roundup! Anglers 0-17 are encouraged to pre-register on our website. This year fish times will be separated per age groups. 0-6 years will fish from 9-10 a.m. and 7-11/12-17 years fish from 10-11:30 a.m. Prizes and trophies are awarded to the winners in each category for Shortest, Longest, and Heaviest Stringer of 5 (Rainbow Trout). Location: Murphy’s City Hall Pond Contact: 972-468-4063 Info: murphytx.org/483/Rainbow-Trout-Roundup
Feb. 22-23 & March 1-2: Wylie Acting Group presents The Aliens are Coming! The Aliens are Coming! – The Meteorite Inn is located on a lonely stretch of desert highway. The owners of the shabby inn, Doug and his sister, Peggy, decide to capitalize on the fact that they’re close to a restricted zone known only as “Area 52.” Before you can say “Independence Day,” the Meteorite Inn is overflowing with excited UFO believers and speakers who claim they’ve been abducted by aliens and held prisoner in spaceships! The army moves in and quarantines the place as “aliens” turn up uninvited. After all, who knows if they are real or fake? With its hilarious action and funny dialogue, this play is out of this world! Location: 205 Industrial Court, Suite 200B, Wylie. Tickets: www.wylieactinggroup.org/store/
March 3: McKinney's 17th Annual Krewe of Barkus Parade – 2 p.m. Krewe of Barkus promises to be a howling hoot. In past years, more than 250 dogs participated in the parade alongside more
than 4,500 spectators in awe of costumes, creatures and creativity. Patterned after the Mystic Krewe of Barkus in New Orleans, which was established to help abused and abandoned canines, Krewe of Barkus will feature a parade, vendor booths, interactive activities and more. Register online by March 1 to enter the parade and costume contest. Location: Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney. Info: www.mckinneytexas.org/674/Krewe-of-Barkus
March 8-10: North Texas Irish Festival - Location: Fair Park, Dallas. Info: www.ntif.org
March 16: Wylie’s Acton Children’s Business Fair – 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Children’s Business Fair is a marketplace for young entre preneurs to showcase the businesses they have built and gain valu able knowledge through first-hand experience. Come out to shop and support their efforts! Location: Olde City Park, 112 South Ballard Ave., Wylie. Info: www.childrensbusinessfair.org/wylie
March 16: In-Sync Exotics Outdoor Movie Night – Gates open at 7 p.m. & movie starts at 8 p.m. Bring your chairs or blankets for seat ing. We will have available for purchase popcorn, candy, and drinks. Location: 3430 Skyview Dr., Wylie. Cost: Adults $12, Seniors $8, Kids $8 (4-12), Under 4 Free. Contact: (972) 442-6888 Info: tinyurl.com/ MovieNightSpring19
March 22-24: Texas Pinball Festival – Vendors, collectors and hobbyists from the surrounding area and beyond will be bringing parts, supplies, game room memorabilia, pinballs, video games and more for sale. Lucky winners will take home door prizes and someone will take home a new pinball machine from our annual American Heroes raffle. Do you have what it takes to be a pinball wizard? A variety of adult and children’s tournaments will be held throughout the weekend to test your skills. Compete against others for trophies, ribbons and cash prizes. You could walk out a superstar! Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Dallas Frisco Hotel Convention Center & Spa, 7600 John Q Hammons Dr., Frisco. Info: texaspinball.com
March 23: City of Murphy’s 2nd Annual Mother & Son Extravaganza – “Hometown Heroes” 6-9 p.m. Mommas grab your son(s) and come on out to an evening of fun and laughter. This is where your sweet son(s) get to learn their first steps in how to treat a lady to a night of dancing! Of course there will be a DJ, food, games, photographer, costume contest, bounce house, and more! Preregistration is required. Location: 205 N. Murphy Rd., Murphy. Contact: 972-468-4068 Info: murphytx.org/726/Mother---Son-Extravaganza
March 23: Firefly Run Texas – 6-10 p.m. Run in the coolest, most eye dazzling, illuminated nighttime 5K/10K race. Race through the dusk aglow in glimmering LED lights! Experience the fun with enter tainment, a costume contest, and amazing visual effects all while sup porting Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children! Location: Oak Point Amphitheater, 2801 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano. Registration info: fireflyrun.com
March 26-27: Collin County Legislative Days in Austin – Public invited to attend. Info: www.wyliechamber.org.
