FSM November 2012

The FFS Food Pantry was recently
expanded, now including meat and

fresh fruits and vegetables.

GOOD WORKS

Initially, the agency was able to offer only

food and clothing to those in need. Today,

the programs FFS provides have greatly

expanded to now include a wide array of

services for families in crisis. One of the

most frequently used resources provided

by FFS is the Food Pantry. Supplying

almost 400,000 pounds of food to area

residents this past year, the Food Pantry

prevented hunger and food insecurity for

more than one thousand families. “Most

of us can’t even imagine what it’s like to

go hungry. It makes functioning properly

impossible. Kids can’t learn or focus and

adults who aren’t sure where their family’s

next meal is coming from face such stress

and hopelessness,” says Ms. Bursey. The all of our residents to be able to enjoy was just beside myself because I didn’t

Food Pantry, which has just undergone a the bounty of the season, and having a have the money to pay to keep it on.

major expansion, is really like a grocery traditional holiday meal is a treat we should Without their help I just don’t know what

store and provides a large selection of all be able to take part in,” she adds. I would have done,” recalls Ms. McVay.

food for area families, including meat and While the Food Pantry and the food FFS has also assisted her with other basic

fresh fruit and vegetables, some of which distribution services are the most well needs, including her rent and food when

were grown in the FFS volunteer-cultivated known programs offered by FFS, there are she is running low. She says without FFS,

community garden. “This month, the many other ways the organization assists she wouldn’t be able to make it through

community garden contributed more residents in need. “We provide mortgage this tough time in her life. “They are a pure

than 100 pounds of produce to the Food and rent assistance for qualifying families blessing and there really aren’t enough

Pantry,” she says. “We also stock many who are facing possible homelessness, good things I can say about them.”

personal hygiene items and household helping them make housing payments In addition, FFS can aid with prescription

products, including cleaners and paper while they get back on their feet,” says Ms. assistance for those who can’t afford their

goods, for our families.” Bursey. The agency also offers help paying medications. “Many seniors and those

In addition to the Food Pantry, FFS utility bills to those facing a cessation of with a chronic illness can’t afford the

has several other programs targeted at services. “Many of our clients are faced extreme cost of many medications and are

preventing hunger in Frisco. In the summer, with choosing between eating or paying faced with doing without the medications

the agency offers their utilities. And with they need. We can help them obtain their

a lunch program our triple-digit summer prescriptions at no or reduced cost,”

for kids. With heat, going without says Ms. Bursey. Other services include

the help of local electricity can be as providing gas vouchers to qualifying

churches and deadly as not having clients. “One of our moms wasn’t able

volunteers, FFS food,” she adds. to afford gas and had been walking her

served more than Frisco Senior citizen, children to school, which was quite a

10,000 lunches Michelle McVay, distance from where she lived, and then

to children who knows this situation had to walk to work—rain or shine. The gas

would have all too well. Now on vouchers are such a tremendous help to

been at risk for full disability, suffering her and her children,” she says.

going without from severe spinal Knowing children can be particularly

many meals this problems and other vulnerable during difficult financial times,

summer. And with debilitating medical the agency has several programs targeted

the holidays approaching, FFS will provide issues, she was one day away from having specifically with their needs in mind. At

a full Thanksgiving Day of meals (including her electricity turned off this summer the end of each summer, FFS holds a Back

breakfast) in a box for its clients. “We want before FFS intervened on her behalf. “I to School Fun Fair for students in K-12.

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Kids can come to this event and get free holidays,” says Ms. Bursey. means to her and her critically ill husband.

haircuts, school supplies, backpacks, new A Frisco couple facing multiple “It’s so hard when you are dealing with a

clothes and other goods and services for challenges, including a cancer diagnosis terrible illness coupled with a job loss,

school. “It really means a lot to a child to and a job loss, have found the assistance and here comes Christmas and you don’t

have new clothes, fresh supplies and a with their children particularly helpful. even have the food you need, let alone

backpack for the first day of anything for your children. It’s

school. To see how happy heartbreaking. The store was

and proud they are when such a blessing to us — being

they receive all of their brand able to see our children’s

new school gear is just a smiles on Christmas morning

joyful experience,” says Ms. made us so happy. Without

Bursey. FFS also invites other Frisco Family Services, this

organizations to attend the would not have been possible

fair for parents to use as a for us.”

resource. “We invite Big In addition to providing

Brothers and Sisters for those programs and services, FFS

who would like a mentor, we also serves as an information

have food stamp information and referral clearinghouse

and other helpful community for its clients, providing links

programs and services our to hundreds of social service

parents and children can providers throughout North

take advantage of. It’s a Texas. “Some people, due to

huge success and such a health or other issues, aren’t

tremendous service to our able to return to work. Our

families.” To assist with higher goal in these situations is to

education opportunities, find outside resources for them

FFS works with the Frisco to utilize for assistance,” says

Education Foundation to Ms. Bursey. FFS social workers

award scholarships for teens partner with each client to

who might not otherwise identify their needs and help

have the chance to pursue a them to find the appropriate

college education. “These resources for their particular

kids are our future and we situation. “We work with a

need to help them pursue variety of outside agencies to

their dreams. It’s just another provide our families with the

way to help build a strong help they need to get through

community,” adds Ms. whatever they may be facing.”

Bursey.

One of the most magical HELP UP

programs offered by FFS is The Back to School Fun Fair provides children with everything they The mission of FFS is to not
the Holiday Store. Holidays will need to start the school year right, top. The Holiday Store offers free only improve the quality of
are a particularly difficult Christmas gifts to families in need, bottom. life for area residents in their
time for people in a crisis. time of need, but also help

The Holiday Store relieves much of that “What FFS has done for my kids is so them achieve self-sufficiency. “Our clients

stress for families by providing a free place incredible,” says the mother of two. “It don’t want to be in the position they are

for parents or seniors to “shop” for toys, brought tears to my eyes when we went to in. They want to work and they want to be

shoes, gift cards, books and clothing. the Back to School Fun Fair. They graciously able to provide for themselves and their

Each family can personally select items gave my children so many fabulous things families. But for a variety of reasons, they

for their children that they know they will they would not have been able to have can’t sometimes. Our goal is to serve as

enjoy. “This is such a blessing for parents otherwise. I was so overwhelmed by the a bridge to help our clients over those

to be able to provide holiday magic for help we received. And what makes it even tough times and help them get back

their kids. The joy on the parent’s faces more special is the wonderful FFS staff and on their feet again,” says Ms. Bursey. To

as they pick out things for their children volunteers make you feel so comfortable— foster this transition, FFS provides the

is as delightful as the joy of the children never like you are ‘less than’ because of education, tools, training and support

receiving the gifts. It really is wonderful the position you are in.” necessary for clients to regain their

to be able to share this opportunity with And when it comes to the Holiday Store, independence. Nickie Contreras, lead

our families who would have nothing to the Frisco mom says she can’t put into caseworker for FFS, says there is a high

surprise their children with during the words what being able to shop at the store degree of accountability involved in the

52 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

The Community Garden has been known
to supply as much as 100 pounds of

produce to the Food Pantry in a month.

FFS/client partnership. “We do provide back on their feet is the hope of all parties I was really in a bad situation. Through

tangible services, but what people don’t involved.” a neighbor, I heard about Frisco Family

see is how we work with our clients And Ms. Contreras says for some, hope Services and was able to use the Food

behind the scenes to get them back on is all they have when they come to FFS. Pantry to put food on my table. I also got

track,” says Ms. Contreras. Before being “When people come to meet with me for help with my prescription medication,

able to use any of the FFS programs, the first time they are at such a low point which was so expensive at $100 per pill;

every client meets with a caseworker in their lives, they are broken and some of I didn’t know how I was going to afford

to access their personal situation. The them just burst into tears when we start it. I got involved with the ISS program

caseworker then designs a plan for the talking,” she says. Ms. Contreras provides and Nickie (Contreras) was so wonderful,

client, outlining goals and strategies that counsel and discusses the importance of helping me with my resume and getting

will help them work toward regaining their maintaining a good attitude and staying me into free computer courses at the

independence. “All of our clients must positive. “That’s a big part of what we do. public library, giving me job leads, helping

participate in our life skills workshops in Many people need moral support to carry me learn to interview and providing lots

addition to doing the things we have laid on and to see that there is light at the end of moral support. She really held me

out in their plan to be eligible to receive of the tunnel and that if they persevere, accountable and it paid off. I just started a

our help,” says Ms. Contreras. Workshops they will reach it. We really do serve as new job with the FISD and I am so ecstatic,”

include instruction on interviewing cheerleaders for our clients,” affirms Ms. says the Frisco senior. She is now able

skills, financial management, budgeting, Contreras. to pay her bills and credits FFS for being

nutrition, parenting, job hunting, resume One tool FFS is using to help clients such a huge part of her success. “l am so

writing and many others. regain their independence is the newly grateful for all of the wonderful people

“Our goal is to help them help created Intensive Self- Sufficiency program and programs at Frisco Family Services. It

themselves by giving them a hand up, not (ISS). This program targets specific client has made such a huge difference in my life.

a hand out,” adds Ms. Bursey. “We want groups, helping them acquire the tools It is a life-saving resource for Frisco.”

