PROSPer - Life & Luxury Magazine | April 2021 by Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC

P rosper Prosper’s Community Magazine Since 2012 April 2021 | Issue 117 WeAreProsper.com

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What’s Inside Family 6

5 Tips to Spring Clean Your Home Inside and Out

P rosper Life & Luxury Magazine™

April 2021 | Issue 117 Community 8 Prosper ISD: Leading the Way with Kindness 10

Town Council Approves Construction of Hays Park

Town Adds Experienced Development Services Director

Prosper Town Council Accepts Annual Financial Audit

Meet your PISD School Board Candidates

Meet your Prosper Town Council Candidates

Publisher Heather Reynolds Heather@CedarbrookMedia.com Creative Director Jason Reynolds Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com Director of Sales & Marketing Mark Mattison Mark@CedarbrookMedia.com Photography Jason Reynolds - Cedarbrook Media Group www.CedarbrookMedia.com Production/Design Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Design@CedarbrookMedia.com Editorial Please send editorial considerations to Editor@CedarbrookMedia.com

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7 Steps to Save Money on a Remodel

The Attention your Landscape Needs after that Extreme Weather Event

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Contributing Writers Heather Reynolds | Ray Smith | Dr. Holly Ferguson Jimmie Gibson | Stacy Cate 4 | WeAreProsper.com

PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine is wholly owned and published by Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine is published 12 times a year. No portion of this publication may be reproduced or copied whole or in part without expressed written permission from the publisher, Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. ©2020. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. The title and all material are protected by international copyright laws and are reserved. Although the greatest of care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine at time of going to press, neither PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine nor Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC can be held liable for omissions, inexactness or errors.

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5 Tips to Spring Clean Your Home Inside and Out Spring cleaning isn’t just about purging dirt and grime. It’s also the perfect opportunity to take inventory of items around your home. As you tackle this season’s cleaning, look for ways to improve your overall living space, from getting rid of things you no longer need to adding items that can work harder for you. Consider these ways to tackle your home inside and out this spring. MAKE ORGANIZING EASIER As you clean each space, look for easy ways to reduce unsightly messes and improve organization. If your entryway always becomes a jumbled pile of shoes and coats, consider adding a storage bench and hooks to bring some order to the area. If the kids’ toys always accumulate in the living room, add a storage chest or large baskets to store them when not in use. If tools and equipment make the garage unusable, install shelving units to keep everything in place. ELIMINATE THE EXCESS Spring cleaning is also an opportunity to declutter and make way for something new, either by donating or selling unused things. Whether it’s last season’s fashion and accessories or unused tech and fitness gear, that item you never used – or haven’t used in a while – may be exactly what someone else is looking for. Online platforms can make the process easy and be a way to earn extra cash or help fund other home upgrades. Look for marketplaces that help you maximize your return; eBay, for example, is giving sellers 200 free listings every month, meaning you only pay after your items sell. REIMAGINE YOUR LIVING SPACE If one area is becoming too crowded or doesn’t serve your family’s needs, consider items you can repurpose for another part of the home. For example, move an unused chair in your living room into a bedroom to create a reading nook. Keep your focus on function as you make changes that accommodate your lifestyle. MAKE SMART ADDITIONS Once you’ve cleared your space, and sold things you no longer need, you can convert that extra cash into reliable home appliances and tech. For example, purchase or upgrade items like vacuums, lawn mowers, power washers, drills and more to help take your spring cleaning to the next level. You can make your money go further by choosing certified refurbished products; some marketplaces like eBay offer inventory that has been professionally inspected by the manufacturer, or a manufacturer-approved vendor, to look, feel and work like new. 6 | WeAreProsper.com

COMMIT TO REVISITING REGULARLY It’s easy to let clutter and disorganization slide when you get busy with life’s demands. Once your spring cleaning and reorganizing is complete, commit to reassessing your home on a monthly or quarterly basis so you can make small adjustments along the way, rather than face a major project every year. SHOP SMARTER Considering refurbished products for your shopping list can expand your options and make it easier to purchase top-of-the-line brands without going over budget. From tech and small kitchen appliances to outdoor power equipment, you can discover a breadth of items often in like-new condition. SHOP FOR MULTI-PURPOSE ITEMS When upgrading your arsenal of gadgets, tools and small appliances, look for items that can serve multiple purposes. For example, many vacuums can transform into steamers or include mop attachments and some pressure cookers can also be used as air fryers. FEEL CONFIDENT IN YOUR PURCHASE Sometimes upgrading means investing in a premium product you can count on to last longer than entry-level models. With eBay’s Certified Refurbished program, you can find popular, professionally inspected name brands at up to 50% off, all of which are backed by industryleading two-year warranties for peace of mind. KEEP SUSTAINABILITY IN MIND Keeping functionality in mind and buying like-new items not only saves you money now and in the future but can also help protect the planet by extending the life of products and reducing unnecessary waste. Learn more about buying refurbished at eBay.com/CertifiedRefurbishedHub.

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From the Desk of Dr. Holly Ferguson

ou know, if you asked me what I envisioned for my first year as superintendent of Prosper ISD, I would have talked about the amazing students we have in this district. The supportive families. The INCREDIBLE, world-class, top-notch educators that go above and beyond for the students and families we serve. I appreciate and love our students and staff so very deeply and want nothing more than for them to finish this school year strong.

The focus this year has been truly incredible work being done in our district - the fact that we started school in person weeks before most schools, holding in-person classes ALL YEAR LONG in the midst of a global pandemic, literally building new support systems for students and staff, celebrating state cross country runners, swimmers, fine arts, football and the list goes on. We were also instructing our students virtually who needed this option to learn while consistently keeping our standard of excellence in place. My belief is that kindness is being able to give someone else your strength when they need it most. The past year has been full of emotions and my hope is that we return to the place that made us fall in love with Prosper. The one thing I have always loved about this community is its ability to rally around one another in moments of strength and weakness. In a time of unrest, the strong become stronger by uniting and supporting each other. My hope is that in the days moving forward as we close out the school year that we remember that we have students who are depending on each of us to lead the way and show the way with grace, compassion and kindness for all. We Are Prosper, We Are One!