March 30: 9th Annual Murphy Spring Fever Event – 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Vendor fair event, kids activities, live entertainment, food trucks. Sponsored by Republic Services. Vendor and sponsor opportunities available, contact the Murphy Chamber of Commerce for details at 972-805-3749. Info: murphychamber.org
March 30: Parker's 50th Anniversary Celebration – 2-4:30 p.m. All Parker residents are invited to celebrate our city's 50th anniver sary. Enjoy tours of the buildings while browsing through memora bilia and scrapbooks. Historical maps, souvenirs, and old directories on display. At 3 p.m. there will be a short ceremony with dignitaries including state, county and neighboring community officials. The com mittee is collecting any pictures or memorabilia for the celebration. Pictures will be copied and returned quickly. If you have any items to share, contact Lori Newton at 972-442-6811 or lnewton@parkertexas. us. Location: Parker City Hall, 5700 E Parker Rd., Parker.
Bandan Koro – Theatre & History – Feb. 6, 6:30 p.m.
Lego League – Feb. 6 & 8; March 6 & 8, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Ages: 1-4
Themes: Feb. - What Will I Be? March - Up in the Air/Under the Sea.
3D Design with Tinkercad – Feb. 7, 6:30 p.m. Ages: 18 & Older
Teen Anti-Valentine’s Day Party – Feb. 14, 6-7 p.m. Grades: 6th-12th
My Very Own Book Club – Feb. 13 & 15; March 20 & 22, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Grades: 1st & 2nd. Book Titles: Feb. - “Wonder Horse” by Emily Arnold McCully. Mar. - “Biblioburro” by Jeanette Winter.
Teen/Tween Poetry Café – Feb. 18, 5 to 7 p.m. Grades: 4th-12th
3rd Grade Voyagers Club – Feb. 21 & March 21, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Topics: Feb. - Yoga with Ms. Christy. Mar. - Straw Rockets with UTD. Hygge at the Library – Feb. 28, 6 p.m. Ages: 18 & Older.
BeTween Book & Movie Club – Feb. 28 & March 28, 6-7 p.m. Grades: 4th-6th. Movies: Feb. - “The Little Princess” by Antoine de Saint-Exupery, March - “Matilda” by Roald Dahl.
Teen Book Club – Feb. 7 & March 7, 6-7 p.m. Grades: 6th - 12th. Book Titles: Feb. - “The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B” by Teresa Toten. March - “Salt to Sea” by Ruta Sepetys.
Japanimation Club – Feb. 21, 6-7 p.m. Grades: 6th-12th.
Family Lego Build – Feb. 27 & March 27, 3:30-4:45 p.m. Ages: 9 & younger accompanied by an adult.
Booked on Fridays – Feb. 8 & March 8, at 12 p.m. Ages: 18 & Up. Book Titles: Feb. - “Barracoon: the Story of the Last ‘Black Cargo’” by Zora Neale Hurston. March - “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Della Owens.
Anime MeetUp – March 4, 6 p.m. Ages: 17 & Older
Organizing Spaces: Kitchens – March 7, 6:30 p.m.
Organizing Spaces: Closets – March 28, 6:30 p.m.
Activities & Outing for Ages 55 Yrs. +
Feb. 16: Allen Americans - 6-10 p.m. Cost: $35 Bring Money for Concessions.
March 14: Dallas Blooms - 1-3:45 p.m. Cost: $15.
Feb. & March Saturdays - Golden Tai Chi - 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Cost: Free.