to lead them to a better place than where they need to be self-supporting. “This

they were when they came to us. They client might be the recently divorced, SERVANT’S HEARTS

will have better skills, more knowledge single mom who has never worked before While providing hope and help are at the

and the physical and emotional tools or the senior citizen living on a fixed heart of all FFS does, none of it would

they need to succeed. Plus we have a big income or a young adult who has never be possible without the wellspring of

responsibility to our contributors to make been on their own,” says Ms. Contreras. support from the Frisco community. “We

sure we are wisely using the money and “We meet with each individual weekly to have such an amazing pool of incredible

time they have graciously entrusted to us equip them with the tools they need to community partners that support us —

in a way that will make them proud.” Ms. survive and thrive.” schools, churches, businesses, youth,

Bursey believes FFS supporters aren’t A recent participant in the ISS program, civic and social groups and individuals as

just donating to the organization, but are Linda, who prefers to keep her last name well,” says Ms. Bursey. “These groups hold

making an investment in the community. private, is one of the programs first success food drives, collect items for our back-to-

“We need to do our best to see that it pays stories. “I had been on unemployment school effort, gather items for the holiday

off,” she says. “Helping those in crisis get after losing my job and it finally ran out. program and sponsor and participate in

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Frisco Resale has been relocated and expanded, taking
it from a thrift-type store to an upscale resale shop.

an array of fundraising efforts that allow us which is our capital campaign to solicit week. We are so reliant on their help and

to do what we do. Thanks to all of these donations throughout the community,” willingness to give back,” she says.

efforts and so many others, we have never says Mr. Kimrey. “We also have our annual Even Frisco’s youngest residents can

had to turn anyone in need away due to a FFS Gala and the Mayor’s Golf Classic. All join in and make a difference. The FFS

lack of financial resources.” of these efforts are supplemented by the Little Hands program, created for children

Though support comes in from all parts tremendous outpouring of support from 10 and younger, facilitates volunteer

of the Frisco community, FFS also has the generous Frisco community,” he adds. projects kids and families can engage in

several internal fundraising activities that “ One of our biggest together. “The goal of the program is to
generate a steady source of income for sources of revenue is teach children by example that giving
the agency. “One of our biggest sources our store, Frisco Resale,” back is a lifestyle. They learn the value of
of revenue is our store, Frisco Resale,” says selflessness while serving with grateful
Lance Kimrey, FFS director of business hearts,” says Ms. Zimmerman. Seasonal
services. “The store, which has just been projects include lemonade stands,

relocated and expanded, generates about scavenger hunt food drives and holiday
events. “It’s really special to see kids
says Lance Kimrey, FFS50 percent of our income.” Wholly reliant

on donations, the resale store sells a wide director of business learning to give back and showing them
selection of new and gently used home services.” how rewarding it is to help others.”
furnishings and décor, clothing and shoes,
accessories, jewelry, toys and other items. “Everybody comes together to do
their part for Frisco,” adds Ms. Bursey.

In addition to selling to the public, the And it’s that community support that “There are so many ways people are

store gives vouchers to qualified families Ms. Bursey credits with the true success making a difference by doing whatever

to purchase clothing and other household of the agency. “Our volunteers are the they can to help out. Some don’t have

necessities. “Our recent expansion and lifeblood of FFS. We simply could not time to volunteer, but can make a financial

redesign has really taken the store from accomplish all we do without them,” contribution. Some don’t have the financial

a thrift-type of store to an upscale resale says Ms. Bursey. Ligia Zimmerman, FFS resources but can make a clothing, food or

shop. We even have a boutique section volunteer services manager, agrees. “Our other type of donation. Often we don’t

that carries many designer items. Our volunteers are so vital to the success of our even have to ask for help because people

community is very generous and shoppers mission. They are involved in every aspect in Frisco are so generous and so eager

will be pleasantly surprised by the high- of our organization — from working in to help. But when we do, the response is

end merchandise we have,” adds Mr. the Food Pantry and at Frisco Resale, to overwhelming. She explains, “This summer

Kimrey. providing office support or working in the the shelves in the Food Pantry were almost

In addition to the income generated community garden. Our volunteers work bare and we had to issue an urgent plea

by the store, the agency also relies on tirelessly to support our mission,” says for food. Almost immediately, there were

several annual events for funding. “Every Ms. Zimmerman. “The Food Pantry alone lines of cars around the building filled with

September we conduct our Annual Appeal, uses the support of 75-70 volunteers per people bringing in bags and boxes of

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food. Within three days our pantry was full Local Giving Opportunities
to the brim again and a host of volunteers
came and sorted and stocked it all,” she SALVATION ARMY ANGEL TREE
recalls. “It was unbelievable.” Every holiday season, with the help of individuals, families, community groups,
corporations and area businesses, The Salvation Army provides underprivileged
Brigid Lund, an FFS volunteer and former children and seniors with holiday gifts through their Angel Tree Program. If you
board president, who has been with the would like to participate, visit a local mall to adopt an Angel in person or visit www.
organization since its inception, says she salvationarmydfw.org to adopt online. For more information, visit The Salvation
isn’t at all surprised by the way the Frisco Army’s website or call 214-353-4850.
community rallies around those in need.
“The people of Frisco are so generous with ST. JUDE GIVE THANKS. WALK.
their time and their resources. Their giving Saturday, November 17, St. Jude supporters in more than 90 cities across the
spirit and willingness to help provides a country will join to participate in the St. Jude Give Thanks. Walk, an exciting 5K
lifeline for people who find themselves walk to raise money for the children of St. Jude. Locally, more than 800 St. Jude
in truly dire situations,” says Ms. Lund. supporters attended the 2011 event in Dallas, which raised more than $77,000.
“And the funny thing is that when you set This year, they are excited to host the event at Frisco Square! To volunteer, please
out to give, you quickly realize the joy you contact Miriela Rico at [email protected] or at 972-594-8080. To register as a
receive from helping is so rewarding that participant, visit givethankswalk.org.
you get back so much more than you ever
imagined.” PROJECT WARM US
Project Warm Us is a way to get some much needed warmth to the homeless in
Ms. Bursey echoes that sentiment. Dallas, Texas. Their goal is to collect 5,912 coats and blankets by Thanksgiving
“We are so fortunate to live in a city that 2012 - that’s one for every homeless person in Dallas. Donate your new or gently
is passionate about taking care of its own. used coats and blankets. Any gender, any size, adults, kids, it doesn’t matter.
The overwhelming support Frisco Family They need them all. New for 2012: They are also collecting men’s athletic shoes.
Services receives says so much about Keeping feet warm is critical too! Visit www.projectwarm.us for a drop-off location
who we are as a community — Frisco truly near you!
cares,” she affirms. And while the hope
would be for there to be no need for the THE GIFT OF LIFE
assistance Frisco Family Services provides, During November, a time to give thanks and celebrate Veteran’s Day, the
it is a credit to our residents that so many American Red Cross invites eligible donors to give blood and honor those who
are eager to be a part of their 17- year have served the country in the U.S. armed forces. Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS
legacy of service to the Frisco community. (1.800.733.2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more
“Behind every door there really is a story information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
and we are blessed to live among so many
willing to do so much to provide others
with help and hope for a happier ending.”

Chris Martin is a freelance writer who finds
writing cheaper than therapy.

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58 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

DINING

Clint Osteen takes a
walk on the wild side
with his Chicken Fried
Wild Turkey recipe.

“experts” of this book.)

“Beer can” turkey is a modern approach

to an old favorite, the “beer can” chicken.

In order to prepare a turkey in this fashion,

you must carefully perch your turkey’s

bottom cavity over an open can of your

favorite beer. Of course, you don’t actually

have to use a beer can, practically any kind

of can or bottle will do. Then, as your turkey

is roasting to perfection, the beer steams

the insides to produce probably the

moistest and most succulent turkey you

have ever tasted. This technique has even

received the attention of world-renowned

chef Emeril Lagasse. Mr. Lagasse recently

teamed up with All-Clad to market a

DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON, there into flames on the way to the grocery special vertical roaster that makes this

tends to be a lot of pressure for things store, it’s probably only a concern if you technique less of a challenge. If it’s good

to turn out properly, and arguably that decide to cook your turkey the Maynard enough for Emeril, why not give it a try?

pressure begins with a turkey dinner and Scheller way. In their book, Manifold Each year, Thanksgiving conveniently

served on Thanksgiving Day. Let’s face it, Destiny, The Guide to Cooking on Your falls right after the state fair where they

cooking a turkey for this blessed holiday Car Engine, they include a recipe entitled fry everything from Oreos to bubble gum.

can be a daunting task for even the most To Grandmother’s House Road Turkey. Even in a day and age where deep-frying

experienced cooks. First, you have to This book truly teaches the art (if it can be is generally frowned upon, the frying craze

decide how big your turkey needs to called an art) of cooking Talkin’ continues. Whether it’s a
be, what brand to buy, how you plan on your car engine. Butterball or another brand
to prepare it and whether you have the Of course, there are you choose, most turkey
proper equipment to do so. Then, you certain drawbacks fryers agree that it is best to

have to decide if you will stuff it or not. to preparing your Turkey use peanut oil. The peanut
Lastly, you have to ensure the proper Thanksgiving meal in oil can withstand the high
timing of the bird’s big arrival. Depending this manner. Besides temperatures needed to

on your proposed dinnertime, this too can the obvious fear of fry the perfect turkey better

add to the stress and make for a sleepless losing a finger or BY W ENDY CRO OK S than most vegetable or

night. setting your car on canola oils.

