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McKinney & Prosper LifestylePubs.com/McKinneyandProsper

AUGUST 2018

™

MCKINNEY IDOL

COMFORT, BEAUTY, STYLE—WELCOME HOME!

WHAT A TEAM!

W E G R O W W H E R E YO U G O Albin Roach is excited to announce that Jeff Yates has opened a branch office in Prosper. As Prosper has become one of the coolest places to live, we could not resist the opportunity to be the first full-service law firm to open an office and serve its citizens! Albin Roach is committed to be the best law firm in Texas. Our diversity in practice areas allow us to develop comprehensive strategies for all your legal needs. We are confident you will not only like our lawyers, you will also love our results. We hope you will take us up on it.

W E H E L P C L I E N T S R E S O LV E M AT T E R S I N V O LV I N G : Family Law and Divorce Business Transactions Litigation

Real Estate Employment and Labor Law Estate Planning, Probate and Guardianship

Prosper Location: 290 S. Preston Road, Suite 190 Prosper, Texas 75078

Frisco Location: 5665 Dallas Parkway, Suite 200 Frisco, Texas 75034

(Texas Bank building at Preston Road and 1st Street)

(NW Corner of Lebanon and Tollway)

214-423-5101 ALBINROACH.com

Focus on your goal. Donâ€™t look in any direction but ahead.

20 YEARS OF SUCCESS | 13 YEARS

MAGAZINE BEST REALTORS & TOP PRODUCERS

eliminate STUBBORN FAT without SURGERY or DOWNTIME

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Celebrating Family WHEN YOU THINK OF FAMILY, WHAT COMES TO MIND?

AUGUST 2018 PUBLISHER

Sharon Duffy | sharon.duffy@lifestylepubs.com

Maybe it’s the people you share your mornings with: the husband or wife who

EDITOR

makes you breakfast, the toddler who wakes you up before sunrise or the drooling

Victoria Perry | tori.perry@lifestylepubs.com

pup in the kitchen just itching for a full dish of food. Maybe it’s the people you share your years with: the grandfather who tells you old war stories at the Thanksgiving table, the uncle who brings you souvenirs from his travels or the aunt who can almost perfectly replicate your grandmother’s best pie recipe.

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Tom Bridges | tom.bridges@lifestylepubs.com MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Shane Frame | Shane@theguitarsanctuary.com EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Azure Photography-Christie Connell

Or maybe it’s the people you share your life with: the friends who have and always will be there for you, the parents who have always supported you and watched you grow or the kids who are watching and learning from you day after day.

info@azurephotostudio.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tom Bridges

This month here at McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle, we’re celebrating our Kids + Pets

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

issue. But we’re also celebrating the overarching feel of family and you, the readers,

Christie Connell

who always make us feel at home. Thanks for sharing your family with us each month—we can’t wait to see you around!

Sharon Duffy, Publisher Sharon.duffy@lifestylepubs.com

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CHIEF SALES OFFICER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR EDITORIAL MANAGER EDITORIAL AD MANAGER AD COORDINATORS

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

LAUNCH COORDINATOR PUBLISHER SUPPORT EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS

Steven Schowengerdt Matthew Perry DeLand Shore Brad Broockerd Sara Minor Janeane Thompson Nicolette Martin Victoria Perry Kate Baxendale Chad Jensen Cyndi Harrington Alicia Huff Adella Wrisinger Jessica Soetaert Cyndi King Dana Rudolph Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek Carli DiMarco Melanie Carlisle Randa Makeen Michael O’Connell Harshith Potu

LifestylePubs.com/McKinneyandProsper

VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26th St., Kansas City, MO Proverbs 3:5-6

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

McKinney & Prosper™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the McKinney & Prosper areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in McKinney & Prosper™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate to advanced musician or just learning to play is simply something you have always wanted to do, we have a place for you at The Guitar Sanctuary’s Performance Academy. Our faculty is made up of seasoned professional musicians that work in today’s music business. Our atmosphere and environment is one of encouragement and a commitment to excellence while understanding that making music and an inquisitive spirit is essential to creativity. Music is a powerful catalyst for personal growth. Discover your creative journey at The Guitar Sanctuary’s Performance Academy.

