PROSPERTIMES Friday July 7, 2017 | Prosper, Texas
VOL. 1 | NO. 10
Town sees rating upgrades from Moody’s and S&P Town of Prosper Both Moody’s and Standard & Poor, the two major credit rating houses that provide in-depth reviews, analyses and ratings for municipalities, have each upgraded Prosper to their second highest level. “In much the same way consumers look at their credit scores as a barometer on their credit worthiness, cities and towns look to Moody’s and S&P for their ratings,” says Kelly Neal, Prosper’s Director of Finance. “Consumers, of course, want a higher score because it ensures the best interest rates on loans. In a similar way, cities and towns are more attractive to investors and thus get better interest rates on debt when the ratings are higher. These two upgrades put us in a very enviable position.” Moody’s has upgraded the Town of Prosper from Aa to Aa1, one level below the credit house’s highest rating. At the same time, S&P has upgraded the Town from AA to AA+, again, one level below that agency’s highest designation. “The Town is in very good financial health for several reasons, and the rating upgrades reflect that,” said Neal. “Managing budgets in a conservative, wellplanned, disciplined manner pays off in higher ratings, which in turn, translate into better interest rates on our general obligation debt as well as certificates of obligation.” see Town Upgrades, page 4
Town Council increases homestead exemption to 10 percent Town of Prosper Prosper’s Town Council voted to approve raising the homestead exemption from 7.5 percent to 10 percent, effective immediately. The higher exemption, which serves to lower the tax exposure for property taxes levied by the town of Prosper, was approved during the Regular Session of the town council meeting of June 27. Council authorized the initial exemption in the fall of 2015. “Homeowner tax relief is something everyone on Council agrees on,” says Prosper Mayor Ray Smith. “The value of virtually all homes and property in Proper is rising, so increasing the exemption made perfect sense. People can take advantage of the higher exemption and either save money or redirect it to other purposes.” The exemption, by state statute, is applicable only to homes that serve as the primary residence for the applicant, and only one exemption is applicable. The minimum reduction in value of residential properties is $5,000. The exemption is not applicable to commercial concerns or income-producing properties. The increase places Prosper’s 10 percent exemption as the second highest in Collin County. Of the 27 municipalities in Collin County, only eight offer a homestead exemption. “The Council and staff now have two years of experience with how to manage the Town’s budget while offering an exemption,” added Smith. “Remaining prudent in our spending and conservative in our financial outlook have proven to be key in our ability to provide a higher level of tax relief.” Property tax revenue is split between the General Fund, from which the maintenance and operations of the Town is derived, and the Interest and Sinking Fund, from which debt is paid. The tax rate of 52 cents per $100 valuation, which has see Homestead, page 2
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Pride in the Sky sails through fourth year
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
Joyce Godwin Joyce@ CedarbrookMedia.com Close to 10,000 people came to Frontier Park in Prosper on Saturday to get a head start of the birthday of America with a great selection of activities for all ages. From bounce houses and large rolling balls in the Kids’ Zone to live music, a large selection of trucks and a car show capped off with a stellar
fireworks show. Denise Parsons said she and her family have lived in Prosper 11 years and she remembers well the beginning of Pride in the Sky. “It has grown tremendously,” she said. “What used to be a little get together has turned into this huge, big deal.” With all the growth and additions to Pride in the Sky, Denise says her favorite part is still the fireworks. Sponsored by Cedarbrook Media and the Town of Prosper along with
a number of others who’ve come together to make this a reality for the community, Pride in the Sky this year spread out to cover several acres of Frontier Park. Live music continued throughout the event from the pavilion and vendors lined the areas for convenient shopping opportunities. Celina residents Jerry and Carissa Ledesma were there with their daughter Isadora who is almost 2. “This is our first time here,” Jerry
Ledesma said. “This is awesome because there are so many different things going on and it’s all spread out. We will definitely come back to this next year.” Event organizers Heather and Jason Reynolds, publishers and owners of Cedarbrook Media, have been putting on events for several years. They started Pride in the Sky four years ago, and are excited to see what it has become. See Pride In The Sky page 3
Mighty Eagle Band students receive Outstanding Performer Award
This is a photo of the letters and medals received for Brandon Richardson and Kade Smith from the UIL 2017 Texas State Solo-Ensemble Solo Contest in which both students received the title of Outstanding Performer.