Feb. 6 & 20, March 6 & 20 - Gardening - 8:30-9:30 a.m. Cost: $3
Feb. 19 & March 19 - TechTalk - 10-11 p.m. Cost: Free
Feb. 25 & March 25 - Creative Confections - 2-3 p.m. Cost: Free
Parents’ Night Out – Feb. 8, 5-10 p.m. Kid Ages: 4-12 Cost: $20
Splash Dash – March 15, 8:20 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Ages: 7-12 Cost: $45
Tween Trip – March 15, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Ages: 13-15 Cost: $45
Fusion Gaming – March 11-14, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Ages: 6-13 Cost: $120
Lego Olympics Robotics – March 11-14, 1-4 p.m. Ages: 6-13 Cost: $119 + $15 supply fee
Young Filmmakers – March 11-14, 1-4 p.m. Ages: 6-12 Cost: $109
Basketball Skills – March 11-14, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Ages: 6-12 Cost: $99
www.wyliechamber.org 972-442-2804
Monthly Luncheon: 4th Tuesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. Check the chamber website for details on location. Make reservations at www.wyliechamber.org.
Feb. 26: State of the City Luncheon - Speaker is the Honorable Mayor Eric Hogue.
March 21: State of Wylie ISD Luncheon - Speaker is Dr. David Vinson, Superintendent.
Every Wednesday Business Card Exchange: Network and promote your business from 8 - 9 a.m. at the Smith Public Library, 300 Country Club Rd., #300, Wylie. Chamber members and non-members welcome. $1 donation requested.
www.sachsechamber.com 972- 496-1212
Monthly Luncheon: 2nd Tuesday of the month, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Woodbridge Golf Club, 7400 Country Club Dr., Wylie. Register and pay at www.sachsechamber.com. $15 Chamber Members with RSVP/$20 Non-Members and walk-ins.
Feb. 1: 35th Annual Awards Banquet - “Passport to Adventure” 6 - 9 p.m. at Hyatt Place Dallas/Garland/Richardson.
Feb. 12: Luncheon - Speaker is Robert Hall, author of This Land of Strangers.
Feb. 13-14: Sachse Legislative Days in Austin.
March 12: Luncheon - Check website for details.
Every Tuesday Business Card Exchange: Meet at North Pointe Church of Christ, 7030 Hwy. 78, in Sachse, from 8 - 9 a.m. Everyone welcome, Free.
murphychamber.org 972- 805-3749
Monthly Luncheon: 3rd Tuesday of the month, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Murphy Road Baptist Church, 411 S. Murphy Rd., Murphy. Go to www.murphychamber.org for info or to prepay or call 972-805-3749 for reservations.
Feb. 19: Luncheon - Check website for details.
March 19: Luncheon - Check website for details.
Every Thursday Business Card Exchange: Join the Murphy Chamber of Commerce for a networking Business Card Exchange from 8 - 9 a.m. at the Murphy Activity Center, 201 N. Murphy Rd. Open to members and non-members - suggested $1 donation.
To submit a non-profit community event to the April/May 2019 calendar send an e-mail to theconnection.anne@mac.com no later than March 15. Please include contact name, date(s), time(s), location, a publishable phone number, e-mail and/ or web site for information. Only non-profit events that are open to the public (no “members only” events) are eligible, as space permits. THANKS!
Keep Murphy Beautiful is an affiliate of Keep Texas Beautiful, a statewide pro gram focused on recycling, beauti fying and keeping our great state litter free. Murphy’s KMB program was established in 2003 and continues to be run by volun teer city staff. Each year KMB partici pates in several city events such as Rainbow Trout Roundup, coming up on Feb. 23, Maize Days planned for Sept. 28, and Christmas in the Park on Dec. 5, to promote the 3 R’s – recycle, reduce and reuse. Along with participating in those events, KMB hosts two annual Clean & Green Events (April and October) that allow Murphy residents to bring items to City Hall for reuse or responsible disposal.