972.540.6420 | www.TheGuitarSanctuary.com Adriatica Village: 6633 Virginia Parkway,McKinney, TX

INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2018

FEATURES 14 McKinney Idol 17-Year-Old Local Harper Grace Wowed American Idol Judges with Powerhouse Voice

18 What a Team! Albin Roach Law Firm Talks Family, Pets

22 Comfort, Beauty, Style—Wel come Home! 714 Parker, McKinney

18 22

30 Internal Drive + Learning Proper Technique = Effortless Beauty The Texas Youth Ballet Conservatory

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local’s Choice

22 Open House 26 Page Turners 30 Our Town 33 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

REPUTATION

BEST R EA LT O R

MAGAZINE

R E SULTS

TOP ELITE PRODUCER Luxury Home Specialist

7200 West University, Suite #300 McKinney, Texas 75071

214-802-4680 | JLClark@kw.com | JaneClarkHomes.com

GOOD TIMES 1.

Hot Dogs and Hot Rods Car Show Event This ever-popular yearly event is organized by Bethlehem Place. The mission of Bethlehem Place is to lead and engage our community in the fight against hunger so those in need can live healthy, productive lives.

1. Dr. Jensen, Cherie and Liberty | 2. Betsy Winters and Heather Thrasher | 3. Danny Reid 1956 Chevy | 4. Jennifer and Ainsley, and Haley Fein

MYP Cheers to CASA event

This is the annual kickoff event for the McKinney Young Professionals Christmas in July drive to benefit CASA of Collin County. The event takes place at Tupp's Brewery and is open to the public. This year Cadillac Pizza provided the food, Philip Brumley provided the music and many of the local merchants provided fantastic raffle prizes.

1. Whitney and Jeff Nash | 2. Kathrynn Cavanaugh, Stacie Winsor, Shanna Hobbs, Cara Gilger and Andrea Holmes | 3. Emil Dahl, Ronny Hawley, Katie Huntsman, Monika Dahl, Manoela Estrรกzulas, Lukasz Kucharewicz | 4. Jovany Cossio, Jenny Cossio, Pete Amaya and Chelsea Amaya | 5. Eric Jenske, Kyle Wechsler, Lisa Hermes, Brandon Herbison and Caitlin Waters | 6. Tricia Clifton and Paige Galloway from CASA 10

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

McKinney A

S E W E L L C O M PA N Y

Drive the new Audi Q7 at Sewell Audi McKinney. Exceptional comfort and style with customer service 107 years in the making.

AROUND TOWN

LADIES IN LEADERSHIP Ladies in Leadership is a division of the Prosper Chamber of Commerce with a mission to motivate, inspire and empower our ladies in leadership roles. The networking meetings hope to support an environment of growth, development and confidence.Monthly events are typically the 2nd Thursday of the month and hosted by a Prosper Chamber Member.

TEXAS YOUTH BALLET CONSERVATORY PLACEMENT AUDITIONS Texas Youth Ballet Conservatory Placement Auditions

THIRD MONDAY TRADE DAYS Third Monday Trade Days in McKinney, Texas, is the oldest and largest monthly trade days/flea market in North Texas with roots back to the old county-wide market that began in the 1870s in McKinney. More than 450 vendors offer almost anything you can imagine: unique gifts, delightful home

for

Fall/Spring

Ballet

Training

McKinney's most talked about Classical Ballet training facility. Monday - Friday August 27 - 31. Space Limited. Detailed information available at www.texasyouthballet.com.

CLASSES AND CAMPS AT MPAC McKinney Performing Arts Center 111 N. Tennessee St.McKinney, TX 75069

decor, trendy clothing and accessories, sporting

Classes and Camps at MPAMPAC has a lot of

goods, antiques and collectibles, dogs and spe-

great classes and camps for tots to teens. Check

cialty items along with many fantastic "state fair"

out the options at the left or call 972-547-2650 for

type food concessions.

more information or to register.