Yes, there are many factors to consider fire, you are generally limited in the size If your desire is to take a walk on the wild

if you go the traditional route for cooking of the turkey you can cook and it can only side, local resident and outdoor enthusiast,

your turkey but if you decide to take on be done if your Thanksgiving celebration Clint Osteen recommends Chicken Fried

something more unconventional, there is at least a few hundred miles away. Wild Turkey. “First you marinate turkey

are even more things to worry about – like (Disclaimer: Frisco STYLE Magazine does strips in Italian dressing, Tony Chachere

whether your car will catch on fire. Unless not encourage or support cooking in this and liquid smoke for eight hours or

you’re driving a clunker that might burst manner, especially without consulting the overnight,” says Mr. Osteen. ”Next, you

NOVEMBER 2012 No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. 59FRISCOSTYLE.COM

beat eggs and milk into a small bowl. In in Louisiana, is a favorite among turducken marinades” are for baked, smoked and
fried turkeys with flavors such as turkey
another bowl, mix salt, pepper and flour. lovers. gold, lemon butter garlic, rosemary
garlic and 15 others. Along with more
Dip turkey strips in egg and then dredge Another option, Cajun Grocer, located turkey cooking techniques, they also have
recipes and products to order at www.
in flour mixture. Deep fry in oil until golden in Lafayette, La., ships their turducken cajuninjector.com.

brown, drain on a paper towel and serve nation-wide and has been featured on Taking your Thanksgiving dinner to the
great outdoors can be a bit of a challenge
with gravy.” but it is certainly doable. A few non-
traditional techniques can ensure that
Most people in this you don’t go without a turkey dinner. If
camping is where your adventure takes
area have heard of you, a “Garbage Can Turkey” can be your
answer. First, lay about three long sheets
Greenberg Smoked of heavy-duty aluminum foil out to make
a 3x3 square. Then point a wood stake
Turkey, Inc. from into the ground on the center of foil. Fill
the garbage can lid with a large pile of
Tyler, but even the charcoal and light. Place a thawed, whole
turkey onto the stake, legs down. Place an
best Texas traditions upside down garbage can carefully over
the turkey. Pile lit coals on the top and
need plugging. If around the sides of the can. Cook for at
least one and a half hours without lifting
you’re looking to can during cooking. Carefully remove the
turkey from the stake, as heat may rush out
enjoy a delectable when you do.

smoked turkey but No matter where your Thanksgiving
destination takes you or what kind of
would rather just turkey you’ll be eating, don’t stress about
the preparation. Remember, good gravy
have it delivered and Satisfy the whole family, try a Turducken! provided by CajunGrocer.com makes even the driest of turkeys moist
ready to enjoy, this again! Happy holidays!

is the choice for you. Their website isn’t Good Morning America. You can choose Wendy Crooks is a freelance
writer, baker, wife and schedule
www.gobblegobble.com for nothing! between cornbread stuffing, sausage- keeper for her four children.

Greenberg started as an East Texas family stuffed, jambalaya-stuffed or plain. The

tradition, but now, after four generations, history of the turducken is a little sketchy. It

more than 200,000 people enjoy their is said that the owner of a Creole restaurant

turkeys each holiday season. Their hickory in New Orleans, Corinne Dunbar created

smoked turkeys can be shipped anywhere the concept of putting a bird inside a bird

in the country. (nine times), but it can actually be traced

If something different is what you’re back to earlier European history with

looking for, a turducken is full of fanciful their roti sans pareil, which consisted of

flavor. This meat masterpiece consists a compilation of 17 birds. Regardless of

of a de-boned chicken stuffed inside its origin, even the southern queen Paula

a de-boned duck stuffed inside a de- Deen is cooking one up.

boned turkey, with each layer padded People in the South and Southwest

with stuffing. This newly created beast certainly tend to spice it up a bit. For those

is then prepared as a traditional turkey spice lovers, Cajun Injector is the answer.

would be: roasted, braised, fried, grilled Most people think of spice when they

or barbecued. If you are looking for a pre- think of Cajun Injector, but they have more

prepared, Chris’ Specialty Meats, located than just spicy injectables. “Injectable

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NOVEMBER 2012 No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. 61FRISCOSTYLE.COM

Celebrate the Birth of Christ at the First-Ever
Women of Faith Christmas Event for the Entire Family

Christmas Music:
Woven through the evening: classic carols and songs from Point of Grace and

Anthem Lights plus a special time of worship led by Kari Jobe.

Christmas Stories:
Women of Faith speakers Sheila Walsh and Lisa Harper will share stories

about the miracle of Christmas and noted author Francis Chan will
bring a heartfelt message of hope.

Christmas Experience:
The Nativity story will come to life before your eyes as shepherds, magi,

live animals, and more come to kneel before the new-born King.

Churches across the country will simulcast this event—but you can experience it in person!

Prestonwood Baptist Church | 6801 West Park Boulevard, Plano, TX
November 30, 2012 | 7pm—9:30pm

Register today at womenoffaith.com

SMALL BITES

BLUE’S PUB
5110 Eldorado Pkwy., Suite 350
214.705.7246
blues-pub.com
Visit Blue’s Pub with your friends to
watch the big game, enjoy great food
and take advantage of their happy
hour specials.

BULL ASIAN FUSION BISTRO
5454 W. Main St.
214.618.6360
Bull Asian Fusion Bistro serves aged,
hand-prepared and marinated meats
in a gluten free Korean soy sauce base
with fresh spices.

CEDARS WOODFIRE GRILL
4710 Preston Rd.
972.377.8886
cedarswoodfiregrill.com
At Cedars Woodfire Grill, you’ll find
great tasting, fresh-fired food with
natural ingredients, served up in a
warm atmosphere for all ages.

63NOVEMBER 2012 No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. FRISCOSTYLE.COM

RECIPES FROM FRISCO WOMEN’S LEAGUE

Butternut Squash Apple
Cranberry Bake

64 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

2 Tbsp. firmly packed light brown sugar

1 Tbsp. vanilla extract

1 Tbsp. brandy

1/2 tsp. salt



Topping:

1 c. firmly packed dark brown sugar

1/3 c. all purpose flour

4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted

1/4 tsp. of kosher salt



HOT SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP Bake potatoes at 425°F, until soft. When JOHNNY APPLESEED PIE
Submitted by Caroline Sands cool, peel them and put pulp in food Submitted by Aimee French
processor. Mix in all ingredients (except
(2) 10 oz. pkgs. frozen, chopped spinach those for topping) and transfer to eight 1/3 c. sugar
(2) 8 oz. pkgs. cream cheese, softened in square baking dish. Combine topping 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 c. shredded Monterrey Jack cheese ingredients and add to top of mixture. 6 c. pared and sliced apples
1 c. graded Parmesan cheese Bake at 325°F, until topping is golden (1) 9 “ unbaked pastry shell
1 small, white onion, diced brown 25-35 min. 1/2 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips (use
(1) 1 4 oz. can artichoke hearts, more to make it a bit more chocolaty)
1 c. Bisquick mix
drained and chopped 1/4 c. sugar
(2) 10 oz. can Rotel 4 Tbsp. butter
2 tsp. cumin
2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. garlic powder

Drain cooked spinach. Combine spinach, STRAWBERRY PRETZEL JELL-O SALAD Combine 1/3 c. of sugar and cinnamon and
cream cheese and remaining ingredients; Submitted by Jen Knutson via cooks.com mix with apples. Turn into unbaked pastry
stir well. Bake uncovered at 350 for 30 shell. Top with chocolate chips. In a small
minutes or until bubbly. Serve with tortilla 2 1/4 c. pretzels, crushed bowl, combine Bisquick and 1/4 c. sugar.
chips! 4 Tbsp. brown sugar or white sugar
Cut in butter until mixture resembles
1 1/2 sticks melted butter
coarse meal. Sprinkle evenly over pie.
BEST EVER SWEET POTATOES WITH (1) 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese
Bake in 400°F oven for 45 minutes, or until
PRALINE TOPPING 1 c. sugar
apples are tender. Tip: if the pastry browns
Submitted by Stacy Burton
(1) 8 oz. Cool Whip
too quickly, cap loosely with foil during the
3 lbs. medium sweet potatoes
(1) 6 oz. strawberry Jell-O
last 5-10 minutes of baking.
(1) 5 oz. can of evaporated milk
2 c. boiling water

4 Tbsp. unsalted butter cut in pieces
(2) 10 oz. pkgs. frozen strawberries BUTTERNUT SQUASH APPLE
2 eggs, lightly beaten
CRANBERRY BAKE
(or 3 c. fresh strawberries if in season) Submitted by Kristin Klembara
via Simply Recipes
Combine pretzels, brown or white sugar
and melted butter. Bake 15 minutes at 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cut
350 degrees. Mix cream cheese, sugar into 1-inch cubes
and Cool Whip until creamy. Spread on
cooled crust. Combine strawberry Jell-O, 2 large tart cooking apples cut into
boiling water and frozen strawberries. Let 1/2-inch thick slices
congeal slightly, pour on top, refrigerate.
1/2 c. fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/4 c. (half a stick) butter
1 Tbsp. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg or mace

Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice and peel
squash and apples. Put squash cubes in

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kosher salt and pepper to taste. Fill with

about one fourth of the onions, carrots

and celery along with the thyme. Scatter

the remaining onions, carrots and celery

along with the garlic, bay leaf, neck and

giblets in the bottom of the pan. Pour the

wine and 3 cups of the water.

