Plano South | April 2023

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

PLANO SOUTH EDITION

VOLUME 9, ISSUE 8 APRIL 22MAY 19, 2023

Plano approved a plan to allocate $1.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to help those experiencing homelessness and those at risk of becoming homeless. HELPING THE UNHOUSED

Salata serving salads at new Plano location

LOCAL VOTER GUIDE 2023

Support services 73.8% $1.47M • Homelessness prevention • Rent, utility assistance (up to 6 months)

$1.9 MILLION TOTAL

Tenant-based rental assistance

15.6% $310,000

Sample ballot

• Rapid rehousing programs • Rent, utility, other nancial assistance (up to 18 months)

Case management and housing navigation

5.6% $110,000

Administrative responsibilities

2.5% $50,000

Administration (city of Plano)

2.5% $50,000

151 Coee cultivating young adults’ success

SOURCE: CITY OF PLANO COMMUNITY IMPACT

Derek Hayes said he has experienced homelessness o and on since 2009. (David Bravo Moreno/Community Impact)

Plano continuing eorts to address homelessness

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

from cancer. Even though he said he has had his own apartment at cer- tain times in the last 14 years, Hayes considers himself a “long-term” homeless person. “[I’ve had homelessness] breaks from time to time; I have had my own place before,” he said. “But I have lived in [homelessness] for such a long time, and I’m still living in it, … I know how it is to have been blessed with something and nding out the next day that you might lose it.” Plano ocials are actively work- ing to reduce the number of people experiencing homelessness in the

city, and nearly $2 million of federal funds is the city’s latest tool to help people like Hayes. Plano City Council approved a plan for $1.9 million from the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s American Rescue Plan in January. With that money, city sta will partner with nonprot organizations in the area to help the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless. “The faster we can get this money out and into the community, the better o our community is going to be,” Council Member Rick Grady CONTINUED ON 18

Derek Hayes spent March 29 at the Parker Road Dallas Area Rapid Tran- sit station in Plano, but he said he was not sure where he was going to sleep that night. Most nights, Hayes will spend $15 on a bed at Dallas-based homeless center Dallas Life if he can, or he will rent a room at a cheap motel in the area if he has a little extra money in his pocket. “It ain’t got to be the best,” he said. “But your head is covered.” Hayes has experienced homeless- ness for extended periods of time since 2009, when his caretaker died

Burnt BBQ & Tacos serving comfort food

Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries

play better, dad better,

If your joint replacement is causing pain or instability, find relief with the help of our orthopedic specialists. Get better right here in Plano, thanks to a tailored treatment plan that eliminates pain and gets you back to doing what you love. Call 1.844.BSW.DOCS or visit BSWHealth.com/ComplexJoint to get started.

Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2021 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-PL-407356 AM

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

2023 EQE SEDAN

THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR PERFORMANCE

6455 Dallas Parkway 972.599.0909 mbplano.com A Ewing Automotive Company

PLANO SOUTH EDITION • APRIL 2023

“ We Share Your Values ” Your family moved to Plano for its high quality services and great schools. These candidates have the experience to keep Plano the City of Excellence.

Rick Horne is more experienced…with balanced views that will make him an effective policymaker.”

Tarrah Lantz has the temperament, focus and expertise to be a positive addition to the board.”

Endorsed by Plano Police Association Plano Firefighters Association

Dallas Morning News

Recommended by

RickHorne4Plano.org

TarrahLantz.com

MICHAEL COOK For Plano ISD School Board Trustee Place 5 Empowering Student Success

PLANO ISD for

Michael Cook’s emphasis on better measuring student achievement is just what the Plano ISD school board needs.”

Katherine Chan Goodwin is a true servant leader putting Plano ISD’s

children’s educational future in the forefront.”

Dallas Morning News

Pat & Angela Miner Fmr Plano City Councilors

Recommended by

CookForPlanoISD.com All candidates endorsed by KeepPlano1.org Pol. Adv. Paid for by Keep Plano #1

GoodwinForPlanoISD.com

Keep Plano #1 is organized by a bipartisan group of Plano citizens who desire responsible, sensible governance and direction for Plano. We encourage Plano’s leaders to continue building on these strengths and services that make Plano a great city.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

THIS ISSUE

ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 30 localized editions across Texas to more than 2.4 million residential mailboxes. GRAPHIC DESIGNER David Bravo Moreno ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Scott Fritsche, Tay Pavey METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Leanne Libby MANAGING EDITOR William C. Wadsack MANAGING COPY EDITOR Beth Marshall ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Chelsea Peters CONTACT US 7460 Warren Parkway, Ste. 160 Frisco, TX 75034 • 2146189001 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES plnnews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING plnads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising EMAIL NEWSLETTERS communityimpact.com/newsletter SUPPORT US Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron MARKET TEAM EDITOR Michael Crouchley REPORTER Teri Webster

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH

FROM MICHAEL: Local election season is fast approaching in Plano. With Plano City Council, the Plano ISD board of trustees and the Collin College board of trustees places on the ballot, the upcoming election will give Plano residents a chance to have a voice in issues that e ect them everyday. Check out Community Impact ’s Voter Guide that begins on Page 14, which will give residents a run down of all of the candidates. Early voting begins on April 24, and election day is May 6, so make sure to get out and vote! Also be sure to check out our front-page story, which looks at Plano’s use of $2 million from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to help address homelessness in the city. The results of the 2023 Point-In-Time count were released on April 13. Data from the count shows the total number of people identi ed as homeless in Plano has risen 16.5% from 2022. If you’re looking to help, ip to Page 18 for more information on nonpro t organizations that assist the homeless in the area as well as resources for those experiencing homelessness. Michael Crouchley, EDITOR

"Our story is just beginning. " JOHN GARRETT, COMMUNITY IMPACT CEO & FOUNDER, AS QUOTED BY TEXAS MONTHLY

Check out Texas Monthly’s pro le on Community Impact, featuring the story of our founders as well as a look at our business model, commitment to local journalism and future plans for CI Texas.

communityimpact.com

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

@communityimpactdfw

Proudly printed by

READ THE FULL STORY TODAY.

