March 2024

In this issue, meet your future new neighbors, Barbara and Larry Glazer. Find out what’s new in Kristen’s Korner. What’s a COI? COI novices, get the answer in this month’s installment of “Dear Rachel.” Plus, get the latest on construction, catch up on recent VIP events, and get those calendars back out to save the dates for exciting events to come!

Perhaps you know someone who’d be ideal for The Outlook at Windhaven?
If so, let us know at (972) 996-3887 or info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org and get rewarded now—and in the future! Click here to learn more.


Meet Your Future Neighbors

Barbara and Larry Glazer

Barbara and Larry grew up in very different parts of the country, she in the Rocky Mountains of Denver, Colorado and he in Fort Worth, Texas. They both attended The University of Texas at Austin, where they met in 1958. The two married after Larry graduated. Larry went into the Army right away and thus their married life began with a post at Fort Lee in Petersburg, Virginia. Sixty-two years and many adventures later, Larry and Barbara are excited to be embarking on a new one: their move to The Outlook at Windhaven this fall.

Larry and Barbara have three children, two daughters and a son, and six grandchildren. “They have absolutely been the focal point of our life and have given us much pleasure along the way,” says Barbara. One of their daughters lives in London with her British husband, whom she met at Harvard Business School, and their three (British!) grandsons; their son, a lawyer, and his family live in Short Hills, New Jersey; and their second daughter lives closer by in Denton, where she is a professor at The University of North Texas. Barbara and Larry love to travel, having toured Europe many times over the years. A favorite, most recent trip was to Australia and New Zealand. They are very excited about a forthcoming trip to San Francisco this spring to welcome their first great-grandchild!

Life in the army, graduate school, and Larry’s career led to the couple’s many moves in their first few decades together. Although he initially thought he would be a history professor, Larry changed course and attended Harvard Business School in 1964. Barbara gave birth to their first child in Boston while he was in school there. Baby number two was born in Houston and number three in Fort Worth.

Barbara laughs that she got her “M.R.S.” degree at UT and “did it in just two years!” She spent years being an active stay-at-home mom and loved every minute of it. She volunteered at her kids’ schools and eased into many volunteer experiences as they got older. One of the opportunities closest to her heart involved helping establish Community Homes for Adults, Inc. (CHAI) – a number of group homes giving people with developmental disabilities an opportunity to live a full independent life. She has been involved with this organization for 30 years, eventually taking on the position of Board President. She served on several local boards through the years as well.

After spending time with a beloved cousin who had Alzheimer’s disease, Barbara saw a need for respite for caregivers taking care of their loved ones afflicted by this disease. Ten years ago, she began a volunteer program called Caregiver’s Day Out, with 17 amazing volunteers. Participants would be dropped off for hours of entertainment as their caregivers had a break from their full-time caregiver duties. COVID forced the end of this program.

Larry did consulting work for Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu and Booz Allen Hamilton. He helped open a Booz Allen office in Dallas in 1966. After a number of years in the consulting world, Larry went to work with Ross Perot and his EDS team. He did a stint in New York City on Wall Street for four years. The family moved back to Dallas in 1975, where Larry continued his work with Perot. Eventually, he changed course and bought Ducky Bob’s party and tent rental company, which he ran for 15 years. His business was then acquired by an investment group and Larry retired. He then became involved in various volunteer/board of directors activities, working for Habitat for Humanity for ten years, serving on the SMU Business School Associate Board and on the finance committee for Barbara’s community homes.

One of Larry’s and Barbara’s favorite volunteer moments was when they were recruited to be clowns for the Neiman Marcus Children’s Hospital Christmas Parade. Their job was to entertain the kids who had arrived early for the parade and keep their attention until the parade began. Barbara used a dog puppet for her duties while Larry, who flunked out of juggling, played a toy guitar. Referring to their volunteer activities, they agree that as much as they gave, they received even more in return.

For fun, the Glazers spent summers in Aspen. Being from that area, Barbara says her “soul is in the mountains.” They’ve enjoyed spending time there with their children and grandchildren over the years. Larry was an avid golfer until his back no longer allowed him to play. His latest sport is weekly poker! Seminars and current events keep him busy. Barbara plays in a 20-year-old Canasta game and enjoys reading, yoga, and being part of a “lunch bunch” group of “girls” for over 30 years.