Brush turkey breast with half of the

melted butter. Season with kosher salt and

pepper to taste. Set a V-shaped rack in a

large heavy-bottomed roasting pan. Place

turkey, breast-side down, on the rack.

Brush the backside with the remaining

butter and season with kosher salt and

pepper to taste. Roast one hour. Remove

pan from oven. Using wads of paper towels

to protect your hands, turn the bird breast-

side up. Baste with the pan juices and

return to oven.

After 30 minutes, baste the turkey again.

If the liquid in the pan has evaporated,

add more water as needed. Roast for 30

minutes more, or until an instant-read

thermometer inserted into the thickest

ungreased 7x11-inch baking dish. Place and discard excess fat from the turkey and part of the thigh, away from the bone,
apples on top and then cranberries. Mix rinse the bird under cold running water. registers 170° to 175° F. The meatiest part
the flour, salt, sugar and nutmeg and of the breast should register 165° F.
sprinkle on top. Dot with butter. Bake 50- Combine kosher salt, sugar and water
60 minutes. in a large bowl, stirring to dissolve the salt Transfer the turkey to a cutting board
and sugar. Put one plastic oven bag inside or serving platter and cover loosely with
THANKSGIVING TURKEY the other to create double thickness. Put aluminum foil. Let rest until ready to carve,
Submitted by Holly Lowe via Bride & the bag in a large roasting pan. Fold back at least 30 minutes.
Groom First & Forever Cookbook the top one third of the bag to form a collar.
Put the turkey inside the bag, unfold the Meanwhile, combine the cornstarch
1 Fresh Turkey (About 14 Pounds) top of the bag and pour the brine over the and the remaining ¼ cup water in a small
1 c. k osher salt or ½ c. table salt bird. Squeeze out the excess air and seal bowl, stirring to dissolve the cornstarch.
the bag tightly with a twist ties. Refrigerate Set aside. Place the roasting pan across
(more as needed) for at least six hours. If you are short on two burners over medium-high heat.
½ c. Sugar time, double the amount of salt and sugar Add the stock and stir to scrape up any
1 Gallon plus 3 ¼ cups water and refrigerate for four to six hours. browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Using a wooden spoon, mash garlic into
(more as needed) Remove turkey from the brine and rinse the juices and stir. Using a slotted spoon,
2 Plastic Turkey-Sized Oven Bags thoroughly under cold water to remove transfer the vegetables from the pan into
3 Medium, yellow onions, cut into wedges salt. Pat dry inside and out. Let turkey a strainer set over a small saucepan. Pour
2 Carrots, cut into 2-inch chunks stand at room temp. about 2 hours. (If time the juices from the roasting pan over the
1 Celery stalk, cut into 2-Inch pieces doesn’t permit, just add an additional 30 vegetables and press firmly on them with
12 Fresh thyme sprigs minutes to the roasting time). the back of a spoon. Set the saucepan over
2 Heads of garlic, halved horizontally medium-high heat, bring to a simmer and
1 Bay Leaf Position the rack in the lowest position stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook until
1 ½ c. White Wine of the oven and preheat to 400° F. If turkey thickened, about one minute. Season with
4 Tbsp. Unsalted Butter, melted has a plastic or metal hook in the tail area, kosher salt and pepper to taste. Serve with
3 Tbsp. Cornstarch insert the ends of the drumsticks into the the gravy.
3 c. Chicken Stock hook. If not, tie drumsticks together with
string. The Frisco Women’s League kindly
Remove the neck and giblets from donated this Thanksgiving meal to a Frisco
the body and neck cavities of the turkey. To secure the wings, twist the wing tip Fire Station. The league is a nonprofit
Store the neck and giblets separately in underneath the shoulder. You many need dedicated to supporting and enriching
the refrigerator for making gravy. Remove to break the wing joint to do this. If the Frisco and its surrounding communities.
wings won’t stay, tie them to the sides of Happy 10th anniversary FWL! Visit
the turkey with string. friscowomensleague.org for more
information.
Season the body and neck cavities with

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68 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

EDUCATION

eLearning
BY CAROLYN CAMERON

FISD implements the BYOD program (Bring Your Own Device).

WHEN I WAS GROWING UP, “technology School science teacher, explains, “These these students also have access to their

in the classroom” meant a number two days, we are furthering the learning process own Google Apps accounts, including

pencil paired with loose-leaf notebook for our students in the classroom. One of Gmail, within the FISD domain.

paper and a freshly-cleaned chalkboard my most common sayings is ‘In teaching, FISD’s fundamental shift to the 21st

with a new box of colored chalk. As the first the greatest sin is to be boring,’ and as Century Digital Learning Environment

overhead projector and transparencies times change, teachers need to adapt. My involves more than mobile devices; it

entered the scene, I vividly remember students are very technologically astute, involves working to increase engagement,

my amazement on how this new, whiz- and using technology in the classroom collaboration and differentiation.

bang invention allowed the entire class to only encourages their engagement and Melissa Fouche, executive director of

witness the teacher’s scratching of notes interest at school. I believe the most technology FISD, clarifies, “The aim we

corporately. successful teachers are those that adjust are serving through our 21st Century

Today, we have witnessed the explosion with their students, helping to facilitate Digital Learning policy is to increase

of technology during the past 10 years their learning.” interaction between students, teachers

with the introduction of iPads, eReaders Beginning in the 2011-2012 school and parents. Our ultimate goal is to

and Twitter, and through it, educators are year, Frisco Independent School District work more collaboratively, provide more

bridging the digital divide by dramatically implemented a new technology policy, engagement and create differentiation

changing the way they instruct, providing allowing middle and high school students for each and every student, helping them

students with immediate access to a to bring their own personal technology stay motivated to remain on task in their

wealth of high quality, interactive tools. devices, including laptops, smart phones, learning journey.”

Through this conversation, as recently eReaders and iPads, to use at specified Hand in hand on this technological

discovered by seventh and eighth grade times during the school day. As part journey is the “flip” or “inverted”

students from Frisco’s Staley Middle of their 21st century digital learning classroom structure, a recognized model

School, not only are students allowed to environment, FISD now “encourages the implemented in teaching communities for

use their mobile devices in class – they are use of such devices to enhance learning in the past five years. The inverted classroom

encouraged to so. the classroom when deemed appropriate is designed to provide instructional

Tech savvy Mr. Raul Perez, Staley Middle by the individual teacher.” In addition, content outside class, while engagement

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with the content, as well as skill place to connect and collaborate. for a laboratory assignment, students are

development and practice is done in class Ms. Fouche adds, “Edmodo has a social able to view and digest their assignments

under teacher guidance in collaboration networking feel to it which is very simple on their own time using their

with peers. Simply put, a flipped class to understand and easy computer, iPad, iTouch or other

swaps explanation and lecture, which to use. We have many device. Moodle also allows

are usually given in the classroom, with secondary teachers my students to perform their

homework activities, typically done at using Edmodo labs online and then analyze

home. Homework and projects are now throughout our district, the results before class,

completed in class collaboratively while and we have seen them allowing them to prepare

the primary teaching is done at home. use Edmodo to make questions and ensure a

Many teachers using the inverted their classroom more like complete understanding

or flip classroom model communicate a community. They love of the lessons. I have

their teaching content using e-learning it.” found this assessment

tools, such as online videos, podcasts Another online ap- technique provides

or PowerPoint presentations, allowing plication used throughout an extremely efficient

students the opportunity to explore the FISD is Moodle, a virtual method of analysis and

information on their own time. Edmodo, education center. Moodle is evaluation for me with

one such e-learning tool, is a social a free, downloadable, highly- my students.”

learning network promoting anytime, robust system that allows A second

anyplace learning for teachers, students teachers to provide documents, application often

and parents. Designed to provide a grade assignments and quizzes used by Mr. Perez’s

user interface similar to Facebook, and use as a discussion forum for class is Quizlet.

Edmodo allows users to check grades students. Having implemented Designed to help

and assignments as well as write posts to Moodle in his science middle students learn interactively while

classmates, teachers or parents. Teachers school classes for more than a year, Mr. having fun, Quizlet was created as one

use Edmodo to post grades and assign Perez has seen extraordinary success with of the biggest vocabulary and flashcard

homework while students are able to it. “Through this tool, my students are able learning websites on the Internet, and it

submit their work and view grades and to log on through the district’s protected has tools for a wide range of topics. Overall,

Quizlet provides students, teachers and

parents the ability to create, use, share and

rebuild vocabulary lists for study.

In addition to Moodle and Quizlet, Mr.

Perez often communicates with his class

through his private Twitter account. “Kids

are often tweeting to me about specific

assignments or asking questions about

a task at hand. I only have to answer the

question once through the beauty of

technology. The account is private, so

students are protected from outside

influences, and I always invite the parents

to share or follow along. It’s quicker than

email and increases my students’ and my

own productivity. It’s awesome!”

When asked about the reaction

from students, parents and supervisors

about technology in the classroom, Mr.