Dr. Holly Ferguson Prosper ISD Superintendent

8 | WeAreProsper.com

Thank you Dr. Ferguson and all of the PISD leaders and educators who continue to safely support and inspire our children, no matter where they learn. The sacrifices made today will ensure a better tomorrow. -From Prosper ISD Parents and Community Members

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Town Council Approves Construction of Hays Park

The Prosper parks system will add yet another option for residents to gather as the Town Council has approved the construction contract for Hays Park, nestled in one of Prosper’s oldest neighborhoods. Situated at 9008 Prestonview Street, just east of Preston Road and several blocks south of Prosper Trail, the park is named after Chester G. Hays one of the patriarchs of the Hays family, longtime residents and landowners in Prosper. In fact, the new park sits some 300 feet east of Hays Road. The park also honors the late Bill Hays, a descendent of the park’s namesake who founded and chaired the Prosper Historical Society and wrote a pair of books providing the definitive history of Prosper. Hays Park was dedicated to the Town in 1981. Approved as part of the March 23 Council agenda, the construction contract was awarded to Ratliff Hardscape, Ltd. in the amount of $375,000, funded by the park improvement fee fund. The fund, utilized by most municipalities, is one into which builders and developers contribute as part of their construction and permit fees to the Town. Called a pocket park because of its proximity to a specific neighborhood and lack of a large parking lot, it is among the parks typically accessed by residences on foot. Significantly, the new park forms part of one of Prosper’s founding neighborhoods, established when the Town’s residential footprint was much smaller than it is today. The homes in the park’s immediate vicinity, for example, reflect the formerly-popular practice of building homes on large lots on land owned by generations of the same families. Hays Park is slated to include irrigated open space areas, decomposed granite walkways, a pavilion, picnic tables, benches, a playground area, and wildflower area. The project will begin construction shortly and is expected to be completed by the end of summer. A distinctive monument sign with the park’s name will be erected to conform to similar signs at other Town parks. The list of the park’s amenities was finalized during several public meetings hosted by the Parks and Recreation Board last year. The park’s cost includes all of the improvements, as well as the structures and other enhancements.

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Town Adds Experienced Development Services Director

A proven professional with nearly 20 years’ experience in municipal planning, economic development, development services, community development, and municipal zoning has joined the Prosper staff as Development Services Director. Khara Dodds, who has devoted her entire career to municipal, county and state-level planning and development, was most recently the Director of Planning and Land Use Services for the Town of Glastonbury, CT. She served in that capacity for almost six years, with supervisory responsibility for the Planning, Building and Zoning, Health, and Fire Marshal Divisions. Glastonbury is a municipality with a population of over 34,000. Prior to that position, Dodds served as Planning Director for the City of Hartford, CT., a city of over 120,000 in population. In that post, which she held for two years, she handled a wide variety of development projects that resulted in major improvements to the city’s downtown and outlying neighborhood areas. She was also responsible for the development and implementation of several master plans, some of which encapsulated the city’s vision for specific neighborhoods. Before then, Dodds spent five years as the Planning and Economic Development Director for Plymouth, CT. During this period, she was the lead staff member for the town’s housing rehabilitation program and was instrumental in attracting several major employers to the town. She also successfully led the municipality’s Main Street Streetscape project.

12 | WeAreProsper.com

In addition to her extensive municipal-level experience, Dodds served the County of Burlington in NJ as Principal Planner for two years where she coordinated economic development and planning projects for the 12 cities within the county’s jurisdiction. The county position was preceded by a three-year stint as Regional Planner for the New Jersey Office of Smart Growth. In this position, she was among the principal links between local and county governments and the state’s planning department. She served on a number of project teams which guided planning activities for several large cities and counties in the state. She holds professional certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners and is a member of the American Planning Association. She has held membership in a number of statewide economic development, diversity, and cultural organizations in Connecticut and New Jersey. Dodds earned a Master’s in City and Regional Planning and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Urban Studies/African Studies, both from Rutgers University. The new director expressed excitement about joining the staff. “Prosper is a beautiful community that has a bright future,” she said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to help shape the future of this community in a way that reflects its goals and values.”

Prosper Town Council Accepts Annual Financial Audit Adhering to its long-standing commitment to financial transparency and accountability, the Prosper Town Council officially accepted the annual financial audit prepared by the accounting firm of Pattillo, Brown and Hill LLP for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2020. “Conducted and completed at the end of last year, four auditors spent four weeks reviewing material balances and transactions, our compliance with the appropriate laws and regulations, and draft financial statements,” said Betty Pamplin, Prosper Financial Services Director. “It’s an excellent process that reveals the health of our financial condition.” Following the comprehensive review, the auditing firm reported to the Council during the March 23 meeting that they found no internal control deficiencies, as well as total compliance with all of the appropriate rules, laws, regulations, and procedures. During the PBH presentation, Audit Partner John Manning offered congratulations to the Town for the unblemished review. “Our firm rendered an unmodified opinion which is the highest of the opinions we can offer,” he said. Among the highlights of the report were the increase in net position or reserve; an increase in unassigned fund balance in the General Fund (GF); an increase in property and sales tax revenue; and an increase in the GF fund balance due to revenues exceeding budget estimates and a decrease in budgeted expenditures. “As a direct reflection of the Town’s financial discipline, the latest bond ratings are Aa1 from Moody’s Investor Service, and AA+ from Standard and Poors, among the highest ratings for both services,” added Pamplin. At the same time, the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the Town for its comprehensive annual financial report for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. This marks ten consecutive years of attaining that recognition. To be awarded the certificate a government unit must publish an easily readable and efficiently organized comprehensive annual financial report. This report must satisfy both generally accepted accounting principles and applicable legal requirements. Prosper has also submitted an application for the accompanying Popular Annual Financial Report award from GFOA. If awarded, it would represent Prosper’s third year in a row. This award recognizes financial reports that are user friendly and easily understood by the public and other interested parties that lack a background in public finance.