A good friend introduced the Glazers to The Outlook. Their friend’s plans to move made Barbara and Larry consider the future, even though they are in good shape now (living with three flights of stairs!). Surely it will bring some lifestyle limitations, and they do not want to be a burden to their kids for their care. They visited The Outlook and picked out a place almost immediately. Knowing they have this settled makes Barbara feel secure and safe. Plus, they have relocated so many times that another move does not faze them! They have also told others about their upcoming move, and three couples are planning to move to The Outlook. Barbara says, “The more the merrier!”


Kristen Jordan

From the Executive Director

Kristen’s Korner

As we embark on the preparations to take over the commons area in the main building from the construction crew, we’re thrilled to kickstart the process of building our team for The Outlook this month. This involves organizing a job fair at the Plano Chamber of Commerce on Monday, April 15, and a career fair at Collin College on Thursday, April 18. Our goal is to seek out individuals who resonate with Forefront Living’s mission of “To make each moment matter for those we serve,” and align with our values of diversity, integrity, stewardship, and compassion. Candidates will have the opportunity to showcase instances where they have embodied these principles throughout their career. We’re eagerly anticipating not only the arrival of our residents at The Outlook but also the addition of new teammates.


FAQ: What is my new address?

5555 Windhaven Pkwy, Apt. _
Plano, TX 75024

5535 Windhaven Pkwy, Unit _
Plano, TX 75024


Brenda Thompson

Selecting the Right Real Estate Agent for Your Home Sale

www.BrendaThompsonBroker.com

Welcome back to our monthly newsletter as we continue on the exciting journey toward your move to The Outlook at Windhaven. This month, our focus is on a critical step in your transition: selecting the right real estate agent to sell your current property. As you prepare to embark on this new chapter, having the support of an experienced and dedicated real estate professional can make all the difference. Locally, activity increases in the spring and summer, so now is definitely the time to start making plans with your agent.


Move-In Planning with Dear Rachel

Rachel McGowan

Dear Abby Rachel,

I have heard you refer to a “COI” being needed for contractors and movers doing work and moving me into my new home. I don’t know what that means or why it’s necessary. Will you explain it to me?

Sincerely,
COI Novice

Dear COI Novice,

Thanks for asking about what a “COI” means for the contractors and movers helping with your transition. Let me explain it in a bit more detail.
A COI stands for Certificate of Insurance. It’s a document that shows the companies you’re hiring for your move or any work being done have their own insurance. This is really important for a couple of reasons. First off, it gives you peace of mind. If something unexpected happens, like an accident or damage, their insurance has got it covered, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs.

But it’s not just about protecting you. It also shows that the people you’re hiring are serious about their business. They’re following the rules and making sure they’re covered, which means they’re likely to be more reliable and professional.

In short, a COI is like a badge of trust for the companies you’re working with. It ensures everyone’s protected and can work together smoothly. If there’s anything more you’d like to know or if you have any concerns, I’m here to help you out.

Best wishes,
Rachel


Questions?

Do you have questions about the handbook, or a topic covered in it? If so, our Resident Services email will be the hub of Q&A. Please submit your question to  theoutlookatyourservice@nullforefrontliving.org and someone will get back to you with the 411.


Construction Corner

See the great construction progress we are making. Take a look at our most recent timelapse video as of March 2024:

In the next six weeks, The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) construction progress will include:

  • Installation of ceiling systems and finishing out of the Commons
  • Continuing finish out on first set of Independent Living (IL) residences
  • Begin drywall on second set of IL residences
  • Begin drywall and finish out on AL/MC (Assisted Living/Memory Care) residences and common spaces
  • Finish exterior façade on AL/MC building
  • Continue exterior façade finishes on IL building
  • Continue landscape and hardscape of Community Courtyard, located between Commons and AL/MC building
  • Begin landscape and hardscape in the IL Pool Courtyard

DO NOT ENTER!

As you know, The Outlook is still under construction and not open for visits. Please do not enter or drive onto the site for safety reasons. We appreciate your cooperation and can’t wait to show you the finished project. Thanks for your cooperation!