Perez says, “I have heard nothing but

positive feedback. Kids today have been

significantly touched by technology.

Mr. Raul Perez. Staley Middle School science teacher, has had extraordinary success with From video gaming to shopping, it is
integrating online applications in the classroom. everywhere. Because they have a solid
base to build on, utilizing technology in the

classroom is nothing but encouraging kids’

comments from teachers. Teachers are learning hub, access my site and view involvement and interaction.” He pauses

also able to create polls, share content and the instruction set. Whether this includes and then adds, “Today’s kids become

materials, and post topics for discussion a short video paired with a PowerPoint bored very easily. So it’s my job to motivate

with their students, creating a secure presentation or step-by-step instructions them to stay engaged and interested in my

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lessons. These technological innovations services for students. My Payments Plus program is a government program, every

and the flip model of teaching allow me to is an automated, easy-to-use method student meal we document receives a

engage with all of the kids, not just a select for making meal payments quickly and small, federal reimbursement, whether

few.” he or she qualifies for

Jane Whitledge, a free meal or not. It is

parent of William, a incredibly important for

seventh grader at us to be precise in our

Staley Middle School documentation, and these

agrees, “I have been technological innovations

very pleased with have afforded us this

the implementation accuracy.”

of technology in the Through My Payments

classroom. The speed Plus, every child is assigned

at which I learn about an account identification

an issue or a reminder number, providing a

of an upcoming thorough record of what

test has increased is purchased and by

exponentially. whom. Parents are also

Through technology, encouraged to make

I am able to become deposits online, removing

more of a partner in the potential chance of

my child’s education lost money and therefore,

and remain much decreasing the likelihood

more involved with For students who do not have access to a digitial device of their own, iPads are avalable of having an unhappy,
through FISD. hungry child. Parents
his schooling. It’s are also able to view the

been extremely

positive.” securely online anytime using a simple food choices of their children each day,

For those students who do not own Internet connection. Not only can parents providing added control and flexibility to

their own digital device, FISD offers access the system 24 hours a day, seven reinforce smart meal choices for their kids.

alternative solutions. Teachers are able days a week via the Internet, it allows Ms. Tredennick remarks, “When I first

to reserve iPads for those in need during school districts the flexibility of reducing entered FISD more than five years ago, 40

class, and computers are always available cash handling from parents and students percent of our revenue was handled online,

before and after school or during lunch alike, minimizing overall loss. and 60 percent was provided through the

periods for accessing program content. exchange of cash and checks daily at the
schools. Today, we’ve increased the online
“ The speed at which ISome parents have also expressed
concern about the potential misuse, handling to over 65 percent, creating
much more efficiency, flexibility and
learn about an issue or aexploitation and distractibility these
technological devices may present within overall productivity for our lunch workers,
administrators and our parents.”
reminder of an upcomingthe classroom. Katie Kordel, director of

secondary instruction, FISD, explains, has increased There’s no denying the influence of
technology is everywhere in today’s
test“This is all about digital stewardship and

the excellence of our teachers and their classrooms and throughout the school
system. From the sixth grader using an iPad
exponentially. Throughclassroom management. When the new

policy was enacted throughout FISD, I had to a teacher projecting video recordings
for review at home, from the student
technology, I am able tothe opportunity to walk through various

classrooms and observe the students. become more of a partner tweeting a photo of the calendar for the
Nine times out of 10, when devices are not in my child’s education ...” week to the use of automated systems
being used in class, kids had self-selected providing updated tracking of currency
to put away their device and engage in spent on the food service programs district

conversation with the teachers and their With more than thirty years experience, wide, the broad reach and applicability of

peers. We have not had many problems Debera Tredennick, director, child technology has forever altered the way we

as our teachers are relevant and creative in nutrition programs FISD, remembers a learn, instruct, explore and think, creating

their teaching techniques.” much simpler and inefficient system of an remarkable and evolving imprint for the

Not only is technology impacting accounting for meal purchases through next generation: our children.

the classroom, it has made great strides the schools. She laughs, “When I first

throughout the entire school system, started, we didn’t have computers. Carolyn Cameron is a freelance writer,

allowing increased efficiencies on how Our technology was a pencil and pad mom to three vibrant, young boys and

schools and parents manage food taking orders. Today, because the lunch enjoys running long-distance treks.

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NOW & THEN BY BOB WARREN

Preston Road has seen major growth
during the past 20 years.

photo by Andrea Hikel

Breaking Out of the Cocoon

WHILE THUMBING THROUGH MY FILES become a Mecca for businesses. It was especially the Preston Road area, as

in search of facts for a story, I spotted an the home of little more than Morgan’s potential business sites. My records show

article about butterflies. It told how they Western Wear, Howard Thornton Ford, that within a few months’ time, mostly in

struggle to break through and emerge First National Bank and the Royal Drive In. 1993, one supermarket (Brookshire’s) and

from their cocoon, then stretch their Most of Frisco’s other businesses were on four new eating places were welcomed into

beautiful wings before flying away to do the Main Street, a mile west of Preston in “old Frisco. The eating places were McDonalds,

works for which they were placed on earth. downtown.” Burger King, La Hacienda Ranch and

I thought, “That’s a perfect description of We don’t have to look Randy’s Country Kitchen (forerunner to
the life of our city! It struggled for years to Randy’s Steak House). All except Randy’s

break out of its ‘small town cocoon’ before very far back through opened on Preston Road.
finally emerging into the beautiful city it is Not to diminish the importance of any
today.”
of these new businesses, because each

We don’t have to look very far back the pages of history one has contributed greatly to Frisco’s
through the pages of history to find what economic development, but I want to

I call “Frisco’s ‘breaking out’ time.” It was to find what I call examine the history of one, La Hacienda
only about twenty years ago, in the early Ranch restaurant.
1990s, that our city really began to add
In 1992, Mariano Martinez, a visionary

new businesses. Let’s look at that era to ‘breaking young restaurant entrepreneur bought a
site on Preston Road in the old Lebanon
“Frisco’ssee what was happening.
The 1990 census showed a population community and broke ground for what
of 6,141 hearty souls in Frisco, up from out’ time.” was to become Frisco’s largest restaurant.
3,499 in 1980. That was a fairly healthy His faith in our city’s future helped “crack

growth in population, however, business- But, in the early 90s, development was Frisco’s cocoon.” At that early date, he

wise, Frisco still had only one grocery creeping northward toward Highway correctly predicted that the Preston

store, David’s. Preston Road had not yet 121, and investors began to eye Frisco, corridor would someday become a

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“Restaurant Row.” (Count them today, if I had this romantic notion of creating a in November 1993, he opened his dream,

you can, and they’re building more as we restaurant without the usual constraints La Hacienda Ranch, a beautiful restaurant

speak). of conventional wisdom. I had imagined that would seat 350 diners and employ

I visited with Mr. Martinez, Mariano as I serving high-quality steaks, like those almost 100 workers.

know him, and asked him to tell me about served in high-dollar steak houses, but at Mariano recalls, “When the giant

his life in the restaurant restaurant opened, it was an

business, his dream of immediate success, having

building a large eating up to two hour waits almost

place in Frisco, how that every night. People came

dream was fulfilled, what from Plano, Richardson,

it led to and how he feels North Dallas, the Park Cities

now about his decision and as far north as Sherman

to “gamble” on such and Oklahoma. During the

a project. His gracious past 19 years, Frisco’s La

answer to my questions Hacienda has had guest

could fill an interesting counts exceeding 350,000

book, but I will condense it annually. The original

for this article. front door recently had

Mariano was only 27 to be replaced, and has

years of age in 1971, when been preserved. It has a

he “cobbled together brass plaque on it proudly

enough money to open a announcing that more

small Mexican restaurant Mariano Martinez, inventor of the frozen margarita machine, helped jumpstart than 5 million people came
in the affluent section Frisco’s growth by opening La Hacienda in 1993. provdied by Mariano Martinez through that door.”
of Dallas.” He said the
I asked Mariano, “What’s

opening night “was a disaster,” because a lower price, in a casual, family-friendly your next vision?” I’m looking for the “next

his bartenders, using their one and only environment.” Frisco” to build my fifth LaHa. That “next

blender, could not keep up with the To realize that dream, he had to raise Frisco” may even be in Frisco, farther north

demand for the special frozen margaritas. some $1.3 million, no easy task for what somewhere where there are still some

After a “sleepless night,” Mariano stopped many called “a gamble, or at best, a high wide open spaces and residents with the

the next morning at a 7-Eleven for a cup risk deal.” Mariano wanted to build his same pioneering spirit I have as I look for

of coffee and spotted their “slurpee new restaurant on Preston Road, once a another place and time.”

machine.” That set his mind to thinking part of the famous Shawnee Cattle Trail. Mariano’s La Hacienda Ranch is just

about how one of those might solve his He felt the location on a former cattle trail one of the many success stories we saw

margarita problem. The 7-Eleven company was “perfect for paying homage to the as Frisco began its rapid growth. The year

would not tell him where to buy a slurpee Texas cowboy and his predecessor, the 1993 saw a flurry of activity as the city

machine, so, undaunted, Mariano bought Mexican Vaquero.” Mariano said, “The reached the 10,000 mark in population

a used soft serve ice cream machine, area surrounding my site was basically and was named the “fastest growing city

“souped it up to run faster” and made wide open spaces where most of my in the North Texas Region.” We hired

what became the world’s first frozen neighbors were cattle.” The location our first Economic Development Director

margarita machine. was not an easy sell, but his reputation in and got our very own YMCA. The next

Mariano said, “That original machine, the restaurant business allowed him to year Jerry Jones bought the site for

which is now on display in the Smithsonian’s attract 24 investors, many of whom were, his Starwood development, and Collin

National Museum of American History themselves, successful restaurant owners. County Community College (now Collin

in Washington, D.C., made my place an Mariano tells that, “During the building College) broke ground on its Preston

overnight success. My first restaurant, process, veteran restaurant operators Ridge campus.

called ‘Mariano’s,’ not only survived, would come to visit the project just to see Therefore, the “small town cocoon”

but has thrived during the last 41 years. what he was up to. They all left thinking the was ripped open, and Frisco began to

It was the first upscale Mexican cuisine restaurant was too big (6,000 square feet) stretch its beautiful wings as it continues

restaurant in the Southwest, as well as the and too far out in the country to survive.” to add more and more amenities for its

first Mexican restaurant to have a full bar He said, “They thought, my goodness, ever-growing populace, now approaching

up front and center.” He later opened two what on earth is Mariano thinking to 128,000.

others under the same name, both in the build this big lodge out in the middle of May she always be “a city with the heart

Dallas area. nowhere. Is he one taco short of a full of a town!”

