FSM September 2018

Coach Jeff Rayburn (Lone Star High School). be professional athletes. I know we had
more than 80 athletes sign national
letters of intent in February alone,” says
Grace McDowell, FISD assistant athletic
director. “Coaches provide information to
athletes and parents about the recruiting
process and steps to take to prepare
academically and athletically for the next
level. In addition, our coaches have open
communication with college coaches
regarding athletes and provide information
to college coaches such as GPA, test
scores, basic biographies and stats for
student athletes. Most importantly, FISD
coaches prepare student athletes for
the next level by teaching them time
management, how to balance academic
and athletic responsibilities, how to be
a part of a team, how to be accountable
to others and how to work hard on a daily
basis, whether it is during season or in the
off season.

The high school athletic environment
mimics the college environment in
important ways. High school and college
athletes are held accountable similarly,
from how they perform in the classroom
to what they post on social media. These
things are essential to being successful at
the next level.”

In terms of hiring the right coach for such
an important role, Ms. McDowell shares,
“Of course, we look for coaches who have
expertise and experience in their sport,
but our coaches are first and foremost
teachers, so it is very important they are
highly-qualified and can provide great
instruction in the classroom. However, our
top priority is to find men and women of
character who will be great role models,
who care about kids and who will develop
positive relationships with students.”

52 SPORTS & LEISURE

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From left to right, Coach Chad Cole (Reedy
High School), Coach Chris Burtch (Liberty High
School) and Coach Kyle Story (Independence
High School).

Jerry Littlejohn, the FISD assistant
athletic director, shares, “Many coaches
appreciate and prefer FISD’s philosophy
of providing as many opportunities for
students as possible. The FISD small
school model supports this philosophy.
We have always emphasized a standard
of hiring people of high character who
put the development of young men and
women of high character above winning
and losing. FISD believes high character
people will develop a quality culture,
which will lead to success in the athletic
arena and in life. These are the people we
try to hire as coaches.”

COACHES WHO HAVE

EACH OTHER’S BEST

INTERESTS AT HEART ARE

IMPACTFUL IN THE LIVES

OF STUDENT ATHLETES,

AS IT ALLOWS THEM A

FIRSTHAND LOOK AT

SPORTSMANSHIP, INTEG-

RITY AND CHARACTER.

Chad Cole, the head football coach and
campus coordinator at Reedy High School,
has served as a coach in FISD for 15 years
and believes it has the most unique district
in the state, if not the country. “Personally
speaking, FISD offers me a small-knit, one
high school feel, wrapped up in what is now
a 10 high school district. We maintain that
small feel because, in some shape or form,
all campuses are connected and we do a
phenomenal job of hiring and promoting
from within our own district,” he says.
Coach Cole values the relationships he
has formed with student athletes and the
mentorship he has received from other
coaches in the district. He continues, “At
the end of the day, our job is to help grow
student athlete success on and off the
field.”

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 53

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Kyle Story, the Independence High School head football coach and campus coordinator, there are days when even the best need
explains, “The camaraderie among the high schools and middle schools is unparalleled and reassurance, and keeping student athletes
like nothing I have seen in any other district. Every coach is willing to share philosophies, motivated to be great in every facet of life is
ideas and goals to help improve programs, which is something that is hard to find among an aspect of growing up that is not easy to
competing schools.” navigate. Jeff Rayburn, the Lone Star High
School head football coach and campus
Chris Burtch, the Liberty High School head football coach and campus coordinator, coordinator, attributes motivating Lone
hopes to impact his athletes both on and off the field through valuable life lessons. “Our Star athletes by making practice the best
athletes are required to put their hearts and bodies on the line, and sometimes those risks part of their day. He explains, “Athletics
pay off in wins … sometimes in losses. Regardless of the outcome, we must get up and must be fun and engaging. This all starts
get ready for the next play, the next week, the next challenge. This is life, and it is what with building relationships with athletes.
we ask our student athletes to do — to work hard, sacrifice for others, take risks, serve the The old saying ‘they do not care how much
greater good and reap the rewards graciously … get up when knocked down. In life, we you know, until they know how much you
will succeed and we will fail, and moving forward after a great gain or loss is a must,” he care’ holds true still today. It is important
shares. for athletes to understand the purpose of
athletics and team sports and the goals of
Marty Secord, the Wakeland High School head football coach and campus coordinator, the team. Once they understand these, it
believes the roles of coaches in student athletes’ lives are more important than ever helps them become and stay motivated
before. He explains, “We find that, more and more, our kids need attention to detail in the in knowing that they are working towards
areas of character, citizenship, accountability and worth ethic. Coaches have a truly unique something bigger than themselves.”
opportunity to make a positive difference, and our role is critical because we spend a lot of
time with these kids every single day. Simply put, we know them. I believe coaches and a
positive athletic program are final stops a kid makes before entering the adult phase of life,
and what a difference we can make if we simply take the time! I am still coaching after 35
years because of the coaches I was blessed to have who gave me the tools I needed. I still
want to make them proud! The power of influence a coach possesses is critical and unique
and we must continue to use it in a powerful way for positive results.”

The successes of FISD’s sports programs are evident in the caliber of athletes as
competition remains fierce. While motivation might come easily to some athletes,

Coach Marty Secord (Wakeland High School).

