P rosper Life & Luxury Magazine™
Prosper’s Community Magazine Since 2012 | WeAreProsper.com
December 2020 | Issue 113
New Location Now Open!! 1450 N Preston Rd, Ste 60 | Prosper, TX 75078
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What’s Inside
P rosper Life & Luxury Magazine™
Community 8 Obstacles are Opportunities in Disguise 10
Prosper Fire Assists in Disposal of Expired Drugs by Mail
12
Parks and Recreation Achieves Local Merrymaker Role
14
Voters Make Council Selections, Approve Propositions
Homefront 16 5 Ways to Design with Authentic Materials 18
Where Did Christmas Trees and House Lighting Come from Anyway?
In Good Taste 20 Popping Up Festive Holiday Fun
December 2020 | Issue 113 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 PROSPER - Life & Luxury Magazine PO Box 405, Prosper, Texas 75078 972.347.6231 www.LifeAndLuxuryMagazine.com/Celina Advertising Information For media kits, contact Advertising at
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Fashion & Beauty 22 Simple Ways to Dress Up Your Outfit This Holiday
Life & Luxury Magazine Your Community - Your Lifestyle
PROSPER | FRISCO | MCKINNEY | CELINA | ANNA | LOVEJOY
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Travel 23 5 Tips for Winter Travelers
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Contributing Writers Heather Reynolds | Ray Smith | Dr. Holly Ferguson Jimmie Gibson | Stacy Cate Contributing Photography Cedarbrook Media Group
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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Life & Luxury Magazine PISD News
From the Desk of Dr. Holly Ferguson
Obstacles are Opportunities in Disguise It is hard to believe that we will be closing out 2020 this month. The challenges that we have been faced with this year are insurmountable. One of my favorite sayings is, “obstacles are opportunities in disguise.” This year has put this saying to the test because the obstacles have continued to enter our world on an ongoing basis. Each and every time I get sidetracked and lost in the obstacles, I always challenge myself to see the hidden opportunities and blessings all around us which always include our students and staff. Our school year began on August 12, 2020, and I will say that it was one of my best first days ever. You might ask how that could be with all of the protocols that had to be implemented in our new normal. Teachers and students had been locked away from one another and to see a sense of pure joy and normalcy in our buildings was a moment that will forever be imprinted in my mind. I had chills. We were able to have a volleyball season, run cross country, play football, play tennis, golf, basketball, hold orchestra concerts, theatre performances, choir performances, see the performances by the band, drill team, cheerleaders, and the list goes on. I had chills each and every time. We were able to see a forthcoming king and queen crowned at Rock Hill High School and a king and queen at Prosper High School crowned homecoming king and queen. I had chills. One of our parents summed it up after her daughter was crowned queen. She shared, “Thank you for the hard decisions you make every day for the well-being of students. We are so grateful for the opportunities our children are given in Prosper ISD. It is so exciting for our students to experience normalcy during this crazy time. And the learning opportunities are second to none.” I definitely had chills! Moments matter in Prosper and connect us all at a deeper level. My vision for Prosper is that it continues to be a community that rallies in moments of joy as much as it does in moments of devastation. The community is such a unique and special gift that truly allows Prosper to continue to PROSPER. Years ago, Hellen Keller summed up 2020 the best without knowing how powerful her quote would be today. She shared, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Prosper is stronger together and I can’t wait to see what is in store for 2021. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to you all!