It’s always a big deal at Prosper High School when someone competes at the University Interscholastic League and brings home a state medal and it’s no different in the case of Kade Smith, who graduated this year, and Brandon Richardson, a junior, who learned last week of their state award. Smith and Richardson have both
been members of the Mighty Eagle Band. Richardson plays trumpet and Smith plays the Baritone Saxophone. Each scored a one, the highest score possi-ble, in the 2017 Texas State Solo-Ensemble Solo Contest with their respective horns. But the biggest surprise came last week with the news that each of the young men was selected as Outstanding
Kade Smith
Brandon Richardson
Performer from the contest. Dr. Bradley Kent, State Director of Music, put it in perspective in his letter to the two performers advising them of the selection. “Of the approximately 100,000 students participating in the re-gional UIL music contests and the 25,000 musicians who performed at TSSEC, only two percent to three percent of the solo performances earned the distinguished honor of being
recognized as an OUTSTANDING PERFORMER,” wrote Kent. “This achievement is truly a mark of musical excellence.” Since Smith and Richardson are state winners, their pictures will be displayed on the side of the building at school, along with others who’ve achieved similar feats for state-level recognition over a large number of years. see Mighty Eagly Band, page 2
Prosper couple bids town farewell as they prepare to adopt Columbian orphans Lisa Ferguson Special to the Prosper Times
Michael and Meghann Head sit together in a corridor at Prestonwood Church in Prosper.
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
Like most expectant parents, Meghann and Michael Head are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the newest members of their family. The trouble is, they do not yet know when that may happen. The Prosper couple has spent about a year preparing to adopt as many as four children – possibly a group of siblings — from an orphanage in Columbia. They’ve been told by representatives from the Gladney Center for Adoption that it could be see Head-ing Out, page 4
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Friday July 7, 2017
PT C o m m u n ity C a l e n da r Friday, July 7th
Prosper Chamber of Commerce: New Resident bag stuffing. 4:00 p.m. Prosper Lions Club: Meetings are held on the first and third Friday of each month at 7:30 a.m. in the upstairs meeting room of Kroger, located at 1250 N. Preston Rd, Prosper. Fun Fridays at Frontier: 10:00 a.m. at the pavilion at Frontier Park. A partnership between the Community Library and the Parks & Recreation Department, Fun Fridays at Frontier is an informal, casual morning featuring a different art, craft or exercise each week. Registration not required, but children must be accompanied by a parent during all activities.
Saturday, July 8th
Trash Service Day for people west of Preston Rd/Hwy 289 is delayed from Friday due to the Independence Day holiday.
Monday, July 10th
Prosper Ladies Tennis Club: Plays Monday nights for all 2.5 and higher players. Contact Michele Williams for more information at m19williams@gmail.com or 469-583-1051. Residential Bulk Trash Pickup: From Teel Parkway to Preston Road. Call 469-452-8000 or email Prosper@ WasteConnections.com by 4:00 p.m. Friday, June 30th to be placed on the schedule.
Tuesday, July 11th
Prosper Chamber of Commerce: The Prosper Chamber networking meetings are held on the second and fourth
Tuesdays of each month at Lighthouse Christian Fellowship at 7:00 a.m. This week’s sponsor is Grace Classical. All members are invited to come and bring a guest. Prosper Town Council: Town Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays each month at the Prosper Municipal Chambers, 108 W. Broadway at 6:00 p.m. Prosper Historical Society: Meetings are held at Prosper Independent School District Board Room at 1:00 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Prosper 5-0 Club: Games and dominoes every Tuesday, 9:30am to 11:30am, in the basement of First Presbyterian Church, 300 S. Coleman. ALL ARE INVITED!
Thursday, July 13th
The Prosper Rotary Club: The Club meets Thursday afternoons from 12 - 1 p.m. at the Prosper Independent School District Administration Building (605 E. Seventh St., Prosper, TX 75078). Everyone is welcome. Lunch is $10. Please RSVP by emailing Melody Lehmann melsmailbox73@gmail.com if you plan on attending. Prosper Chamber Ribbon Cutting for First Bank Home Loans: 161 W. 3rd Street, Suite 110, Prosper. 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Ribbon Cutting at 5:15 p.m. Town of Prosper Parks and Recreation Board: The Board meets on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Municipal Chambers Building, 108 W. Broadway.
Correction
After 20 years of making the same statement to several thousand people, I found myself making a heart-felt retraction. Surely, I could not have been wrong, based upon my life’s experience and my areas of involvement. I have been involved in this area for a very long time. I have watched people, observed mannerisms, etc. If only “those in positions of authority” would do what “they” were
supposed to do… There are so many of “them” but “they” just do not seem to be getting it right. I have 10 fingers and they were pointed at everyone except myself. That statement that I had made for over 20 years was, and I quote: “If all the pastors and churches would do what they are supposed to do, then there’s no need for another new pastor or another new church. One day I found myself reading and meditating on scripture and I ran across the following passage: Mathew 9:36 — “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” Matthew 9:37 — “Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;” Matthew 9:38 — Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. As I prayed that prayer, just as Jesus had stated it, an alarm went off in my head and in my heart. It rang out, “WE HAVE A NEW VOLUNTEER!” As I moved into a new area and out of my comfort zone, I was able to look up to see that not only was there a need for a new pastor and a new church but that need was to be filled by me. It was time for me to come out of the shadows of my complaining lifetime and move to the front lines where
Mighty Eagle Band From page one They both agree seeing giant photos of themselves on the side of the school building will be strange but they will each get used to it. Smith says he likes the Bari Sax because its register is capable of volume. “It’s low,” he said. “When I play the lowest note, it vibrates my eyes. I also like how I can hit both ends of the spec-trum.” He played the Saxophone for seven years, six of those on the Baritone Sax. When asked about his music background he
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person’s day, and possibly change their lives. Saint Theresa stated: “Christ has no body now but ours, no hand, no feet on earth but ours. Our eyes are the eyes through which he looks with compassion on this world; ours are the feet with which he walks to do good. Ours are the hands with which he blesses all the world.” We are all placed here to do far more than go to school, get a job, make some money, retire and die. There is a mission for each one of us. Some missions are more involved and engaging than others. But they are all important, especially to that one to whom the mission is performed. Small steps over a long period of time can make a huge difference. Oh by the way, did I mentioned that I am pastoring now at a new church… So do as I did. No, you don’t have to go to school for theology or plant a new church. However, just look up from the daily grind to notice there are needs that exist in others right around you. Then take the additional step, beyond noticing and complaining. Figure out what small mission you’ve been assigned. Then take that small step toward helping to bring in the harvest and make a positive change around you. Cedric White is senior pastor at Heart Fellowship at 821 N. Coleman Street, Suite 150, Prosper, 877345-6277. The church currently operates out of the Be Fit Yoga Studio. White is also a published author, public speaker and together with is wife Michelle, owns a Christian counseling business. He often says “It’s about relationship, not religion.”