54 SPORTS & LEISURE

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There is no doubt FISD coaches and athletes are among some of the luckiest in the they need to work hard to accomplish
country, as their athletic success is only accelerated by partnerships both the city and goals is a great experience.” FSA firmly
school district have formed with professional organizations that help solidify Frisco as stands behind all Frisco is and has become
the Best Place to Raise an Athlete. Mr. Kuykendall explains, “The relationships we have for young athletes and believes the
with the Dallas Cowboys and The Star have allowed our varsity teams to play in an indoor diversity of activities available to young
stadium that holds 12,000 people with state-of-the-art amenities. For players and coaches, athletes helps their overall athletic ability
the opportunity is unimaginable, and our soccer teams are allowed similar opportunities. by cross-training them in different sports.
When a family is looking to re-locate to North Texas, The Star and this partnership are quite
attractive. Additionally, our partnership with Nike® has turned out to be simply awesome! The Frisco Flyers Volleyball Club is
Over the lifetime of the contract, all high school athletes and coaches will be suited in Nike another Frisco sports organization that
apparel, and the middle schools have similar plans. Toyota Stadium and FC Dallas were supports the careers of young athletes
early partners and they have truly been a joy to work with. Since the beginning, our football and helps them become successful at any
and soccer teams have been allowed to play on one of the best grass fields in the state, level. Club Director Jason Rogers says the
and the experience our players and coaches have every Thursday and Friday in the fall is quality of coaches set the standard with a
unmatched. Our most recent partnership is with Baylor Scott & White, and we have joined high level of morals and values. The club is
with the training and medical team to be exposed to Fusionetics, a program based on coming off a successful 2017-2018 season
individual training of each athlete contingent on their performance in a series of physical and is now ranked top 5 in the North Texas
tests. No other high school district the size of FISD in the nation has had exposure to this Region. “Besides the success of our teams,
type of personalized workout that our athletes will have during their high school careers.” we take pride in the atmosphere of our
club being known as ‘Flyers Family.’ We
FRISCO HAS WELCOMED FACILITIES, ORGANIZA- are extremely blessed to have wonderful
families in our club who are so supportive,
TIONS, TEAMS AND BUSINESSES THAT WILL ONLY with not just their own athlete’s team, but
all our teams.” Mr. Rogers believes kids
MAKE ITS YOUNG ATHLETES MORE MOTIVATED starting sports keeps them active and
healthy. “Sports teach basic life lessons …
AND PROUD TO BE PART OF SOMETHING SO MUCH if you win or lose. They also teach you how
to work with a team. It is a great experience
BIGGER THAN THEMSELVES. meeting new people who become life-
long friends,” he explains.
YOUTH SPORTS PROGRAMS
To excel in sports later in life, kids need to start young. If you ask parents of any athlete Frisco Flyers’ volleyball teams range
what their weeknights and weekends look like, they will laugh and tell you most of them from ages six to eighteen with ability
consist of shuttling kids from one practice to another. levels from beginner to elite. Mr. Rogers
attests that Frisco is a great place to raise
The Frisco Football League (FFL), Frisco Soccer Association (FSA) and Frisco Flyers an athlete based on the variety of sports
Volleyball are all local programs that build valuable skills for success. offered at the youth level. “The facilities
available, the dedication of coaches and
The FFL is designed to teach young men and women basic skills of football and families, and the levels at which athletes
cheerleading. FFL President Matt Wargel shares, “We pride ourselves on being an are playing are pieces that allow us to build
instructional league that puts player safety first, as well as working to teach each player the strongest players and young adults in
the necessary skills to progress toward middle school athletics. The league requires every the community by using sports to shape
player have a starting position, as they feel it encourages player growth and fosters a love their lives.”
for the game. Mr. Wargel feels sports are essential to not only the physical, but also mental
development of a child. “Athletics, and football, in particular, allow kids to be part of Frisco has welcomed facilities,
something outside of school. It teaches teamwork, which is vital as they continue to grow. It organizations, teams and businesses
teaches responsibility, timeliness and hustle. Football, unlike any other sport, teaches that that will only make its young athletes
when you get knocked down, you have to make the decision to get back up and try again. more motivated and proud to be part
Athletics have long been the great American melting pot. The huddle, dugout or bench is of something so much bigger than
a wonderful place for kids to get to know people who are different from them and how to themselves. With support from city
interact with one another,” he shares. leadership, a vision to keep sports and our
athletes’ success at the forefront, an award-
Frisco is also home to the FSA, where, for many athletes, it is their first experience with winning, highly-successful and continually
organized sports or soccer. FSA President Steve Johnson says, “Our responsibility is to growing school district and youth sports
foster an environment allowing young athletes to enjoy the game, develop skills, learn organizations that foster that love for
about teamwork and build the foundation for any future soccer aspirations. We have seen sports early on, our city’s young athletes
tremendous benefits to our own children as a result of participating in youth sports. The are truly able to chase their dreams in the
lessons they learned from being on a team and having personal responsibility for their Best Place to Raise an Athlete.
position is invaluable as they grow older. Learning how to win and lose and understanding
Allie Spletter is a wannabe foodie and
lover of all things pink and crafty.

56 SPORTS & LEISURE

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FR I S CO F O OT B A L L FE V E R P R OV I D E D BY DAV E C A M P B E L L' S T E X A S F O OT B A L L

CENTENNIAL TITANS rushing, 10 TDs) and WR Mbaku (430 receiving, 4 TDs). Keep an
Coach: Matt Webb eye on powerful junior RB Rose (457 rushing), who could emerge
Lettermen R/L: 30/23 as a power running threat. The defense is led by LBs Brooks (65
Starters returning O/D: 6/5 tackles) and Wright (40 tackles, 3 sacks) along with speedy DL
2017: 4-7 DI bi-district finalist/4-3 district Martin (35 tackles), who brings an edge rushing threat to the table.
Players to watch: QB Weston Symes (5-9, 170, 4.6), CB/WR Ridge
Texada (5-8, 175, 4.5), OT Joe Crane (6-6, 305), WR Reese Bar- INDEPENDENCE KNIGHTS
tels (6-2, 180, 4.6), TE/LB JD Stephens (5-8, 190, 4.7), LB Connor Coach: Kyle Story
Smith (6-0, 200, 4.8). (Top juniors): WR Trysten Meadors (5-6, 155, Lettermen R/L: 21/36
4.6), OL Matt Hutto (6-2, 210). (Top sophomore): OLB/RB Jackson Starters returning O/D: 4/4
Marshall (6-1, 195, 4.6). (Other prospects): OLB Trey Varnell, OG 2017: 6-4/3-4 district
Brandon McClarnon, DL Jordan Mobisa, RB B.J. Wilson, RB Justin Players to watch: RB Logan Brungardt (5-8, 190,
Smith, DL Brayden Hughes. 4.6), LB Jalen Freeman (6-2, 230, 4.7), OT Ben Perry (6-4, 270, 5.1),
2018 notes: A key for the Titans will be the health of dual-threat SS Jason Morgan (5-8, 185, 4.6), OG Connor Krodel (6-0, 240, 5.3),
QB Symes (816 passing, 8 TDs), as he has missed parts of the DE Ashton Larza (6-2, 205, 4.8), DT Nick Carpin (6-1, 220, 4.9), WR
last two years with injuries. Texada (47 tackles, 2 INTs) is the third Stone Hobbs, WR Ethan Thomas, CB Princeton Ferguson, LB Ma-
Texada brother to come through the program -- his older brothers son Lewis, LB Ian Ayuk.
both played in the Big 12. He is a two-way dynamo and a big play 2018 notes: Much of the offense will go through Brungardt, who
waiting to happen. Bartles (405 receiving, 6 TDs) is a big target ran for 660 yards and a dozen touchdowns. Expect him to run be-
on the outside. LB Smith (88 tackles) is the anchor of the defense. hind Perry, who is a nimble big man that who did not allow a sack
last year. Freeman (56 tackles, 3 sacks) will lead the defense along
FRISCO RACCOONS with hard-hitting safety Morgan (37 tackles). Larza (41 tackles)
Coach: Vance Gibson was an impact player on the defensive line as a sophomore. The
Lettermen R/L: 30/25 coaching staff expects a breakout junior campaign.
Starters returning O/D: 5/5
2017: 0-10/0-7 district LEBANON TRAIL TRAILBLAZERS
Players to watch: DT Dreylan Washington (6-2, 250), DT David Coach: Sadd Jackson
Hall (5-10, 235), OLB Tyler Jackson (5-11, 175), OL/DE Cody Selby First varsity season
(6-3, 210), RB Nick Stanton (5-9, 175), RB Bryson Clemons (5-9, 170, Players to watch: DL Ares Safi (6-3, 200,
4.7), DE/RB Kamari Wilkerson (5-9, 200), LB/RB Aaron Taylor (5-8, 4.7), DL Jalen Leverette (6-3, 215. 4.7), WR
175), DT Khyree Ward (5-10, 230), QB/DB Dylan Emery, OL Jacob Drew Donley (6-1, 155, 4.4), LB Canon Walton (6-1, 205), DB Rylan
Thompson, QB Carter Yates, RB/LB Corbin Lowrance, OL Hunter Texada (5-10, 165, 4.5), WR Keaton Belew (6-1, 155, 4.5).
Fritsch, LB Tyler Wilcox. 2018 notes: Veteran coach Sadd Jackson leads the Trailblazers
2018 notes: The Raccoons’ D is stout in the front seven with the into their varsity debut after an 8-2 JV year. Defense should be
return of all-district performers at DT Washington and Hall. Rangy a calling card for Lebanon Trail with talented defensive linemen
LB Jackson also earned all-district honors. Expect Frisco’s Wing- Safi and Leverette leading the way. DB Texada could be the next
T offense to be more efficient with the return of Clements (612 Texada brother in line in Frisco; his two older brothers played in
rushing) and a healthy Stanton, who missed all of 2017 with injury. the Big 12. The Trailblazers have game-breaking receivers in Don-
Emery, who started in the secondary last year, could compete for ley and Belew.
the QB job with last year’s starter Yates.
LEGACY EAGLES
HERITAGE COYOTES Coach: Scott Smith
Coach: Kenneth Gilchrist Lettermen R/L: 13/15
Lettermen R/L: 22/33 Starters returning O/D: 7/6
Starters returning O/D: 5/4 2017: 3-7/0-4 district
2017: 4-6/3-4 district Players to watch: LB Ben Hamilton (6-1, 195, 4.8), DE Sam Clayton
Players to watch: RB Khalil Harris (6-1, 180, 4.5), WR Glen Mbaku (6-1, 205, 5.0), OL/DL Josh Watson (5-11, 205, 5.2), RB Luke Browen
(5-11, 180, 4.6), LB Caden Brooks (5-10, 175, 4.7), DL Kendrick Mar- (5-9, 165, 4.8), RB/DT Andrew Straughan (5-11, 220, 4.8), DE Ryan
tin (6-1, 210, 4.8), RB Cameron Rose (5-10, 220, 4.7), OL/DL Daniel Church (5-11, 180, 4.9), OL Brady Atkins (6-2, 215, 5.3), ATH Trey
Briggs (5-10, 300, 5.4), OL Ethan Avers (6-2, 225, 4.8), TE Hunter Perdue (5-11, 175, 4.8), DB Josiah Lewis (6’2, 170, 4.8), OL Jacob
Smith (6-4, 195, 4.8), TE Jared Baehr, LB Gabe Wright, DB Darrick Frater, WR Abe Nuemann
Stephens, K Gabe Clark. 2018 notes: New coach Scott Smith comes to Legacy after a long
2018 notes: Coach Gilchrist comes to Frisco after a lengthy stint at and successful coaching career in Texas high school football and
Class 3A Whitney. He will find ways to get the ball to RB Harris (959 NCAA football. He brings in a multiple formation ground game,