Dr. Holly Ferguson Prosper ISD Superintendent 8 | WeAreProsper.com
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Life & Luxury Magazine Community
Prosper Fire Assists in Disposal of Expired Drugs by Mail Postage paid, self-addressed envelopes available at Fire Station The twice-yearly Drug Take Back events, jointly sponsored by the Prosper Fire and Police Departments, have proven to be increasingly popular with residents, each year increasing their accumulation of unwanted drugs and medications for safe and secure disposal. The complicating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, may make it difficult for some residents to personally participate in the drug surrendering program. Plus, the fact that expired or unneeded drugs and medications continue to collect in medicine cabinets throughout the year have prompted the Prosper Fire Department to offer the SUDS (single use disposal system) pouches to supplement the Drug Take Back events. SUDS are self-addressed, postage-paid large envelopes that can be obtained inside the entry foyer of the Central Fire Station, 1500 W. First St. Drugs and medications, whether prescribed by a medical professional or purchased over the counter, can be deposited in the envelopes, and
10 | WeAreProsper.com
dropped in any USPS mailbox. The foyer is accessible 24 hours a day. Once filled, the contents will be delivered by the USPS to an approved location for proper disposal. There is no charge for the service, and user are not required to identify a return address on the envelope. Residents may take as many envelopes as necessary but are requested to anonymously fill out an accompanying postcard that provides program officials general information on its effectiveness. Prosper Fire Rescue is cooperating with the University of Houston College of Pharmacy in the program, and strongly encourages residents to make use of the envelopes as an alternative to simply throwing the drugs and medications in the trash, or worse, flushing them down home drains. The project is funded by Texas Health and Human Services Texas Targeted Opioid Response. “Homebound individuals may find the SUDS program especially important,” says Assistant Fire Chief Shaw Eft. “A neighbor, friend or family member can pick up one or two SUDS envelopes, deliver them to the homebound individual, and then retrieve them for depositing in the mail. It’s a service that helps all of us.”
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Life & Luxury Magazine Community
Parks and Recreation Achieves Local Merrymaker Role ndaunted by the persistent challenges of 2020, the Prosper Parks and U Recreation Department is determined to fulfill its traditional role of making the holiday season bright and cheerful.
lights and music); The Clark Griswold Award (excessive use of lights and decorations); Best Display of Contest Theme; and Best Display of “A 2020 Christmas.”
Mayor Ray Smith will officially open the holiday season by lighting the Community Christmas Tree on Monday, December 7 at 6:00pm. The traditional countdown will be held over Facebook Live on the Parks and Recreation Facebook page. The entire Prosper community is highly encouraged to join in.
Entry deadline is Sunday, December 13 with winners announced on the Town’s social media sites on Friday, December 18. Winners will be awarded a yard sign proclaiming their win, allowing them some wellearned bragging rights, plus a cash prize. Entry forms are available at www.prosperparksandrec.org. A map of contest entries will be published, allowing moms and dads the chance to share a bit of nostalgia with the kids by packing the family in the car for a ride through neighborhoods for a visual treat. More information on the contest can be obtained by contacting Barbara Cottone at bcottone@prospertx.gov or calling (972) 569-1052.
By then, area kids will have already shared their Christmas wishes with the jolly old elf from the North Pole during Santa Chats in Prosper over Zoom on December 5. All the time slots for the chats with St. Nick have already been filled. To get everyone in the spirit of the season, the inaugural Light Up the Night! contest, sponsored by CoServ, encourages homeowners and businesses to compete by dressing up their locations in the season’s lighted finery. Homes and businesses can compete in the following categories: Best Commercial/Business Display; Best Norman Rockwell Display (traditional); Best Use of Animation (choreographed 12 | WeAreProsper.com
“We know how important it is for Prosper to enjoy and celebrate Christmas as a community,” said Dudley Raymond, Director of Parks and Recreation. “We’re overjoyed to be able to continue this tradition in 2020. Whether it’s a contest win, a drive to look at lights, or an interactive experience
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with Santa Claus himself, we look forward to bringing a smile to you and yours this season.” Numerous classes and camps, a few specifically designed for the holiday season, are now open for registration at www.prosperparksandrec. org. A three-day camp offers creative fun for LEGO®-loving kids, and a Christmas Wreath Making Workshop and Holiday Floral Arrangements class for all ages are offered. Fitness options include Outdoor Zumba!, Strength, Core and Balance via Zoom, Yoga, and the Prosper Bowling League for Active Adults 55+. A series of new workshops, New Year! Healthier You!, begins in January. Obtain more information about these recreational programs from Jonathan Weeks at jweeks@prospertx.gov or (972) 569-1057. Virtual games continue to connect Prosper-area adults ages 55 and over. Texas Forty-Two, Trivia Time!, Yahtzee and Bingo are offered via Zoom throughout the week. Trevor Helton, either at thelton@prospertx.gov or at (972) 569-1064, can provide more information.