Practice for each of the boys is different. Smith says he didn’t practice “super excessively on a day-to-day basis. But before competitions and before I had to play in front of anybody, I would treat it like a test and cram for a few hours. What also helped was that I actually enjoyed the solo I played so I would get it stuck in my head.” For Richardson, practice is more rigid. He says he spends several hours a day in practice but a big part of his practice is building his endurance. Keith Richardson, Brandon’s father, says he and his wife are very proud of Brandon’s accom-plishments. “He works extremely hard and makes it seem like it comes easy, but he works really hard.”
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I’d probably become one of the ones people would complain about. Like so many others, I have spent most of my adult life helping and supporting when it was perfectly convenient for me or when the time was most opportune. Oh, I have been involved in ministry for over 25 years but mostly in secondary and tertiary roles, being certain to remain out of the limelight. Thereby, ensuring that if something went wrong or if things just did not get done, it would not be my issue or more importantly, it would not be my fault. However, I could easily point out the short falls and talk about how things should be done or if they had been handled differently, there would have been a better and more productive outcome. Well, I have learned that one should be careful of being critical of others. From that particular day of reading, that passage became my driving force. No longer could I passively ignore the societal and spiritual needs that were right in front of me. I personalized the harvest and labourer passage by adopting the following statement for my life: “Don’t complain about things you’re not willing to change.” And I am not shy about sharing my new life’s statement with others. I realized that quite often it does not take a lot to make a difference in the lives of others. Make a donation, give away those items that have hung in the closet for years, visit or call an old friend or associate, wave or speak to your neighbor (they might wonder what is wrong with you), give a hug or even just a smile — all these things can make the difference in a
said he took piano lessons when he was really young but has retained almost none of what he learned. “So, by that time I started playing the sax, it was like I hadn’t [taken music lessons before].” Smith has been playing the trumpet for four years and he started learning music when he began to learn the trumpet, He said he started out slowly and learned to build on his practices. “The biggest challenge of producing a sound on the trumpet is the fatigue,” Richardson said. “You have to build up the endurance and you have to learn to stay relaxed while you’re playing.” If you can't stay relaxed, the sound is likely to be shaky, he said.
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Sports Reporter Renee Marler 214.592.7512 Renee@CedarbrookMedia.com
Cornerstone Assistance Network of North Central Texas is a faith based non-profit that unites with others the demonstrate Christ’s compassion by serving our neighbors in need. With the help of volunteers, they conduct intakes twice a month where they meet with new and current neighbors to hear their stories, help where they can, and give guidance where they cannot. If you need help, call 972-689-9115 and leave a message. Intakes are done on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information about Cornerstone, visit cornerstonenct.org. Bethlehem Place is Prosper’s only Food Pantry located on the parking lot of Prosper United Methodist Church at Third and Church streets. The food pantry is open for food distribution every Tuesday evening from 6-7 p.m. Bethlehem place greatly appreciates any food or monetary donations to support this organization. Please visit www.bethlehemplace. org for more information Prosper Mom’s in Prayer is open to women who have a heart to pray for their school age children. For more information on Mom’s in Prayer, visit www.momsinprayer.org. For local meeting information for your child’s school, contact either Christy Rubin at 469-995-6061 or Karina Anderson at 214-566-7762. Karina is able to answer questions in Spanish as well as English. Prosper Community Library Summer Hours: Monday/ Wednesday 2 p.m. – 8 p.m., Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. For questions or more information, contact Library Director Leslie Scott at 469-219-2499.
Sweet little Madeleine was featured in our “Kids say…” column by Leslie Scott a couple of weeks ago but The Prosper Times misspelled her name for which we apologize.