PLANO SOUTH EDITION • APRIL 2023

NORTH IMPACTS

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

SRT TOLL

MCDERMOTT RD.

NORTH PLANO

ANYDR.

HEDGCOXE RD.

LEGACYDR.

Salad and Go

DNT TOLL

COURTESY SALAD AND GO

SPRING CREEK PKWY.

WINDHAVEN PKWY.

PARKERRD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

PARKBLVD.

NOW OPEN 1 Salad and Go’s new Plano location opened April 3, according to a press release from the company. The restau- rant’s second Plano location is located at 3401 Midway Road. Salad and Go is also set to open locations in Lewisville and Addison in April. The drive-thru chain o ers a variety of salads, wraps, teas, co ees and more. 480-400-0634. www.saladandgo.com 2 Grimaldi’s Pizzeria opened its rst Plano location March 24, according to a press release from the company. The restaurant is located in The Shops at Legacy at 5727 Legacy Drive, Ste. 110. The restaurant includes an indoor dining space, a full bar, a dedicated to-go area and a 50-seat patio space, according to the release. The new Plano location is the ninth Grimaldi’s in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Grimaldi’s serves New York-style brick-oven pizza and calzones with vari- ous toppings as well as salads, desserts, cocktails and more. 972-782-4212. www.grimaldispizzeria.com 3 Karak Chai & Knafeh opened March 16 in Plano at 6832 Coit Road, Ste. 200, ac- cording to a spokesperson for the compa- P L A N O P K W Y . DNT TOLL

ny. The eatery o ers a variety of chai teas, pastries, doughnuts, fresh juices and de- li-style sandwiches. One of its specialties is knafeh, a pastry dough lled with soft cheese and pistachio nuts. 214-501-3363. www.karakchaiandknafeh.com 4 Serendipity Labs opened in April at 7950 Legacy Drive, Ste. 400. The location has meeting spaces designed for everything from intimate business gatherings to corporate events, according to its website. Serendipity Labs o ers private oces, team oce spaces and coworking spaces designed to support full-time and hybrid work styles. Each one o ers a full-service, hospitality-trained sta , including guest reception. Plano is Serendipity Labs’ second site in North Texas, and the rm has locations around the world. 972-703-5205. bit.ly/41r45 5 First United Bank held a grand opening event for its new Plano location starting April 4, according to a press release from the company. The bank’s new location is at 3930 Dallas Parkway. Some features of the building include an open oor plan with a glass-walled workspace, a large community room available for meetings and events for customers or organizations, a technology table, Wi-Fi, and relaxed group seating. 15THST.

First United Bank was established in 1900 and has more than 95 bank, mortgage and insurance locations throughout Oklahoma and Texas. 469-606-6222. www.rstunitedbank.com 6 Steam Dumpling opened April 6 at 3131 Custer Road, Ste. 182, in Plano, according to a spokesperson for the restaurant. Some popular menu items include steamed pork and cabbage dump- lings, pan-fried shrimp and pork dump- lings, pan-fried vegetable dumplings, and more, according to the Steam Dumpling website. The restaurant also features an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs prepare food. 806-608-8899. www.steamdumplingplano.com PGBT TOLL 7 UrgentVet opened in west Plano on March 30, according to a press release from the company. The clinic is located in Willow Bend Market at 5960 W. Parker Road, Ste. 224. UrgentVet aims to bridge the gap between primary practices and emergency vets by providing pets “relief for mild illnesses or minor injuries” while remaining open for nights, weekends and holidays, according to founder Dr. Jim Dobies. UrgentVet also has loca- tions in Frisco, Richardson and Prosper. 469-609-8400. https://urgentvet.com/ location/west-plano 1 4 T H ST.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

COURTESY GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA

COMING SOON 8 A pair of new Everbowl locations are set to open later this year in Pla- no, according to lings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The rst of two locations set to open in Plano later this year will be located at A 5809 Preston Road, Ste. 584, with construction on the building set to nish on May 8. The second is planned for B 7000 Independence Parkway, Ste. 112, and is set to nish construction June 15. The “craft superfood” restau- rant o ers a variety of smoothie bowls, smoothies and co ees, according to the company’s website. www.everbowl.com RELOCATIONS 9 K Beauty Supply , located at 3428 K Ave., Plano, is moving to 1010 E. Parker Road, Ste. 160, Plano. K Beauty Supply is set to be open by May, according to a spokesperson for the company. The store

Exceptional care at an affordable price! Vetsavers. Saving Pets | Saving Money ®

TWO LOCATIONS PRESTON RD JUST SOUTH OF GEORGE BUSH HWY 19009 Preston Rd #100, Dallas 75252 HEBRON & OLD DENTON RD 1025 W Hebron Pkwy #137, Carrollton 75010

SPAY OR NEUTER (6 months or under)

DENTAL CLEANING $199 Price shown does not include charges for take home medication, pre-operative blood work, extraction and oral surgery, dental radiographs, endodontic/ortho- dontic procedures.