The city staff who volunteer for KMB are called The Green Team, and we are always trying to find new fun
ways to get people involved. Mostly our focus is on keeping Murphy litter free and educating people on ways to reuse items instead of those items
going to the landfill. KMB has several contests throughout the year, most notable being our Recycle Truck Art Contest. Last year’s theme was “From Trash to Treasure, the Art of Upcycling!” It was a huge success; the kids all had great ways to artis tically show how to reuse everyday items. Our solid waste provider, Republic Services, sponsors this contest. Each year the winners from each age category receive a gift card, and their artwork is dis played on the side of the Republic
school
truly amazing to see how much talent these young folks have. I can’t wait to see what the kids come up for this year’s theme, “Don’t Mess with Murphy,” a play
on the popular litter campaign. The deadline for this year’s contest is Friday, Feb. 1.
Another fun contest is our annual Recycle Christmas Tree Decorating Contest, open to groups, civic orga nizations, Boy/Girl Scout troops, businesses and individuals (not exclusive to Murphy). Each year the Green Team members select a recyclable item that must be fea tured in the tree decorations. Last year the item was plastic bags. The winning team, Murphy Veterans Tribute, used red and white plastic bags and made ornaments, deco rating the tree in a fittingly patriotic
theme. The winner for this contest is announced after the mini-Christ mas parade at Murphy’s annual Christmas in the Park event.
Each spring, KMB looks for vol unteers (open to anyone) to pick up litter in Murphy for the Great American Cleanup/Don’t Mess with Texas Trash Off. It’s coming up on April 13, so if you are interested in volunteering please sign up on our website: www.murphytx.org/651/ Keep-Murphy-Beautiful. T-shirts are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and lunch is provided to all volunteers. It’s a great way to spend a couple hours giving back to the
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community and making Texas an even better place.
KMB also collects used blue jeans for the Blue Jean Go Green project. Originally started with a Murphy Girl Scout, KMB has continued collecting jeans during events and through an all-year-round collection bin in the lobby of City Hall. The denim is turned into insulation for lowincome homes.
Another fun way to get involved is our Arbor Day Tree Planting. This year it’s on Nov. 2, and volunteers will be able to sign up at http://www.murphytx.org/330/AnnualCommunity-Events when the event gets closer.
Do you want to stay up to date with news, information and announcements from KMB? Follow us on Facebook or Instagram! •
Get ready! A new, expansive Collin College is emerg ing. The college’s growth can be seen in new buildings such as the new Wylie Campus which will open in 2020. But did you know that the college is also offering new degrees, programs, and academic opportunities?
Bigger Means Bachelor’s Degrees
Collin College will soon offer a limited number of baccalaureate degrees which were authorized by the state legislature in 2017. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Applied Technology degree in cybersecurity as well as several associate and cer tificate degree programs including Automotive Service Technician, Biomedical Equipment Technology, Collision Repair, Industrial Automation, and Sport and Recreation Management are in development and pending approval by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The first diagnostic medical sonography class and the second surgical assisting class start this spring. Students are also enrolled in the new construction management program, and there is a wait ing list for the HVAC program.
“Collin College is entering a new era with our bach elor’s degrees,” said Dr. J. Robert Collins, founding trustee and Collin College board chair. “While we remain committed to our mission as a community college, we can play a critical role in addressing the needs of highgrowth, high-paying career fields by offering these selected bachelor’s degrees.”
Students have been earning bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees for years by taking classes at the Collin Higher Education Center in McKinney thanks to a partner ship between the college and its five university partners.
Collin College’s Wylie Campus may not be open yet, but the college and Wylie residents have enjoyed a success ful partnership for years with initiatives such as College Express and Collin 4All, which offers students a smooth transition from high school to college.
“We are very excited to have the opportunity to col laborate with Wylie ISD,” said Senior Vice President Dr. Sherry Schumann.
“In May 2018, 100 percent of Wylie high school seniors applied and were accepted to Collin College,” Schumann added.
That is only one benefit the college is providing for Wylie high school students. Collin College has college and career counselors at both Wylie East High School and Wylie High School who advise students on college and career options. These counselors played an integral role in the Collin 4All initiative in Wylie.
