Finding The Perfect Home
pg 6
Randy Summers of Remax offers you three simple ideas to finding the perfect home
The ABC’s of Water Conservation pg 24 Clark Gullette of LawnTech shares some interesting insight on how to conserve our most precious natural resource
The Dreaded Texas Chigger Season pg 28 Greg Dyer of Green Pest Guys gives you the real facts about chiggers and how to how to keep yourself chigger-free
Homefront Highlight
pg 12
Adriatica Village is a shining beacon of light in McKinney and to the rest of the world
The Church Street Church Experience pg 22 On the Cover A luxury home in the Riva Villa District of Adriatica Village in McKinney, Texas
Pastor Mike Connaway of VLife Church in Adriatica talks about how the ministry is coming together to revive one of McKinney’s oldest church facilities
EXECUTIVE PUBLISHERS Jason & Heather Reynolds EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Heather Reynolds PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Jason Reynolds ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JD Lee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Deb Goss Randy Summers of Remax Clark Gullette of LawnTech Greg Dyer of Green Pest Guys PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Jonathon English Jed Rollins Jennifer Willard Michaela Connaway Jeremy Woodhouse Various PRODUCTION / DESIGN FIFTHKING MEDIA www.fifthking.com ADVERTISING / M ARKETING The Homefront Team www.txhomefront.com
© 2012 TEXAS HOMEFRONT M AGAZINE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WORLDWIDE The title and all material within are protected by international copyright laws and are reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s permission. Although the greatest care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine at the time of going to press, neither Texas Homefront Magazine nor FIFTHKING MEDIA can be held liable for omissions, inexactness or errors.
FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES CONTACT: Texas Homefront Magazine PO Box 405 Prosper, Texas 75078
Ph: 469.481.2935 www.TXHomefront.com facebook.com/txhomefront heather@txhomefront.com
It’s hard to believe that it is June already, and time for another summer break from school for the kids! 2012 is moving at a rapid pace, and before the sweltering heat of summer is upon us, get out and enjoy the OUTDOOR LIVING that Prosper and McKinney offer to us! There are multiple parks, playgrounds, athletic facilities and neighborhoods to enjoy/so go take part in them! The Texas climate in June is not only great for enjoying the outdoors, but it allows you to strengthen your presence in the community, with friends and with your neighbors. That is what Texas Homefront is all about! If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting the Adriatica Village in McKinney, you owe it to yourself to experience it. Building a village to look centuries old in today’s time is no easy task. But with the efforts and experience of three of the area’s most reputable and respected custom home builders in McKinney, Adriatica Village is primed for lasting growth.
Over Memorial Day weekend, we had the opportunity to volunteer our time during the Smiles Charity Concert at Adriatica, and were reminded of how blessed and proud we are to be Americans! Our military provides us the freedoms that we sometimes take for granted. And it was wonderful to see so many of our friends and colleagues supporting their efforts and personal sacrifices. Thank you to all of the volunteers, sponsors and supporters of Smiles Charity – and thank you Dr. Jennifer Buchanan for your time and support! It was a great evening, everyone had a wonderful time, and we enjoyed the music. Great performances by Lantic, David Nail, and as always, The Maylee Thomas Band rocked the house! Last month, we witnessed hundreds of volunteers who gave unselfishly of their time and resources at the Windmill Playground in Prosper – and our entire community is benefiting from that! What a wonderful experience we shared with all of the hardworking volunteers! The look in our children’s eyes during the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony made it worth the effort for us! Not only did we construct a playground that our children will enjoy for years to come, but the sense of community and the pride we feel for our town was evident and a most humbling experience. Welcome Home! Jason & Heather Reynolds Executive Publishers www.TXhomefront.com | 5
6 | Texas Homefront Magazine
In the search for a pre-owned
home you need to
“Think simple, yet in-depth.� In real estate there is a pro and a con to
everything!