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WeAreProsper.com | 13
Life & Luxury Magazine Community
Voters Make Council Selections, Approve Propositions Voters in Prosper reelected an incumbent Council member, elected a successor for a beloved member, overwhelmingly approved three bond propositions, and signaled the approval of liquor sales within Town limits. Council member Jeff Hodges won reelection to Place 5 by winning 66 percent of the vote over challenger Steve Thomas. In Place 3, Amy Bartley ran unopposed, filling the seat of long-time Council member and Mayor Pro Tem Curry Vogelsang, Jr. Hodges was first elected in 2017 and currently serves as Vice President of the North Central Texas Emergency Communications District. He is a member of the Town Council Benefits Subcommittee and is also on the Town’s Hike and Bike Trail Steering Committee. He served as Vice President of the Special Purpose District Board of Directors which successfully guided the vote for the dedication of one-half cent sales tax for the Police and Fire Departments. Prior to his election to Council, he was a member of the Parks and Recreation Board. Bartley is starting her first term on Council after having served on both the Prosper Planning & Zoning Commission and the Parks and Recreation Board. She is a volunteer with the Cornerstone Assistance Network and is a former member of the Prosper Education Foundation. A graduate of Howard Payne University, she is a transaction coordinator for her husband’s real estate business.
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During the installation of the newly elected members, the Council paid special tribute to Vogelsang, among the Council’s longest serving members. The retiring Council member addressed his colleagues, supporters, friends, staff, and his family in an emotional departing speech. The three bond propositions, each passing with slightly less than 80 percent approval, included: Proposition A which includes the construction of various public safety facilities; Proposition B which includes the development of parks, trails and recreational facilities; and Proposition C which includes the construction and improvement of Town streets, roads and accompanying amenities. In addition, Propositions D and E dealt with the sale and consumption of liquor within Town limits. Proposition D allows the sale of all alcoholic beverages for off premise consumption, a decision that clears the way for liquor stores to open in Prosper. Proposition E was designed to include all restaurants in Prosper which properly hold the appropriate permits to sell alcoholic beverages for their in-dining guests and customers. The municipal election, generally held in May, was postponed, and held in conjunction with the federal and state elections in November because of the restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Life & Luxury Magazine Homefront
5 Ways to Design with Authentic Materials Creating a welcoming and relaxing space may be easier than you expect when you give natural materials a leading role in your design. Elements like natural stone, wood, fiber, metals and even plant life can allow you to express a sense of unique personal style that is broadly appealing. Most inviting rooms share one quality: ample natural light, which creates a subtly vibrant and energetic ambiance. Other aspects of an enticing design may be less obvious to the casual observer. Special touches like custom craftsmanship lend a special aesthetic to furnishings and decor and bring authenticity to your home. Similarly, items that are made in America using an artisanal approach can elevate the character of a room when compared to things that are mass manufactured. For example, choose a single piece of artwork from a talented artist rather than multiple pieces of mass-produced art from a retailer. You can incorporate natural and hand-crafted materials into your spaces in countless ways, but these ideas can be achieved regardless of what your budget may be. NATURAL STONE When many people think about designing with stone, features like countertops or flooring come to mind. Incorporating stone in more unexpected ways can make an even bigger impression. You might choose a coffee table or end tables that are made of stone or feature stone accents. Accessorizing with stone also introduces an earthy appeal; think agate bookends or decorative items like sculptures.