DOG VACCINES & EXAM PACKAGE Comprehensive exam, Rabies, DA2PP, Bordetella, Leptospirosis $99

CAT VACCINES & EXAM PACKAGE

$179 (Under 20 lbs) $199 (21-40 lbs) $219 (41-60 lbs) $259 (61-80 lbs)

Comprehensive Exam, Rabies, FVRCP, FELV $99

Prices shown do not include charges for take home medication, pre-operative blood work, retained testicles, in-heat, or pregnant.

vetsaverspethospital.com CALL 972-939-0900

Not valid with any other vaccine or wellness packages. Limit two (2) per visit FREE NEW PATIENT EXAM

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

COMPILED BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY & TERI WEBSTER

Country Burger serves cheeseburgers, fries and a variety of other items.

TERI WEBSTER¨COMMUNITY IMPACT

sells wigs, hair pieces, cosmetics, salon equipment and other beauty supplies. 972-422-2288 10 Pediatric Associates of Dallas is relocating to a new Plano oce this spring, according to a spokesperson for the company. The oce will be moving from 5800 Communications Parkway to 7110 Preston Road, Ste. 400. Con- struction on the new oce was set to nish in late March, according to a ling with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Pediatric Associates of Dallas o ers a wide range of pediatric care and services. The company also has a second location in Dallas. 214-369-7661. https://paddallas.com NEW OWNERSHIP 11 Bella Italia Ristorante in Plano has reopened under new ownership. The restaurant located at 3948 Legacy Drive reopened in February, according to new owner Frank Lokaj. Bella Italia serves a variety of Italian food, including pasta, pizza, chicken, soups, salads and more. The restaurant originally opened in 2019 and was closed for an extended period starting in late 2022. 469-298-0731. www.bellaitaliaristorante.com FEATURED IMPACT ANNIVERSARY Country Burger is celebrating 50 years in Plano throughout the year, and General Manager Jason McNeely credits caring about customers and sticking to the basics—including providing the freshest ingredients—for a half-century of success. “Some of the people have grown up eating here,” McNeely said. “If they do move away, when they come back, they say, ‘If I’m going to Plano, I’ve got to get a Country Burger.’” The restaurant has two locations in Plano at A 3115 W. Parker Road and B 1700 14th St., and one in Murphy. Country Burger oers a variety of cheeseburgers and fries along with

other items, including grilled or fried chicken sandwiches, pulled pork sandwiches and more. 972-422-5092. www.countryburgertexas.com

jaspersrichardson.com | (214)-716-2610 |

INDEPENDENCE PKWY.

PARKER RD.

JUPITER RD.

14TH ST.

Serendipity Labs

TAFFY PAVEY¨COMMUNITY IMPACT

Steam Dumpling

COURTESY STEAM DUMPLING

PLANO SOUTH EDITION • APRIL 2023

DNT TOLL

SOUTH IMPACTS .

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

LEGACYDR.

from the company. The storage facility is located at 7080 W. Plano Parkway. The storage facility features 1,070 tempera- ture-controlled, rentable units, accord- ing to the release. The facility also has packing supplies, including boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape. 972-905-9530. www.allstorageonline.com/location/ USA/TX/Plano/all-plano-parkway 4 Prime Psychiatry opened in March at 6221 Chapel Hill Blvd., Ste. 300, in Plano, according to a spokesperson for the company. Among the services oered by the practice are psychiatric evaluations, medication management, “telepsychiatry” via video conferencing, addiction treat- ment, disability evaluations, and counsel- ing for individuals and couples, according to its website. Prime Psychiatry also has a location in Frisco. 469-840-2948. www.primepsychiatrymd.com 5 Wink Eye Doctors opened in Plano in late March, according to a spokesperson for the practice. The oce is attached to the Walmart at 425 Coit Road. Wink Eye Doctors oers eye exams for chil- dren and adults, ttings for glasses and contacts, dry eye management, Lasik surgery consultations, and more. Wink Eye Doctors’ optometrists have been providing eye care in the Plano area for 22 years. The oce accepts walk-ins, and appointments can also be scheduled over the phone or online. 469-708-9393. https://winkeyedoc.com

DNT TOLL

SPRING CREEK PKWY.

SOUTH PLANO

CHAPEL HILL BLVD.

PARKERRD.

PARKBLVD.

15THST.

4THST.

PGBT TOLL

MAP NOT TO SCALE

NOW OPEN 1 Salata opened in Plano in February, according to a spokesperson for the company. The new restaurant is located at 1801 Preston Road, Plano. The eatery is a fast-casual salad kitchen chain that specializes in various styles of salads and wraps that can be customized with more

than 50 dierent toppings, according to Salata’s website. Salata has an existing store in The Shops at Legacy development in Plano. 844-725-2821. www.salata.com 2 Plano Shopping Co-Op opened its doors March 18, according to co-owner Chelsea Green. The store is located at 1001 E. 15th St., Ste. 200. Plano Co-Op features both a bookstore called Biblio-

bar and a vintage clothing store called Vintage Gnomey. The store will also host pop-up shops and art events. Plano Co-Op is open from Thursday-Saturday and is scheduled to host a grand open- ing event this spring. 214-287-5237. www.instagram.com/planocoop 3 All Storage opened in Plano in mid-March, according to a press release

512-232-5000 EdServices@austin.utexas.edu

After the storm damage is done, what’s next? If severe winds, hail or heavy rains affect your home or business, you should have your roof inspected as quickly as possible. It’s important to avoid the possiblity of further damage to your home. It’s that time of season... again!

E nroll anytime in UT's online high school courses to catch up or get ahead. Full-time d iploma p rogram and single courses available including Honors and A P TM subjects .

We build integrity into every roof.