58 SPORTS & LEISURE

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paired with a potent pass scheme. Keep an eye on returning lead- 2018 notes: Frisco Memorial will get its program off the ground
ing rusher, junior RB Luke Brown (460 rushing, 6.3 per carry), who as former Dallas Skyline coach Roberson will navigate the War-
could emerge as a power running threat. The defense is led by riors through their varsity debut. The Warriors’ roster will consist
defensive linemen Clayton and Straughan along with athletic DE of players from three rival high schools — Lone Star, Heritage and
Ryan Church and solid interior defensive tackle, Watson. MLB Ben Wakeland — and Roberson believes having his team go through
Hamilton is returning as the team’s leading tackler (110). spring football will put the Warriors ahead of schedule. The top
priority in the spring for Roberson will be developing a QB to trig-
LIBERTY REDHAWKS ger the Air Raid offense.
Coach: Chris Burtch
Lettermen R/L: 8/18 REEDY LIONS
Starters returning O/D: 6/4 Coach: Chad Cole
2017: 2-8/1-6 district. Letterman R/L: 31/26
Players to watch: RB Kris Harris (5-8, 165, 4.7), WR Keavon Wright Starters returning O/D: 7/8
(6-3, 175, 4.7), DL Josh Burtch (6-1, 235), QB Mitchell Miller (6-1, 2017: 9-2 DII bi-district finalist/6-1 district
165, 4.7), DL Myron Huff (6-0, 310), TE Lucas Pickard (6-5, 190, 4.9). Players to watch: QB Josh Foskey (6-1, 215, 4.7), OL Izeya Floyd
(Top junior): OL Corbin Ridlehuber (6-0, 325). (Top sophomore): (6-2, 305, 5.3), DL Matthew Hoots (6-1, 215, 4.5), ATH Will Harbour
LB Jordan Eubanks (6-3, 175, 4.9). (6-0, 235, 4.7), DL Clay Patterson (6-2, 235, 4.7), TE Nolan Mat-
2018 notes: An explosive offense, led by dual-threat QB Miller thews (6-6, 235, 4.7), TE/DL Nate Anderson (6-3, 235, 4.8), DB Jack
(1,310 total yards, 12 TDs), could be key to a step forward in 2018. Pruitt (6-1, 200, 4.7), DB Gus Asel, DL Brock Miller, WR Bennett
RB Harris hits the hole hard and should be the featured back, Meacom, WR Logan West, LB Trevor Jones, OL Tanner Drain, DL
while WR Wright (526 receiving, 7 TDs) gives Liberty a legitimate Ceasar Sandoval.
deep threat. Josh Burtch (52 tackles, 4 sacks) is an explosive edge 2018 notes: Cole thinks his team could be in the mix for their first
rusher and will lead the defense along with DL Huff, who demands playoff win in school history. QB Foskey (2,676 passing, 24 TDs)
constant double-teams on the interior defensive line. returns for his third year to lead the offense, but the Lions will have
to find a new featured runner. Harbour (104 tackles) leads the de-
LONE STAR RANGERS fense and kicks, punts and serves as a short-yardage back. Hoots
Coach: Jeff Rayburn (11 sacks) is a pass-rushing specialist.
Lettermen R/L: 35/30
Starters returning O/D: 6/7 WAKELAND WOLVERINES
2017: 12-2 DII regional finalist/7-0 district Coach: Marty Secord
Players to watch: RB Darrin Smith (5-9, 185), DB Trey Taylor (5-11, Lettermen R/L: 21/41
180), WR Ife Opere (5-11, 160), WR Marvin Mims (6-1, 160), DL Zivai- Starters returning O/D: 2/3
ishe Smith (6-0, 220), C Mason Horton (6-2, 260). (Top juniors): LB 2017: 7-4 DI bi-district finalist/4-3 district
Jaylon Ford (6-2, 200), LB Torren Pittman (6-3, 175). (Other pros- Players to watch: OLB Adam White (6-3, 210), RB Cade Starnes
pects): DL Dylan Harris, DB Julian Larry, DB Elias Hernandez, OL (5-11, 175, 4.4), ILB Brock Deaton (5-9, 175, 4.8), OL Mike Calla-
Nathan Deason, ATH Mason Nagel, RB Quinn Maloney, WR Jacob han (6-0, 245), OL Jonah Brewster (6-6, 280), CB Canon Roeder
Bogdon, DB Jordan Etieene. (5-10, 175, 4.5). (Top junior): RB Charlie Burkhart (5-8, 165, 4.6).
2018 notes: The Rangers’ big question this spring -- who will win (Top sophomore): ATH Josiah Harper (5-10, 170, 4.8). (Other pros-
the three-horse race to take over at quarterback for M.J. Rivers? pects): WR/S Kevin Rychel, QB Peyton Lewis, QB Zach Laible, LB
There is a lot of skill talent back with RB Smith (557 rushing, 6 TDs) Jacob Veres.
and WRs Opere and Mims, who combined for 1,675 receiving 2018 notes: The return of LB White, who missed almost all of 2017
yards and 20 touchdowns a year ago. The defense will be out- with an injury, will certainly bolster the Wolverines’ defensive unit.
standing in the secondary with all four starters returning. Rayburn He will team with Deaton (62 tackles) and cornerback Roeder to
thinks his team will have much more depth on the defensive line as pace the defense. Starnes (541 rushing, 4 TDs) will need to shoul-
well. The big question mark for the defense will be inexperience at der a much larger role as the feature back in the offense that is
the linebacker spots. a spread attack, but prides itself on being physical. That will be
more important, as Wakeland does not have a QB back who has
MEMORIAL WARRIORS thrown a pass at the varsity level. Burkhart and Harper are talent-
Coach: Derick Roberson ed young playmakers who could play both ways.
First varsity season
Players to watch: OL Allen Ranson, WR/ KEY:
DB Sebastian Pesante, TE/LB Dom Herrera, RB/LB Jahmar May- R/L - returning (letterman)/lost (letterman)
berry, OL/DL Jacob Welch, WR/DB Adam Washington, TE/DL O/D - offense/defense (as in starters returning on O/D)
Joel Shea, LB Ethan Harrison. DI or DII - Division I or Division II

Source: www.TexasFootball.com

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 59

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ENTERTAINMENT

Ajay Sharma opened Salubrious
Juice & More in April 2017.