16 | WeAreProsper.com
Local Expertise Innovative Approach Real Integrity STACY CATE
HARDWOOD FLOORING The floor is often the largest design element of a room, so utilizing authentic materials for your flooring makes a strong statement about the overall tone and feel of the room. An artisan-crafted hardwood flooring option like Carlisle Wide Plank Floors is crafted individually – one board at a time – so the emphasis is on the natural beauty of the wood. You can choose a completely custom look, from wood species and grade to texture and color, or make your selection from a collection of popular tried-and-true finishes. NATURAL FIBER TEXTILES Careful attention to detail is important for a cohesive design, so be sure to keep thinking natural when selecting textiles. Linen and rough cotton fabrics bring distinctive textures that maintain an organic vibe. Natural textiles can also be quite durable, making them practical selections for often-used spaces. Elements to consider include window treatments, fabric components of any furnishings and accents like pillows or throws. Jute or wool rugs and textile artwork may also work well with this motif. PLANT LIFE Vegetation is a central element to landscape design, so when your goal is to create an inviting indoor space with a connection to nature and the outdoors, it makes sense to incorporate plants as part of your design. Options vary greatly, so it may take some work to narrow your selections. If the rest of your space reflects a specific region, choose plants native to that area. You’ll also want to consider lighting and watering requirements as well as the level of care you’re able to dedicate. METALS Adding metallic components like iron, copper, gold or silver to your space can bring everything from an edgy style to graceful beauty. While furnishings and accessories are common ways to incorporate metallic flair, also think in terms of lighting and hard features like railing spindles and window treatments. Get inspired with more ideas to create an inviting, authentic space at wideplankflooring.com.
WeAreProsper.com | 17
Life & Luxury Magazine Homefront
Where Did Christmas Trees and House Lighting Come from Anyway? iven its roots in English history, America was predictably late in adopting such signs of frivolity as Christmas tree decorating. The Massachusetts GPuritans, in particular, frowned upon such pagan backsliding. But the
influx of Catholic immigrants in the 19th century was bound to dilute these anti-Christmas tree decorating sentiments. But North America has made up for its past deficiencies in the celebration of Christmas and in Christmas tree decorating by introducing two innovations. What are they and what is the impact that these innovations have had on the history of the Christmas tree? In 1882, Thomas Edison’s assistant, Edward Johnson, developed the idea of Christmas lighting that ran on electricity. This innovation made outdoor Christmas tree lights possible and fostered the idea of decorating the trees in your yard (as well as other objects) to create Christmas light displays. The Virtual Museum writes, “As early as 1912, the first illuminated trees appeared in Boston’s public areas. Outdoor Christmas trees quickly became commonplace in North America. After the First World War, this novelty reached Europe and became widespread towards the middle of the 20th century. In Canada, the fashion of the illuminated outdoor tree is very widespread. In the suburbs, there are almost as many Christmas trees outside as there are inside.” The now well-established tradition of outdoor Christmas tree decorating complements the indoor Christmas tree decorating as well. The emergence of this tradition reflects the increasing appreciation people have for the importance of landscaping. We need to brighten our lives during winter outdoors, as well as indoors. Electric lights are an excellent choice for outdoor tree decorating. Not only are they durable, but they also can supply commodities often lacking on the winter landscape: color and light. Indeed, evergreens and outdoor lighting, whether used in conjunction or not, form the backbone of winter landscaping.
18 | WeAreProsper.com
Some of these homeowners decorate their outdoor trees almost as profusely as they would indoor trees. One trend for homeowners is to buy a live Christmas tree for display inside, and to plant the tree outdoors after the holiday. This trend should only grow in strength in the future, as the real estate industry makes us more conscious of how much value landscaping can add to our properties. Note that when I say, “live” Christmas trees, I am referring to those with roots. Many people refer to real Christmas trees that have been cut as “live,” to distinguish them from artificial Christmas trees. But although cut Christmas trees were once live, they aren’t anymore. Safety Tips for Outdoor Christmas Tree Lighting •
Have a certified electrician install a GFCI outlet if you don’t already have one.
•
Make sure product is intended to be used for outdoor Christmas tree lighting and follow all manufacturer’s instructions.
•
Any extension cords used for outdoor Christmas tree lights should also be intended specifically for use in the yard.
•
Water and electricity don’t mix, so keep any connections out of the snow/puddles and insert bulbs into sockets such that the sockets point down.
•
Unplug outdoor Christmas lights before replacing bulbs.
•
Don’t string outdoor Christmas tree lights on trees that come into contact with power lines.
•
If re-using old outdoor Christmas tree lights, inspect the wire to ensure that there are no wear spots.
Question: Jimmie, I realize to someone like yourself this may sound ridiculous and don’t want to waste your time, so I apologize in advance. What’s the difference between “cement,” “concrete” and “mortar?” – Mark M. in Prosper Answer: Hi Mark, and no worries my friend. Often, the terms “cement,” “concrete” and “mortar” are used almost interchangeably by the layman in conversations about cement mixing. However, the terms refer to substances that have three different purposes: •
Cement: The binding element in both concrete and mortar.