Call PEAK today! 972-731-7663 Located at 6841 Ash Street in downtown Frisco

For more informatio n visit highschool.utexas.edu /hs_courses

peakroofingconstruction.com CHECK MY GOOD STANDING AT HaagCertifiedInspector.com 2023 2022 - MEMBER

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

COMPILED BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY & TERI WEBSTER

Salata

Plano Shopping Co-Op

COURTESY SALATA

COURTESY PLANO SHOPPING CO¤OP

COMING SOON 6 Franklin the Helper Children’s Books LLC will open in mid-April in The Shops at Willow Bend, 6121 W. Park Blvd. The store will carry children’s books by Franklin C. Edwards, the author of a series of “Franklin the Helper” books designed to encourage kids to overcome social obstacles, such as bullying and racism. The store will also of- fer writing workshops for kids and adults, said Demetre Bivins, Edwards’ mother and operations manager. 469-793-4296. www.franklinthehelper.com 7 Frost Bank held a groundbreaking event for construction on a new nancial center in Plano on March 17. The new bank will be located at 600 E. 15th St. and is set to include a new bank building and drive-thru. Construction on the new center is set to nish Aug. 31, according to a ling with the Texas Department of Licensing

and Regulation. The new location is part of Frost Bank’s expansion in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, which began in 2021 and includes plans for 28 new locations in the

TERI WEBSTER¡COMMUNITY IMPACT Plano’s Harrington Library celebrated recent renovations on April 2. FEATURED IMPACT RENOVATIONS

area. www.frostbank.com NAME CHANGE

rooms and more. 972-941-7175. www.plano.gov/1001/ Harrington-Library

Plano’s Harrington Library showed o its new look at an April 2 grand opening celebration after a completed $5 million renovation project. Library Manager Melissa Perez Shadowens called the renovations “timeless.” The library is located at 1501 18th St. Among the library’s upgrades is a renovated children’s area with support pillars made to look like trees, an area geared for teenagers, six new study

8 Pettito Puppy opened in December under a new name. The business, located at 6509 W. Park Blvd., was formerly called Doggie House Pet Shop, according to a spokesperson for the company. The com- pany oers healthy, ethically raised, small puppies for sale from reputable, person- ally vetted breeders. Those interested in buying a new puppy can schedule a time to come in and interact with the puppy over the phone or on Pettito Puppy’s website. The business also allows walk-ins, according to its website. 469-676-3376. www. pettitodallas.com

PARKER RD.

PARKER BLVD.

TIME TO GRILL! HOURS

USDA Prime or Wagyu Brisket Offer good throughout May 13th. Present printed or digital copy at time of purchase. $2.00 per Lb. OFF

TUESDAY - FRIDAY 10-6 SATURDAY 9-5

W. Parker Rd.

SAUSAGE - SMOKING WOODS 1301 W. PARKER RD., SUITE #100, PLANO, TX | 972-633-5593

PLANO SOUTH EDITION • APRIL 2023

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

TODO LIST

April & May events

MAY 06

CELEBRATE ASIAN CULTURE HAGGARD PARK

Asian food, fun and music for the entire family are on tap for the 19th year of Plano AsiaFest. The event features numerous cultural demonstrations, performances and vendors. Food vendors will be selling Thai, Chinese, Indian, Japanese and American food. Attendees have the chance to view and purchase items from various cultures. Other activities include martial arts demonstrations and various kids events. 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Free (admission). Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St. https://bit.ly/3KZFCg0

COURTESY CITY OF PLANO

MAY 05 ATTEND A TEDDY BEAR PICNIC Children can bring their favorite bear or stued animal for a Teddy bear picnic at the farm. The event, geared for children ages 2-5, includes story time in the schoolhouse, a pretend tea party and a ukulele sing-along with their bears. Participants are encouraged to bring a snack or lunch. 10 a.m.-noon. $15 per child, $5 per adult. Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W. 15th St., Plano. https://bit.ly/3ZBJWHi 06 SALT THE RIM Plano’s third annual margarita tasting celebration is set for May 6 at McCall Plaza. The event, which features live music and dance performances, is free to attend and open to all. To vote in the margarita competition, participants must be age 21 or older, and purchase a tasting ticket for $25, which includes samples of each competing margarita. 6-10:30 p.m. Free (admission). 998 E. 15th St., Plano. DISCOVER WORLDCLASS GEMS World-class mineral, gem and fossil dealers will oer items for sale during Texas Mineral and Fossil Plano. Rocks, minerals, fossils, polished stones and gemstone jewelry will be among the items available for sale. Free (admission and parking). Event runs from May 19-21, PlanoEventCenter,2000E.SpringCreekParkway. https://bit.ly/3T6Yk84 19 THROWBACK TO EARLY 2000S The Pop 2000 Tour features https://bit.ly/3LtO1Jj 19 THROUGH 21 music from the early 2000s. Chris Kirkpatrick of ‘N Sync is the host, and featured performances include artists O-Town, Ryan Cabrera and LFO. Those age 21 and up seeking an elevated experience can reserve a Balcony VIP Lounge space, which features dedicated cocktail service. 8 p.m. $25-$660. Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall, 7800 Windrose Ave. https://bit.ly/3lh32DP