THERE IS A KIND OF COMMUNITY FORMED
WITHIN EVERY LOCAL COFFEE JOINT,
ESPECIALLY HERE IN FRISCO.

62 SPORTS & LEISURE

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ne appetizing byproduct of anything that is stressing them out. We focused on creating some good energy. We want
Frisco’s tremendous growth to make sure we are striving to give our community healthier options, but when they come
is more dining and drink des- in, they feel relaxed and good about themselves,” says Mr. Sharma.
tinations popping up every-
As for coffee, a popular offering is No Crash Coffee, which features coconut oil and
Owhere you look. And when it hemp seeds and is similar to Bulletproof Coffee, which is popular with CEOs and high-level

comes to coffee, the beloved beverage of athletes because it provides energy and helps cognitive functions.

choice for so many, the lo-

cal coffee scene has never A FOCUS ON GIVING BACK

been more vibrant. In March 2009, Global Peace Factory opened on Legacy

Frisco now offers an Drive near Texas State Highway 121, making this small,

abundance of unique yet bustling spot of town the elder statesman of Frisco

spots to grab a cup and/ coffee.

or something yummy to Like many businesses, its name encapsulates its mis-

eat, where customers can sion. “We are trying to manufacture peace through

sit and soak up the vibe, coffee,” Krystal Herrington, the owner, says. “That is

often visiting with other what sets us apart. Last year, one of our most wonder-

residents and neighbors. ful customers passed away of a sudden heart attack, so

There is a kind of commu- we gave our money to the American Heart Association.”

nity formed within every In addition to lending a helping hand when needed,

local coffee joint, espe- Global Peace Factory donates two percent of its annual

cially here in Frisco. And profits to charity.

each spot has developed Ms. Herrington credits her staff for their success.

its own niche through its “What makes us stand out is my staff and my absolute

particular products, at- dedication to quality and service. I have a remarkable

tention to customer ser- staff that is completely dedicated to every single time a

vice and commitment to drink or food item leaves here, it’s perfect,” she shares.

serving the community Braden Flores is the Global Peace Factory features Italian coffee roasted
with friendliness and a Nerdvana general at 475 degrees, but its most unique item is a brown

warm cup of pure joy. manager. sugar latte.

Another reason for Global Peace Factory’s longevity

WHAT’S IN A NAME? is a strong bond with their customers. “We know every-

In April 2017, former Ma- Blending a body’s name. We know their drink. I always tell my peo-
rine Ajay Sharma opened Community ple and myself, treat everybody like it is their first time
Salubrious Juice & More here,” Ms. Herrington says. “It is all about the people
at the corner of Hillcrest around you, and I could not do it without them.”
and Rolater Roads, as a

100 percent organic spot BY STEPHEN HUNT A RARE NICHE

for smoothies, coffee and Who could envision combining coffee with board

healthy food. games? The masterminds behind Nerdvana, which

How did he arrive at the opened in June 2016 on Main Street across from Toyota

name “salubrious,” which Stadium, have found a unique way to bring neighbors

means health-giving? The and friends together around a table. Nerdvana features

inspiration came from a word of the day one area for coffee and another for spirits and late-night revelry. The constant for both is

app. “It said it meant promoting health an ample supply of board games for customers to play to heighten their enjoyment and

and I was like, ‘Wow, such a beautiful word. spend quality time together.

I had never heard of it. It is very unique and “Nerdvana is actually a board game-themed coffee shop. We are bringing a really new

it sounds amazing.’” taste of coffee and board games to Frisco,” says Braden Flores, the Nerdvana general

Signs at Salubrious say “good vibes manager. “It really is a great spot for people to come together, enjoy coffee and bond over

only,” and with furniture built by a local a multitude of things. We want everybody to have a great time, and I think we do a pretty

artisan, walls painted by local students, good job of doing that. Nerdvana is great for nerds, gamers and businesspeople alike.”

a fountain, soothing plants and auto- Oak Cliff Coffee Roasters roasts much of Nerdvana’s coffee, but a different guest coffee

graphed items on the walls, Mr. Sharma is featured each quarter. Not surprisingly, iced lattes are big sellers during the summer.

has successfully created a soothing envi- However, Nerdvana’s true signature beverage is its sipping chocolate.

ronment for his clientele that is full of local

charm. WHERE EVERY DAY IS SUMMER

“I thought we should make this a place Located on Main Street in the Rail District, Summer Moon Coffee has been a part of down-

where people can come in and relax. They town’s resurgence since its March 2017 opening. Summer Moon started in 2002 in Austin,

can forget about the drama in their lives … but, in just over a year, the Frisco location has quickly become a must-visit for local and

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 63

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Summer Moon Coffee has been
a part of downtown’s resurgence
since its March 2017 opening.

visiting coffee fans.
The inside and outdoor seating area is always full of people stop-

ping in before work, studying, working on a project or just catch-
ing up with friends. It is a place where everyone knows everyone’s
names. Part of that appeal is the customer service and wood-fired
coffee.

Summer Moon’s trademark item is their Moon Milk, a proprietary
blended sweet addition that can be added to your drink at varying
amounts, according to how sweet you want it.

“Moon Milk is amazing,” says Colleen Samuels, the manager of
Summer Moon Coffee. “A little more sweet, it is more like a des-
sert. A little less sweet, it is more like a beverage. The foundation is
the wood-fired roasted coffee. All the beans are good quality, and
it is all about the quality.”

Any time of day, Summer Moon features a great cross section
of Frisco residents, whether it is businesspeople, families or young
adults getting together to socialize over coffee and maybe a snack.
Besides an impressive array of coffee-themed drinks, Summer
Moon also offers great food, including breakfast tacos.

Regardless of whether you are craving a cappuccino, a latte, a
macchiato or maybe even something a bit more exotic, there is a
local coffee spot here in Frisco sure to satisfy your needs. Many
of us are so busy, that we order our coffee to go so we can get
everything on our to-do list accomplished. However, the best thing
about each of these coffee shops is that they not only serve up
outstanding coffee with a side of great customer service, but they
also encourage their customers to pull up a chair and stay a while
… creating a great space for community to grow.

In this day and age, when we all seem to be overextended and
stressed out, relaxing more is a practice we can and should all get
behind, and what better way to relax than to stop and smell the
coffee?

64 SPORTS & LEISURE Stephen Hunt is a Frisco-based freelance writer and coffee aficio-
nado, but not a coffee snob.

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FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 65

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RENE’ BURCHELL – COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE
Realtor®, ABR, CLHMS, CNE, CNHS, CRS, e-PRO, GPS, GRI, RLI, SRES
3211 Internet Blvd. Suite 150 Frisco, TX 75034
www.ReneBurchell.com • 469.877.3303 direct

Since 2002, Rene’ has been a dedicated REALTOR® and consistently a top producer in north
Texas. With her extensive knowledge of neighborhoods within Frisco and surrounding cities, she
has helped many families successfully achieve their dreams. She knows that customer loyalty is
earned, repeatedly, with every transaction. Strong negotiation and communication skills have
contributed to her success. She believes in utmost client satisfaction, integrity and offers an
honest warm approach. She was most recently recognized in D Magazine for Best Real Estate
Agent & Top Producers. She is committed in providing all her Buyer and Seller clients with an
exceptional experience. “I consider being your REALTOR® a privilege!” - Rene

KAY CHEEK – EBBY HALLIDAY REALTORS
1415 Legacy Drive, Suite 100 • Frisco, Texas 75034
972.333.4541 cell • 972.335.6564 office
[email protected] • KayCheek.com

Kay is a native Dallasite and began her real estate career in a Family Owned Real Estate Brokerage.
She serves on numerous Builder/Realtor Advisory Boards. Some of Kay’s accomplishments include
the Ebby Halliday VIP Wall of Honor for making the Company-wide Honor Roll 26 consecutive
years, named in D Magazine Best Real Estate Agent in Dallas 2006-2018 and Top Residential
Real Estate Producer 2011– 2018, Five Star Real Estate Professional 2012-2018 Award Winner,
Real Estate Executive 100 Most Influential Real Estate Agents in North Texas 2016-2018. Other
accomplishments are #1 Sales Professional Company-wide Individual and Teams for multiple
years. Kay offers a wealth of knowledge, expertise and invaluable information for her clients.