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, an educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as some photos of recent events—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Save-The-Date
for these upcoming Inside the Outlook exclusive events

Questions about any of these events? Give us a call at (972) 996-3887.


Fourth Floor Social

Thursday, April 25
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Fifth Floor Social

Thursday, May 23
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Get to know your new neighbors! Join us for Happy Hour, exclusively for folks who selected apartments on your same floor.

Thanks to our sponsors, Walpole Realty Group!

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.


Cybercrime Prevention

Tuesday, April 2
10:00 am

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Wendy Cassidy, Senior Special Agent, Cyber Fraud Task Force, Dallas Field Office, US Secret Service, will share best practices on how to protect yourself against cybercrime, as well as a brief history of the US Secret Service, and then discuss the common cybercrimes we are seeing today, including elder fraud, romance scams, and crypto fraud. She also talk about how victims are being targeted, offer recommendations to better protect yourself while online, and provide resources in the event of an incident.

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.

If you missed the presentation or are unable to attend April 2, click the link below to view a few of the presentation slides.


VIP Cottage Model Tour

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.


Other fun events to note:

Also coming in May:

Watch for invitations to Roundtable Meetings for VIPs with reservations on an apartment and the Dusty Boots Tour sneak peek of the common spaces.

Date are subject to change. Watch your email for invitations and updates.


Previous Inside The Outlook Event

Drive-Thru Donation Event

March 25


Cybercrime Prevention

March 26

Due to the popularity of this event we will be having another Cybercrime Prevention event on April 2nd.


March newsletter

On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the March 2024 On the Forefront newsletter.


Welcome Select New Outlook VIPs

Janet and JR DeLaurier

Cookie, Sharon and Leonard Sobeck

Happy Passover and Happy Easter!


February 2024

In this issue, meet your future new neighbor, Dr. Peter Sherrod. Get valuable tips on organizing important documents, records and photos. Speaking of putting things in their place, find out what to do with your other items such as clothes, electronics, furniture, and more. Find out the results from our recent “Community Life” VIP survey. Need more time to sell your home? We have the resources you need right here! Plus, get caught up on some recent events and get the details on upcoming events you won’t want to miss! 

Perhaps you know someone who’d be ideal for The Outlook at Windhaven?
If so, let us know at (972) 996-3887 or info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org and get rewarded now—and in the future! Click here to learn more.


Meet Your Future Neighbor

Dr. Peter Sherrod

Dr. Peter Sherrod was born in the small town of Robinson, Illinois (home of the Heath Bar!) but moved to St. Louis not long after. His family lived there until his father finished his surgery residency and began looking for a place to practice. A great-uncle of Peter’s who worked for Standard Oil in Iraan, Texas encouraged Peter’s father to come there as they were in great need of a physician in town. The Sherrods packed up and moved to Iraan, where Peter’s father was the only doctor, and the nearest hospital was 65 miles away. No worries—Dr. Sherrod, Sr. drove back and forth every day to do rounds in his trusty Jaguar (eventually, realizing he was the only doctor around, the police looked the other way when he sped by!). His son also grew up to be a speed enthusiast—enjoying not only fast cars but motorcycles, too.

Peter describes his childhood in Iraan fondly as “free range.” He stayed in the schools there through 6th grade, and then he and his brother went to boarding school at St. Edward’s High School (affiliated with St. Edward’s University but no longer there) in Austin. His parents eventually moved to Odessa, and Peter went there to finish school at Permian High School (of Friday Night Lights fame). Peter then attended St. Louis University and completed all the necessary coursework for medical school in just three years. Using this momentum, he was accepted and went straight to UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas rather than finish his undergraduate degree.

Peter did a rotating internship at Baylor Hospital and found that he really enjoyed pediatrics.  He joined Children’s Medical Center to start his pediatric residency but was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War shortly thereafter. When he inquired about where he would be serving, the conversation led to him being rerouted from Asia to Colorado Springs, Colorado. Turns out they needed a pediatrician at the Air Force Academy—quite the lucky break for Peter! After serving his two years, Peter returned to Dallas to finish his residency and then stayed on as Chief Resident for a year. Then, after a brief stint in Brownsville, Peter became a professor at the school where he had trained. He enjoyed teaching very much, but inflation spurred him on to seek more lucrative work.