PT IN HIS PRESENCE
MISSION POSSIBLE
Community Info, Outreach, and Prayer Groups
Leslie Scott
Prosper Times contributor
Fake News and Real Libraries Two words I’ve been hearing lately are fake and real. No they are not fake or real terms, but those are the actual words: fake and real. It wasn’t until this past year that I heard the term fake applied to much other than knock-off fashion or as a type of behavior. Somehow, the term fake has ended up in the news being applied to the news. Real has also become a word I’m hearing with increased and puzzling frequency, so of course I decided to do a little research and analysis on the terms themselves. According to Merriam-Webster,
‘fake news’ is a new term. But, new to them means about 125 years. That’s not new to me, but okay, who am I to argue with Merriam-Webster’s definition of new. Anyway, fake news began at the end of the 19th century and recently became a catchy term in the media. (Just like their use of new, I’m not so sure about MerriamWebster’s definition of recent, but now I’m just being sardonic.) Fake news definition is “frequently used to describe a political story which is seen as damaging to an agency, entity, or person.” It is not just limited to political news, but can be applied to any news. Fake news seems like a new softer term for lying, exaggeration, or slander to me. Even though you likely know the definition of real, let’s review just for clarification. Merriam-Webster defines real as “of or relating to fixed, permanent, or immovable things; not artificial, fraudulent, or illusory; and occurring or existing in actuality.” This past year we’ve seen an increase of people coming into the library and asking us, “is this a real library?” We reply simply, we are in fact a real library.
I wonder after people ask us that question though, what do they mean when they ask that and why would they think otherwise. What do they think a real library is? Our homes have libraries in them, and yet we do not qualify as a library? Is it our current physical location? I’m prone to think the “real” they are referring to is the lack of currently being in our own facility. We are a real library, we will have a new real facility in less than a year, and we hope those people that don’t think we are real will give us a chance anyway. I often say our library collection is small but mighty, our staff are few but caring, competent and go far beyond what you would find in a large library, and our facility is different but we make it functional. Words are like puzzles to me. They fascinate me in their origin, their evolution, and through our application of them. I’m still unsure of the frequency of the use of the term fake news, but I do know we have a real library. Perhaps the next time someone asks me if the library is a real library, I will just say with a smile, “no, that’s fake news.” Leslie Scott is the Director for the Prosper Community Library.
Homestead From page one been unchanged in a decade, divides these into roughly 36 cents for maintenance and operation and 16 cents for debt service. The 10 percent homestead exemption would maintain these at about the same level. As a result of the new homestead exemption, the effective tax rate, according to the Collin County Appraisal District, is $0.4314 per $100 valuation. The homestead exemption applies to homes in both Collin and Denton counties and will remain in effect until repealed by Council vote. Even so, residents must actively apply for the exemption with their respective appraisal districts. Those who’ve already done so in previous years, need not reapply. The typical home in Prosper is valued at $495,762, and with the new exemption in place, the tax exposure will decrease by $49,576, saving the homeowner about $258 in ad valorem taxes to the Town.
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Friday July 7, 2017
WeAreProsper.com | Page 3
Pride in the Sky From page one “It is so exciting to watch the evolution of this event – we keep adding to it each year to make it bigger and better,” said Heather. “We enjoy working with our sponsors and the Town of Prosper. We wouldn’t be able to do this for the people of Prosper without all of them.” The Charity Softball game is one of the event highlights. The Prosper Education Foundation puts a team together each year to take on Cornerstone Assistance Network of North Central Texas. Assistant Fire Chief Stuart Blasingame has served as umpire and, as the game is about good-natured fun, some of his rulings fit into the same category. And for a donation to the cause, children of the players are allowed to do the running around the bases. The softball game is what kicks off the festivities each year for Pride in the Sky. The Fire Department color guard braves the heat in full-dress uniforms to honor the U.S. Flag during the singing of the National Anthem, this year such by Prosper High School graduating senior Zach McConnell. Then Fire Chief Ronnie Tucker threw out the first pitch and the festivities were underway.
The Texas flag is dipped during the National Anthem at Pride in the Sky as the Prosper Fire Department color guard stands at attention.
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
The sun shines bright but low in the sky as the Prosper Fire Department color guard honors the U.S. flag to kick off Pride in the Sky.
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
Prosper Fire Chief Ronnie Tucker throws out the first pitch at the charity softball game for Pride in the Sky.
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
Mike Korbuly, member of the town council for the town of Prosper, leads off the blue team as the two teams greet just before the charity softball game begins.
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
Micah Nevill, 13, runs after getting a hit in the charity softball game. Micah is the daughter of Prosper firefighter and paramedic Marty Nevill.
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
Players on the team representing the Cornerstone team gather in the dugout just before the charity softball game begins at Pride in the Sky.
PT K i ds S a y … How old are you? 5 and a half. My birthday is November 3rd. What have you been doing this summer? Playing soccer and swimming with my friends. Do you have any pets? Two doggies. Duke is big and Coco is small. They sleep with my mommy and daddy because Duke follows mommy everywhere and Coco follows my daddy everywhere. Leslie Scott Special to the Prosper Times
Payton She likes all shades of purple, is looking forward to beginning kindergarten, and likes making new friends.