JENNY DOWDY - KELLER WILLIAMS
4783 Preston Road, Suite 100 • Frisco, Texas 75034
214-733-0742
[email protected]

Jenny started her Real Estate career in Dallas in the early 80s and renewed her passion when she
returned to Texas in 2009 at Keller Williams Frisco. As a multi-million dollar Realtor active in Collin,
Denton and Dallas counties and throughout the North Texas area, she consistently ranks at the top
of her profession. More than 95% of her business is from referrals. Jenny specializes in residential pre-
owned homes, new construction, investment properties, Seniors, Elder Transitions and Divorce Care.
Jenny is currently serving her 5th year on the Agent Leadership Council at Keller Williams Frisco Market
Center and shares her passion for her community and is involved with the Frisco Sunrise Rotary, Frisco
Chamber of Commerce and the Frisco Arts Community.

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 67

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DINING

The Lunchroom —
Behind the Scenes

BY AMELIA THOMAS

As someone embarking on her seventh year in the Frisco ISD education sys- itself to all upcoming students. I know
tem, I used to think I knew everything there is to know about the various from experience, there are many compo-
foods offered to students when that lunch bell chimes. When it comes to nents involved in getting ready to pack up
your typical cafeteria atmosphere and food, it seems like everyone envisions the backpack and head back to school.
a fluorescent-lit room offering stinky, bland, unrecognizable food served on There is the tedious task of shopping for
a plastic foam tray. After enjoying a meal, tour and an interesting chat with the FISD’s child required school supplies, arranging your
nutrition department, I was immediately proven wrong about the menu items that are schedule to accommodate everything you
actually offered to local students. need to get done in a day, coordinating
transportation and so much more. Having
The FISD child nutrition department is dedicated to supporting the success of students’ a plan when it comes to lunch during the
education and healthy lifestyles by providing quality, nutritious meals, with the under- school week is a big deal for busy students
standing that students are better able to focus, learn and perform when they have access like myself. Food is essential to avoid long,
to fresh, healthful foods during the school day. Breakfast and lunch are important compo- dreary school days … and angry teenag-
nents in learning and having a successful day. In the FISD, menus are planned with these ers. So, when I got the opportunity to go
factors in mind. behind the scenes of the FISD’s school
lunch process, I was immensely intrigued.
With the new school year set to start in less than three weeks from when I completed
my school lunch taste test, it felt as if a whirlwind of preparation was about to present

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 69

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When I arrived at Lebanon Trail High tial menu items.

School, I was warmly greeted by the as- Students with a medical condition or disability that require special diet restrictions are

sistant director of the FISD’s communica- often offered a specialized menu. For students who avoid certain types of meat or who

tion department, Meghan Cone. She led are vegetarian, there is a varied menu with plenty of options, including a meatless entree

me into the brand new, each day.

immaculate kitchen spe- Frisco STYLE’s digital media

cifically designed for the manager, Ben Johnson, tried all

high school. This kitchen the unique food items with me,

boasts state-of-the-art so we could get a well-rounded

appliances designed for opinion of each dish. We tried

efficient food production. four lunch menu items, three of

Once I entered the kitch- which are entirely new for this

en, the child nutrition staff school year.

met me with excitement The first dish that was shared

and purposeful attitudes. Photo by Ben Johnson. with us was the Mango Pico de

The three members of Gallo. Designed with preferences

the team were ready to of high school students in mind,

explain their purpose the mango and tomato mixture

and role in the kitchen, was lightly-spiced and made for

and how their passion for a bold side dish. We could easily

creating healthy and tasty see students enjoying the pico
items is reflected in the
with tortilla chips or on top of
THE FISD CHILD NUTRITION DEPART-food FISD students even- nachos (more on that later). The
tually consume. The child
freshness was eminent in this side
MENT IS DEDICATED TO SUPPORTINGnutrition department dish, and I genuinely enjoyed
consists of people who
both the spice and the overall fla-
THE SUCCESS OF STUDENTS’ EDUCATIONdecide what exactly goes vor. This dish was not your typical
into a new meal designed
lunchroom mashed potatoes, that
AND HEALTHY LIFESTYLES BY PROVIDINGto serve thousands of is for sure!
QUALITY, NUTRITIOUS MEALS.
Frisco students. One of the main entrées we
The ingredients, dishes tried was the Korean BBQ Na-

and portion sizes are co- chos. This dish will be provided to

ordinated by the child nutrition staff. Every both middle and high school students, and it offers a plethora of vegetables combined

lunch approved by the staff must contain with barbecue chicken. The chicken barbecue mixture is placed on chips and topped with

the five food groups: whole grains, meats/ the vegetable assortment. This dish offers a unique and healthy alternative to the classic

meat alternatives, fruits, vegetables and nacho recipe (classic as in stale chips and liquid “cheese”), and Ben and I enjoyed the bold

milk. Once a meal meets the criteria, nutri- barbecue flavor incorporated into every bite.

tionists must then decide which grade lev- Another entree we ate for this review was the White Bean Chile with Chicken. The goal of

el to serve it to. Many factors go into deter- this food creation is to provide a comfort food-esque option to all grade levels, as well as

mining what meal is appropriate for what a healthy assortment of options. The chicken’s flavor stood out, while the beans provided

age. For example, a spicier dish might be that home-style chili flavor so many of us are fond of. And, of course, the nutrition staff

more fitting for older, high school-level tirelessly makes sure every lunch selection offered in an FISD cafeteria not only meets but

students, whereas chicken nuggets are exceeds the healthy meal requirements.

notoriously popular among younger kids. The final side dish we reviewed was the Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower. The veg-

The United States Department of Agricul- etables listed in the title might sound unappealing at first to some younger students, but

ture has very specific guidelines for types the amount of flavor in the food said otherwise. Perfectly-seasoned and well-cooked, this

of foods offered (i.e. all grains must be side dish really was an enjoyable choice for a student of any grade level. Because of this

whole grains), minimum quantities of each side, you would not have to force me to get my daily veggies in.

food group that must be offered daily and The amount of effort, coordination and care every faculty member I met showed during

weekly, as well as maximum limits for so- this dining review was extremely evident. It can be easy as a student to assume something

dium, calories and saturated fat. The team like a school meal plan would be rushed or even overlooked during the planning stages,

monitors trends in food purchases and but it is obvious after this fun experience that the highly-skilled nutrition staff makes sure

combines this information with feedback no factor is overlooked and no detail is rushed in any part of the intricate process.

from students, parents and staff to derive We may not be able to leave the campus and get food from our favorite fast food or res-

a picture of what the students want for taurant, but once you explore what is offered without having to leave campus, you might

lunch every day. They even meet with stu- just be surprised at how much you like what you already have!

dent focus groups throughout the school

year to get feedback on menus and poten- Amelia Thomas is a local student and the photography intern for Frisco STYLE Magazine.