Aug. 17-19 4550 W. University Drive, McKinney, Texas, 972.562.5466, ThirdMondayTradeDays.com

OVATION ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS Ovation Academy is a nonprofit education option which provides the technique, life skills, experiences and connections necessary to succeed in the performing arts industry. Ovation Academy strives to produce knowledgeable, respectful, empathetic and impactful artists who will contribute to their communities and to the performing arts industry. It offers courses in dance, theater, music and arts enrichment as well as training in the business and well-being of becoming a professional artist. Ovation Acadprovidesvide full-immersion education (academics included) for grades 6-12 as well as homeschool co-op programs for grades K-12.

Ovation Academy will open in Prosper in

We are always accepting submissions for announce-

August 2018! Auditions and enrollment began in

ments you’d like to see included in our Around Town

June. Space is limited. For more information, visit

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us

OvationAPA.org.

tab at LifestylePubs.com/McKinneyandProsper

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

Smiles and photo by Dr Jensen

DR DOUGLAS JENSEN

You may have known

already that Dr Douglas Jensen is an orthodontist who has been practicing in the McKinney and Prosper areas for the last decade. But who knew that he is actually a dual specialist in not only orthodontics, but in the closely related field of prosthodontics as well? If you weren’t aware, prosthodontics is the high level understanding of the various dental problems (such as missing teeth), advanced treatment planning, and the carrying out of the plan with uncommon skill and craftsmanship. People seek prosthodontists when esthetic stakes are high or when you would just prefer to get it done right the first time. This blending provides for a skill set virtually unheard of among dental professionals.

3595 S. Custer Road, Suite 200 McKinney, Texas 75070

(214) 842-8106 JensenOrthodonticArts.com

Of course, he strives diligently to provide what should be given in a modern practice:

• Well trained team • Latest technology • On time appointments • Flexible payment plans • Comfortable office and humor throughout the day • He’s a super nice guy who can relate well with people But where the rubber really meets the road about you or your child’s teeth and all things smile—that is, expert care performed at the highest level—there is quite literally not a more highly trained and experienced craftsman in this area of dentistry than Dr Jensen. And not only that huge deal, but he is quite inclined to listen to your concerns and work hard toward a first class outcome. Do your Google research, then come treat yourself to a true craftsman and determine for yourself why so many patients refer their friends and why many dentists themselves come to Dr Jensen to get their own teeth fixed right.

l o d I y e n n i K c M

LOCAL’S CHOICE

17-YEAR-OLD LOCAL HARPER GRACE WOWED AMERICAN IDOL JUDGES WITH POWERHOUSE VOICE ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES PHOTOGRAPHY AZURE PHOTOGRAPHY, CHRISTIE CONNELL

WHO IS YOUR INSPIRATION OR GREATEST INFLUENCE? My musical inspiration is Dolly Parton, a country legend with strong faith… and she writes her own music. But my greatest influence is definitely my momma, my best friend ever. Being homeschooled, I've grown up with her as a mom and teacher as well as best friend. I strive to have her kind soul, caring heart and strength of faith. Thanks to her, I was able to attend music classes growing up and now fly to Nashville to pursue my career. WHEN DID YOU REALIZE YOU HAD STAR QUALITY? I had never realized I have star quality. I sing and play music because it’s something I enjoy and what I love to do. Writing and making music has been a passion of mine ever since I was little. I never wanted to be famous, but I’ve always wanted to be a leader and be a good role model. I believe I'm capable of doing that through my music. WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES OUTSIDE OF MAKING MUSIC? I also enjoy cooking, fashion and love boxing and weightlifting! TELL US ABOUT YOUR PETS. I have three dogs. Monkey—she's my baby. She's about 6 pounds, a Chihuahua mix, and her favorite color is pink. Waffle is a Shih Tzu/poodle and extremely intelligent and can talk and do tons of tricks! He's very laid-back and loves a good back scratch. Pigglet is a Chihuahua mix who acts like a pig, burping and rooting out loud, but crazy sweet and loving. WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS FOR YOUR CAREER? My goals through my music are to play sold-out shows and get my songs to people who need them the most. But my main goal is to hopefully use my music as a way to build an orphanage in Africa. I want to be a good role model.