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Meet your PISD School Board Candidates BETTYE H. OKAE, PLACE 4 My name is Dr. Bettye HolstonOkae, and I ‘m married to Robert K. Okae (Ghana) with three children: Adjowa 14 (Hayes MS), Kaden 10 and Ashleigh 6 (Spradley MS. ) I have worked for the Federal government for majority of career (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) and (Department of CommerceUS Census Bureau). I am peerviewed author who focus on employee turnover intentions within different industries. Most recently, I severed as Area Manager of Quality Assurance and Data Management for the US Census Bureau for Denver and Dallas Region. I am the owner of Okae Mobile Document Services, LLC. I understand the important of education and making sound decision to ensure all children are value and provide the opportunities to be successful. I am first generation college student and product of a single mother. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science & Chemistry from Mississippi Valley State University, Master of Science in Environmental Science from Jackson State University, Master of Business from Texas Woman’s University and Doctor of Business in Organizational Leadership from Walden University. As a Data Analytics Business professional, I will use data trends to project, forecast, and drive greater successful factors for Prosper ISD. My background in the field can be an asset for educational and economical

CHIANNA RODGERS, PLACE 4 I am Chianna Rodgers, a candidate for Place 4 of the Prosper ISD School Board. I am a married mother of three children in the district, and an active member of the PTOs and booster clubs at their schools as well as other organizations with which my children are affiliated. I am a financial advisor, which requires me to be fiduciary on a regular basis. By definition, a fiduciary must put the needs of their clients first even if it doesn’t benefit the advisor. In other words, my business is to serve in the best interest of others. We elect school board members to serve and represent the taxpayers. My background makes me perfectly suited to do just that. I have been a stay-at-home mom in the past and now work outside of the home. These experiences have helped me to better view situations from different perspectives. With my kids being in different grade levels and schools, this allows me to speak on the different issues that each educational level brings. For example, what my youngest child has experienced in elementary school is not the same as what my oldest, who is now in high school, experienced when she started in school. As I have extensive experience on various boards, I am confident that this 14 | WeAreProsper.com

trend analysis to make sound and feasible business decisions for the School District. This will be a catalyst for maintaining the elite status in the Prosper ISD school system. Prosper ISD should use a growth model and statistical data to determine when school are needed. We should utilize the Bond process and partner with home developers to provide grants to help with the costs of building additional schools within the subdivisions. The only other school issue that I feel needs attention is diversity and inclusion and fair hiring practices. There needs to be greater diverse representation evident with both teachers and administrators that represent the demographics of students being served. Prosper ISD, like other districts are facing issues with school bullying on campus and in virtual classrooms. As a result, this unfortunately has contributed to some escalations and suicides. The disparity and racial undertone create negative and debilitating experiences that divide and cause many students to withdraw from their educational engagement and academic interest. I believed that we should implement programs within the districts to provide resources to students and their parents who have been negatively impacted by these cruel experiences. We should also expand the “Hope Square” program to all grade levels. I believed we should create programs within our districts that is focused more on social and emotional intelligence developmental for students and staff. If elected this will be one of many programs that I will present to the board to implement within our schools. This pandemic has greatly impacted our students and some of the student within our district parents may not have the support or financial resources within their families. Therefore, dispute resolution programs with certified Mediators certainly would be a great addition to the Proper ISD. We should also implement a process for more transparency and open discussion for hard topics in schools, local government, and communities. Prosper parents should have more of a input regarding decision that board makes as it related to their children. will allow for an easy transition onto the PISD School Board. The district is growing rapidly, and a newly elected trustee must be able to jump in and get right to work beginning on day one. I am running for Place 4 because Prosper ISD is growing in diversity, however currently there is no one on the board who looks like me. The board should be representative of Prosper ISD’s entire student population. Also, I want to be part of the tremendous growth and exciting change occurring here. Like many families, ours moved here specifically for the outstanding schools. If elected to Place 4, I intend to: Increase and improve communication. The community wants and deserves to know how and why many of the district’s most important decisions are made. Previously, the school board has made decisions, and Prosper ISD families are unsure why or how they came to those decisions. I will implement focus groups composed of teachers, parents and students so that we may have a better idea about what is needed as well as the most pressing issues. Be accessible. School board members should be present more in the community. I plan to regularly host “Coffee with the Board’’-type meetings, where questions that have not been pre-filtered can be posed to board members. Boost representation. Most Prosper School Board members reside in a small handful of local subdivisions. Previously, there has not been anyone on the board who lives in Celina or elsewhere in the district’s outer boundaries. Similarly, no minorities have held a position on the board. I check both of those boxes as I am a Celina resident and a black woman with children who are students in the district.

PAT COCHRANE, PLACE 4 My name is Pat Cochrane and I look forward to serving as the next Prosper ISD Board of Trustees in Place 4. I will provide the courageous leadership that will represent YOUR voice on the Prosper ISD Board. Our family moved to Prosper from Plano in 2019 to be part of the great community we enjoy here. Like many families, we’d heard nothing but the best about what Prosper ISD had to offer, and my wife Emily and I wanted Caleb (6) and Matthew (4) to grow and learn in the great schools here. We loved the “small town, big heart” feel we were welcomed with and were glad to meet so many families aligned to the same values and principles we wanted our boys to grow in. Prosper is rapidly growing and while that growth is something to be celebrated, we know many families hope that we can stay true to the community of values and principles that brought many here in the first place. Explosive growth, but with that same small town, big heart feel. I am highly invested in creating firm foundations for all the children in our community to help them succeed. Our children will be the next generation of leaders to guide our country and I desire to serve as part of that growth and development.

I have 12 years of military officer experience in the United States Army and Texas Army National Guard and have served in leadership roles in technology and retail, including a Fortune 50 beverage retailer. I want to leverage this collaborative and effective leadership experience to help serve my community in the best way possible. I also have my MBA from the University of Texas at Dallas and my BBA from Texas Tech University, Guns up! My platform is simple: ➢Serve, partner with, and represent parents in this district to ensure childhood success is the top priority for Prosper ISD ➢Create a roadmap for getting our district back to business as usual ➢Ensure financial accountability and stewardship of YOUR tax dollars ➢Keep the lines of communication open with my constituents and help represent their values. ➢Maintain transparency in my role. Who I am in a private conversation is who I am in public. As parents, we all want the best outcomes for our children, and we know the local school district plays a significant, formative part of our child’s growth and development. I am invested in maintaining Prosper’s excellence in all areas of education. Dietrich Bonhoeffer is quoted as saying, “Action springs not from thought, but from a readiness for responsibility.” I have no doubt that I am ready for the responsibility to represent parents and their children effectively in this district. Children First! Prosper Strong!