The college’s dual credit classes are on the rise. In Wylie, there was a more than 30 percent increase in the number of dual credit students from fall 2017 to fall 2018. Wylie high school students are also benefiting from new course offerings and programs. The college added a new Spanish dual credit class at Wylie East High School and new EMT classes to both Wylie high schools.
The new buildings are coming just in time to house the college’s increasing enrollment, which now exceeds 55,000 annually. As Collin County continues to grow, the college’s new campuses in Wylie, Allen, Farmersville, and Celina will be ready to meet the population surge.
For more information about the college’s growth, visit www.collin.edu/masterplan. •
In Wylie ISD we want more than smart kids. We want good kids. There is a sense of community pride that goes beyond the classroom, beyond our schools and even beyond the successes of the Wylie ISD. It truly envelops everything. We call it simply …“the Wylie Way.”
Wylie ISD is grateful to have special people who have invested time, money and energy to help make our schools places of learning, caring and hope. Each month during the school year, the Board of Trustees honors these people by bestowing one of the highest honors the district has: The Wylie Way Award.
All Wylie Way Award winners, past and present, are feted at the annual Wylie Way Gala. This year’s event will be Friday, May 4, 2019, at Southfork Ranch. Last year’s event drew more than 600 school, PTA, community and business representatives, all to celebrate what is great about Wylie ISD. Generous sponsors help make the event a night to remember for all honorees.
have identified the core values we want to instill in our students.
“When we launched The Wylie Way as part of our character education program we wanted to recognize those individuals and groups that make a difference, not just for what they do, but for what they stand for and how they impact others,” said Dr. David Vinson, Wylie ISD superintendent.
2016-2017 Winners: Virdie Montgomery, Rack Room Shoes, Rob Hunter, Becky Welch, Charlotte “Nana” Balliet, Angie McIntosh
Since August 2012 Wylie ISD has presented The Wylie Way Award to nearly three dozen outstanding individuals, businesses and organizations which been selected from nominations made by you, our community. For more information on the Wylie Way: www.wylieisd.net/thewylieway. •
Level 1: $10,000 (1 available)
The Wylie Way is a movement in our schools that fosters ethical, responsible and caring young people through an emphasis on the values of our Wylie ISD community. It is built on the foundations of Relationships; Strengths & Interests; Plan & Purpose and Core Ethical Values
Relationships: Building strong relationships with students is vital to their achievement. We share a collective goal in Wylie that every student will have a meaningful relationship with at least one adult.
Strengths & Interests: We firmly believe that if we can help our students identify and grow strongly in their strengths and interests, we can direct them on their individual paths to achievement.
Plan & Purpose: In Wylie, we want to help our students nurture their interests and strengths, and to develop their purpose.
Core Ethical Values: The heart of the Wylie Way lies in our values. With the support of the community, we
Package entitles the sponsor to the following:
• Table at the event (8 tickets)
• Company name and logo placed on video screens in the event program on all press releases in all ads for the event (featured placement) • Full page ad in the event program (sponsor to supply information)
in the event program
in all ads for the event (highlight placement)
Half page ad in the event program
Level 3: $2,500 (4 available)
Package includes the following:
2 tickets to the event
Company name and/or logo placed on video screens in the event program in all ads for the event on candy bags/cups
Thanks for shopping local at the Wylie Children’s Business Fair!” That’s what 30+ area kids will soon be heard saying throughout Olde City Park. Happening March 16, the inaugural Wylie Children’s Business Fair will take place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The event is designed to inspire children to discover their inner entrepreneur by giving them an opportunity to develop a brand, create a product or service, build a mar keting strategy, and then open for customers at a one-day pop-up market.
Maricela Callan, an elementary teacher and parent to two young entrepre neurs, is spearheading the event. “In searching for something to foster my kids’ interest in entrepreneurship, I stumbled upon the Acton Children’s Business Fair model being held across the nation. The goal is to help children discover their inner entrepreneur and expose them to some of the business concepts they’ll need to consider as they pursue entrepreneurship,” said Callan.