Peter joined a pediatric practice in Plano around 1979. It was the only practice of its kind in Plano at the time, and business was booming, primarily because many young families were relocating to that area. Peter and his former wife, who was also a pediatrician, eventually opened a joint practice in Plano which they ran for forty years. Peter retired just over nine years ago on his 70th birthday and, as he puts it, “It’s been wonderful!”

Peter has two grown children: Emily, who lives in Fort Worth and is mother to Peter’s two grandchildren, and Benjamin, who lives in Dallas and works in IT. He is also very close with his former employees who are like a second family. He loves to travel and has been all over the world with “both” of his families as well as traveling solo. Some of these travels included adrenaline-inducing motorcycle tours in Europe! This summer, Peter is looking forward to a cruise on a small ship from Dublin to Reykjavik. Other than traveling, he spends much of his free time visiting with family and friends and is a voracious reader, often finishing three to four books a week.

After having lived on his own in a very large house for several years, Peter made the switch to apartment living about eight years ago after a lightning strike to his home required him to drudge through a daunting amount of home repair. A couple of years ago, he saw an advertisement for The Outlook at Windhaven and was intrigued and impressed. Very soon thereafter, he signed on as a VIP. The surety of “having a place to go, that once you’re there will take full care of you,” was very appealing. No longer having to worry about home maintenance and being able to “lock and leave” for his travels are other high points of his impending change of address.

Peter is also looking forward to the social aspects that the meals and events at The Outlook will offer. He has attended many Outlook gatherings and has enjoyed meeting other VIPs, noting that “everyone is friendly and in the same life situation as you are; we have so much in common.” He also notes that “the management people have all been fantastic, I’ve been very, very happy with them.” Having signed up early, Peter is ready and pleasantly anticipating his move to The Outlook.


Kristen Jordan

From the Executive Director

Kristen’s Korner

As we get closer to opening our cottages in March, our team continues to grow. I am happy to announce that Armando Hernandez has joined our team as Director of Building Services. In his role, not only will he be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of our community, but he will also lead our Housekeeping and Security teams.

Armando has had experience in the same role at another senior living community and has also been an Operations Manager with Lowe’s Home Improvement. He has been recognized for his customer service, team building and responsiveness and commitment to quality care. Armando enjoys spending time with his family, his wife Sheryl and 9-year-old daughter Gabriella, taking walks, trying out different restaurants, and going on day trips. They also have two rescue dogs named Dakota and Bella that are a blue heeler and dachshund mix.

Electric vehicle

The Activities Survey that Katie sent out to everyone recently had such a great response, and it was very exciting to see the results that she has shared in this newsletter. We have more cycling enthusiasts than I anticipated among our VIPs! Katie will do a fantastic job incorporating your feedback into great programming for The Outlook.

Our next survey is for those of you with Electric Vehicles (EVs) or for those in the process of purchasing one; we ask that you complete the survey using this link: https://forms.gle/VYdt1cWZvkaA4MEh8.

Everyone should have received a copy of the Resident Handbook via email and if not, please don’t hesitate to reach out so we can send one to you.

I look forward to The Outlook at Windhaven coming to life with you living and thriving your way!


Brenda Thompson

Organizing Important Documents, Records and Photos

www.BrendaThompsonBroker.com

Ensuring a Smooth Transition: Managing Your Paperwork

Welcome back to our monthly journey toward your move to The Outlook at Windhaven. This month, our focus is on organizing important documents, records and photos—a crucial step in preparing for your transition to your new home. As you navigate this process, ensuring that your paperwork is in order will contribute to a seamless and stress-free move.


Move-In Planning with Dear Rachel

Rachel McGowan

Dear Abby Rachel,

What do I do with my…clothes, electronics, furniture, and more?

St. Vincent de Paul is a volunteer organization offering direct aid to those in need across nine counties in North Texas. Their diverse range of programs and services addresses the underlying root causes of basic unmet needs. They accept donations of major appliances, hospital equipment, furniture, children’s items, clothing, shoes, purses, household items, electronics, and seasonal decor.