ALEXANDER E. CORNWALLIS, PLACE 4

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BILL BEAVERS, PLACE 4 The Prosper ISD Board of Trustees has accomplished so much within my current term while encountering and overcoming unprecedented challenges. Exponential growth has continued, giving us the unique opportunity to positively impact the lives of thousands of children. I have had the honor of working with Dr. Drew Watkins and witnessing the great work he has done in bringing our district to this point. I had the privilege of being a member of the board that hired our current outstanding leader, Dr. Holly Ferguson. My focus moving forward will continue to include: Our COVID-19 recovery, specifically as it relates to how this pandemic has impacted our district academically as well as supporting the overall well-being of our students, teachers and staff as we emerge from these unprecedented times. I am so proud of our district for opening on time and in-person for the 2020-2021 school year before many other districts. The commitment of our teachers and staff is unmatched. Safety and security will remain of utmost importance to me. I am one

DREW WILBORN, PLACE 7 Greetings Prosper ISD Family. You may remember that I ran for Prosper ISD School Board during the previous election cycle. Although I lost that election, I still desire to serve our community in this capacity. Our children are, indeed, our future. As we advocate for our children and invest in them, we must put aside our own agendas and, in some cases, ambitions to do what is in their best interest. Several years ago, it was time for us to consider where our son, who has special needs, would attend elementary school. We were living in Cedar Hill at the time. After an extensive and exhaustive search, we determined there was only one place for our son and our family; Prosper ISD. We packed up and moved from Cedar Hill to Prosper—and the rest is history. As we approach the upcoming school board election, I want to make sure that you have a thorough understanding of who I am and why I want to serve our Prosper ISD community. When asked why I believe I’d be a good fit to serve on our school board, it is fitting that I share my qualifications

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of two board members who sit on this sub-committee. One of the achievements of which I am most proud is the board’s decision to have an officer at every campus. The financial stability of our district is crucial, and I will continue to be a good steward of our tax dollars. Maintaining and strengthening our sense of community has become personally important to me as we have progressed through this campaign season. “We are Prosper. We are One.” is not just an expression, it is our commitment. Prosper ISD is such a special place. It’s why so many people move to our wonderful community. As we welcome our new neighbors, I want for them to see this commitment of ours as truth. I am eager for all residents of Prosper ISD to know that they are valued in our community. As we look to the future, my goal is to strengthen our outreach to Austin by building our relationships with state elected officials and keeping them informed of our district’s interests. This mindful representation is critical as our unique growth requires funding for both facilities and staff. This differentiates us from other districts in our state. We must prepare for and thrive in the midst of our challenges, giving our students the best possible educational experience and providing them with a solid foundation for great future success. Our kids deserve nothing less. I do not take lightly the responsibility entrusted to us by the wonderful community we serve and look forward to the task ahead of us as we prepare for and strive toward a bright future in Prosper ISD. My vision for Prosper ISD is that when people think of public education in the great state of Texas (and around the country), they think of Prosper ISD as the standard. We are well on our way. Please feel free to call me at 972-890-2451 or follow me at www.facebook.com/Bill-Beavers-ProsperISD-School-Board-Trustee-Place-4-1676277795944626.

and background. I’ve earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting Control Systems from University of North Texas. Additionally, I have a master’s degree in Christian Education from Dallas Baptist University. I’ve spent time working for the Nation’s Central Bank at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. For the past 15 years, I’ve served as chief financial officer of a megachurch with a multimillion-dollar budget. I’ve served on the board of directors for organizations like Disability Rights Texas and Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas who have similar goals and objectives. I have experience with review of organizational budgets, board oversight and policy review/compliance. My educational background coupled with my working knowledge and board service experience will provide a firm foundation for this role within our amazing school district. When asked to identify 3 priority factors on my mind as our district continues to grow, know that I’m mindful of: Diversity of thought – getting ahead of the divisive topics that can easily divide us. Engage in conversations and be relational in an effort to avoid unnecessarily offensive confrontation. Enhanced communication is key. Keep the main thing – what DREW you here will keep you here. Fiscal responsibility and accountability. Our son is currently in the 3rd grade. I have a high probability of remaining connected to our district for the foreseeable future and for the right reason. Its all about our kids; yours and mine. I need your vote. … I cannot win this election without your support and your vote. Please contact me at https://www.facebook.com/ drewyou2prosper or www.drewyoutoprosper.com.

KRISTIN MEIER, PLACE 7 Proud wife and mother to four children; three currently in PISD schools and an adult daughter who is an accomplished middle school science teacher Graduated from Concordia State University with a BA in Business Management Spent majority of processional career as a materials buyer for consumer products and industrial manufacturers. Prosper resident for 5 years

school level

Tenured PTO President at both the elementary and middle

4 years of PISD PTO involvement allowing me to better understand student, staff, parent and administrative perspectives Actively involved in the Prosper ISD PTO Council - currently serving as Vice President Selected member of the 2019 PISD Bond Political Action Committee Currently part of the District Site Based Planning Committee My family moved to Prosper, from Kansas City, in May 2016, which makes us representative of the influx of great families making their home on

the west side of the district. Like most families moving to Prosper, we chose PISD for the caliber of public education it provides, along with the reputation of the top-notch administration and staff. We are thrilled to be part of a vibrant community focused on families and aligned with values rooted in faith. PISD has been a preferred district for parents and professional educators alike for many years. Our district provides special programs not available elsewhere. It maintains high expectations of our students and staff, and it strives to prepare students with the strength of character to make future contributions to our society. Rapid growth in the district and surrounding area is celebrated by all of us. At the same time, that growth coupled with our changing society can threaten our local culture and academic excellence. As we grow in numbers, our community wants to be open to new inputs and ideas while welcoming the diversity that will make us stronger. We also endeavor to remain steadfast in the moral foundation that our students depend on, as well as provide an open and caring atmosphere where our children can thrive. The PISD Board has an important role in developing the educational vision for the district. As community representatives, every decision we make should involve thoughtful consideration and care to ensure the best outcome for students, while balancing resources and proving accountability. As your Place 7 Trustee, I will dedicate myself, on behalf of Prosper ISD students and families, to preserve the culture of excellence our District is known for, and I will be a voice of the community in shaping the direction of our children’s education into the future.