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

Pigglet, Mr. Waffles and Monkey August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

Body of work is about more than being strong physically. At TITLE Boxing Club, we believe that confidence is key and true confidence comes from the strength of feeling good about yourself on the inside and the outside.

AUGUST

BODY OF WORK 7 Day Pass

Good for 7 consecutive days of club access and class passes. Contact the club to schedule your first class today. Mention this ad, and receive a free boxing form and technique session.

Learn more about our high-intensity boxing, kickboxing and MMA workout classes at www.titleboxingclub.com/mckinney-tx 5080 Virginia Parkway, Ste. 800, McKinney, Texas 75071 | (214) 856-7007

READING | MATH | ALGEBRA | SAT/ACT Academics Plus is an experienced, supplemental education provider committed to increasing each student’s academic performance while creating an atmosphere of empowerment, enhancing the joy of learning, and encouraging personal excellence in school, home and community.

ACADEMICSPLUS.COM 972-548-8788 director@academicsplus.com 175 S Ridge Road, Ste 700, McKinney, TX 75070

• Enrichment and Remedial K-12 Programs • Diagnostic, prescriptive, individualized instruction • A+ students average 1-2 years of growth in just 48 instructional hours

Increasing Each Student’s Academic Performance August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

Todd Albin and family

ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES

What a Team! ALBIN ROACH LAW FIRM TALKS FAMILY, PETS

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

ALBIN ROACH PLLC, WHICH HAS BEEN OFFERING FULL-SERVICE LEGAL ADVICE TO COLLIN COUNTY FOR YEARS, OPENED ITS PROSPER OFFICE LAST MONTH AT 290 S. PRESTON ROAD, SUITE 190. In keeping with our Kids + Pets issue, the Albin Roach team tells us about their families.

Todd Albin litigation and transactions (business, real estate, construction), general counsel to businesses

TELL US ABOUT YOUR KIDS AND ANIMALS. We are a blended family with two 17-year-olds (boy and girl), two 15-year-olds (boy and girl) and three 9-year-olds (two boys and a girl). I had four boys, and she had three girls, and they all live with us. Our kids have begged for an animal, but keeping up with activities of seven kids made us say no until recently. While our kids were at summer camps, we bought a goldendoodle puppy and surprised them upon their return. Blu has been in our home for a couple of weeks, and she is overwhelmed, as am I, most of the time. WHEN DID YOU FIRST REALIZE YOU WANTED TO BECOME AN ATTORNEY? My high school friends warned others of my sharp tongue and quick wit, so when a professor came to my high school to promote a paralegal program, I took an immediate interest and saw an affordable path to law school. WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE? My mom and a counselor, Daniel Gowan, who I saw for over two years after divorcing my first wife. The knowledge I received from both was worth more than the education from my bachelor's or law degrees. WHAT IS YOUR STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS AS AN ATTORNEY? My strategy is to listen and understand the client, which builds a trusting relationship. Once I understand their goals, I can devise and explain the different options along with my recommendations. Communication and trust leads to satisfied clients. CONTINUED >

August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

WHAT A TEAM!