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rom an overall real estate market standpoint, I must say that we should be extremely excited about calling the North Dallas area home. According to a national resource, Dallas is ranked number two in America’s Fastest-Growing Cities for projected economic growth in 2011-2016. With a population growth of 2.26%, our northern suburbs are leading the way. Dallas is still known for low taxes and economical real estate, which continues to draw jobs and economic activity from other parts of the country. So far this year, buyers are snapping up houses. For example, on a recent listing in McKinney, I received multiple offers in just 5 days after having this home on the market! As a local realtor, I am eager to continue to grow right here in the North Texas Homefront. As you begin the quest to find your home, I am sure you will research and navigate through some of the industry’s most popular websites to find that perfect preowned home. While searching these sites, you may want to consider taking a step back and refining your search by keeping 3 simple theories in mind. The 5 Mile Radius Search – what is going on within a 5 mile radius of this property? After you find a great home in a desired area, drive 5 miles outward and begin your research. Take a look at current and future traffic flow, future infra-structure zoning, proximity to shopping and eating establishments, as well as how the school district fares. These are just a few of what you should consider when it comes to your “5 Mile Radius Search”. These characteristics could have a direct impact on the resale value of your home.
F
I refer to this as macro to micro. Once you find that special home, branch out and then zero back in to the property to confirm your protected value. Make sure that your area supports your home and your home supports your area. I am all about keeping it simple. So start with the end in mind.
The live-ability of a home layout design – I mentioned in last month’s issue that a home is a feeling. The layout, design and features need to give you that “feel good” feeling that you deserve every day. However, in a close second place is the functionality of the layout and ensuring that it meets your lifestyle. When I speak of lifestyle, I’m referring to what you do when you’re not at work and how your family lives in your home. I even break it down to how you live in your home during the week verses how you live in your home on the weekends. For example, if you office out of your home, you obviously need a functional space with privacy from living areas and all bedrooms. On the weekends, your household may be a bit busier, warranting the need for an open game room that accommodates your kids, neighbors and/or your family for a board game or a movie. One way I like to assist my clients is to determine how many living spaces they need – by breaking them into “kid spaces” and “adult spaces”. This helps to determine how many spaces are needed, and ideally where they should be placed. The placement of these living spaces is vital in ensuring daily peace in your household. And there is nothing like peaceful and happy home! Features that fascinate – I could go on and on about features. Which ones are “must-haves”, which are non-negotiable, and which are just plain trendy. Over the years I have assisted more than 700 families in looking for and selecting certain features in their homes. There are only two reasons why home buyers choose to consider, or not consider, a feature. The first is so they can enjoy it, and because it will enhance their resale value. The other reason is that they simply must have it and cannot live without it.
The advice I give to my clients when creating their must-have list, is to choose features that have a benefit. For instance, granite countertops in the kitchen not only look incredible, but they perform well too. They are durable, easy to maintain, and add beauty and elegance to the kitchen. Another great feature is adequate storage. If you find a kitchen with your desired layout and the kitchen has tons of storage with 42 doors and drawers, this is a huge benefit. All in all, I believe if you think it though and get some feedback from friends, family or a realtor you will be fine. In real estate there is a pro and a con to everything/I MEAN EVERYTHING! This is why a second opinion and feedback can help you solidify a wise decision. I am a sincere believer that if you do the proper research, you cannot go wrong buying a home in Dallas. I will be more than delighted to answer any questions you may have in regards to real estate, benefits of homeownership and the market in general. I am not just a realtor, but a real friend. Randy Summers 214-498-0083 or email me at randysummers@remax.net.