In 1990, Mariano wasn’t satisfied combination plate?”

resting on his laurels and overseeing his But build, he did! He imported huge Bob Warren is a local historian, former

three restaurants. He said, “I wanted pine and aspen logs from New Mexico, mayor of Frisco and a regular contributor

to create something. Something new. leaving the bark on for a rustic look. And, of Frisco STYLE Magazine.

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76 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

PROFILE

On a Mission
BY CAROLYN CAMERON

Shelby Hanstad and her family answered their calling when they decided to commit themselves to ongoing mission work in Brazil.

AS SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD SHELBY like I fit in and belonged with the group. two youth homes, there are between 80

HANSTAD sits at her kitchen table, she I felt alone.” and 90 children ranging from infant to 21

is a beautiful, confident girl who is self- When her father suggested going on a years of age involved in the group-home

assured and comfortable in her own skin. short-term, ten-day mission trip to Brazil orphanage.

She is not constantly checking her phone with their church through a group-home Shelby knew the mission trip would

or anxiously waiting for a text. Instead, orphanage, Shelby begrudgingly agreed. be a good experience for her, but she

she looks at me straight in the eye and While Shelby had always felt the presence wasn’t overly excited. “Beforehand, I

answers my questions with certainty and of God in her life, this actually had a bit of

a unique joy. When asked why she is so wasn’t at the top of a bad attitude about

happy, she explains, “I found my passion. her bucket list at that the whole thing,” she

I belong in Brazil.” time. says. “My dad really

Growing up in a family of seven, Shelby, The group-home wanted to go, and I

the oldest of the five kids, has always had orphanage is a went along with him.

wonderful role models as her parents, Christian ministry But, honestly, I wasn’t

Brad and Robbyn. Having grown up in designed to help the counting down the

Dickinson, North Dakota, Shelby was plight of homeless days to go.”

taught to be a responsible young girl and abandoned Life changed for

and, contrary to many teenage girls of children throughout Shelby once she

today, she committed herself to studying, the streets of Brazil. arrived to Brazil.

making good grades and spending time Through the ministry, individual homes On the second day of their trip, Shelby

with family, instead of talking about are available for couples to live in and heard the quiet but very distinct voice

fashion and partying with her friends. foster multiple children at a time, in of God saying, “I want you here. Your

Around kids her own age, she often felt addition to their own, committing to family belongs here.” At the time, Shelby

like an outsider. meet their physical, social, spiritual and thought to herself, “What? How can this

She says with a smile, “It really was a psychological needs. Couples agree to be? Did I hear this right?” She laughs,

pretty good life. I had our extended family raise up to 10 children, including their “Then I thought, ‘Great idea, God. How

there, which I love dearly, and I had some own biological children, to adulthood are you going to manage that one?’ But

friends at school. But, I really didn’t feel and independence. With nine homes and who am I to question God? He knows. He

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The Hanstad kids bond and play with the
children in the community, soaking up their
way of life. provided by Hanstad family

working to ensure this new venture does

not require his full-time presence.

Mr. Hanstad explains, “I realized we

would have to change our lives, freeing

up resources, downsizing the ‘stuff’ in

our lives and making ourselves available

to be used. Our goal is to be in Brazil

twice a year for an extended period of

time – perhaps one to three months for

each trip.” Mrs. Hanstad adds, “We are

in a unique situation as we are starting

mission work already having children,

and we are having to work around their

has a plan. God can do great things, even one where everyone hugs and expresses education. But, this is a family call. We are

for those that question.” their love for you. They wear their very united.”

After returning home, Shelby relayed emotions on their sleeve. I can’t express Since making the collective decision,

the divine message to her mother. how joyful and happy it is there.” the Hanstad family is extremely excited

Unbeknownst to Shelby, her mom had Slowly, over time, every other child in about their future and all that it holds.

been struggling for some time about the Hanstad family confirmed the move to Mrs. Hanstad explains, “We don’t have

a stirring in her own heart about a new become part-time missionaries in Brazil, all the answers, so we are just taking it

adventure on the horizon for their family. even the youngest children of the clan, one day at a time. The road is unpaved,

She explains, “For some time, Brad and I Ellie and Drew, ages 8 and 5. According to and we are just trying to be obedient and

had been feeling a yearning for change, Mrs. Hanstad, “We have taken this journey faithful. The Lord will let us know when He

and this seemed to be the impetus for very slowly and painstakingly. Because is ready.”

our family. It became clear that missions our kids adapted to the culture and the As for Shelby, she can barely contain

were supposed to be part of our lives, group-home orphanage community herself. “I yearn to be there. I just can’t

somehow, someway. We didn’t know how, so easily, wait. Since being

but God would make it clear for us.” we have in Brazil, I have

Looking for confirmation and an open had a quiet learned so much.”

door of opportunity, the entire Hanstad confirmation She pauses, and

family took a few trips to Brazil over time, in our hearts then continues,

helping to determine if everyone felt and have “In the United

comfortable and would adapt in a foreign c o m p l e t e States, people

country. While in Brazil, her dad helped p e a c e , are so much more

by providing eye care for the parents, knowing this materialistic, but

kids and staff, as well as offered outreach is the right being around

clinics to children and their parents in step for our those in Brazil

the poorer areas. Her mom gravitated family.” has taught me

to the mothers, preparing a weekly Bible The the true spirit of

study for them as well as caring for the Hanstads sold their half of a thriving pure joy and acceptance. The people in

children. Shelby learned the language optometry practice, as well as their home Brazil seem so much happier, and they

at a lightening speed rate, serving as in North Dakota, and moved to Frisco, live on far less than we do in the States.

translator for everyone else, while the answering this call. Having visited Frisco The secret is they live on true joy – the joy

other Hanstad kids bonded and played before, Mr. Hanstad knew the area fairly of the Lord. My heart and soul belong in

with the children in the community, well, and both he and his wife understood Brazil. No doubt – it’s where I’m supposed

soaking up their way of life. how much easier it would be to travel from to be.”

Today, Shelby glows, “Their culture is Dallas to Brazil versus the trip they had

so beautiful. We have been completely taken multiple times from North Dakota. Carolyn Cameron is a freelance writer,

embraced and accepted. In Brazil, the Now pursuing a part-time business mom to three vibrant, young boys and

environment is very relaxed and carefree, opportunity in Texas, Mr. Hanstad is enjoys running long-distance treks.

78 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

www.stonebriarfootankle.com Robert P. Taylor, DPM
Fellow, American College of Foot &
Ankle Surgeons, Board Certified

FRISCO

972-712-4161

5575 Warren Parkway, Ste. 101
Frisco, Texas 75034

(Baylor Medical Center of Frisco)

PLANO

972-981-3101

6124 W. Parker Road, MOB3, Ste. 230
Plano, Texas 75093

(Presbyterian Hospital of Plano)

NOVEMBER 2012 No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. 79FRISCOSTYLE.COM

To watch Robin and Ronnie’s
full story please go to

www.simplesleepservices.com
or scan the QR code above

Good Night! Sleep Tight! to twelve years ago.
Simple Sleep Services The device from Simple Sleep Services