(CON TI N U ED)

Laura Roach family litigation

TELL US ABOUT YOUR KIDS AND PETS. Married to John Roach Jr. for 19 years, we have three sons. John III is 17, a senior lacrosse player at Plano High School. He loves debating and, after college, plans to be an officer in the Marine Corps. Jacob is 15, a freshman bass player at Clark High School who does Krav Maga and is passionate about animals, video games and helping special needs kids. Jack is 13, in the eighth grade at Hendrick Middle School and is an excellent basketball player and also plays football and soccer. We have two dogs: Cooper, a German shepherd; and Cabella, a yellow lab. Cooper is the best guard dog ever and is a solid, sweet companion to our family. Cabella was an amazing hunting lab and bird dog until I overfed her, and she is now too fat to hunt. She is sweet, and even though she is now grown, she still acts like a puppy. WHEN DID YOU FIRST REALIZE YOU WANTED TO BECOME AN ATTORNEY? As a 9-year-old, I witnessed a horrific domestic violence incident. I grew to want to become a prosecutor and do my part to end domestic violence. When I was 18, I served on a jury and left the courthouse passionate about the law and the court system. At that moment, my only option was to become an attorney. Practicing in family law has allowed me to assist families with a peaceful resolution when going through a divorce or custody case and when peace is not possible to fight for what is right for the family. WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE? Growing up, my dad was the most influential person in my life. He taught me to believe in myself and that I was smart enough—and tough enough—to do whatever I needed and wanted to do in life. As an adult, my husband, John, by far is the most influential. Personally, the reasons are obvious: He is my best friend and always has my back when the challenges of life come our way. Professionally, since he is a district judge, he always offers sound practice advice and tips and challenges me to be the best attorney and mediator I can be. WHAT IS YOUR STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS AS AN ATTORNEY? To know the law, the judge and the facts of the case better than my opponent. With that knowledge, I can advise my client in a manner to reach the best settlement possible, and if not possible, I can fight for my client more effectively than my opponent.

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

Local lender. National acclaim.

Jeffrey Yates civil/business litigation, estate planning, guardianship,

TOP 1% MORTGAGE EXECUTIVE MAGAZINE

probate litigation, real estate

TELL US ABOUT YOUR KIDS AND PETS. Married 10 years, we have two kids: Walker, 6, just started kinder-

MORTGAGE ORIGINATORS in America 2017

garten; and Colton, 4, in pre-K. We moved to Prosper a couple of years ago. My wife is currently a stay-at-home mom, having taught for 12 years. Our kids love fishing, playing baseball and soccer and anything else that involves water and dirt. We have two dogs, Harley and Hank. Harley is daddy’s boy, and Hank is momma’s boy. WHEN DID YOU FIRST REALIZE YOU WANTED TO BECOME AN ATTORNEY? My junior year at Texas A&M. Focusing on a degree in business management, one of the courses I took was business law. It was probably the most difficult course I took as an undergrad, but I

Gail Hillman

Sales Manager NMLS #312734 Waterstone Mortgage Corporation 3900 S. Stonebridge Drive, Suite 1104 McKinney, TX 75070 972.200.3253 GailHillman.com

became engulfed in reading and studying the material. WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE? My professor, Keith Swim, constantly challenged everyone, and I

2018

tried to best him on anything he would throw at me. We keep in touch, and I have often sought out his advice after becoming an attorney. WHAT IS YOUR STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS AS AN ATTORNEY? Be proactive in keeping clients informed before they have to ask. Know what questions the judge is going to ask. In contested cases, prepare as though you know the case is going to trial. And have

All loan requests are subject to credit approval as well as specific program requirements and guidelines. For some programs, income and property restrictions may apply. Information is subject to change without notice. Equal Housing Lender. Waterstone Mortgage Corporation (NMLS #186434) is a wholly owned subsidiary of WaterStone Bank SSB (NASDAQ: WSBF). State of Texas Licensee Exempt.

empathy since you have to be able to see a case from all perspectives.