Do you have any brothers or sisters? I have Bubby. He's 9 and soon he'll be 10. What do you like about him? I don't know. (Took a little time to think) He plays with me and he's funny. Sometimes he's mean to me, but I fight him very good.
What is your favorite game? Candyland! I play is with Bubby, Addison, and T.J. Addison and T.J. are my friends. They live kinda far and I love their house because they have a lot of toys. Are you going on a vacation this summer? I already went on a vacation to a lake. We swam and got in a boat. Anything else you're looking forward to this summer? Kindergarten! I thinks we will get homework though, which I don't like. EDITOR’S NOTE: Prosper Community Library Director Leslie Scott has a unique opportunity for candid discussions with youngster of all ages. She is sharing these experiences through the Prosper Times.
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Friday July 7, 2017
Head-ing Out Explosions: Fire Science at the Library
From page one as soon as November, or possibly as late as early 2018, before they learn whether they have been matched with and will be able to welcome the youngsters into their home. “When they first mentioned (a sibling group) to us, we didn’t even know what to say,” recalled Meghann, who last year was nominated as Prosper Magazine’s Person of the Year. “But the more we’ve thought about it and talked it over and prayed about it, it feels right.” The Heads have devoted their careers to working with kids. For a dozen years Meghann, 33, has worked at Prestonwood Baptist Church. The last three of those have been at its north campus in Prosper, where she is the preschool and children’s minister. Michael, 37, teaches computer science to middle- and high school students at Prestonwood Christian Academy in Plano. “It certainly is a calling of loving other people’s kids,” she said of their respective jobs. The couple, who married in 2006, underwent several rounds of fertility treatments as part of their efforts to start a family. Last summer, Meghann said, “We just took some time and prayed about it and decided … we’re supposed to be adopting kids, and that this is how God is going to build our family.” Meghann’s mother, Rebecca, was adopted in 1954 from Columbia as an infant. Nevertheless, the Heads said the country was not initially atop the list of those from which they had considered adopting their own children. That is, until the Gladney Center’s president learned about their family’s Columbian connection, Michael explained, and asked them to meet with the organization’s caseworker for that country. There are more than 40,000 orphans in Columbia, most resulting from cases of extreme poverty or disease. Many are members of sibling groups, who Michael said face additional challenges since laws there prohibit international adoptions of children older than 14. “That can almost rule out the entire sibling group from being adopted overseas,” he explained. In recent months, the couple learned about a set of siblings that they now hope to adopt: Two brothers and two sisters, ages 3 to 12 years old, who were abandoned by their mother and have for three years resided at an orphanage. “They just have a hard story, and we’re hopeful that maybe God has it for us to be part of their story and actually give them a childhood,” Meghann said. The Heads have already begun
learning to speak Spanish so they will be able to communicate with the children once they arrive. They are also studying Columbian culture and researching its holiday traditions. “It’s really important to us that we keep their culture as much as we can,” she said. However, there is a lengthy adoption process — marked by a mountain of paperwork, in-home evaluations, interviews and such — that the couple must complete in coming months. They must also raise about $40,000 to cover the costs of adoption fees and travel expenses involved with bringing the children to the United States. To help with the effort, the Heads started a Gofundme page (gofundme. com/head-family-adoption). Meanwhile Michael, who also owns a photography and videography business, recently hosted a series of special fundraising photo sessions for the public. They have also received donations from fellow congregants at Prestonwood Baptist Church’s North Campus as well as others in the community. “People have just been so kind and have come alongside us,” Meghann said. “It’s so neat to see our church family be part of this.” “Our Prestonwood family loves Meghann and Michael and have circled them in prayer,” Pastor Chris Kouba said. “It’s been encouraging to see the outpouring of love and tangible support provided as they prepare to add to their family through adoption.” In fact, it’s their church family that the Heads say they’ll miss the most once they relocate July 15 to Meghann’s hometown of El Paso. It’s another step the pair is taking in preparation for the adoptions. “We love Prosper,” Meghann said, “but in order to provide the very best environment for these kids, we feel strongly that we need to move back to where we have the support of our family around us.” The decision to leave North Texas “has been very hard and bittersweet,” Michael said, “but we just feel like it’s going to be best for our growing family.” “The Heads will be great parents and will always be part of the Prestonwood family,” Kouba said. “We hold them in our prayers as they follow the Lord’s leading in their lives.” Meghann said she and Michael are most excited about building traditions with their children. “We’re just looking forward to making a family out of what feels a little bit like some broken pieces,” she said, “but … it is going to be so incredible to put all of these pieces together.”