COMPILED BY TERI WEBSTER APRIL 25 FLEX SOME SUPERHERO KNOWLEDGE Legacy Hall is hosting a Marvel Universe trivia night. Avenger bus are invited to dress up in their best costume for a chance to win one of three Hall Pass prizes at a Marvel Universe trivia event. One ticket is required and covers a team of up to six superheroes. Space is limited. Each team will use their own smart device, such as a phone, tablet or laptop, to send in answers from their table. For larger teams, a large device, such as a tablet, will be easier to play on. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. 7 p.m. $30. Lexus Box Garden, 7800 Windrose Ave. https://bit.ly/3LiSrmi 29 HONOR IBD PATIENTS The Chron’s and Colitis Foundation is hosting a “Take Steps” walk that will honor patients coping with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which are known as inammatory bowel disease, or IBD. According to organizers, every step taken and dollar raised will help create awareness, fund research and show everyone touched by this disease that they are not alone, according to the foundation’s website. The event starts at 8:30 a.m., and an opening ceremony begins at 9:45 a.m. The opening ceremony will honor patients caregivers and supporters. Free (admission). Red Tail Pavillion, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway. bit.ly/3olZRMf 30 LISTEN TO A FAMILY CONCERT The Courtyard Theatre presents “A Night at the Ball,” a concert that features the Plano Symphony Orchestra, a brass quintet and percussion, marionettes, and dancers. Kids will have the chance to learn about classical music and instruments, and hear music from “Beauty and the Beast,” “Star Wars,” and others. 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. $12-$18. Courtyard Theater, 1509 H Ave., Plano. https://bit.ly/3J6wOmI

Unmatched Academic Results! Visit ChallengerSchool.com to learn more.

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic classes for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. Legacy (PS–K) (469) 573-0077 6700 Communications Parkway, Plano Independence (PS–G1) (469) 642-2000 10145 Independence Parkway, Plano

eleating 60 years

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

Find more or submit Plano events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.

PLANO SOUTH EDITION • APRIL 2023

TRANSPORTATION UPDATES

SRT TOLL

PLANO

SPRING CREEK PKWY.

WINDHAVEN PKWY.

PARKERRD.

1D 1E

1B 1C

PARKBLVD.

Joan Jett and The Blackheart • X Ambassadors • Judah & the Lion Little River Band • Jimmie Vaughan & The Tilt-A-Whirl Band The Romancs • Joshua Ray Walker • Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute C.J. Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band Joshua Ray Walker Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute The Peterson Brothers • David Wilcox • Bidi Bidi Band Squeezebox Bandits • Beat Root Revival • King Margo Beth Nielsen Chapman • Gabe Lee wildflowerfestival.com MAY 19-21 Galan Park Urban Center • Richardson,Texas

15THST.

1 4 T HST.

P L A N O P K W Y .

DNT TOLL

PGBT TOLL

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

pavement removal and new pavement improvements. The project’s completion date was moved back from February to April due to minor weather delays. Timeline: October 2022-April 2023 Cost: $1.5 million 4 Jupiter Road repairs Crews will be making pavement and side- walk repairs on Jupiter Road from SH 190 to 14th Street in both directions. One lane will remain closed to trac at all times, with a second lane to be closed daily between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The project’s completion date was moved back from March to May. Timeline: August 2022-May 2023 Cost: $500,000 Funding source: city of Plano 5 Parkwood Boulevard pavement and sidewalk repairs Crews will be making pavement and side- walk repairs on Parkwood Boulevard from Park Boulevard to Windhaven Parkway in both directions. One lane will remain closed to trac at all times, with a second lane to be closed daily between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Timeline: October 2022-April 2023 Cost: $550,000 Funding source: city of Plano 6 Parker Road pavement and sidewalk repairs Crews will be making pavement and side- walk repairs on multiple sections of Parker Road. The repairs will be from A the west city limits to Preston Road in both direc- tions, and from B the eastern city limit at Alma Drive in both directions. One lane will remain closed to trac at all times, with a second lane to be closed daily. Timeline: July 2022-October 2023 Cost: $12.4 million Funding source: city of Plano

COMPILED BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

ONGOING PROJECTS 1 Park Boulevard intersection improvements A project to improve ve Park Boulevard intersections, including at A Coit Road, B Custer Road, C Alma Drive, D K Avenue and

E Jupiter Road, will widen the roads and realign intersections. Crews have complet- ed work at the Coit, Jupiter, Custer and Alma intersections. Work began on signal improvements in October at the K Avenue location with paving improvements at that intersection set to nish in May. Timeline: October 2020-May 2023 Co s t: $4.2 million Funding sources: city of Plano, Regional Toll Revenue, Collin County 2 Plano Parkway at Independence Parkway intersection improvements A project to improve this intersection will widen the road, improve signals, update pedestrian facilities and add full-trac capacity to all four approaches at this intersection, including dual left-turn lanes and dedicated right-turn-only lanes. The completion date for the project was moved back from January to April due to minor weather delays. Timeline: August 2022-April 2023 Cost: $1.8 million Funding source: city of Plano 3 Spring Creek Parkway at US 75 turn lane improvement A project to improve this intersection will add a dedicated right-turn lane in the westbound direction approaching US 75 along Spring Creek Parkway and modify the through lanes to better align through the intersection. Signal improvements, and updated pedestrian facilities and side- walks are also included. Crews have begun

Join our team and help kids bloom!

Therapist jobs are popping up at all of our hives as we try to meet the growing demand for expert ABA therapy services for kids with autism.

If you love working with kids in a fun, caring environment with great benefits, apply today.

LEARN MORE!

Full-time, part-time and seasonal openings available! Become an RBT on the job. APPLY TODAY!

ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF MARCH 22. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT PLNNEWSCOMMUNITYIMPACT.COM.