August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

OPEN HOUSE

A m e r i c a n C l as s i c C o m f o rt, B e au t y, St y l e — W e lc o m e H o m e 714 PARKER, MCKINNEY, $648,000 THE HOME IS OFFERRED BY JANE CLARK REALTY GROUP ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES PHOTOGRAPHY AZURE PHOTOGRAPHY, CHRISTIE CONNELL ONE OF THE MANY ADVANTAGES OF HISTORIC TEXAS NEIGHBORHOODS IS THE QUAINT, RELAXING ATMOSPHERE OF PLACES LIKE DOWNTOWN MCKINNEY. As you enter neighborhood streets, shaded by massive sycamore trees, you can almost feel the pace of life slow down. The wraparound porch beckons you to grab a cold drink and relax while waving to your neighbors as they stroll down the sidewalk past your house. This beautiful home is just a 10-minute walk to beautiful historic downtown McKinney and offers an upgraded slice of Americana, just like the square itself. As you drive into the oversized garage, you smile at the workspace area where you have a favorite project in progress. Then you enter a home that offers the epitome of comfort and spacious beauty. The craftsman-style home offers plenty of light in each room, adjusted only at your whim with the plantation shutters. Your feet actually absorb the beauty of the hand-scraped, nailed-down hardwood floors as you head to the master retreat to change into comfortable clothes to match the calm you feel in your home. Maybe you change your mind and decide to take your drink to the 19-by-10-foot screened porch and turn on the two fans. Relaxing here allows you to admire the shady, sprawling backyard and ponder adding a pool to the 1/3-acre lot. Or maybe you plan your next outdoor gathering when you use the large patio with the gas grill hook-up to impress your friends and family with your cooking skills.

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

CONTINUED >

August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

OPEN HOUSE

(CON TI N U ED)

Beautiful millwork

Hand-scraped, nailed hardwood floors

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

Claw-foot tub and stained glass in master bath

SHEILAH C. SMITH CERTIFIED

PUBLIC

ACCO U N TA N T

Offering a Broad Range of Tax & Business Services for Small Business Owners, Sole Proprietors & Individuals

Your mind then drifts back into the house and how well it suits parties of all kinds, as well as daily life. With two large dining areas, a comfortable den with a gas log fireplace and an upstairs room begging to entertain, you imagine your guests mingling and enjoying your home almost as much as you do. You smile as you know people will compliment your home on everything from the heavy crown molding to the arched entryways. As your guests

Sheilah C. Smith, CPA LLC Committed

Pro-Active

Responsive

214-282-5506

Sheilah@SheilahSmithCPA.com

arrive, they marvel at the 20-foot ceilings. The spacious kitchen with its granite countertops and tumbled stone backsplash under shaker-style cabinets will elicit envy. The five-burner dual-fuel range and impressive stainless steel appliances will make them wonder just how

taking a bath in the beautiful claw-foot tub while admiring the stained-glass window above. Or maybe a hot shower in the large stone tile shower will wash your cares away. With a second master bedroom downstairs and three bedrooms upstairs along with the entertainment area, the home offers plenty of space for out-of-town guests. Two of the upstairs bedrooms share a Jack-andJill bathroom, making this five-bedroom, 4 1/2-bathroom home an absolute dream.

Listed by Jane Clark Realty Group Keller Williams McKinney, $648,000

For more information, contact Jane Clark at 214.802.4680 or visit JaneClarkRealty.com.

CLEAN WATER

CHANGES

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING. When a community gets access to clean water, it can change just about everything. It can improve health, increase access to food, grow local economies, and help kids spend more time in school.

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Finally, you get to send your guests home and relax by

[

good of a cook you may be!

W W W. C H A R I T Y WAT E R . O R G August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

PAGE TURNERS

acad e mics

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

STEPHANIE TALLEY TEACHES THE MOST IMPORTANT COURSE: CRITICAL THINKING

ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES | PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTIE CONNELL, AZURE PHOTOGRAPHY