70 SPORTS & LEISURE

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72 SPORTS & LEISURE

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SMALL BITES

Cheezies Gourmet
Grilled Cheese

cheeziesgourmet.com
5995 Preston Rd. – 469.535.3306
With a menu inspired by the kid in all of
us, this gourmet grilled cheese sandwich
restaurant offers a fun atmosphere for
fresh ingredients and unique menu items.

Tupelo Honey

tupelohoneycafe.com
6725 Winning Dr. – 469.403.2160
With meals inspired by southern tradition,
Tueplo Honey serves brunch, lunch and
dinner crafted with responsibly-sourced
ingredients and bold flavors.

Wayback Burgers

waybackburgers.com
8049 Preston Rd. – 469.362.7437
Grab a burger, sandwich, hot dog, salad or
milkshake at Wayback Burgers. There are
even special dishes on the menu for kids.

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 73

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RECIPE

Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers

PROVIDED BY CHRIS JOHNSON

INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
20 jalapeños (cut in half) Slice the jalapeños lengthwise, remove the seeds and arrange them on
1 1/2 c. shredded chicken a baking sheet. In a bowl, mix all the ingredients (except for the blue
8 oz. cream cheese (softened) cheese crumbles) for the filling. Add 1 tablespoon of the filling into each
1 c. smoked cheddar cheese (shredded) jalapeño half and then top them with the blue cheese crumbles. Place
1/2 c. buffalo hot sauce the jalapeños on the indirect heat side of the grill. Cook the jalapeño
2 Tbsp. ranch dressing poppers for about eight minutes.
1/4 tsp. celery salt
1/2 c. breadcrumbs
1/4 c. blue cheese crumbles
green onion (to taste)

74 SPORTS & LEISURE

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78 SPORTS & LEISURE

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hat is your idea of a vacation? The dictionary has several definitions of a NOW & THEN
vacation, of which probably the most commonly accepted is “a fixed
period of cessation from work — a time of rest and recreation spent memory while camping in the Wigwam.
away from home or in traveling.” My son, Phil, liked Tyler State Park. It was
not far from our home when we lived in
W Over the years, many things have changed in the ways we take vaca- East Texas, and we went there quite often.
Don recalled a trip to Garner State Park in

tions. Let’s take a look at what I like to call “the evolution of vacations.” southwest Texas. We had been told by a

First, let’s discuss what we call school summer vacations. Even that has changed ... at friend what a great place it was, but when

least in Frisco. For years, school here we got there, unfolded the

always started in early September, camper, hurriedly put on

sometime around Labor Day. How- our swimsuits and ran down

ever, in the early 1900s, when cotton to the lake, we found noth-

was king in this part of the country, ing but a big mud hole. The

school’s start date was sometimes drought that year had made

postponed until the cotton was swimming impossible. De-

all picked. Why? Because many of jected, we folded the camper

the students were “farm kids” and and found a campground

farmers needed their children, boys with a good swimming pool.

and girls, to pick cotton while the My daughter, Kay, laugh-

“time was ripe.” Also, some of the ingly remembered camp-

town kids joined the cotton pickers ing at Roaring River in Miss.,

to make some spending money, so a place noted for its cold

school attendance would have suf- spring water. My wife was

fered. first in the water, and when

Another big change has been the I found it cold, I backed off.

method of travel for our vacations. She, with only her head out

For many years, any long-distance of the water and a big grin

travel had to be by rail or boat. I re- The “Warren’s Wigwam” camper-trailer matched the family's red and on her face said, “Just dive in.

member, at five years of age, travel- white station wagon. Provided by Bob Warren. You will find the water fine.”

ing by train with my mother to visit So, I dove in, thinking she was

her parents in Ark. It was not until standing in five-foot deep

the 1950s, when our interstate high- Warren's Wigwam water. I found out the hard
ways were built, that long distance way that she was squatting

travel by automobile really became down in three-foot deep wa-

popular. Today, air travel has taken BY BOB WARREN ter and did not mean for me
on a big role in our vacation travel to actually “dive” in. Anyway,

plans and has expanded our hori- I left a bunch of chest skin on

zons. Then, there was the cruise, a luxurious way to vacation, especially popular today with the river bottom, but survived to enjoy a

the “mature” crowd. Yes, our vacations have changed — certainly for the better. cold swim.

Now, bear with me as I recall some of my vacation adventures. After WWII, I went to work We enjoyed camping in Warren’s Wig-

for Humble Oil Company, and was eligible for a two-week vacation each year. Living miles wam until 1964. That year, our daughter,

away from our parents and other relatives, we, traveling by automobile, spent most of our Kay, and her husband, living in Wash.

early-year vacations with them. state, announced the impending birth of

Our family kept growing, and after our fifth, and final, child was born, our sedan became our grandchild. My wife flew up to help.

more than a little crowded. In 1955, we solved that problem by buying a three-row Ford I soon started making plans to take the

station wagon. Then, my wife came up with the perfect seating arrangement for long trips. children and join the blessed event. How-

She put one child in the front seat with me, two in the middle seat with her and two in the ever, I did not want to pull that camper

back seat. Her purpose for that arrangement was that she could keep order by being able over the Rocky Mountains, so I reluctantly

to reach any child that misbehaved. My youngest daughter, Tami, recently reminded me sold the Wigwam, bought a tent, put the

that, in the absence of today’s electronic devices, kids played games such as seeing who three youngest kids in the car and headed

could spot the most out-of-state license plates on passing cars. north. We traveled by day, camped at na-

The station wagon made travel more pleasant, but there was still a problem. Finding a tional parks at night and had a fun trip to

motel room for seven was not easy, and being able to afford two rooms was a stretch — Wash. After visiting with Kay’s family for a

even at $6 a room. So, we solved that dilemma by building a pop-up camper. I ordered few days, my wife, three kids and I started

the plans from Popular Science magazine, and, in our back yard, I built a camper-trailer, home, stopping at national parks such as

painted it to match our red and white station wagon and named it “Warren’s Wigwam.” Olympic, Glacier, Yellowstone and Estes

That was the beginning of many fun camping vacations. on the way. That was a truly memorable

We took Warren’s Wigwam to state parks in Texas, Ark., Okla. and Miss., enjoying vacation.

camping most everywhere we went. I recently asked each of my children for their favorite As the years passed, our children got

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 79

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The “final” RV provided the Warrens with a great,
comfortable way to travel. Provided by Bob Warren.

married and left home, so our vacations changed. For a few years, my wife and I drove, vis-
iting relatives in places like N.Y., Calif., Las Vegas and Fla. In 1971, we drove deep into Mexi-
co, which I would not recommend today. But, except for a few problems with the language
and missing a sign in Mexico City, we made the trip without getting arrested or hijacked.

The next year, my WWII Air Force squadron had its first reunion. Squadron members and
wives went to Europe where we visited sites in England, Holland, France, Germany, Italy
and Belgium. We continued to attend squadron reunions every two years for the next 40
years, meeting at various places all over the U.S. and Europe.

When I retired after 36 years with the oil company, we moved back to Frisco, where I
grew up. Finally, free to vacation any time we wished, we joined a timeshare and went to
Hawaii, staying four weeks and taking one child with his or her spouse there for a week
each. We had taken our fifth child there the year before, and those five weeks with our
children were very special.

Back home, we decided to buy an RV. First, a pickup and a fifth-wheel trailer. That lasted
for a few trips, but it made my wife nervous trying to help me back into campsites. So, I
traded it for a used 27-foot motorhome, which soon gave us troubles. Finally, we got the
best vehicle: a new compact motorhome, an ideal way to travel, until my wife’s health
declined.

To wrap up my vacation history, three of my most memorable vacations were (1) a tour of
WWI and WWII sites in Europe with my grandson and son-in-law (2) an “Honor Flight” trip
to Washington D.C. and (3) an Alaskan cruise with two of our children and their spouses.