972.312.8733

enroll@behaviorexchange.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

AT THE CAPITOL

News from the 88th legislative session

QUOTE OF NOTE

Texas Senate approves package for $16.5B in property tax relief

TAX RELIEF TRIO Three bills aimed at property tax relief have passed in the Texas Senate. Senate Bill 3 • Increases the portion of a home’s value that cannot be taxed from $40,000 to $70,000 • Increases exemption for people over age 65 and the disabled from $10,000 to $30,000 Senate Bill 4 • Cuts school property tax rates by $0.07 per $100 valuation • Has the state of Texas pay school districts at least $5.38 billion to make up for lost revenue Senate Bill 5 • Increases the portion of a business’ property that cannot be taxed from $2,500 to $25,000 • Provides businesses with a 20% tax credit for inventory and property Texas House, which crafted its own property tax relief package. If both chambers and the governor pass either package, Texas voters will decide the matter in November. ? WHAT’S NEXT? The bills were sent to the

NUMBER TO KNOW That is how many Texans were aected by the end of emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benets in March, according to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. 3.6M UPDATES FROM LOCAL LEGISLATORS SEN. SARAH ECKHARDT, DAUSTIN, COMMENTING ON SENATE BILL 15, WHICH, IF PASSED, WOULD REQUIRE COLLEGE STUDENTS TO COMPETE ON SPORTS TEAMS BASED ON THEIR SEX ASSIGNED AT BIRTH “TRANS ATHLETES IN COLLEGIATE COMPETITIONS ARE RARE. WHEN THEY DO SEEK TO COMPETE, THE NCAA HAS ALREADY EXHIBITED AND WILL CONTINUE TO EXHIBIT THE EXPERTISE TO LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD ON A CASE BYCASE BASIS.”

BY HANNAH NORTON

bill would increase the portion of a home’s value that cannot be taxed from $40,000 to $70,000, which lawmakers have said would save the average homeowner $341 annually. SB 4, which is also by Bettencourt, would cut school property tax rates by $0.07 per $100 valuation. The bill states Texas would provide school districts with at least $5.38 billion to make up for the lost revenue. SB 5 was led by Parker, a freshman senator. The bill is intended to save business owners money by increasing the business personal property tax exemption—or the portion of a busi- ness’ personal property that cannot be taxed—from $2,500 to $25,000. Business owners would also receive a 20% credit for the taxes they pay on inventory and property. Parker said the goal of SB 5 is to give money back to Texans. The bills have been sent to the Texas House.

$120M set for state internet expansion package, Senate Bill 3, would impact the state’s homestead exemption, which is a reduction in a portion of a home’s value for tax purposes. The In a unanimous vote, Texas senators passed a $16.5 billion property tax relief package on March 22. Cutting property taxes for home- owners and businesses has been listed as a top priority for Republicans this session, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Gov. Greg Abbott. The package aims to save Texans money on their property tax bills by increasing the state homestead exemption, cutting school district property tax rates and limiting how much businesses can be taxed for their personal property. Sen. Paul Bettencourt, RHouston, authored two of the bills alongside Sen. Tan Parker, RFlower Mound. The rst component of the

SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE COMMUNITY IMPACT

TxDOT seeks input on statewide 2050 transportation plan

GETTING THE GRANT Local governments, school districts and

ANGELA PAXTON McKinney Republican Elected: 2019

internet service providers across Texas have until May 5 to apply to receive a portion of $120 million in grants to expand broadband service. April 3 May 5 After May 5 grant applications opened application window ends the Texas Broadband Development Oce will post submitted applications online. Texans will have 30 days to challenge the eligibility of any applications before the oce makes its nal decisions.

BY HANNAH NORTON

Senate Bill 8 Co-authored by Paxton, the bill would allow parents to use state funding—through an education savings account program, commonly called private school vouchers—to enroll students in private schools. Eligible students need to be enrolled in a public school and have attended public school for at least 90% of the school year. SB 8 was approved April 6 and will now be sent to the House of Representatives. Senate Bill 13 Authored by Paxton and eight other senators, the bill creates “local school library advisory councils” that will oversee any existing and new material in school libraries. Parents would also be able to see what their child checks out from the library. SB 13 was approved April 13 and will now be sent to the House of Representatives. Sign up for our newsletter at communityimpact.com for daily updates throughout the session. SUBSCRIBE TODAY

The Texas Broadband Develop- ment Oce will award $120 million in grants to governments, school districts and internet providers bringing broadband access to underserved communities, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said. Applications opened April 3 for the Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas program. Eligible projects must be designed to provide inter- net service that “reliably meets or exceeds” speeds of 100 megabits per second. The application will be open until May 5, at which point all eligible applications will be posted online for public review, according to Hegar’s oce. The Broadband Development Oce was formed in 2021 to create a broadband development plan and publish a map highlighting areas that are eligible for broadband expansion, among other initiatives.

The Texas Department of Transpor- tation is turning to local residents as it works on its long-range transportation plan, Connecting Texas 2050. Through May, Texans can attend open houses in their communities or access an online meeting room to share their ideas about the future of Texas transportation and provide input on department goals. According to TxDOT ocials, Connecting Texas 2050 is aimed at making the state’s transportation system as safe, reliable and resilient as possible. The project is ongoing and will be updated every four years. In-person meetings will be held until May 4 in 13 of TxDOT’s 25 dis- tricts. TxDOT ocials also said there is a plan to host a statewide public hearing early next year, before the plan is adopted in summer 2024. For more information, visit www. txdot.gov.

For more information and to access the application form, click on the QR code:

SOURCES: OFFICE OF THE TEXAS COMPTROLLER, TEXAS BROADBAND DEVELOPMENT OFFICECOMMUNITY IMPACT

“This infrastructure is the interstate highway system of this century, and ensuring Texans have access to reliable, high-speed inter- net is critical for Texas’ continued economic growth and prosperity,” Hegar said in the release.