WeAreProsper.com | 17

Meet the Prosper Town Council Candidates CRAIG ANDRES, PLACE 2 It has been a privilege serving the Town of Prosper over the last three years as your Town Councilman Place 2 and your Deputy Mayor Pro-Tem. There are a number of efforts we began together during my first term that I want to see through that are important to the future of the Town of Prosper. Making Our Bond Money Go A Long Way: In November, the Town overwhelmingly passed a $210 Million dollar bond measure. Now it is time to apply our Town’s proven responsible financial management philosophy to spending those funds. We must meet our first responder, infrastructure and parks and recreation needs of our community while always being mindful of the current economic climate in the Town. The North Dallas Tollway Corridor: Provide the guidance for investment that creates opportunity for our community and respects the vision of quality for Prosper as a whole. Broadband Services Focus: As a part of our Broadband committee, I want to see us continue to work with our providers not only to urge them to improve service, but to make Prosper the best in next generation services so we can not only attract new corporate interests but set the table for the new distributed workforce model that characterizes corporate relocation in this post-Covid economy. We have to challenge our providers to make residential service every bit as reliable as the more traditional commercial settings. Make Downtown Our Front Yard and Gathering Place: As a part of our joint EDC-Town Council Downtown Committee, I want to see the real implementation and use of all the tools that we can proliferate in order to create the economic reality that developers and home-town mom and pop retailers need in order for them to invest in Downtown Prosper. We need to make our Downtown the gathering place and an authentic experience we can’t get anywhere else! Quality Development- Underlying all commercial and residential developments, we need to continue to require quality standards and best in class offerings that has made our Town what it is today! Safety and Security- We need to continue the work of supporting our first responders with top notch facilities, equipment and competitive compensation. Our brand new Police Station that we opened in 2020 was just the first step. Our staff and first responders are the heart and soul of our community and we must continue to provide them the resources they need.

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Our Culture Together Making Prosper Our Home-Town: Whether you have been here for 20 years or you just got here yesterday, I want you to know that this is your home town now. The moment you moved to Prosper, you became part of our cultural fabric. Over the next few years, council is going to work very hard to engage our community like it never has before. You are important. We need all of us working together to make this place the best biggest small town in America and your Home Town! Prosper has been special for the Andres family for over ten years now. Over the next three years, I want to pass what was given to us, on to you. On behalf of my children, Jackson, Grant and Reagan and my wife Chris, thank you Prosper! Looking forward to three more years with you! For any questions, please email me at craig_andres@prospertx.gov or follow me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CraigAndresforProsper.

CHRISTOPHER WARDLAW, PLACE 6 My name is Christopher Wardlaw and I am asking for your vote for my candidacy for Place 6 on the Prosper Town Council. I have lived in Prosper for over five years with my family. I earned my bachelor’s degree in marketing and economics from Mississippi State University in 2001 and my master’s degree in market research from University of Texas at Arlington in 2005. My research career has spanned various industries including aerospace, utilities, military, health care, insurance, and finance, I feel that my acumen for research and developing human centered insights make me an excellent candidate for Prosper town council. I am passionate about the success of our town. My family and I chose Prosper for its schools, small town feel, and family environment. The town is centrally focused on families making it one of the most desirable communities for us to reside in. To support this family environment, I am driven to ensure responsible and sustainable business growth development in Prosper. As a representative of all Prosper residents, I pledge to: Focus on economic growth and development Put education and safety first Prioritize bringing in the right businesses for our community Preserve and promote our community as a place where everyone matters Ensure proper infrastructure for our towns long term future I believe in building a stable economic future where our community does not heavily rely on property taxes. Additionally, we must be responsible in our town spending, in that we make sure the investment is worth the benefit. We must not spend money simply because the coffers are full. If you have questions or would like to meet, please do not hesitate to reach out. I am both hopeful and thankful for your support. You are welcome to contact me by email at Wardlaw4prosper@gmail.com or on Facebook at Wardlaw4ProsperFB.

WeAreProsper.com | 19

CHARLES COTTEN, PLACE 6 Like many of the other residents, my family moved to Prosper because of the great quality of life it offers. My wife, Colleen, and I followed our daughter’s family to Prosper almost 7 years ago and now we have the privilege of watching our grandchildren grow up here. With so much invested in our community, I hope the voters will know that every time I make a decision as your town council member, I will be mindful of its impact on your family and mine. I am a businessman, having started as a CPA and then completing a successful commercial real estate career. I have never before run for office, but have spent a large part of my life in public service. I have been on numerous community and non-profit boards. I have been on 4 different homeowner association boards, including Gentle Creek. I served on Prosper’s Charter Review Committee, its Executive Development Team and I serve on the Downtown Development Committee. I am currently Chairman of Prosper’s Planning and Zoning Commission. The Town Council should continue to focus on providing Police and Fire with the facilities and tools to maintain our safety and security. Improving infrastructure also needs to be a priority as many roads are still dirt or asphalt and many areas do not have access to town water. Attention to parks will become critical as plans are made for improvements to the town’s parks, trails, and recreational facilities. As a CPA, I appreciate using our tax dollars wisely and efficiently. Transparency and accountability help to ensure this is happening. Residential growth is inevitable, but to hold or reduce property taxes, the Town needs commercial development that balances the Small Town Feel with smart and sustainable growth. The key corridors along the Dallas North Tollway and Highway 380 offer opportunities to attract corporate office along with quality shopping, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Downtown Prosper has an opportunity to become a destination for dining and entertainment with a focus on boutique shops and public spaces. My extensive real estate experience can be valuable in planning and pursuing business & services that will preserve our neighborhoods and protect our home values. One of the major issues facing the town involves interfacing with other governmental jurisdictions on transportation. Roadways under

20 | WeAreProsper.com

construction around Prosper require funding and cooperation with TXDOT, NTTA, NCTCOG, Collin County, Denton County, and the cities of Frisco, McKinney, and Celina. We need to be pushing for our fair share of funding while working to accelerate and minimize the impact of construction. A special focus should be on the 380 Bypass, standing firm on our position that any realignment MUST be through McKinney, not Prosper. I have the time, energy & experience. I am motivated to see Prosper remain/become one of the premier communities in North Texas to raise a family (for my daughter and grandchildren) and retire (for my wife and I). Please feel free to contact me at Charles@theCottens.com or follow me on Facebook at Charles Cotten for Prosper.

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Life & Luxury Magazine Homefront

22 | WeAreProsper.com

Every homeowner has a defined budget he or she can allocate toward a remodeling project. Even if funds were unlimited, it’s still in a homeowner’s best interest to secure the best value for each dollar invested in a remodeling project, ultimately increasing the value of the home. Consider these tips from the experts at the National Association for the Remodeling Industry to help save money on your next project. 1. Determine how far your budget will go. Create a wish list of everything you want to accomplish. Disregard cost and simply write down everything you can dream of. Prioritize items from “must haves” to “nice but not necessary.” Find a contractor who will work with you to determine whether your wish list is attainable for the funds you are willing to invest in your home.