GETTING A SLEEP STUDY and treatment by wearing a soft headband with a small worked on the very first night. “No matter
for snoring or sleep apnea (OSA) used to recording device. You take it home and what he tried before, it didn’t work”, said
be difficult. You had to visit your primary sleep in your own bed. Then simply bring Robin. “We would start out together and I
care physician, who would likely refer you it back to the office and the medical would leave at about midnight or he’d fall
to an ENT. They might suggest surgery director, a board-certified sleep physician, asleep on the couch”.
or a sleep specialist who would then refer interprets the test results and they contact
you for an “in lab” study. After all of that, you with a diagnosis. They knew about sleep studies and the
you would be left with a CPAP (Continuous CPAP mask, but decided that the mask or
Positive Airway Pressure) device to use at The therapy and devices used by Simple surgery was not an option. “The couch
night. The CPAP basically blows air down Sleep Services have been around for a was pretty much my bedroom”, Ronnie
your throat to splint your airway open, in while, but they are the first to streamline said. Then they learned how Simple Sleep
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Simple Sleep Services, located at 6101 therapy for snoring, mild and moderate rested, I get a good night’s sleep and I feel
Chapel Hill, in Plano near Willow Bend sleep apnea and second line therapy for more energetic”.
Mall, has taken this process and made it severe sleep apnea when patients fail or
more convenient and comfortable. They refuse a CPAP mask. If you are wondering if this is an
have streamlined the diagnosis and offer affordable solution, the answer is
custom manufactured dental solutions North Texas residents Robin and Ronnie absolutely. Simple Sleep Services works
for snoring and apnea, making everything Anderson, decided years ago the only way with all private insurance companies
easier on the patient. to get a good night’s rest was to sleep in including Blue Cross/Blue Shield, United,
separate rooms. Ronnie’s loud snoring had Aetna, Cigna, Humana and others. Simple
At Simple Sleep Services, the testing become such a disturbance he started Sleep Services also offers affordable and
is done in the comfort of your own home retreating to the couple’s guest room ten convenient payment options including
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NOVEMBER 2012 No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. 81FRISCOSTYLE.COM

82 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

DID YOU KNOW

THANK YOU!
Frisco STYLE Magazine would like to thank the Frisco community for your continuous support. When we need a place to take a photo,
an editorial source or a story idea (just to name a few), there is always someone willing to step up and help us make things happen. This
month, a huge thank you goes out to Westin Stonebriar for allowing us to use their facility for a recent photo shoot. We would also like
to thank Market Street for their sponsorship of our Gingerbread House Contest, which will be featured in our December issue!

SCHOOL DEDICATION
A dream became reality for Holy Cross Catholic Church parishioners in September, as Bishop Kevin
Vann, bishop for the diocese of Fort Worth, blessed the staff and the building of Holy Cross Catholic
School. More than 100 people and church dignitaries attended. After the dedication and blessing, all
were invited to tour the building and enjoyed fellowship in St. Helen Center of the school. Holy Cross
Catholic School is located at 303 King Road, Frisco. For more information, please visit www.hccsf.org.
Photo provided by Holy Cross Catholic School.

CELEBRATE THE SEASON
McKinney Main Street kicks off the holiday on Thanksgiving weekend with the long-standing annual
tradition Dickens of a Christmas – Home for the Holidays. The 32nd year of this free event begins Friday,
Nov. 23 and runs through Sunday, Nov. 25. Historic Downtown McKinney will transform into a winter wonderland of holiday shopping,
entertainment, activities and food. Throughout the weekend, can enjoy strolling carolers, visits with Santa, live entertainment, carriage
rides, children’s activities, holiday shopping and dining at the more than 100 shops and restaurants downtown. This is a free event open
to the public. For a complete listing of scheduled activities, or to find a parking map, visit www.downtownmckinney.com or call Main
Street at 972.547.2660.

CAMP AWESOME
Shawnee Trail families participated in Camp Awesome September 27, a Family Fun Night centered
on healthy lifestyles. P.E. Coach Grawe and music teacher Mrs. Rodgers led the parents and students
in dancing to the songs “Dynamite” and the “Cupid Shuffle.” Representatives from Rick’s Kicks
came to show how martial arts could be a great way to stay active both mentally and physically.
Zumba instructor Josie Morales shared how Zumba, a dance fitness program, has affected her life.
The audience joined her in dancing and was able to get a feel for Zumba. Students also had the
opportunity to participate in a Camp Awesome bingo game where they enjoyed healthy snacks
and learned more about how to live a healthy lifestyle. The night ended with a “vegetable walk,” much like a traditional cakewalk.
Students and parents spent a fun night out while enjoying lots of physical activity. Photo provided by Michelle Call.

CHRISTMAS TEA
The Second Annual Christmas Tea & Silent Auction will take place Saturday, December 8 at the Frisco Senior Center, 6670 Moore St.
Beginning at 2 p.m., enjoy live music and tea served in fine china, finger sandwiches, fruits and assorted sweets. This annual fundraiser,
presented by Friends of the Frisco Public Library, will dedicate all proceeds to the new book collection for the future branch library.
Tickets are on sale at the Frisco Public Library. For more information, visit www.friscolibrary.com/friends.

NEWLY CREATED POSITION
Frisco Police Chief Todd Renshaw has been named to a newly created position, director of public safety, where he will oversee both
the police and fire departments. In his new role, Renshaw will meet with the new police and fire chiefs on a scheduled basis and as
important incidents arise. Long-time Frisco Fire Chief Mack Borchardt, who announced his retirement earlier this year, will soon assume
the new role of fire programs consultant. Both Renshaw and Borchardt will begin their new positions on Oct. 1.

TEENS WITHOUT HOMES
Collin County Homeless Coalition & City House invites you to join them for a candid and informative discussion of homeless teens in
Collin County. The “See Me Now Campaign,” will be November 16 at 9 a.m. at Preston Trail Community Church, 10501 Main Street.
Contact Teresa Keenan, [email protected] or 972.424.4626.

FRISCO LEADS THE WAY IN ENERGY CONSERVATION

This year, Frisco celebrates 11 years of energy efficient building after breaking ground as a national leader on efficient building a decade

ago. Frisco was the first city in the nation to adopt the Energy Star building guidelines as its mandatory minimum standard for new home

construction. Today, Frisco remains a leader, with only a handful of Texas cities joining them in having green building codes or specially

written energy standards for public buildings. Those other cities are Dallas, Houston, Austin, Plano and San Antonio.

NOVEMBER 2012 No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. 83FRISCOSTYLE.COM

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY

Frisco STYLE supports Frisco Humane
Society, Adopt a Pet, 972.498.8980
www.friscohumanesociety.com
Uri, a German shepard pup of almost
18 months, lives with the Clark family.

Available Now on NaNoWriMo, 5:30pm; Excel III, 7pm, Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am;
FriscoSTYLE.com friscolibrary.com Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool
Story Time, 11:30am; English Tutorials-
Letters to the Editor Beginners, 6pm; English Converstaion Club,
7pm, friscolibrary.com
Story Ideas
456
More on Current Articles
Library closed; Friends of the Library Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am;
Calendar Submissions meeting, 6:45pm, friscolibrary.com Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool
Santa’s Story Time, 12pm, Stonebriar Centre, Story Time,11:30am; English Tutorials-
Photo Contest Submissions www.shopstonebriar.com Beginners, 6pm; English Conversation Club,
Nominations for Person of 7pm; Undead & Unread, 7pm; PowerPoint I,
the Year or Best of Business 7pm, friscolibrary.com

WORD OF THE MONTH 11 12 Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano,

appetence 13SMU Plano, 5228 Tennyson Pkwy., 10am,
\AP-i-tuhns\
Noun newcomerfriends.org
1. I ntense desire; strong natural
Frisco Art Gallery presents Festival of Whiz Kalifa & the Taylor Gang-The 2050
craving; appetite. Trees 2012, Frisco Discovery Center, 9am- Tour, 7:30pm, drpepperarena.com
2. Instinctive inclination or natural 5pm, friscodiscovery.com
Managing Your Diabetes, 3pm; English
tendency. Virtual Author Char, 3pm; NaNoWriMo, Tutorials-Beginners, 6pm; English
3. Material or chemical attraction 5:30pm, friscolibrary.com Conversation Club, 7pm, friscolibrary.com

or affinity. Santa’s Story Time, 12pm, Stonebriar McKinney Area Newcomers Club, 5871
Centre, www.shopstonebriar.com Virginia Parkway, McKinney, www.
mckinneynewcomers.com
18 19 20

25 PowerPoint II, 7pm, friscolibrary.com Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am;
Santa’s Story Time, 12pm, Stonebriar Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool
Centre, www.shopstonebriar.com Story Time,11:30am; English Tutorials-
Beginners, 6pm; Readers Choice Book
Club, 7pm; English Conversation Club, 7pm,
friscolibrary.com

26 27

APP OF THE MONTH

THANKSGIVING MENU MAKER
From Taunton Interactive comes a great FREE
app that allows you to develop a customized
holiday menu from Fine Cooking’s more than
75 all-time favorite Thanksgiving recipes. Taunton includes a
customized shopping list option and schedule … everything
you need to prepare a perfect Thanksgiving meal!