p l us

MEET STEPHANIE TALLEY, THE OWNER AND DIRECTOR OF ACADEMICS PLUS (A+), A SMALL LOCAL BUSINESS IN ITS 27TH YEAR OF OPERATION. Through her years of classroom teaching, Stephanie found that many bright students simply were not making the grades they were capable of. What she came to realize was that many students today have not been taught one essential element of the learning process: critical thinking skills. This wonderful teacher came to McKinney from Utah and northern California. She had previously taught K-6 music classes, as well as the third and sixth grades. In 2013 she joined A+ and immediately fell in love with the diagnostic approach to instruction established by the previous owners, Mark and Melinda Crenwelge. Stephanie eventually bought the business in 2015 and has continued to provide the excellent instruction for which A+ is known. A+ takes great pride in the fact that its students average one to two years of growth in just 48 instructional hours. When asked what Stephanie enjoys most about what they do at A+, she smiles and talks about how the “kids” all become part of a family, and you can certainly see the kind of wholesome atmosphere A+ provides. What she likes least about the opportunity to enhance these young brains? An answer came easily: the non-academic aspects of running a business. The most important goal for A+ was the easiest of her answers, which was to assure that every student benefits from their sessions and achieve more than ever before. However, she then emphasizes that the students and parents both realize it is not a “quick fix,” and that they need to keep focused on the long-term perspective. Having 100-plus students normally and up to 160 students in the summer months, Stephanie says her greatest challenge is that she is always very busy. But her dedication to her students shows again as she describes how she loves working with the local schools to collaborate on student progress. Subsequently, school personnel often refer students they feel may benefit from A+’s programs. If you have a student who wants to get ahead and stay ahead, one who is struggling or has struggled, or one with learning disabilities, the programs at Academics Plus—where they actually teach students how to think—can help. For more information, visit AcademicsPlus.com. August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

Get to Know

YOUR LOCAL BUILDER

Born and raised in the Dallas area, David Yowell is a second-generation Builder and Remodeler. Blessed to find his passion at a young age, he created David Yowell Construction in 1988. By committing to integrity, knowledge, and a genuine love for the industry, David was able to accomplish his goals and become a premier construction company for the city of McKinney. DYC has since won â€˜Best Ofâ€™ awards and has been featured in a multitude of Texas publications.

(972) 369-1501 // www.dycdallas.com 3551 W. Eldorado Pkwy Suite 500 McKinney, Texas 75070

S C R ATC H M A D E C O M F O R T F O O D & S P I R I T S

1 9 1 0 N . S t o n e b r i d g e D r i v e S u i t e 1 8 0 M c k i n n e y, T X

w w w . e l e v e n 1 7. n e t

972.363.0031

August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

OUR TOWN

ARTICLE TOM BRIDGES PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTIE CONNELL, AZURE PHOTOTGRAPHY

internal drive + learning proper technique =

effortless beauty THE TEXAS YOUTH BALLET CONSERVATORY

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

IF YOU HAVE AN ASPIRING BALLERINA, YOU SHOULD KNOW THERE IS AN OUTSTANDING PROGRAM HERE IN COLLIN COUNTY IN THE TEXAS YOUTH BALLET CONSERVATORY. However, don’t expect this to be your child’s typical dance class. TYBC is not for those who simply want to go somewhere and socialize with their friends. No, think more along the lines of rigid classical training. To achieve effortless beauty, one must not just have raw talent. One must have an internal drive to persevere through the type of training required for learning proper technique. Jennifer Dulin, the studio director for ballet, provides a wonderful history of the Conservatory. Like many young people who trained to become a ballerina, Jennifer says she knew she wanted to be a ballerina at the age of 3 after her parents took her to a performance of Swan Lake. She eventually found her way to one of the premier teachers in the U.S., Marcia Dale Weary. After observing Jennifer, Marcia pulled her aside and informed her that she had talent but that she had not been trained properly. The teacher then informed the student that she had been told the same thing at one time, only to find that it was too late for her to achieve a significant level of improvement. Thus, she committed herself to making sure that proper technique was taught in her program. After many hard hours of work, she was able to learn the right way to develop her muscles and technique. She went on to perform in such classics as The Nutcracker and Giselle, and she trained under and collaborated with many top names in the industry. After just a few years under Jennifer's instruction, several TYBC students have already been accepted into such iconic programs as American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, Bolshoi Ballet and more. So if you want your child to achieve effortless beauty, now you know where to take them. August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

• Classical ballet training in a boutique, conservatory environment • Pre-professional training, Mens/boys class, Pas de Deux • Family-friendly atmosphere • All ages/All levels of training • Open program offers Modern, Rhythm tap, Musical Theatre Jazz

Free Trial Class

214.477.9434 | www.texasyouthballet.com 901 N. McDonald, Suite #705, McKinney, Texas 75069

Proudly Serving the Tax and Accounting Needs of Our Community

P U T YO U R C IT Y O N O U R M A P. Start a magazine & build a legacy. Life is short. Love what you do.