There have been many more, and now that my wife and I are living in Parkview, a great
independent living facility, we feel like we are on a “continuous vacation.”

I read recently that 52 percent of American workers, for one
reason or another, do not take their vacations. The article went
on to say that those who fail to vacation stand a 20 percent higher
risk of death, a 30 percent higher risk of heart disease, face higher
stress levels and have more depression. So, I say, “Book your trip
today and live longer!”

80 SPORTS & LEISURE Bob Warren is a local historian, former mayor of Frisco and a regu-
lar contributor to Frisco STYLE Magazine.

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82 SPORTS & LEISURE

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Girl Power!

BY RACHEL BEAIRD

Nitya Sripati (left) and Vennela Vattikuti (right) founded Pari Pads, a nonprofit dedicated to providing menstrual pads to girls in third-world countries.
AInset photo provided by Nitya Sripati.
ccess to feminine care and hygiene may be a given for the average young girl money and get the word out about our or-
in America, but it is a far cry from the reality young girls in India are facing. ganization,” Ms. Sripati says.
A 2016 study by the National Family Health Survey found that 75 percent
of females ages 15 to 24 years old have only everyday cloth to rely on dur- A lot of people do not realize how big
a problem the lack of feminine hygiene

ing their periods and 27 percent of girls do not use anything at all. Statistics products is for girls in India. Ms. Sripati

like this are the very thing that inspired Vennela Vattikuti and Nitya Sripati to found Pari explains, “Because they are not able to af-

Pads, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing menstrual pads to girls in third-word ford or even have access to pads, usually

countries. the girls just stay home during their peri-

The two young girls met through the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), a 33-week ods, so they are missing at least a week of

program that takes motivated middle and high school students through the process of school. That really adds up over the year

launching and running their own real businesses with a fun, hands-on, projects-based ap- and, oftentimes, leads to the girls just

proach while developing lifelong leadership skills. The program is sponsored by the Frisco dropping out all together.”

Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Frisco ISD and the Frisco Economic Devel- A majority of the schools in rural India

opment Corporation and provides guest speakers and trips to local companies to help do not even offer facilities where girls

kids develop their own businesses. Many YEA! graduates have continued to operate their could change their sanitary napkins or

businesses well after completing the term, something Ms. Vattikuti and Ms. Sripati plan to wash their clothes with soap, giving the

do, as well. “YEA! was instrumental in helping us set up a business plan and start raising girls only the option of facing an infection

funds, but now that the program is over, we really want to find more efficient ways to raise due to unsanitary conditions or forcing

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 83

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Over the summer, both girls
had the opportunity to travel
overseas to India and Nepal
and see firsthand the difference
they are making. Provided by Nitya

Sripati.

them to not come to school while menstruating. However, without a proper education, she made some pads her-
poverty-stricken girls in India often end up in arranged marriages to older men or in child self, but also learned more
labor camps. “We always tell people, for every dollar you donate, you are keeping a girl in about some of the obsta-
school for 10 days because each dollar amounts to two boxes of feminine hygiene pads,” cles they are facing as they
Ms. Sripati says. continue growing their or-
ganization. “A lot of times,
Ms. Vattikuti was already involved with the Save the Child Foundation, an organiza- in India, we have these
tion dedicated to saving special needs children, underprivileged children and orphans. power outages for about
Through Save the Child, they got in touch with Asha-Jyothi, a volunteer-based nonprofit two or three hours. Some-
organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to times, it can cause the
education and healthcare. These two organizations are primarily how Pari Pads have been equipment to break to the
distributed to girls across India and Nepal. point it needs replacement
and we just will not be able to keep up the
A MAJORITY OF SCHOOLS IN RURAL INDIA DO NOT funds for new equipment long-term,” Ms.
Sripati explains. “Eventually, we would love
OFFER SANITARY FACILITIES FOR GIRLS. WITHOUT A to get to a place where we could partner
with a large vendor to distribute the pads
PROPER EDUCATION, POVERTY-STRICKEN GIRLS IN because it would be much more cost ef-
fective.”
INDIA OFTEN END UP IN ARRANGED MARRIAGES TO Ms. Vattikuti will be entering her sopho-
more year at Liberty High School and Ms.
OLDER MEN OR IN CHILD LABOR CAMPS. Sripati will be going into her freshman
year. They are still working on getting an
“We founded Pari Pads about a year ago, and already we have given about 80,000 to online donation form up and running,
90,000 pads and helped between 16,000 to 20,000 girls,” Ms. Sripati informs. “A woman but, for now, you can often find the girls
named Madhavi Mallavalli who works with both Asha-Jyothi and Save the Child helps us raising money at local malls or setting up
distribute the pads on trucks in India called ‘lorrys.’” booths at Indian festivals around Frisco
and the neighboring communities. While
Over the summer, both girls had the opportunity to travel overseas to India and Nepal monetary donations are always welcome,
and see firsthand the difference they are making and distributed some of their products the girls also say anything from soap to
themselves. Ms. Sripati spent most of her time in India, while Ms. Vattikuti actually made clothes and toothpaste are also helpful to
the strenuous trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal to promote Pari Pads, a feat she had their cause for promoting hygiene.
been training to do for months prior. “We actually got to visit an Asha-Jyothi center and “Because feminine knowledge and
hang out with around 60 special needs children, as well as meet some of the girls who have menstrual hygiene are so commonplace
used our pads,” Ms. Sripati says. “It was a pretty cool experience to have them come up to here, it is easy to forget how hard it is for
us and thank us for being the reason they have been able to stay in school.” girls in other countries who may not even
know what a period is before they get it,”
While Ms. Vattikuti was hiking to base camp, Ms. Sripati visited one of Asha-Jyothi’s Ms. Sripati comments. “If all Pari Pads ever
manufacturing units where the pads are all painstakingly woven by hand. While there, does is stop one girl from dropping out of
school, it is worth it.”
To learn more about YEA!, visit
friscochamber.com. To learn more about
Pari Pads or to find out how you can get
involved, visit paripads.info.

Rachel Beaird is a University of Arkansas
graduate, travel enthusiast and public rela-
tions aficionado.

84 SPORTS & LEISURE

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FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 85