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2. Decide how to handle budget overages. If you can’t get far enough down the list with the available money, you could choose to stop the process and continue saving, investigate financing options, re-evaluate your wish list or consider material substitutions. 3. Make material selections you can afford. Every project will have a set of required materials, but there are options when it comes to variety, style and quality. Cabinets: Subtle changes like forgoing custom rustic cherry cabinets with plywood cabinet sides for regular cherry cabinets with furniture board sides can achieve the same look at a lower cost. Countertops: Natural stone and quartz countertops are popular, but advances in the design options for lower-cost countertop materials have rejuvenated their popularity, too. With the proper usage and protection, nearly all countertop materials can support your everyday needs. Millwork: Painted millwork has dominated the market for many years and solid maple is the preferred choice because the tight grain allows for a beautiful, smooth surface. However, the cost is multiple times that of vinyl and equally appealing when finished properly. Flooring: Advances in synthetic materials make them difficult to distinguish from natural products. Synthetics generally come with lower cost and more durability, making them a simple substitute for natural products like stone, wood, brick and marble. 4. Pay attention to project details. It’s critical to ensure every detail of labor and material is specified in the agreement with the remodeler. If it’s not included in the written agreement, it’s likely not included in the work scope. Ask your remodeler what labor and materials are not included and determine what additional expenses you’ll likely incur to complete the project. 5. Ask how you can help reduce costs. Talk to your contractor about tasks or materials you can provide that would reduce the project cost without affecting its schedule. This might include jobsite clean-up or obtaining certain materials the contractor would otherwise spend considerable time securing. 6. Plan ahead for project timing. Ask for a potential timeframe for completing the project, as well as any factors that could affect the schedule so you can anticipate costs such as eating out more often while the kitchen is being renovated or renting living or storage space. 7. Know how you’ll resolve disputes. Because of the unique stresses induced by remodeling projects, it’s a good idea to determine before you begin how disputes will be resolved, such as adding an arbitration clause to the agreement that eliminates expensive legal representation. A few deep breaths and a solution-minded approach can also save more than money if conflict arises. Find more money-saving advice for your next remodeling project at remodelingdoneright.com.

WeAreProsper.com | 23

Life & Luxury Magazine Growing Prosper

The Attention your Landscape Needs after that Extreme Weather Event The calls for “Please help us everything looks dead” have been, well overwhelming to say the least! That once in a lifetime (or maybe about every 30-40 years) snow and ice storms did not feel like the Texas we are all used to around here! What to do now? PLEASE DO NOT GO CRAZY CUTTING BACK AND RIPPPING EVERYTHING OUT! The absolute best advice I will give, and have been giving to literally hundreds of our clients, is to FEED EVRYTHING with a good Nitrogen Base Food! Something like what you put on your yard to fertilize, because things are in complete shock. A name brand tree and shrub food will help tremendously! Place a handful of granules around under each shrub, continue your normal inch a week watering and simply wait 3-4 more weeks. You will be surprised what defoliated and defoliates and come back to life! If you need suggestions, you can always email a few pictures and I always email everyone back…it may be 2 am but I will email you back!! Part of the joy of landscaping is the care and maintenance you give to your yard. Depending on the type of plantings and the size, some gardens can require constant full-time care. If you’re not a big fan of yard maintenance, it might be wise to design a yard that’s easy to care for. The first thing to remember with any “yardscape” is that it’s a living, breathing entity. Even the simplest, easy-to-care yard will need watering, feeding, cleaning, and disease prevention. Consider the following list of projects around the yard: Flower Beds and Planting Areas The amount of time spent here will depend on your plantings. Some plants require constant attention; others are relatively maintenance free. Most flowerbeds contain perennials, which are plants that come back year after year; expect some to die off over the winter. Check the condition of plants during spring and replace dead plants with new ones. Cover ground with an organic mulch. This will help the soil retain moisture and keeps weeds to a minimum. Many flowers do best when you dead-head them (pinch off spent blooms), which encourages more flower growth. After the first hard freeze, cut back all the branches of your plants. And cover plants with mulch to protect them during the cold winter months.

Refuse Removal During the fall, many plants lose their leaves. This leaf material makes a great natural mulch to cover and protect your plants against the cold winter. Remove all leaves from the lawn areas. The layer of leaves can restrict the amount of light reaching the lawn and trap water near the roots. Hedge and Tree Trimming Shrubs and trees need seasonal trimming. Get a pruning instrument and cut off any dead branches. You may also need to prune back live branches that are getting out of control. Many hedges need to be reshaped several times a year. Electrical hedge sheers reduce a lot of arm strain on larger hedges. Do not prune or trim during the fall. This will stimulate growth during a time when the plants should be starting their dormant phase. Insect Control Nature has a cycle of life, and insects are a part of that. Most healthy plants stay relatively insect-free. For the occasional infestation, consider using natural methods of removal. Sometimes a plant can be washed down with a strong stream of water. Or many garden centers sell other insects (like ladybugs) to get rid of bugs and worms. Chemicals are also a choice; however, you should use extreme caution when applying them. They will not only harm “bad” bugs, but “good” bugs too. They can also harm household animals, birds, children and adults when applied incorrectly. Consider using household “natural” chemicals to control insects. Spring Clean-up This rite of spring signals the start of the growing season. Most gardens will need a good raking to clean out the leftover leaves and trash that have built up over the cold months. Consider applying a fresh layer of mulch to protect the fresh shoots from a late zapping of frost. This mulch will also keep the ground moist and cool during the summer months and keep weeds at a minimum.

Weeding Ughhh! They just keep coming back! Removing the entire unwanted “weed” by its roots is the surest way to get rid of it. Herbicides do work 24 | WeAreProsper.com

but use extreme caution when applying. They will not only kill the “weed” but also other nearby plants. In planting beds, you can keep weeds to a minimum by covering the soil with an inch or two of mulch. Mowing The frequency depends on how much you water and feed your lawn. Mowing once a week is typical. Don’t cut the blades of grass too short. Longer grass is healthier and retains water better. Many mowers come with “mulching” option that cuts the grass into tiny bits and returns them back to the lawn. This returns important nutrients back to the soil and reduces the amount of fertilizer you need. It also eliminates the need to bag the grass.