PLANO SOUTH EDITION • APRIL 2023

2023

LOCAL VOTER GUIDE GUIDE Candidates and information for local elections

Voters in Collin County may cast a ballot at any polling location during early voting and on election day. Denton County voters may cast a ballot at any polling location for early voting but must vote at their assigned precinct on election day. WHERE TO VOTE

DATES TO KNOW

April 24 First day of early voting April 25 Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) May 2 Last day of early voting

May 6 Election day May 6 Last day to receive ballot by mail (or May 8 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Plano City Council, Place 3

COLLEEN AGUILAREPSTEIN

SAMPLE BALLOT

*Incumbent

Occupation: Retired high school teacher Relevant experience: Plano Board of Adjustment, Plano Citizen’s Co- alition (VP of leadership and development), voter registration drive coordinator, election judge and election clerk, GOTV Committee, Resolutions Committee member for the County party, and more http://colleenforplano.com

Place 7 Katherine Chan Goodwin Simon Salinas Cody Weaver* COLLIN COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

PLANO CITY COUNCIL Place 3 Rick Horne Colleen Aguilar-Epstein Place 5 Shelby Williams* Brett Cooper PLANO ISD BOARD OF TRUSTEES Place 4 Tarrah Lantz Lydia Ortega Margaret Turner-Carrigan Place 5 Greg Jubenville

RICK HORNE

Occupation: Retired business development manager Relevant experience: Plano Balloon Festival board, Plano Parks and Recreation board, Plano Planning and Zoning Commission http://rickhorne4plano.org

Place 1 Fred Moses* Megan Wallace Place 2 Jay Saad* Scott Coleman Philip Timmons Place 3 Stacey Donald Cathie Alexander Joe Minissale

Plano City Council, Place 5

SHELBY WILLIAMS*

Occupation: Marketing agency vice president Relevant experience: Plano City Council (2018-present) https://shelbyhwilliams.com

Michael Cook Khalid Ishaq

BRETT COOPER

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

Occupation: Adolecent medicine physician and medical educator Relevant experience: Texas Medical Association board of trustees, Dallas County Medical Society board of directors, board of censor, multiple committees for the Society for Adolescent Health and Med- icine, Texas Medical Association and Texas Pediatric Society https://cooper4tx.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

2023

LOCAL VOTER GUIDE

COMPILED BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

WHERE TO VOTE Candidates were sent questionnaires, asked to keep responses under 75 words and avoid attacking opponents. The full questionnaire can be found at communityimpact.com.

Incumbent

SOURCES: COLLIN COUNTY, DENTON COUNTY¦COMMUNITY IMPACT

Plano ISD board of trustees, Place 5

Plano ISD board of trustees, Place 4

MICHAEL COOK

TARRAH LANTZ

Occupation: Local real estate investor Relevant experience: Special Education Advisory Board for Plano ISD, Plano ISD Future Funding Commission, Collin County NAACP, Plano West Rotary member, Hu£man School Based Improvement Committee, Plano Chamber of Commerce member and more http://cookforplanoisd.com

Occupation: Full-time community volunteer Relevant experience: Leadership Plano (Class 39), Plano ISD Council of PTAs, Plano ISD Education Foundation board, Plano ISD Future Forward Task Force, Plano ISD Teacher of the Year judging panel, multiple Plano ISD committees https://tarrahlantz.com

LYDIA ORTEGA

KHALID ISHAQ

Occupation: Retired economics professor emeritus Relevant experience: Professor and department chair for 30 years, co-founder of several nonprots, served on a corporate board http://lydiaortega4plano.com

Occupation: Technology company owner Relevant experience: East Plano Islamic Center (board of directors), PISD Diversity Advisory Council, PISD Career and Technical Education Board, PISD Special Education Advisory Committee, PISD Bond Task Force, PISD Leadership and Ambassador Program, and more http://ishaq4pisd.com

GREG JUBENVILLE

MARGARET TURNERCARRIGAN

Occupation: Real estate/construction Relevant experience: Over 30 years of business experience in real estate/construction, board and volunteer positions with multiple nonprots http:// jubenville4planoisd.com

Occupation: Certied hearing ocer; retired attorney, mediator and educator ocer Relevant experience: PISD volunteer, PTA board member, North Dallas Suburban Foundation (president), Delta Sigma Theta Sorori- ty Inc. (chapter president) and more http://mtc4pisd.com

Plano ISD board of trustees, Place 7

KATHERINE CHAN GOODWIN Occupation: Dispute resolution consultant Relevant experience: PISD PTA board member, PISD Diversity Advisory Committee, Council of PTAs Antiracism Committee, ArtCentre of Plano board, Plano West Rotary board and more http://goodwinforplanoisd.com

SIMON SALINAS Occupation: Substitute educator

CODY WEAVER*

Occupation: Real estate broker Relevant experience: Plano ISD board of trustees (2018-present), Plano ISD School Safety and Security Committee, PISD Board Legislative Subcommittee, Collin County Juvenile Detention Center Foundation Fund (founder) and more. https://codyweaver.com

Relevant experience: PISD and Collin College graduate, certied pharmacy technician, substitute educator, PISD Diversity Advisory Committee, LULAC

member, PISD volunteer http://simonforpisd.com

Luxury designer apparel and accessories LABELS DESIGNER CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

K RUPA D OWNS L AW

So many Evenʦ So many Lks We ‘ve got your o at Wear LABELS HAS ALL YOUR FAVE DESIGNERS CHANEL ~ PRADA ~ GUCCI

C HRISTENE “C HRIS ” K RUPA D OWNS , ATTORNEY WILLS | ESTATE PLANNING GUARDIANSHIP | PROBATE LAW

214.556.3862

Online Store | In-Store Boutique | Couture Concierge 972.867.3366 5809 Preston Rd, Ste 590, Plano, TX @labelsdcb labelsdcb.com

Spring Creek Pkwy.