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Provided by Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities. DID YOU KNOW based artist Ryan Ekmark of Recovered
Calling. His art transforms reclaimed lum-
Provided by the Rotary Club of Frisco. THIRD ANNUAL EMMITT SMITH GRAN ber into custom geometric wood art. As a
FONDO CHARITY RIDE registered nurse, Mr. Ekmark recently pur-
This year’s Emmitt Smith Gran Fondo charity sued his passion for art and his work was
cycling ride will take place on September 22, celebrated at an art reception at the hotel
leaving from Dr Pepper Ballpark. Gran Fondo on August 21. Fans got to meet the art-
courses accommodate avid cyclists and casual ist and browse his collection. Learn more
weekend riders. There are five routes to choose about Recovered Calling at instagram.
from. Participants can enjoy a post-race party com/recoveredcalling.
complete with a beer garden and cocktails, en-
tertainment, family activities and an awards cer- FRISCO MUNICIPAL COURT
emony. Frankie Andreu, one of the most popular and well-respected names in American WELCOMES NEW JUDGE
professional cycling, will be riding in this year’s Gran Fondo. This charity ride will benefit On July 23, Frisco welcomed Judge Jeff
Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, which is committed to providing resources to children to Richter and he was sworn into his new po-
help them see and dream beyond the restrictive opportunities of their environment or the sition as the associate judge for the City of
limitations others have placed upon them. They support high-quality programs in North Frisco. He previously served as deputy city
Texas through grants, scholarships and partnership efforts. For more information on the attorney and city prosecutor. He brings
event or to register, visit emmittsmithgranfondo.com. experience as a private practice defense
attorney and assistant district attorney in
CITY COUNCIL APPROVES SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR MUSIC CITY FRISCO Collin County.
Frisco’s City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission approved a special use permit
for a music and entertainment complex on the Dallas North Tollway, just off Warren Parkway. VIOLINS AND VERSE LIVE IN FRISCO
Groundbreaking will be fall 2018, with the complex opening in spring 2020. The $38 mil- Michael Guinn hosted the Violins and Verse
lion live entertainment venue will sit on seven acres, will include a 1,002-seat indoor concert live event at Frisco School of Music’s Per-
hall, an outdoor performance stage with 300 seats and multiple restaurants. Other planned forming Arts Center on August 18. The fu-
usages include city, school and charity events, along with Esports tournaments, corporate sion of violins and poetry offered a unique
meetings, faith-based programs, speaker series and comedy shows. Music artists will be combination, and fans showed their love
showcased in Frisco’s first acoustically-pure concert hall. Broadcast capabilities are included for the arts while enjoying refreshments.
in the audio-visual design and a 65-foot cinema screen, along with smaller screens, will allow The performance featured Traliece Brad-
for film festivals and Esports tournaments. The two-level theater will include sky boxes with ford, Phoenix Abbo, Katrina Lund, Penny
drink service, plus a VIP area for guests to meet performers. A sound containment wall will Cobb and Mike Guinn. Check out other
be installed along the south perimeter of the complex. Two-sided bars will serve indoor and upcoming events at Frisco School of Music
outdoor patrons and a wine tasting room will be on the second level. at friscoschoolofmusic.com.

THE ROTARY CLUB OF FRISCO HONORS PARTNER ANNOUNCED FOR ANNUAL
“SERVICE ABOVE SELF” FRISCO ARTS WALK & RUN
The Rotary Club of Frisco’s “Service Above Frisco Arts has welcomed the Cliburn as
Self" award recognizes Frisco’s first respond- a partner for the third annual Frisco Arts
ers. Each quarter, the Rotary Club of Frisco al- Walk & Run taking place October 6 at
ternates awarding a member of the Frisco Fire HALL Park. Representatives will be on-site
Department and Frisco Police Department. to share information about the 2019 Cli-
The club recently honored Officer Radd Ro- burn International Junior Piano Competi-
tello, who has been with the Frisco Police De- tion and Festival, taking place in Dallas on
partment for seven years. He spent two years May 31-June 8, 2019, with Former First Lady
as a detention officer and is beginning his sixth year as a police officer. He currently Mrs. Laura Bush as the honorary chair. The
serves in the Community Services Unit and has revamped the Frisco Neighborhood Cliburn Red Carpet will be hosted at the
Watch program. He coordinates the Citizen’s on Patrol program and meets with HOA Frisco Arts Walk & Run with a Steinway
and neighborhood representatives to prevent crime. Officer Rotello serves as a mem- grand piano on site for amateur musicians
ber of the Special Operations Unit’s Containment Team and on the Hostage Negotiator to perform. The Cliburn will present Clay-
Team and Honor Guard Team. He has traveled the state representing Frisco at memorial ton Stephenson, the 2015 Cliburn Junior
ceremonies for officers who have fallen in the line of duty. Officer Rotello also serves in Jury Discretionary Award winner, with a
the U.S. Army Reserves as a sergeant coordinating training for Army personnel. He served special performance and meet-and-greet.
selflessly during Operation Enduring Freedom in Iraq and Kuwait. Learn more about this Find out more at friscoarts.org.
award at friscorotary.org.
ART IN THE ATRIUM 17
FRISCO ARTIST HONORED IN ENTREPRENEUR OF THE MONTH SERIES Do you want to see your community’s art-
Every month, the new AC Hotel and Residence Inn Dallas by the Galleria features a local
entrepreneur in its Entrepreneur of the Month series. In August, the hotel selected Frisco-

86 SPORTS & LEISURE

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work displayed in City Hall? The City of Frisco recently sought out original, 2D artwork from
artists in the area for the seventeenth installment of Art in the Atrium. Art in the Atrium 17
will showcase submitted artistic excellence in the region and encourage public dialogue
and understanding about visual art. It will promote the City’s cultural initiatives. Art in the
Atrium 17 is scheduled from September 24, 2018, to March 8, 2019. Go to friscotexas.gov
for additional information.

DON’T MISS THIS YEAR’S MOTHER SON DANCE PET OF THE MONTH
The annual Mother Son Dance at the Frisco Conference Center is sched- According to Stacey Reynolds
uled for September 22. This year’s theme is “out of this world!” Come of Frisco, BRINKLEY, a Springer
dressed to party as your favorite sci-fi character, spaceman or alien. Pur- Spaniel, knows when he's going
chase tickets or get more details at friscofun.org. duck hunting with her husband,
Beau, and he lives for it.
HOPE4TODAY 5K AND FUN RUN
Frontline Crisis Response Solutions (FCRS) will host its second annual Hope4Today 5K APP OF THE MONTH
Race and Fun Run on September 15 in Frisco. The event benefits support programs for KITCHEN STORIES RECIPES is
Survivors of Suicide Loss in Collin and Denton Counties with crisis-intervention, emotional the ultimate beginner’s cooking
trauma care and spiritual counsel to bring healing in times of need. These programs offer app. It has guided recipes with
free support and resources to those impacted by suicide. The event will start at Kingdom photos and instructions at every
Life Christian Center and takes runners and walkers through a course on College Parkway step, as well as skill training for
Trail. Online registration is open through September 14. Go to hope4todaydfw.com to things like chopping and slicing
register or learn more. vegetables or trussing a chicken.

PACK 298 OF FRISCO WELCOMES GIRLS FOR ITS 60TH YEAR OF SERVICE WORD OF THE MONTH
Pack 298 of Frisco will start its sixtieth year of continuous operation by opening doors
to everyone from kindergarten to fifth grade, both male and female. Pack 298 hosted a parapraxis
season splash off on August 11 at Shepard’s Glen Spray Park in Frisco to start the recruit-
ment season. They will host School Night for Scouting - Scout Me In events on September
11 at Curtsinger and Shawnee Trail Elementary Schools, as well as September 13 at Tal-
ley Elementary School. Open House will be held on September 17 at Frisco First United
Methodist Church. They are looking forward to signing the first female Cub Scouts, as
well as other new male scouts. These events will be open to all who are interested in fam-
ily scouting. Pack 298, chartered by First United Methodist Church in Frisco, is the oldest
continuously-operated Cub Scout Pack in Frisco. For more information, check out scout-
ing.org/familyscouting.

LEARN ALL ABOUT FRISCO AT CITY HALL 101 [parapraxis], (noun)
Go behind the scenes with the City of Frisco and learn more about where you live. City a slip of the tongue or pen or
Hall 101, a free program offered to residents older than 18, will run 13 weeks on Monday other error thought to reveal
evenings, beginning in September. Participants hear from city leaders, including depart- unconscious wishes or attitudes
ment directors and key staff, about what it takes to plan for growth, maintain roads and
parks and to keep Frisco a safe place to
live. Get additional information or reg-
ister at friscotexas.gov. Registration will
be open through the first week of class.

REGISTER FOR THE
CITIZEN’S FIRE ACADEMY
Get a hands-on, behind-the-scenes
look at the Frisco Fire Department!
Register now for the free Citizen’s
Fire Academy Fall 2018 Session. Class
participants get the chance to try
on firefighter gear, ride out on real
emergency calls and receive fire safe-
ty training. Get more information at
friscotexas.gov.

FRISCOSTYLE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 87

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ONE DAY IN FRISCO BY AMELIA THOMAS

Practice makes perfect!