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Sprinkler Maintenance A well-designed, professionally installed sprinkler system should need little maintenance over time. However, you will need to “winterize” it during the fall and start it up during the spring. Your system has several pipes that can freeze and burst during winter. Either drain or “blow out” the water from the pipes in mid fall when your yard has gone dormant. Also turn off the timer so it can’t accidentally start during the winter. In the spring, you’ll need to re-start the system by turning on the timer and possibly turning on a master valve. (Check your system guide for details.) Feeding

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Your yard needs food! Your lawn may need 2 to 5 feedings per growing season. And your growing beds could also use some food. Chemical fertilizers work, however, there are several natural organic options too.

Weed Prevention An inch-thick layer of mulch will keep your planting beds relatively weed-free. The best weed-prevention for lawns is a healthy lawn. Grass is a plant that grows thick and bushy when healthy. This usually will choke out any other “weeds” that could grow there. Exceptions are plants like crabgrass. These grow from seed every year. Some chemical fertilizers come with a “pre-emergent” which kills the seeds in the spring when the plants are dormant. Perennial or Annual When planning your flowerbeds, remember that a perennial plant is one that, once planted, will come back year after year, while an annual is one that is planted for only one season. I Promise to allow more time and space for your questions in my next column, I have been extremely busy at work helping our Prosper clients! Until next time...Happy Gardening!!

Jimmie. Send your landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at http:// www.absolutelybushedlandscaping. com or jimmie@absolutelybushed.com. Jimmie is a Prosper resident and the owner of Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Company, an award winning, family and veteran owned and operated business created in 1980 to provide the highest quality custom Outdoor Renovation available to homeowners in the Dallas Ft. Worth area.

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www.mycelinavet.com WeAreProsper.com | 25

Life In &GLuxury ood Magazine Taste

Give Spring Salads a Fresh Spin

With spring and warmer weather comes salad season, offering a perfect canvas for creating refreshing meals and appetizers centered around tasty greens, juicy tomatoes and crave-worthy dressings. Give your salads an update by avoiding the same tired mixes and instead create tasty meals fit for the season. One easy way to up your salad game is by starting with quality ingredients like Fresh Express salad blends, NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes and Litehouse refrigerated salad dressings. These fresh, flavorful ingredients can be combined in a dish like this Chimichurri Chickpea Salad, a perfect way to go green this spring for nearly any occasion. Part of the appeal of dishing up a homemade salad is the unlimited options you have at your fingertips to make the bowl of greens uniquely “yours.” For many, this means one thing: the more toppings, the better. With grilled chicken, crispy bacon, tomatoes, ripe avocado, hard-boiled eggs, blue cheese and a bed of fresh lettuce, this classic Cobb Salad offers an ideal lunch or even a quick family meal. Because both these recipes can be made in 20 minutes or less, they provide simple solutions when short on time. Plus, the fresh ingredients sum up everything spring meals are made of.

CHIMICHURRI CHICKPEA SALAD 1 cup fresh cilantro 2/3 cup fresh parsley 2 tablespoons dried oregano 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 2/3 cup olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) chickpeas, drained 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 bag Fresh Express Baby Kale Mix 1 cup NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes, diced 1 medium avocado, diced 4 tablespoons Litehouse Avocado Ranch Dressing In food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Pulse until sauce is smooth. Place chimichurri sauce in small bowl with chickpeas and crushed red pepper flakes; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight, if possible. Divide kale, tomatoes and avocado between four bowls. Top each bowl evenly with marinated chickpeas. Drizzle with avocado ranch dressing and serve.

26 | WeAreProsper.com

COBB SALAD 3-4 eggs 1/4 pound bacon 1 bag Fresh Express Sweet Butter Lettuce 1 pound grilled chicken 1 cup NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes, halved 1 ripe avocado, sliced 1/4 cup blue cheese 1/4 cup Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dressing Bring pot of water to boil. Use slotted spoon to place eggs in water. Boil 10 minutes then transfer to ice bath to stop cooking process. Peel eggs and slice. Heat skillet over medium heat. Dice bacon and add to pan. Saute until bacon is crispy and fat is rendered, about 7 minutes. Remove from pan with slotted spoon. To assemble salad, start with bed of lettuce. Top with hard-boiled eggs, grilled chicken, tomatoes, avocado, bacon and blue cheese; toss in ranch dressing. Find more ways to create easy yet delicious salads at litehousefoods.com/iheartsalad.

WeAreProsper.com | 27

Life & Luxury Magazine Fashion

2021 Spring Women’s Fashion Trends Spring trends have sprung. Birds are re-emerging, flowers are sprouting and there is a brisk, cool crispness hanging in the air lingering from winter— it’s finally spring. This season is all about shifting into the warmer weather, and the same goes for your wardrobe. It’s time to tuck away those moody winter tones and heavy silhouettes for something a little lighter and brighter. SPRING TREND ALERT: TIE-DYE Tie-dye prints are popping up like spring flowers this year. From athleisure sets featuring matching sweatshirts and sweatpants, to breezy midi dresses or boho blouses, finding the perfect balance between cozy and casual with this throwback print is easy. Track down tie-dye in soft greens, muted rainbow, and toasty warm tones to stay on-trend with color. You can add a twist to your everyday neutral joggers by sporting a cloudy tie-dye style for added visual interest. Complete the look with your favorite hoodie (bonus points if they match the color and print), then throw on a pair of white sneakers and a small backpack for a sublime athleisure outfit. SPRING TREND ALERT: COTTAGECORE Cottagecore is a new trend (and mood) that will be key this spring. Think of cottagecore as an idealized rural lifestyle—taking refuge in a remote cottage, running in a meadow and living a sustainable lifestyle. The cottagecore feeling is one that mixes nostalgia with comfort, like baking homemade biscuits with your grandma. Add a sprinkle of light and airy materials, ruffles, and floral prints, and you’ve got the aesthetic baked to perfection. From year to year, spring trends include floral prints and lacy details, but cottagecore is spring re-imagined. Instead of big and bold floral prints, we’ll be seeing micro and watercolor florals, ulta-feminine details like lace, ruffles on ruffles and soft fabrics like unstructured cotton blends and cashmere knits. SPRING TREND ALERT: NAP DRESSES/HOUSE DRESSES Nap dresses or house dresses are stealing the spotlight this spring. A nap dress is a loose maxi dress with a vintage vibe that can be worn curled up on the couch with your favorite book and a cup of tea, but also transitions to a day out with ease. With a modern twist, these dresses feature loose and airy silhouettes with dainty details like lace and ruffles. Hang out in a house dress that features soft spring pastel colors or pretty perennial prints like beautiful blooms. Stylist Tip: Reach for a flowing nap dress this spring to indulge in the cottagecore trend. Add a chunky knit cardigan to play up a textural element and slip on a pair of leather sandals for a look that will take you from hanging out at home on the range or heading to the store to pick up ingredients for your next baking challenge. SPRING TREND ALERT: DITSY FLORALS Add ditsy florals to your wardrobe and tap into the current springtime fashion trend for a twist on the tried and true spring floral print. Florals are a seasonal staple year after year, but this spring’s florals are shrunken and subtle. Opt for a ditsy floral in a breezy house dress or an ethereal blouse. Ditsy florals blossom when paired with neutral colors so try this pattern on a blouse with woven paperbag shorts and some sandals or a blooming nap dress with a comfy cardigan over top. SPRING TREND ALERT: DESERT DAZE The Desert Daze aesthetic is all about a wild and free boho vibe translated through cozy textures, bold prints, and soft fabrics and features like fringe juxtaposed with structured denim or woven utility pants. Throwback silhouettes for jeans with wide legs and flares add nostalgia to your look. Meander in midi dresses featuring Ikat prints and hand-painted florals. Woven blouses and layers that feature handcrafted details like embroidery and poms add a twist to everyday essentials. This season’s picture-perfect palette will include earthy brown adobe and brick tones, modern neutrals such as toasted almond, smoky blacks, and cool grays, as well as bold grassy greens and bright blues. This stunning array of colors will have you imagining yourself striking a pose against the backdrop of the rust red rock formations in Sedona or mulling around Moab. 28 | WeAreProsper.com