•
Concrete: A product composed of cement, sand and gravel or other coarse aggregate. When water is mixed in with this product, it activates the cement, which is the element responsible for binding the mix together to form one solid object.
•
Mortar: A product composed of cement and sand. When water is mixed in with this product, the cement is activated. Whereas concrete can stand alone, mortar is used to hold together bricks, stones, or other such hardscape components.
Cement mixing therefore, properly speaking, refers to using cement in the mixing of mortar or concrete. Mortar is sometimes used between bricks in the building of brick patios, although it is not always used in such cases. For instance, where mortar could crack in winter, the bricks may be simply fitted tightly against each other. This technique is also frequently used with Pavestone type products. A common bonding method for those used would be Polymer Sand which hardens with moisture applied.
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Question: Jimmie, when is the best time to prune Evergreen trees?? Thank you for your time, my wife and I really enjoy your columns!! – Holly P. in Prosper Answer: Hello Holly, thank you for the kind words! Late winter would be the best time for that friend! Question: Jimmie, we recently finished having a pool installed but the neighbor behind us have a two-story home that looks right down into the new pool area. We don’t have much depth to plant behind the pool but really need privacy. Are you able to provide a suggestion we can plant or have your company plant for us to help? – Marcia L. in Prosper Answer: Hi Marcia, you have no idea how many of these I get so don’t feel alone!! Ten to 15 years ago the answer would always be Italian Cypress however we have now learned, the hard way of course, that they are disease prone and many have lost them altogether over time. The new answer that so far has been a magnificent replacement for those is Taylor Juniper! 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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Life In &GLuxury ood Magazine Taste
Popping Up Festive Holiday Fun
D
uring a holiday season that may not quite feel the same for many families, you can add a magic touch to at-home festivities with activities and treats that get everyone involved. Creating decorative holiday sweets allows little ones and grown-ups alike to take part in the fun, and the end result is delicious desserts for all to enjoy.
JINGLE BALLS
Start with a main ingredient like whole-grain, freshly popped popcorn. At 30 calories a cup, it’s naturally low in fat, non-GMO and gluten-free for a nutritious alternative to traditional holiday indulgences. It’s a clever way to create artsy representations of the season at hand that celebrate festive flavors like peppermint, coconut, chocolate and other sweet eats.
6 tablespoons butter or margarine
For example, Coconut Popcorn Snowballs add fun and flavor to wintertime with a coat of sweetened coconut “snow” and candy cane handle while easy-to-construct Holiday Popcorn Snowmen are sure to be a hit with your children. Add to the holiday spirit throughout your home with wintery Jingle Balls that call for colored sugars to create a magical sparkling effect then take the creativity to the next level by encouraging kids to make their own red-nosed, sleigh-pulling team of Chocolate Popcorn Reindeer.
Nonstick cooking spray
12 cups popped popcorn
3 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract assorted colored sugars
Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Add popcorn. Spread plastic wrap on cookie sheet; set aside.
In medium saucepan, melt butter and marshmallows; stir until mixture is smooth. Stir in peppermint extract. Pour over popcorn, mixing until well coated. Let cool 2 minutes. Spray hands with nonstick cooking spray and form popcorn mixture into 3-inch balls. Gently press colored sugar onto balls. Let sit on prepared cookie sheet until cool and set.