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972.346.3100 | lynngrosscpa.com 32

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

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NATIONAL NIGHT OUT 2018

MEAT FIGHT 1K

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Join the City of McKinney Police De-

America's favorite 1K is back for an-

MPAC SUMMER CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS: GINA CHAVEZ

partment for National Night Out. Talk

other year of meat, medals and mis-

Gina

to your crime watch captain to find

chief. This charity event benefits

sounds of the Americas with ten-

out about events in your neighbor-

Meat Fight, Project 13, Meat Bike and

sion and grace. A multi-ethnic

hood. National Night Out is an enjoy-

the those living with Multiple Scle-

Latin pop songstress, Chavez is

able way to increase neighborhood

rosis. "Meat" you at the finish line!

a nine-time Austin Music Award

spirit,

MeatFight.com

winner, including 2015 Musician of

improve

police-community

Chavez

blending

the

the Year and Album of the Year for

partnerships and keep our city safer. McKinneyTexas.org

McKinney Performing Arts Center

her sophomore release, Up.Rooted.

McKinneyTexas.org

AN EVENING WITH TERRY BOZZIO

AUGUST FAMILY GAME NIGHT

Drum legend Terry Bozzio pres-

The Sanctuary Music & Events Center

Downtown McKinney

ents a solo musical performance

Bring the whole family for kid-friend-

on the world's largest tuned drum

ly activities throughout the square.

and percussion set at the Sanctu-

Every Second Saturday, historic

ary Music & Events Center. Terry

TEXAS FLOOD LIVE AT THE SANCTUARY WITH THE MAYLEE THOMAS BAND

Downtown McKinney comes alive

Bozzio is able to accompany him-

The Sanctuary Music & Events Center

with on-the-street entertainment,

self with bass note patterns and, at

The

late-night shopping, dining and

the same time, melodically solo with

to present a special double bill

something for everyone to enjoy.

highly developed coordination skills

with Tommy Katona and Texas

SecondSaturdayMcKinney.com

to express a “complete musical

Flood and the Maylee Thomas Band

statement” on the drum set alone.

at The Sanctuary Music & Events.

TheSanctuaryMcKinney.com

Guitar

Sanctuary

AUGUST

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

proud

Glenn Adams a t t o r n e y

a t

l a w

BOARD CERTIFIED CRIMINAL TRIAL LAWYER EXPERIENCED CRIMINAL ATTORNEY DWI, DRUG CASES, ASSAULTS, ALL FELONIES 321 N. Central Expressway, Suite 365, McKinney, Texas 75070

(972) 516-4886 | hgadamslaw@gmail.com August 2018 | McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle

PARTING THOUGHTS

t h e SMALL ROOM ACCESSORIES FOR BIG IMAGINATIONS

explorer the

Pillowfort Map Banner $19.99, Target

bookworm beach babe the

Monster Book Stand $29.99, Target

the

Pillowfort Car & Surf Boards Throw Pillow $16.99, Target

Log Seat $59, Crate and Barrel

Small Spaces Ladder Bookcase $149, Pottery Barn Kids

Rope Framed Mirror $219, Crate and Barrel

Pillowfort LED Mountains Light $16.99, Target

A-Z Bookends $16.99, Target

Mobi Math Tiles Game $17.99, Shop.Scholastic.com

McKinney & Prosper Lifestyle | August 2018

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laser hair removal

1,000 off

mommy makeovers

500 off

breast procedures & tummy tucks

20% off

skincare and microblading

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