WAYNE BARTLEY

SOAK UP THE SPRING SUN IN ATHLEISURE & LOUNGEWEAR The uber-casual athleisure and loungewear trends will carry over from the winter season and continue to flourish this spring. Last season’s athleisure trend focused more on versatile pieces that took us from snuggling on the sofa to storming the street with ease. This season we’ll see a more relaxed, lounge vibe to athleisure wear — focusing a little more on the sofa than the street. Sweatpants and Sweatshirts While the weather is still chilly in colder climates, make sure your closet is stocked with coordinating joggers and sweatpants. This season’s iteration of sweats features bright spring color and trending prints. Cozy up to joggers and sweatshirts in a throwback tie-dye or ombre print to give a sixties vibe to your athleisure ensemble. Try wearing your favorite sweats as a matching set for head-to-toe coziness or give a pair of joggers with utility pockets a try for the perfect blend of comfort and functionality.

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Biker Shorts When the weather warms up trade-in your favorite leggings and joggers for biker shorts. This 80s revival piece has been a go-to for celebrities over the last year and they are really proving to make their mark this spring. Opt for a pair with pockets so you can keep your phone nearby. Additionally, pick a pair in an updated fabric such as compression knits which will hold you in and keep you feeling supported while offering a soft feel. Lounge Ready Cardigans Feel like you are wrapped up in your favorite blanket even while you are on the go in a lounge cardigan. Lounge cardigans feature plush fabrics such as a brushed hacci, modal, or cashmere blends for the ultimate soft hand feel. These cozy cardigans will keep you covered whether you are at home or heading out for the day. Try one over a slouchy, cropped tee which is perfect for pairing with high-rise loungewear bottoms like sweats, biker shorts or leggings. Don’t forget a pair of casual sneakers and you are ready to hit the road.

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Stylist Tip: Loving the cropped boxy tee trend but prefer to keep your midriff covered? Sizing up for a loose, oversized look will also give you a little more length through the torso. Article compliments of Stitch Fix. Visit http://www.stitchfix.com to schedule your fix!

WeAreProsper.com | 29

Life & Luxury Magazine Travel

How to Plan for a Future Vacation After a long year stuck at home, many people are dreaming about when they can travel once again. While counting down the days may feel like torture, planning and booking a vacation for later this year can give you something to look forward to.

perfect vacation home now before options become more limited.”

Now may be the perfect time to start thinking about your next adventure. Consider these tips for planning a future trip – even if you’re not certain exactly when you’ll take it.

Many sectors of the travel industry offer special deals for reserving trips in advance, and some of the best deals can be found by bundling airfare and lodging or booking extended week- or month-long stays. These longer vacations can lead to fewer available dates to choose from, but some travel companies offer search filters that help travelers find discounts for staying longer periods of time.

Research Travel Restrictions For any kind of travel, it’s important to make sure you’re up to date on any restrictions your potential destinations may have in place. Though the vaccine may help lessen restrictions in some places, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintain updated guidance and travel warnings based on the risk level of certain areas, which can help you make decisions. Once you’ve booked travel plans, it is prudent to check in frequently as your trip approaches and prepare a backup plan. Account for High Demand Many hotels, vacation rentals and resorts may already be booked for summer in popular locations due to optimism around the vaccine, increased demand for domestic travel and families planning multiple trips this year. In fact, travelers are locking in private Vrbo vacation homes at top summer destinations earlier in 2021. Less than half of vacation homes in some locations are still available for July, which is a more than 25% increase in demand year-over-year. To better your odds of securing your desired travel dates, accommodations and activities, booking earlier can help off-set the increased demand. “In years past, we’ve recommended families book their summer vacations by late April to stay ahead of the curve, but this year there are several reasons why families are eager and ready to book,” Vrbo President Jeff Hurst said. “These signs are telling us families should start looking for the 30 | WeAreProsper.com

Take Advantage of Deals with Longer Stays

Opt for Flexible Booking If you’re eager to plan a vacation right away, be sure to review and understand cancellation policies for your preferred accommodations, airline and activities. Many have changed their policies due to the pandemic, so be sure to know how long you have to cancel or change dates without incurring additional fees or penalties. For example, when booking a vacation rental through Vrbo, where hosts set their cancellation terms, you can use the “free cancellation” filter to search for properties with flexible policies, some of which allow cancellations up to 14 days before check-in for a full refund. Start Saving Now While it may not be practical for everyone to save money amid uncertain times, setting even a small amount aside for your vacation can be worthwhile. Consider setting up a dedicated travel savings account or directing the change from each transaction made with your debit card to a separate account. Being able to periodically check the balance of the account can also help increase excitement for your upcoming adventure. Find more tips and start planning your next getaway at Vrbo.com.

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