Many local youth entrepreneurs have already registered to sell their wares and services, including original jewelry, greeting cards, bookmarks, plants, slime, squishes, pet portraits, handmade soaps, coasters, photography, metal art, origami, books and even vegan baked goods. “I will feel successful if I make more money than I spent, and I had a good time,” said a participant.
Applications are due by Feb. 15, and space is limited. One business per application; multiple children/siblings may be included on one application, if they are working as a group in support of the same business.
Parents are encouraged to help their child complete the application, which asks kids to think through some simple, but important elements of their business:
• What product or service do you plan to sell, and what will you charge?
• What are your startup costs?
• Will you need a loan? If so, how do you plan to repay it?
• How will you advertise?
• How will you measure success?
Applicants must be enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade and submit a $10 registration fee upon acceptance. The fee is designed to create a sense of awareness on the budgeting side of running a business. Participants must provide their own table, chairs and displays needed for their booth; electricity is unavail able. A parent or guardian must be present for the entire duration. However, young entrepreneurs are responsible for playing a major role in setup and should be capable of handling all customer interaction and sales.
This event is sponsored by Acton Academy, the Acton School of Business, and the generous support of our local donors and volunteers. In fact, our launch party will be held at Napoli’s Italian Restaurant in mid-February. It will be a time to meet other registered youth entrepreneurs, gain tips for setting up an inviting booth and practice customer service skills. The com munity can help contribute to this inaugural event by attending, shopping, and sharing words of encouragement with these children on March 16. Let’s inspire tomorrow’s entrepreneurs today! •
Imagine getting the worst possible news from your doctor. You’ve just been told you have cancer and it has spread to your liver. What do you do? Where do you turn for help? Luckily, if you’re reading this magazine article, you probably live in North Texas and probably not too far from Methodist Richardson Medical Center.
Methodist Richardson is proud to announce it is the first hospital in the country to earn the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Pancreatic/Hepatic/Biliary cancer treatment. The Joint Commission is an independent, not-forprofit organization that accredits and certifies hospitals and other healthcare organizations to ensure they meet certain performance standards. Their Gold Seal of Approval is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective patient care.
“We know we are as good or better than any place in the country with regard to outcomes for these cancers,” said Rohan Jeyarajah, MD, director of GI Surgical Services. “This really puts Methodist Richardson on the map since we are first in the nation.”
Methodist Richardson underwent a rigorous on-site review in October. Joint Commission experts evaluated compliance with national disease-specific care standards, as well as Pancreatic/Hepatic/Biliary specific requirements. Clinical practice guidelines and performance measures were also assessed.
"We are very pleased to receive this certification from The Joint Commission, the premier healthcare quality improvement and accrediting body in the nation,” said Ken Hutchenrider, FACHE, president of Methodist Richardson. “It is an honor to provide our community and beyond with this level of care.”
But what does this mean to you, if you or a loved one suffers from a digestive disorder? The National Institutes of Health estimates that 60 to 70 million people suffer from digestive diseases. Digestive disorders include the treatment of diseases of the liver and digestive tract, including the stomach, duodenum, gallbladder, biliary tract, pancreas, small intestine and colon. Because these types of diseases are complex and symptoms can be subtle and gradual, sufferers commonly endure multiple doctor visits and undergo a battery of tests seeking relief. At Methodist Richardson, there is a multidisciplinary team
of physicians, surgeons, oncologists, nurses, and other clinical professionals, who are ready to care for you.
• Colorectal cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Diverticulitis
• Barrett’s esophagus
• Ulcerative colitis • Crohn’s disease
• Liver disease
• Pancreatic cancer
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Methodist Richardson offers advanced technologies, including minimally invasive robotic surgery. In fact, the first robotic Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) in Collin County was performed at Methodist Richardson. The hospital has three Intuitive® da Vinci surgical systems that enhance a surgeon’s capabilities. In other words, major surgeries with minor incisions. Patients benefit from less pain, smaller scars, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery time – getting them back to life sooner.