Randy Summers ReMax Real Estate Agent www.TXhomefront.com | 9
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12 | Texas Homefront Magazine
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driatica, a gift of light and flowers in the heart of burgeoning McKinney, offers a lifestyle like no other community in North Texas. Inspired by the splendor of the old-world city of Supetar, Croatia on the shore of the Adriatic Ocean, it was envisioned by international real estate developer Jeffory D. Blackard. It currently is being brought to life by David R. Brooks and the Independent Bank Group with the creative skills of awardwinning builder and developer George C. Fuller. Adriatica is history in the remaking. This village-based community, steeped in old-world charm and age-old values, invites you to step through the past into the future and imagine what life could be like for you and your family on the water’s edge of Lake Stonebridge. Adriatica, while providing all of the conveniences of modern urban centers, has been designed to function as an oldworld European working village. Riva Harbor, the retail and commercial district, is strategically located in the town center and masterfully engrafts the marketplace into the very heart of village life. As part of the village center, the business district will become a committed and caring part of the community, engaging with residents on a daily basis. The new use of this old-world concept, called Neoretroism, will truly integrate business owners and operators with the lives of the families around them.
A
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When complete, the Riva Harbor district will comprise of a central, multilevel parking facility encircled by unique, retail boutique shops, restaurants on the water and small to large office spaces.
Luxury condominiums will be located above the retail spaces and luxury apartments will be connected to Riva Harbor by a sky bridge. Riva Harbor will also include a floating concert stage and host local musicians and artists, as well as festivals throughout the year. Encircling Riva Harbor are residential neighborhoods, which display the dazzling, Romanesque architecture of European heritage and traditions. The Villa District blends the talents of home building visionaries George Fuller, Mike Brown and G. G. Cain, a diverse yet quality consistent team of builders to serve the residential clientele. These gorgeous communities are linked together by miles of exquisitely landscaped cobblestone paths, not only connecting members of the Adriatica community, but extending to connect Adriatica to Stonebridge Ranch and all of its amenities that are available to Adriatica residents. There is also a walkway across the dam to the Stonebridge Ranch beach club and tennis courts and a walking tunnel under Virginia Parkway that connects Adriatica to the convenient retail establishments across the street. You will never need to cross a busy street while walking in Adriatica!
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Common areas have been artfully designed as gathering places, bringing together residents, retail owners, and others from the greater Stonebridge community to socialize and relax together. In addition to the many cobblestone paths available throughout the village for walking and biking, Adriatica has included a fullystocked lake for fishing, a greenway, and a soccer field, which is host to hot air ballooning on occasion. In addition, Adriatica is home to neighborhood bistros, coffee houses, and restaurants offering a wide array of cuisine, atmosphere, and music just a short walk from home. As public gathering places of early America encouraged new thought, invention, and revolutionary ideas, these establishments provide the perfect venue for relaxing evenings or stimulating, lively debate that could give birth to creative ideas that just might change the world! Ovid the Roman Poet (BC 43-AD 180) eloquently stated, “In our leisure we reveal the kind of people we are.� The villagers of Adriatica are truly a blessed people, gifted with unsurpassed natural and architectural beauty all around them and abundant space and opportunity to relax and create in the company of neighbors and friends.
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Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862), American naturalist, poet, and philosopher stated, “He enjoys true leisure who has time to improve his soul's estate.” The vision, which is Adriatica, has not left spiritual growth out of the master plan. A prayer chapel is available to villagers for prayer and inspiration and the serene lakeside Bella Donna Chapel is available for weddings, special services, and spiritual events by reservation. Adriatica is also home to VLife Church, the newest church in Stonebridge, McKinney. VLife is a growing, vibrant, and contemporary body of Christian believers who have a passion for life, love for their community, and divine vision and purpose to reach out to those around them with the love and transforming power of Jesus Christ. The solid biblical foundation and visionary inspiration of VLife will stimulate your faith, encourage your spiritual growth, and foster a deeper, more personal relationship with your father in heaven. VLife meets in the upper room of the Adriatic Women’s Health Center on Virginia Parkway and is led by pastor Mike Connaway every Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday nights at 7:00 p.m.