Make a difference in your community by contributing to St. Vincent de Paul’s mission of providing short-term assistance and addressing the root causes of poverty.

For a more comprehensive guide to donating electronics, clothes, sneakers, and tools, along with recommended places to contribute, reach out to Rachel at rmcgowan@nullforefrontliving.org and request a copy of our handy guide.

Warm regards,
Rachel

Website: https://svdpdallas.org/donationpickup/


Community Life at The Outlook

with Katie Snezhkova, CDP, CADDCT, ADC

Director of Resident Services

From board games to yoga, it is clear to see that our VIPs are excited to get involved. Over a hundred of you have provided feedback to help us develop a Community Life program tailored to your interests. We wanted to take this opportunity to share some of the results with you.


Need more time to sell your home?
We have resources to help!

Second Act Financial Services can help find the perfect loan for you to fund your entrance fee or monthly service fee before you’ve sold your home. Karen Nelson is The Outlook’s dedicated Financial Solutions Concierge and can be reached at 888-999-7372 or karen@nullsecondactfs.com. This may be just the breathing room you need to sell your home on your own terms.

Learn more at https://secondact.com/theoutlook/


Construction Corner

See the great construction progress we are making. Take a look at our most recent time-lapse video as of February 2024:

In the next six weeks, The Outlook at Windhaven construction progress will include:

  • Complete Cottages
  • Install drywall in Independent Living (IL), Assisted Living/Memory Care (AL/MC) and Commons
  • Begin interior finish work in IL, AL/MC and Commons
  • Continue exterior façade work on IL and AL/MC buildings
  • Begin hardscape and landscape work outside of main buildings

DO NOT ENTER!

The construction crew has asked us to kindly request that you stay out of their active work site. They are moving heavy equipment overhead, and there is debris on the roads that can damage your car. Unauthorized people onsite are a safety hazard to you, your vehicle, and the construction workers. Thank you for adhering to this request.


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, an educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as a video of a recent event—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Save-The-Date
for these upcoming Inside the Outlook exclusive events

Questions about any of these events? Give us a call at (972) 996-3887.


Second Floor Social

Thursday, February 29
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Third Floor Social

Thursday, March 28
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Fourth Floor Social

Thursday, April 25
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Fifth Floor Social

Thursday, May 23
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Get to know your new neighbors! Join us for Happy Hour, exclusively for folks who selected apartments on your same floor.

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.


Drive-Thru Donation Event

Monday, March 25
10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Information Center Parking Lot
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Join us for a VIP donation event where we’re making a positive impact on the environment and supporting those in need in addition to helping you clean house! We will be accepting donations of the following items:

  • Old paperwork and sensitive files (shredded on-site by professional shredders)
  • Old tennis shoes
  • Clothing and accessories
  • Electronics
  • Small furniture (no mattresses, please)

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.


Cybercrime Prevention

Tuesday, March 26
10:00 am

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Wendy Cassidy, Senior Special Agent, Cyber Fraud Task Force, Dallas Field Office, US Secret Service, will share best practices on how to protect yourself against cybercrime, as well as a brief history of the US Secret Service, and then discuss the common cybercrimes we are seeing today, including elder fraud, romance scams, and crypto fraud. She also talk about how victims are being targeted, offer recommendations to better protect yourself while online, and provide resources in the event of an incident.

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.


Other fun events to note:

Also coming in May:

Watch for invitations to Roundtable Meetings for VIPs with reservations on an apartment and the Dusty Boots Tour sneak peek of the common spaces.

Date are subject to change. Watch your email for invitations and updates.


Previous Inside The Outlook Event

Timeline Webinar

January 30


On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the February 2024 On the Forefront newsletter.


Welcome Select New Outlook VIPs

Dave and Jeanne Lowenthal

Sue and Howard Robinson

Bob and Laurel Brewster


Happy Leap Day, enjoy your extra day!


January 2024

In this issue, meet VIPs Dotty and Dan Bollner, get the latest news from our Executive Director, and meet two of The Outlook’s newest team members (hint: one of them is a chess player who’d love to challenge you to a game!). Excited about furnishing your new home? Check out a great article by our guest author on creating space for your new chapter! Have questions about your move-in? Chances are Move-In Coordinator Rachel McGowan has many of the answers in this issue. Plus, get the latest news on construction, upcoming events, and more.