PLANO SOUTH EDITION • APRIL 2023

CITY & SCHOOLS

News from Plano, Plano ISD & Collin County

City looking to apply for gondola system

District begins process that will align mascots, colors across grades 912

BY TERI WEBSTER

oors, updating signs and rede- signing high schools so they match senior highs. Funding will be provided through existing annual budgets and projects approved under the November 2022 bond election. The new alignment will be as follows: UNIFYING MASCOTS Wildcats (maroon and white) • Plano Senior High School (11-12) • Clark High School (9-10) • Vines High School (9-10) Panthers (black and gold) • Plano East Senior High School (11-12) • McMillen High School (9-10) • Williams High School (9-10) Wolves (blue, white and black) • Plano West Senior High School (11-12) • Jasper High School (9-10) • Shepton High School (9-10)

PLANO ISD The school district will begin unifying mascots and colors across grades 9-12 starting in the fall. “Starting this fall, all 9-10 campuses are going to be vertically aligned with their senior-high counterparts,” Plano ISD Superin- tendent Theresa Williams said in a video presentation. “That means that we’re unifying our mascots, our colors and celebrating together as wildcats, panthers and wolves.” The change is partly intended to increase student engagement, student participation and create a greater sense of school pride and belonging, Williams said. Uniforms will be aligned starting in the 2023-24 school year, and facility changes will be made in phases. Changes to facilities are expected to include repainting the gym

BY TERI WEBSTER

PLANO The city is looking to move forward with an application that could bring it a gondola public transportation system. Plano City Council opted to move forward with the application for the system developed by Swyft Cities during its March 21 meeting. The appli- cation is part of a program by the North Central Texas Council of Governments that reviews emerging technologies designed to ease trac congestion. In turn, companies that are approved for the program can solicit interest from local governments. At this point, the plan is under study, but city sta will devote time to conduct a feasibility study for the gondolas, Plano Transportation Engi- neering Manager Brian Shewski said.

Plano is considering a gondola system.

RENDERING COURTESY SWYFT CITIES

Shewski said the city is considering a 2-mile area for a starter program that would include a loop around Legacy West and Legacy Town Center North. If the project moves forward, Swyft Cities’ gondolas would be part of a fee-based aerial transit system that runs on a cable system. “I’m absolutely in favor of this,” Council Member Anthony Ricciardelli said. “I think that’s a great deal to get in on the front of something that, if it does work out, could really help trac in the city.”

Plano City Council meets at 7 p.m. on April 24 and May 8. Meetings are held at 1520 K Ave., Plano, and can be streamed online. 972-941-7000. www.plano.gov MEETINGS WE COVER Plano ISD board of trustees meets at 6 p.m. on May 2 and May 16 at the PISD Administration Center, 2700 W. 15th St., Plano. 469-752-8100. www.pisd.edu HIGHLIGHTS PLANO More than 300 multifamily units are coming to the city’s downtown. Plano City Council approved a zoning change during its April 10 meeting that will see 5.2 acres of land on J Place developed into 307 multifamily units by apartment developer Trinsic Residential. The plot of land is just north of SH 190 and the Richardson border. PLANO ISD A dispute between Plano ISD and the company that constructed the district’s performing arts center has reached a proposed settlement. The terms of the agreement are not being revealed because it has not yet been nalized. The ne arts was set to open in December 2021, but the opening was delayed due to “signicant cracking as a result of poor workmanship and/ or design.”

District may add more career and technology education courses

Collin County Animal Services adoption rates Collin County tracks how many animals its shelter sees and how many are adopted each year.

Animals processed Adoptions

2k 3k 6k 4k 5k

2911 5688

5671

2786 5710

1953

BY TERI WEBSTER

2014

2016 2018 2020 2022

PLANO ISD The school district is considering adding more options for its career and technical education programs. The focus will be on preparing for high-demand, well-paying jobs, according to a presentation during the March 14 PISD board of trustees meeting. Some of the programs under con- sideration to be added or expanded include accounting and nancial services, advanced manufacturing and machinery mechanics, auto- motive, construction management, cybersecurity, reghting, hospitality and culinary arts, law enforcement, legal studies, forensics, and welding. Also under discussion are plans to continue existing programs, such as biomedical, emergency medical technician, nursing, cosmetology and education.

SOURCE: COLLIN COUNTY¤COMMUNITY IMPACT

Collin County now oering foster pet program COLLIN COUNTY Amid increasing intake numbers at the shelter, Collin County Animal Services launched a new foster program in January for dogs and cats. The new program was launched planning board to examine the county’s needs for a potential bond election to be held in November. During the Feb. 20 meeting, Com- missioner Cheryl Williams recom- mended they consider Collin County Animal Services when determining BY COLBY FARR

shortly after the Frisco Citizen Bond Committee recommended placing a $5 million bond item on the May 6 general election ballot that would fund a municipal animal shelter. The item did not make it to the ballot after Frisco City Council ultimately decided against the committee’s recommendations. In addition, Collin County Commissioners Court directed the

the potential bond propositions. “Frisco just chose not to put [an] animal shelter on their bond, and as our population grows, so does our animal population,” she said. “We don’t have [the] capacity we need there.” To learn more about fostering, volunteering or adopting, email animalshelter@collincountytx.gov.

PLANO 5930 West Park Blvd (972) 250-0500

ALLEN 1839 N Central Expressway (972) 908-3488

EAST PLANO 3404 N Central Expressway (972) 423-6688

COIT ROAD 1453 Coit Rd (972) 867-2821

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32

communityimpact.com