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VLife Church is a growing, vibrant, and contemporary body of Christian believers who have a passion for life, love, and divine purpose to reach the world with the love and transforming power of Jesus Christ. Recently, we have embarked on a mission to revive one of the oldest, and most notable church buildings in the City of McKinney. It is a place where people from all genres of life will be able to worship and enjoy the presence of God. It is also an endeavor that you can participate in by sharing a financial gift. Visit us online at: www.vlifechurch.com to learn about VLife Church. Thank you! Sincerely, Mike Connaway Senior Pastor Advertisement
Residents are welcomed at the private entrance by an elegant stone horse trough befitting of a Texas estate. Ranch style gates swing open to luxurious estate home sites that preserve the rural character of the unique setting. For those seeking an elegant residence in a refined country setting, look no further than The Estates at Greenspoint. Located in the rolling hills of east Prosper, an area dubbed the “Country Club District”, generously sized custom home sites await your dream home. This thoughtfully designed community incorporates your personal architecture set in rugged harmony with the pristine Texas countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the adjacent equestrian facilities, golf amenities and adjacent 27-acre Town Lake.
The Estates at Greenspoint boasts beautiful stone privacy walls, ornamental street lighting, and a private street. Home sites are fully improved with city water and sewer, underground electric and the conveniences you expect such as Atmos gas and ATT high-speed bundled –content fiber to the home. Creek side home sites are situated high along a wooded limestone bluff, and range in size from 1.0 – 1.6 acres. These sites enjoy spectacular views overlooking a tributary to Wilson Creek, which feeds Town Lake on the east border of the community.
Across Greenspoint Lane are approximately half-acre meadow home sites. This creek side community features large custom lots for sale to home builders and also individuals. Fewer than forty homes will ultimately be built here, with home sites spacious enough to accommodate magnificent legacy estates and extensive outdoor living areas. Meadow home sites from the low $100’s, and creek side acreage home sites from the low $200’s.
FOR MORE INFO VISIT www.greenspointTX.com or contact Trang Dang-Le at:
214.563.2438
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24 | Texas Homefront Magazine
Remember the good times
growing up when you went to your favorite local
watering hole, went fishing, or took the boat out for some
family fun?
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remember those times fondly and still try to relive them as often in my older age as possible. But yet lately, I have found the weather to be less than accommodating and curtailing my fun at every turn. When going to the lake in this region, I must prepare for the worst, check lake water levels before departing, worry about stumps, severe sunburn, sand bars, and deadly algae. As of late, times have changed. We can no longer look at weather patterns in this region with idle apprehension. It appears drought conditions are here to stay and we have to change our mindset towards conserving water. After the hottest early spring on record, we can assume we are in for another hot, dry year. This drought pattern we are in has caused a mass movement towards educating us, and rightfully so. We must learn from our past mistakes. Conserving water is nothing new. It’s a precious resource that must be monitored, controlled and respected. Learning the ABC’s of water conservation seems almost cliché, however, you would be surprised how little we understand about our most precious resource we take for granted. Water is a vital resource we must have, without it we cannot survive. Pretty dramatic statement, yet painfully true. Learning about conservation is as easy as going online, gathering pamphlets at your local water department, or stopping by your local library. The educational resources are there for us, we must simply take the initiative to use them. All too often we use up resources without taking time to understand how they are provided to us, how much we actually have or how our footprint affects available resources. There is not enough space in this article to breach the topic of water conservation in a way that would educate you effectively. Consequently, I will try to touch briefly on few of the most common misconceptions about our region’s water supply. First, the most common misconception; “The little bit I use cannot possibly make a difference.” Or secondly, “The earth is covered with about seventy-percent water, why should we concern ourselves, it never goes away.”
I
26 | Texas Homefront Magazine
Please take
time to visit texaswatermatters.org /conservation.htm
and gain more
knowledge about our
world’s most precious
resource. These two common notions seem to obscure the importance of respecting valuable resources. Begin to learn from your mistakes and change your frame of mind. Your water consumption does make a difference, and water conservation starts with YOU! Yes, it is true the earth is mostly water however; differing weather patterns can wreak havoc on any particular region’s water supply for hundreds of years, depleting even the most plentiful water resource down to drips and drabs. So, if you enjoy where you live, care about your neighbor and respect mother earth, then you owe it to yourself to learn the ABC’s of water conservation.