20 | WeAreProsper.com
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Life & Luxury Magazine Fashion
Simple Ways to Dress Up Your Outfit This Holiday The right accessories can transform your foundational wardrobe pieces from functional to fresh and fun. Handbags and shoes offer just a tiny glimpse of the endless style combinations accessories bring to your look. The time is always right for a little extra sparkle and shine, so keep reading to learn how to rock your accessories righteously. NECKLACES Nothing gets our heart pumping with adoration like an awe-inspiring, shiny neck piece. The thing about necklaces is they don’t have to be particularly chunky to be a conversation piece. Although we love bold adornment à la Audrey Hepburn’s, Breakfast at Tiffany’s multi-string pearls—even the daintiest, delicate chain can serve as the most understated, but a gorgeous piece that pulls your whole look together. Think off the shoulder LBD meets a sweet matinee or collar necklace. BELTS Belts…they’re not just for your trousers and jeans. We appreciate cozy, thick layers of chunky knits and sweater jackets with the perfect pant when the thermostat starts to take a nosedive. A quick and easy way to add a dash of unexpected style is by securing a skinny belt (we like leopard print or metallics) to accentuate your silhouette and clinch the winter chic look. HANDBAGS AND PURSES The crossbody handbag that doubles as a clutch is experiencing a revival of sorts. And, of course, we are here for the minimalist look that a sleek bag has to offer when paired with jeans and your go-to flats. EARRINGS Earrings are a lot of fun to play with. Mix bold, statement earrings with a simple, minimal outfit or reach for an understated pair to well, pair with the latest trends you’re rocking. Bonus points: If your style or work environment is more conservative, consider one eye-catching statement pair to add some personality to an outfit. BRACELETS The classic tennis bracelet pairs especially well with a modest timepiece for a chic, at-work look. You can even take it a notch higher by creating a personalized focal point—like a monogrammed piece that speaks to your heart. Or, strike a balance between subtle and flashy with a simple metal link bracelet with a patterned cuff or bulkier geometric bangle. SCARVES With so many scarf styles to choose from, finding the “right” one depends on your needs. For added warmth and protection from the elements, choose a wide wrap or poncho style scarf to cover your assets. Whether you’re in a full suit headed to the office or going on holiday someplace warm and sunny—a light and silky jewel-toned scarf with a beautiful pattern adds a touch of elegance wherever you are. Article compliments of Stitch Fix. Ask your Stylist to upgrade your look (and glam factor) by adding a few shimmering accessories to your next Fix. Visit http://www.stitchfix.com to schedule your fix!
22 | WeAreProsper.com
Travel
Life & L
5 Tips for Winter Travelers Because of the pandemic, fewer Americans are taking to the skies, but a significant number likely plan to hit the roads to visit friends and family during the winter months. Whether a few towns over or a couple states away, many drivers will travel interstates, which are major logistics corridors often dominated by commercial trucks. According to the United States Census Bureau, there are approximately 3.5 million people working as truck drivers in the U.S. From keeping grocery store shelves stocked to delivering those next-day packages, professional truck drivers impact lives with the freight they move and serve an important role in keeping the economy running. Professional truck drivers are also experts when it comes to planning travel. From mapping out a route to maintaining their vehicles and even practicing a healthy diet, many truck drivers are road trip experts. Caron Comas is a professional truck driver for Variant, a subsidiary of U.S. Xpress, one of the nation’s largest trucking companies. Highly trained, she’s driven trucks for 17 years and her expert insight can aid the average automobile driver planning to hit the roads this winter. “It’s important that the average driver give trucks plenty of space on the road,” Comas said. “People can forget we’re generally handling 75 feet of tractor and trailer, which can weigh 80,000 pounds. We can’t stop on a dime like automobiles, so increase distance when merging in front of trucks and avoid slamming on your brakes.” Comas suggests following these tips on the road and before you travel:
Don’t follow trucks too closely. If you can’t see a tractor trailer’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you. Schedule vehicle maintenance before your trip. Have your oil changed and ask the experts to check your tire pressure and other important fluids to help assure you’re driving safely and efficiently. Carefully plan your route. If driving through big cities, consider fluctuations in rush hour traffic. For more remote locations where there may not be regular food or gas, plan for when you’ll need to stop along the route. Stay hydrated and nourished. Before setting out, eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water. For the drive, pack healthy, non-perishable snacks like granola, fruit or nuts along with bottled water. For longer trips with kids, consider a small cooler for sandwiches, string cheese or yogurt. Be overly prepared. Keep a few blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit and an extra pair of shoes in your car. If you experience car trouble, make sure you can stay warm until help arrives. Keep in mind the global pandemic. Check each state’s quarantine requirements that you’ll be traveling to or through, wear a mask when in public and follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines when traveling. For more travel tips, visit usxpress.com/news.
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