Healthcare is not one size fits all. That’s why at Methodist Richardson, care is personalized to meet the patient’s needs. Support services include:
• Nurse navigation
• Pain management
• Survivorship services
• Nutrition counseling
• Psychosocial services
• Support Group
At Methodist Richardson compassion is our compass. It’s where hearts and minds operate as one and where a glass half empty is filled with hope. It’s also where healing is believing. •
Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System.
Napoli’s Pizza & Restaurante is a family-owned Italian restaurant with locations serving the area for over 20 years. We serve authentic Italian cuisine, made fresh using only the finest ingredients.
Dining at Napoli’s includes delicious handmade pizzas, and homemade pasta dishes like chicken rollotini, lobster ravioli, or veal carciofi. Don’t forget to order a calamari or stuffed mushroom appetizer to start, and finish your meal with a delectable cheesecake, cannoli or tiramisu for dessert. Fresh salads, hot and cold subs, and kid’s meals are all on the menu as well.
Our full bar features Happy Hour on Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday from 2 - 7 p.m., and weekly drink specials.
We offer lunch specials, Tuesday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $7.95 which include home made garlic bread and a salad.
Gino Mulliqi, our Wylie Napoli’s manager, previously worked in New York at different Italian restaurants before moving to Wylie to reopen Napoli’s, at his father-in-law’s request. He has a business degree from Hunter College in New York and has also worked in the telecommunication industry as a sales manager. Napoli’s supports the Wylie community in a variety of ways. We offer a 10% discount to all Wylie ISD employees, and work with Wylie East and Wylie High School groups hosting fundraising nights. Our banquet room is often utilized by local non-profits to hold their meetings. We feel it’s important to give back to the community we call home. The Wylie Chamber of Commerce recognized our commitment to the community and awarded us with the 2016 Business of the Year.
You and your family are sure to enjoy our restaurant. We believe that our customers are our number one asset. Our restaurant has a warm atmosphere, our prices are right, and the food will keep you wanting to come back. Order take-out, come have lunch or dinner, celebrate your next event in our large banquet room, or let us cater at your location. We look forward to serving you!
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All growth depends upon activity. There is no development physically or intellectually without effort, and effort means work.
~ Calvin Coolidge
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According to the global analyt ics firm Gallup, only about 44 percent of Americans have created a will. Writing a last will and testament is seldom pri oritized on the to-do list of a mil lennial or Gen Xer. What may sur prise you, though, is the statistic cited by personal finance website The Balance: around 35 percent of Americans age 65 and older lack wills.
A will is an instrument of power. By creating one, you gain control over the distribution of your assets. If you die without one, the state decides what becomes of your prop erty, with no regard to your priori ties. A will can typically be broken down into four parts:
Executors: Most wills begin by naming an executor. Executors are responsible for carrying out the wishes outlined in a will. This involves assessing the value of the estate, gathering the assets, paying inheritance tax and other debts (if necessary), and distributing assets among beneficiaries.
Guardians: A will allows you to designate a guardian for your minor children. The designated guardian you appoint must be able to assume the responsibility. For many people, this is the most important part of a will. If you die without naming a guardian, the courts will decide who takes care of your children.
Gifts: This section enables you to identify people or organizations to whom you wish to give gifts of money or specific possessions, such as jewelry or a car. You can also specify conditional gifts, such as a sum of money to a young daughter, but only when she reaches a certain age.
Estate: Your estate encompasses everything you own, including real property, financial investments, cash, and
personal possessions. Once you have identified specific gifts you would like to distribute, you can apportion the rest of your estate in equal shares among your heirs, or you can split it into percentages. For example, you may decide to give 45 percent each to two children and the remaining 10 percent to your sibling.
A do-it-yourself will may be acceptable, but it may not be advisable. The law does not require a will to be drawn up by a professional, so you could create your own will. If you make a mistake, however, you will not be around to correct it. When you draft a will, consider enlisting the help of a legal professional who could offer you addi tional insight, especially if you have a large estate or a complex family situation.
Remember, a will puts power in your hands. You have worked hard to create a legacy for your loved ones. You deserve to decide how that legacy is sustained. •
Trace Dennis may be reached at 972-429-0603 or tracedennis@jaldennis.com