Summer in
Texas
means an
influx
of annoying
pests,
especially during a year like this one where there was a lack of an extended
freeze
the previous
winter.
28 | Texas Homefront Magazine
ot surprisingly, this condition directly correlates with the increased numbers of hatching pests. One of the most feared summer insects in Texas is the Chigger mite, also called "jiggers" and "redbugs." Texas hosts many chigger species, only a few of which are annoying to humans. More closely related to spiders than to insects, chiggers belong to the same class as scorpions and ticks.
N
Adult chiggers spend the winter in protected sites such as cracks in the soil and leaf litter on the ground. In the spring, they lay eggs that hatch into the parasitic larval or "chigger" stage. This is the stage that attaches to humans or animals. Chigger populations most commonly develop in fields and weedy areas, particularly in areas with tall grasses and wild berry patches.
Preventative Actions The question everybody asks is “How do I prevent chigger bites?” The best defense against chiggers is to avoid them! If you absolutely have to venture into chigger habitats, wear protective clothing. Loose-fitting, tightly woven fabrics provide the best protection, because such fabrics minimize the movement of chiggers through clothing.
To keep chiggers on the outside of your clothing, tuck pants legs inside boots, and button your cuffs and collar. Avoid sitting or lying directly on the ground. For optimal defense against chiggers, apply products containing permethrin (such as Permanone® Tick Repellent) to your clothing.
Home / Yard Environment
In Summary
Most entomologists agree that the best first step toward reducing the chances of chigger bites around your yard is to keep the entire yard environment trimmed neat and short, thereby making it an unwelcome environment. Keeping grass cut short and vegetation welltrimmed will raise soil temperatures and lower humidity enough to make lawns less hospitable to chiggers. For kids who just have to play outside this summer, commercially available insect repellents containing DEET offer protection from chiggers and insects. Apply repellents per label directions.
In summary, we all know that living in Texas includes living with unwanted bugs and pests that can sometimes cause us severe irritation. By following the steps above, my hope is that we can all avoid becoming a chigger host this summer.
Pesticides There are some pesticides, both organic and synthetic, which can offer temporary relief during the hot summer season, however these incredibly hardy and resilient bugs will almost always resurface after some time has passed.
Remedies for Bites The general consensus is that taking a warm, soapy shower or bath within a few hours after exposure to chiggers will reduce the number and severity of bites. Scrub your skin vigorously with a washcloth to dislodge any mites that may have settled there recently.
Greg Dyer is a Prosper resident and also a Texas licensed pest control operator, who owns and operates Prosper’s own Green Pest Guys.
The mission of Cornerstone Assistance Network of North Central Texas is to unite with others to demonstrate Christ’s compassion by serving our neighbors in need. This is accomplished by sharing the Gospel and helping family units escape the cycle of poverty for good by providing resources, tools, and education. So far in 2012, Cornerstone has: • Provided financial assistance to 14 new • • •
•
•
neighbors. Provided financial returning neighbors.
assistance
to
7
Given away $8,006.19 in financial assistance. Supplied over 730 articles of clothing in addition to various household items, appliances, etc. Received $1,032.81 in profit from its resale store, The Attic on Main, to directly provide for our neighbors. Received a donation of 1,757 hours from its volunteers, a gift worth $38,495.87 according to the Independent Sector.
Thanks to Prosper and the surrounding communities, we are making a lasting change in the lives of local families! To partner with us in meeting the needs of our neighbors, text 'Cornerstonenct' to 90210. After each bi-monthly intake, you will receive a text about specific needs with the opportunity to help through prayer and financial support. To learn more about Cornerstone, visit us online at: cornerstonenct.org.