84 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

NOVEMBER 2012

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am; Texas Tornado Hockey vs. Odessa
Dreamcoat, Frisco Discovery Center, first Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool Jackalopes, 7:30pm, Dr Pepper Arena, Texas Tornado Hockey vs. Odessa
3 weekends in November 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, Story Time, 11:30am, friscolibrary.com tornadohockey.com Jackalopes, 7:30pm, Dr Pepper Arena,
8pm, friscodiscovery.com, Canton Trade Days Bus Trip, 7am; Young tornadohockey.com
Toddler Story Time, 10:15am; Toddler
Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool Story Time, Family Story Time, 10:30am; Recycled Art,
11:30am; NaNoWriMo, 1pm, friscolibrary. 3pm, friscolibrary.com

2com Trinity Fall Bazaar, 9am-3pm, Trinity
Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy.,
McKinney
1 3

Babies & Books, 10am, 10:30am, 11am, Texas Tornado Hockey vs. Corpus Texas Tornado Hockey vs. Corpus 2012 Frisco Community Parade, 11am,
11:30am; eAudiobook Workshop, 7pm; Christi Ice Rays, 5pm, Dr Pepper Arena, Christi Ice Rays, 5pm, Dr Pepper Arena, Main St. from FC Dallas Stadium to North
Bedtime Story Time, 7pm, friscolibrary.com tornadohockey.com County Rd., friscofun.org
tornadohockey.com
7 Santa on Ice Welcome Party, 4:30pm,
Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am; Toddler Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am; Stonebriar Centre, www.shopstonebriar.com
Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool Story Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool
Time; 11:30am; Board Game Club, 6pm, Story Time, 11:30am, friscolibrary.com Family Story Time, 10:30am; Read to Rover,
3pm, friscolibrary.com
friscolibrary.com Visit with Santa at the New North Pole,
10
8 9Daily beginning Nov. 9 at 10am
through Dec. 24, www.
shopstonebriar.com

Classic Readers Book Club, 10am; Babies Texas Tornado Hockey vs. Amarillo Bulls, Texas Tornado Hockey vs. Amarillo Bulls, Griffins Rugby-Frisco First XV vs. Austin
& Books, 10am, 10:30am, 11am, 11:30am; 7:30pm, Dr Pepper Arena, tornadohockey. 7:30pm, Dr Pepper Arena, tornadohockey.com Huns, 2pm, Dr. Pink Field at FC Dallas
Bedtime Story Time, 7pm; Inner Engineering, com Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am; Complex, griffinsrugby.com
7pm, friscolibrary.com Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am; Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool Chunk Your Junk Day, Environmental
Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool Story Time,11:30am; NaNoWriMo, 1pm, Collection Center, 6616 Walnut St., 8am-
14 Story Time,11:30am; Teen Anime Club, 6pm, friscolibrary.com 12pm, friscofun.org
friscolibrary.com Collin County Homeless Coalition & City Project Linus, 10am; Family Story Time,

15 16House present “See Me Now Campaign,” 1710:30am; Teen Writers Group, 3pm,

9am, Preston Trail Community friscolibrary.com
Church, Contact 972.424.4626

Texas Tornado Hockey vs. Wichita Falls THANKSGIVING Christmas in the Square at Frisco Square,
Wildcats, 7:30pm, Dr Pepper Arena, Main and Coleman Boulevard, Nov. 23-
tornadohockey.com Jan. 6, friscosquare.com
Library closing at 6pm, friscolibrary.com

21 22 23 24

Texas Legends Basketball vs. Austin Texas Legends Basketball vs. Austin Toros, Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am; Major Events Provided by
Toros, 7pm, Dr Pepper Arena, texlegends. 7pm, Dr Pepper Arena, texlegends.com Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool
com Young Toddler Story Time, 10:15am; Story Time,11:30am
Babies & Books, 10am, 10:30am, 11am, Toddler Story Time, 10:45am; Preschool Women of Faith Christmas, Prestonwood
11:30am; Bedtime Story Time, 7pm, Story Time,11:30am, friscolibrary.com Baptist Church, Plano, 7pm-9:30pm,
friscolibrary.com womenoffaith.com

28 29 30

NOVEMBER 2012 No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written permission of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. 85FRISCOSTYLE.COM

one dianyfrisco...Theonethatgotaway.

PHOTO BY CHRIS FRITCHIE



BUSINESS PROFILE

Meridian Payment Systems

Credit Card Processing Just Got Personal

CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS have become processing.” least expensive person in the merchant

the lifeblood of practically any business, Meridian Payment Systems is a services industry, but the least expensive

offering convenience for consumers nationwide merchant services provider organization is not always the best option.”

and accounting for trillions of dollars and is a division of NPC, a leading Based on that philosophy, Meridian has

in purchases in the U.S. each year. The provider in the electronic payments created a loyal customer base consisting

processing of credit and debit cards, also industry. Meridian has distinguished of businesses located both here in the

known as merchant services, has become itself by providing highly personal DFW area and across the country. “We

an industry in its own right, offering a customer service at a highly competitive take care of everybody,” says Kevin. “It

dizzying array of providers. And while price. Kevin’s website, www.swypit.com, doesn’t matter the size of the business, we

choosing between merchant services provides merchants a clear understanding just want to make sure they are properly

providers may seem like a small detail for of the highly complex merchant services set up. My goal is to be there for people

the busy business owner, Kevin Hodes of industry, as well as a personal profile of when they need help. They may just have a

Meridian Payment Systems says it is one Kevin himself. “Typically, a lot of people simple question, but they need an answer.

of the most important decisions he or she want to know who someone is before Our support staff is the best in the industry.

will make. “Obviously, business owners are they do business with them,” explains I am who I am in this industry today

always looking for a way to save money, Kevin, “So we created this site with a lot of because of the people standing behind

maximize profits and streamline their really useful information. In any business, me. NPC is the largest provider of debit

business,” Kevin explains. “The most when it comes to your money, you should card and credit card acceptance in the

overlooked, profit-eating part of any know with whom you are working. Many U.S. dedicated exclusively to the small-to-

business in America is their credit card business owners will just jump in with the medium size merchant. NPC has incredible

88 FRISCO STYLE No portion of this article may be reproduced without expressAwDrVitEteRnTIpSEeMrmENissTion of Style Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. THANKSGIVING

service. As one of their larger offices in he’s always been there.” to easily track their credit card business.

the country, we do incredible things for In addition to the credit and debit card “Merchants can look at batches, deposits

people. People who have used Meridian processing services, Meridian provides and has a utility for merchants to find

know what its like to work past transactions with the last

with an organization four of a credit card number.

unlike anything they’ve Since we have enough paper

experienced in the past.” everywhere, we are trying to

One way Meridian go green so no statements are

stands out among its sent out and everything is right

competitors is Kevin’s there in that portal. Merchants

determination to provide log in and it gives them all the

personal service to his information they could ever

clients. His business card, need.”

featuring his personal cell Another new product

phone number, provides Meridian now provides its

business owners with the merchants is next-day funding.

assurance they are always “We’re very excited about this,”

only a phone call or text says Kevin. “For as long as the

away. “Being a nationwide merchant is meeting certain

company, I have customers guidelines, whatever credit

I have never actually met that card transactions they process today will

I’ve been working with for more be put in their bank account tomorrow.

than 10 years. But I want them We also offer American Express all-

to know I’m always available in-one deposit.” Kevin explains

to them.” The unique and while merchants typically have to

individualized customer service wait three to five days for American

Meridian provides has resulted in Express monies to deposit,

customers who are fiercely loyal to Meridian provides American

Kevin and his organization. “I still Express deposits with the rest of

have the first customer I ever wrote their credit cards. So, it’s now all-inclusive

13 years ago. To be able to offer m a n y within the merchant’s statement for better

people a discounted price and our other services for business reconciliation.

level of service are almost unheard-of owners. “While our main product is When a new merchant signs on with

in my industry. With our competitors, many processing credit cards, we have ancillary Meridian, Kevin ensures the transition is

people will call an 800 number and be on products like gift cards, ecommerce smooth. “I make sure things are going

hold for 20 to 30 minutes and that could be gateways, cash advances and POS smoothly so that I know everything is

the death of that business. The merchant systems.” working properly. For the first couple of

that needs assistance sometimes needs Meridian also offers mobile payment weeks when a new customer comes on,

it very quickly and they can’t wait days for devices that can be plugged into a I watch the flow of funds. I watch their

an answer. If their equipment breaks or if smartphone. NPC ROAMpay delivers a deposits to make sure things are working

their POS system needs assistance — if quick, easy-to-use, intelligent solution for properly. I don’t just sign them up and walk

whatever they are using to process Meridian Payment Systems away.”
credit cards is down, the merchant 1-877-3-SWYPIT Ultimately, says Kevin, Meridian
is losing sales. So we’re there to get www.swypit.com
things back up and running as quickly provides expertise in the field of
as possible.” merchant services. “You wouldn’t call
a roofer to fix your leaky pipes. You’re
John R. Holcomb of Dallas North looking for someone who’s been in
Aquarium is one of many satisfied the industry, who has knowledge and

customers whose loyalty to Meridian who’s going to be there when you

speaks volumes about Kevin’s customer the flexible merchant. The lightweight and need them. Solicitation calls, offers in

service. “What separates Kevin from compact device fits in your pocket and the mail and cold calls from impersonal

others in the merchant bank card industry,” plugs right into your device’s headphone salespeople can never replace a seasoned

says Mr. Holcomb, “is consistency and jack. This new solution offers customers the veteran when it comes to your money. The

persistence. Every Johnny-come-lately will ease of effortless purchasing and allows biggest challenge that I face in this industry

try to beat his rate and promise this and Meridian customers to take advantage of is that people think we’re all the same, and

that, but when it comes down to it, he’s the low rates. we’re not.” To find out how Meridian can

guy who has performed consistently over In addition to these services, Kevin says make your business more profitable, call

the last 10 years. When I’ve needed him Meridian provides customers with a portal 972-731-0807 or email [email protected].

NOVEMBER 2012 No portion of this article may be reproduced without express written pAeDrVmERissTioISnEMofESNtTyle Publishing Group, LLC. © 2012 • All rights reserved. 89FRISCOSTYLE.COM