Town Upgrades
by conservative budgeting and continued revenue growth.” In a comparable manner, the S&P report cited, “The rating action also reflects the town's consistently strong financial performance and very strong flexibility position, afforded through the expanding tax base and the town's strong financial management practices.” Prosper’s financial advisor, David Medanich of FirstSouthwest, says the Town’s financial approach is definitely on track. “Prosper is doing a lot of things right. An upgraded bond rating of this magnitude is pretty spectacular for a municipality this size.” The new ratings will render savings to the Town, and its residents, over the long haul as debt service payments on the affected COs will be lower. Lower debt service payments give Town officials a greater level of financial flexibility. “This is great news on many fronts, but mostly for residents,” said Neal. “Just like a consumer who gets a better rate on a loan can either save the extra funds or pay down other bills, so can the Town decide to save the money, pay down debt or use it for other purposes. It’s the true meaning of win-win.”
From page one Certificates of obligation, or COs, are the common way for municipalities to fund large scale projects on a long- term amortization schedule. The Town is using the CO process to fund the construction of Town Hall and Multi-Purpose Building, the expansion of parks and recreation facilities, trails, fields and other amenities, and critical storm drainage improvement projects. In announcing the upgrade, Moody’s analysts said, “The stable outlook reflects the expectation that ongoing development and solid management practices will support a healthy financial profile and an ability to manage debt and capital needs.” The Moody’s report also highlighted the Town’s practice of maintaining above-normal financial reserves. It said, “Given the town's history of conservative budgeting and solid performance, the town will maintain healthy reserves.” And, “Current reserve levels not only compare favorably with peers but also exceed the town's own policies. The town's reserve levels will likely remain healthy supported
10710 Eldorado Parkway Suite 140 Frisco, TX 75035
Zarmin Lalani, DDS MS Board Certified Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
From left are Prosper firefighters Dwayne Norvel, Zachary Stringer, Ryan Bergman showing young library patrons an up-close look at specific parts of the fire truck. Stringer is showing the children equipment mostly used at traffic crashes when vehicles need to be cut for access to victims and Bergman is preparing to show the youngsters a Halligan tool used for forcible entry of burning buildings and much more.
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
Prosper Fire firefighter Josh Alba answers questions from a young boy and his mom at the Prosper Community Library fire science program.
Joyce Godwin/PROSPER TIMES
The Prosper Fire Department showed up in force for the Prosper Community Library Fire Science program and so do the community. The program was set up for the library youth and younger children. Firefighters showed the youngsters some science about fighting fires and then took the crowd, parents included, outside to go through the technical fire fighting equipment.
PT F i re D e pa rt m e nt i n c i d e nt re p o rts June 27th: EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury at the intersection of W. University Drive and Gee Road; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 900 block of Cliff Creek Drive; Motor vehicle accident with injuries at the intersection of W. University Drive and Gee Road June 28th: EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury at the 26600 block of E. University, Little Elm; Motor vehicle accident with injuries at the intersection of S. Coit Road & E. University Drive; False alarm or false call, other at the 100 block of Dylan Drive; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 700 block of Richland Boulevard; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 2300 block of Willow Bend Drive; Public service assistance, other in the 1100 block of Harvest Hill Drive; Dispatched and cancelled en route to the intersection of FM 720 & E. University Drive, Cross Roads June 29th: EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury at the intersection of Fishtrap Road and S. Teel; Motor vehicle accident with no injuries at the 26700 block of E. University Drive, Aubrey; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 600 block of Rock Hill Road; Odor Investigation in the 800 block of N. Preston Road; Alarm system sounded due to malfunction in the 1000 block of S. Coit Road; Alarm system sounded due to malfunction in the 800 block of Somerville Drive June 30th: EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 800 block of English Ivy Drive; Public service assistance in the 2700 block of Vista View Lane;
Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 8600 block of CR 128, Celina; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 4400 Woodbine Lane; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the intersection of E. Frontier Parkway & Twin Lakes Drive, Celina; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 300 block of Port O Conner Drive, Little Elm; False alarm or false call, other in the 1600 block of E. Frontier; Arcing, shorted electrical equipment in the 9000 block of Prestonview Drive July 1st: EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 300 Yosemite Drive; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 1000 block of N. Preston Road; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 1300 block of N. Preston Road; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 26400 block of E. Univeristy, Little Elm; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 1600 block of W. Frontier Parkway; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 27000 block of E. University Drive, Little Elm; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 4300 block of Fisher Road July 2nd: Alarm system activation, no fire – unintentional in the 400 block of N. Preston Road; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 27000 block of E. University Drive, Little Elm July 3rd: EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 200 block of E. Sixth Street; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 4300 block of Woodbine Lane; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 500 block of Lobo Lane, Little Elm; Lock-in in the 1600 block of W. Frontier; EMS
call, excluding vehicle accident with injury in the 200 block of Field Street July 4th: Dispatched & cancelled en route to the intersection of FM 1385 & W. University Drive; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury to Light Farms, Celina; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 2700 block of Whispering Trail, Little Elm; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the intersection of E. Frontier Parkway & N. Custer Road; EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury to the 1300 block of Jennings Court, Aubrey; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 3400 block of Briarcliff Drive; Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 100 block of S. Alabama Drive, Celina: Dispatched & cancelled en route to the 600 block of Smokebrush, Celina; Fireworks explosion (no fire) in the 2600 block of Misty Meadow Drive; False alarm or false call, other in the 400 block of N. Preston Road; Fireworks explosion (no fire) at the intersection of E. Broadway Street & N. Preston Road; Fireworks explosion (no fire) in the 1500 block of E. First Street; Fireworks explosion (no fire) at the intersection of Blackthorn Drive & Parkside Lane; Fireworks explosion (no fire) in the 1800 block of Fostermill Dirve; Fireworks explosion (no fire) at the intersection of La Cima Boulevard & E. First Street; Fireworks explosion (no fire) at the intersection of Woodstream Drive & Crystal Falls Drive; Fireworks explosion (no fire) in the 4300 block of E. Prosper Trail; Building fire in the 4200 block of Bellingrath Drive Editor’s Note: Information found on the Fire Department website at www.prospertx.gov/fire-department.
PROSPERTIMES
Friday July 7, 2017
WeAreProsper.com | Page 5
Smart Starters and Sides
PT I n G o o d Ta ste
There’s plenty to learn from the Mediterranean diet, and this recipe is proof. A variety of colorful cancer-fighting veggies, flavorful herbs and spices, and a bit of healthy fat make for a perfect starter or accompaniment to a grilled protein for a well-rounded meal. Find more recipes to help you eat well at AICR.org.
Grilled Panzanella
Reprinted with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research Servings: 6 4 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil salt, to taste freshly ground pepper, to taste 15 fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped 1 medium cucumber, seeded, washed and cut into 1/2-inch slices 3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes 2 tablespoons green olives, pitted and chopped (capers may be substituted) 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and quartered 1/2 large red onion, cut in half and then into 1/4-inch slices 1/2 small loaf crusty whole-grain French or Italian bread, cut into 1-inch slices and halved Heat grill. In mixing bowl, whisk together garlic, mustard, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper; set aside. In large bowl, gently combine basil, cucumber, tomatoes and olives. Brush bell peppers and onion slices on one side with oil mixture. Place oil-side down on hot grill and cook 3-4 minutes. Brush other side with oil mixture, turn over and cook additional 3-4 minutes. Remove from grill. On cutting board, cut peppers into 1/2-inch slices and separate onion rings. Add peppers and onions to vegetable mix. Add remaining oil mixture and toss to coat. Toast both sides of bread until browned. On serving platter, layer bread and top with vegetables and basil mixture.
Fun in the Sun
Cap off a day of play with dinner outdoors Photo courtesy of Getty Images
E
FAMILY FEATURES
njoying the great outdoors is a perfect way to create fun memories with family or friends. All that fresh air is sure to work up your appetite, so be sure to plan a delicious meal to top off all the merriment. Get those taste buds fired up for a delicious meal with a flavorful starter like this zesty panzanella. Take family favorites outdoors with this savory take on a flatbread pizza. Then close down an evening of open-air entertainment on a sweet note with a scrumptious dessert. Explore more family-friendly recipes to enjoy outdoors this summer at culinary.net.
Create Family Moments and Memories this Summer
Take advantage of slower summer schedules by rounding up the family and heading to the backyard for fun, food and family time. The opportunities for family time during the warmer months are nearly endless, especially with a little creativity, like these fun summer ideas from Borden Cheese.
Let your inner kid run free
Whether it’s kick the can, ghost in the graveyard, capture the flag or hide and seek, backyard games are a great way to get the whole family to unplug and enjoy summer together.
Fire up your appetite
Ditch the kitchen and get the whole family engaged by recreating everyone’s favorite pizza on the grill. This deliciously easy Cheesy Flatbread Pizza recipe can be enjoyed by adults and kids alike. Keep it simple for kids with Borden Cheese’s Mild Cheddar Shreds or dress it up with some fresh veggies straight from your garden or local farmer’s market.
Rethink family movie night
Take your family movie outside. All you need is a sheet, a projector and some comfy pillows to turn your backyard into an open-air movie theater. Watch new releases, old favorites or even home movies right in your own backyard. Find more family-friendly recipes for summer at BordenCheese.com.
Cheesy Flatbread Pizza
Cook time: 25 minutes Servings: 4 1 piece (12 inches) cracker bread or flatbread 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus additional for brushing 1 package (8 ounces) Borden Cheese Mild Cheddar Shreds, divided
8 strips thick-sliced bacon, cooked crisp and broken into 1-inch pieces 4 whole garlic cloves, sliced 4 plum tomatoes, sliced 1/2 red onion, cut in strips 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley fresh basil leaves (optional) Heat oven to 400 F. Brush bread with small amount of olive oil and place on cookie sheet. Spread 1 1/2 cups cheese evenly around bread. Top evenly with bacon pieces.
In small skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil until hot. Add garlic and saute until lightly browned. Sprinkle onto pizza. Arrange sliced tomatoes and red onions on pizza. Add parsley to remaining cheese and spread over ingredients. Bake 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Cut into squares and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Tip: For a different flavor profile, try grilling pizza rather than baking. Brush raw side of dough with olive oil and grill until bottom of crust is golden brown.
Sweeten the Deal
For the perfect ending to a perfect day, look to some of nature’s best ingredients, like fresh apples and honey. This fruity crisp is packed with flavor from tart, juicy apples and a delicate sweetness from honey that coats the fruit and lends a unique character to the crumbly topping. Find more sweet dishes for summer at honey.com.
Apple Honey Crisp
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
by Tim Schenck
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un PT C ro ss w o rd C h a l l e n g e
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Recipe courtesy of the National Honey Board Heat oven to 350 F. Servings: 6 In bowl, toss apples with 2 pounds (1 1/2 1/2 cup honey, cinnamon and quarts) apples, nutmeg. Turn into 2-quart quartered and baking dish. sliced To make topping, beat flour 3/4 cup honey, divided with butter and remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon honey until crumbly; sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg over apples. 1 cup flour Bake 40-45 minutes, or 1/4 cup butter, until apples are tender and softened topping is golden. Serve with warm cream or warm cream or ice cream. ice cream
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PROSPERTIMES
Friday July 7, 2017
Eagle HYPE
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Dedicated to Prosper Sports
Girls Lacrosse Prosper?
In
Renee Marler Renee@CedarbrookMedia.Com A group of parents is looking to bring the fastest growing sport in the US to the girls in Prosper by the Spring 2018 season. The idea, which began with a simple post on Facebook, has taken off with approximately 40 people expressing interest in the first week. “Who is ready to see Girls Lacrosse come to Prosper,” asked Prosper mom Jesse Prentiss. Parents of girls from all ages were quick to reply in hopes of starting a local team. Some mentioned their girls play in neighboring Frisco, but said if they had a local option, they would consider the move.
With origins traced back to the Indians of North America, Lacrosse, is a fast-paced field sport played with netted sticks to carry, throw, and shoot a ball in an effort to score goals. Christie Endicott, Communications chair for PYSA boys kindergarten through eighth grade lacrosse, said she would help in any way she could, but that there would be a number of factors to consider. “There are logistical issues with a growing town with many fall sports already. Mix that with limited practice availability and the issue becomes a little deeper than simply the 'want' to offer girls lacrosse.” said Endicott. According to Prentiss, PYSA is on board with their support, assuming all the logistics are worked out. The PYSA board will be meeting in the coming weeks to discuss some of these logistics and hopes to have more information after that meeting If you are not familiar with the sport and would like to try it out, or simply want more information, please contact Greg Frye at greg.frye@sonoco.com
Due to the rain Saturday Morning Prosper Cross Country team held their 10-leg relay indoors in the arena
Over 4th of July weekend, over 100 Prosper athletes proved their dedication by showing up to work out.
Friday July 7, 2017
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Four Prosper freshman athletes, KC Ahrens, Samantha Jacobs, Ella Payne, and Rachel Ward, brought home the Bronze medal from the USA Volleyball Girls Junior National Championships held in Minneapolis, Minnesota this past week. Over the four days of play team Instinct 14 Wild Gold Paula went 10-1, their only loss coming in 3 hard fought sets in the semifinals to the team that went on to win the National Championship.
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Athlete of the Week Wayne Anderson, Jr.
Junior, PHS Football and Track/Field As an incoming junior, the Prosper Eagles will look to Anderson Jr. to be a major contributor in the running back position. Anderson Jr. has been attending a number of skills camps this summer to make sure he is ready when the Eagles take on Bourne-Champion on September 1 in Georgetown.
*** Brought to you by ***
Mackenzie Johnson (4), Grace Fox (5) and Callie Kieffer (6), all of Prosper, competed in the Girls Volleyball Junior National Championship in Minneapolis June 27th – 30th. The girls are part of the Lonestar 12 Red team, and finished 17th in the Nation. There were 156 teams in the 12 year old division – 48 in the top National Division and 108 in the American. All 3 will attend Rogers Middle School in August and plan to try out for the 7th grade volleyball team.
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Meeting clients to discuss their advertising needs Working with account planners to devise a campaign that meets the client’s brief and budget Presenting campaign ideas and costings to clients Briefing the creative team who will produce the adverts Negotiating with clients, solving any problems and making sure deadlines are met Checking and reporting on the campaign’s progress Keeping in contact with the client at all stages of the campaign Managing the account’s budget and invoicing the client Making ‘pitches’ to win new business
Flags across Prosper
Courtesy photo
Dan Yeomans, brother-in-law to Prosper resident Doug Trumbull, is shown helping distribute Rotary flags in Willow Ridge. Yeoman says Canada recently celebrated its 150 anniversary of independence on ‘Canada Day.’ “It's great to help our brothers to the south celebrate their Independence Day,” Yeomans said. The Rotary Club of Prosper, a service organization, contracts with homeowners to put flags out at homes across the area for appropriate holidays.