Speaking of construction, while we know you’re excited to see the progress on The Outlook, the construction crew is not so excited to see damage to your car. They kindly request you steer clear (pun intended) of the work site altogether, as there is debris on the roads that could damage your car.

Perhaps you know someone who’d be ideal for The Outlook at Windhaven?
If so, let us know at (972) 996-3887 or info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org and get rewarded now—and in the future! Click here to learn more.


Meet Your Future Neighbors

Dan and Dotty Bollner

Dotty and Dan Bollner are both originally from St. Louis, Missouri. They were college sweethearts who met while working at the bookstore at The University of Missouri at St. Louis.

They found each other within the first month of their second year of college and married during their senior year, 55 years ago!

Dotty studied teaching and Dan studied finance and accounting. Upon graduation, Dotty taught English in the local public school system for about five years while Dan worked for a St. Louis bank. Dan’s work took the couple to Texas next. Here, Dotty found ways to use her teaching skills in new and various ways outside of a traditional classroom. She got involved in career education in the public sector, helping adult learners become more prepared for the workforce via the Comprehensive Employment Training Act (CETA). The Bollners next moved to Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Here, Dotty became the Development Director for the OK Mozart Festival, a popular music program that hosted an orchestra from New York for a week of activities and performances. The orchestra really became a part of the community, and the shows always sold out. Dotty was also responsible for producing a weekly TV show on the local cable channel called Bart Views, which featured interviews of local people involved in the arts.

Dotty really enjoys connecting people and helping them truly get to know one another. When she and Dan returned to Texas and moved into a large 900-home community, she made it her pet project to bring the over-50 crowd together. For five years, she organized monthly get-togethers using the neighborhood’s community center. During this time, she also was editor and contributing writer to a neighborhood magazine. Lately, she has used her curriculum-writing skills and interest in community-building to develop what she calls “playdates for adults.” These are activities that help people “learn to really appreciate what we have in common and how we’re different,” she explains. They can be adapted to a number of scenarios—from parties to hospital visits. Dotty uses these playdates in her current work with the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), where her role is “helping people get acquainted on a real basis, not just superficially.”

In addition to his degree at University of Missouri, Dan completed an MBA at Southern Illinois University. He started with a career in banking in St. Louis and then worked at Peabody Coal company. This work was Dan’s springboard into the energy business. He next went to work for Phillips Petroleum (now Conoco Phillips) and retired after 27 years of service. Phillips gave him and Dotty the opportunity to live and travel in the far east. They spent six years on an overseas assignment where Dan was country manager for Conoco Phillips in Indonesia. The two lived in Perth, Australia and spent a lot of time in Jakarta. Living in two vastly different cultures was eye-opening and gratifying; they learned a lot and made deep friendships that continue to this day.

Nowadays, Dan takes pleasure and pride in his civic activities. He has served on the Economic Development Corporation Board for City of Frisco, one of the fastest-growing economic entities in the country. He is on the Regional Aging Advisory Committee of the North Texas Council of Governments. This group helps advise on the allocation of funds to programs for the aging, often underprivileged, in 13 Texas counties. In addition, Dan was a board member of an incubator accelerator—the North Texas Enterprise Center—which recommends seed money investment in the interest of stoking entrepreneurial spirit. Dan also keeps a finger in local politics, having once run for City Council in Frisco. He is currently the Treasurer of the Collin County Republican Party but is phasing out of that role with an eye to what comes next—he likes to try new things and is ready for a change!

The Bollners started considering a move to a senior community after visiting one and observing the comfortable lifestyle it afforded. “You have everything you could want, but without some of the traditional responsibilities,” says Dan. With this in mind, they attended one of the first presentations for The Outlook at Windhaven and “knew it was in their future.” They liked the size and location of it and the feel that, though you are moving into a community, The Outlook keeps you “outward looking.”

One of the things the Bollners are most looking forward to with their move to The Outlook is relinquishing the responsibilities of home ownership. They are also excited to have a “handy” peer group and look forward to spontaneous get-togethers in common spaces in addition to more formal, organized activities.

The Bollners moved back to Texas in part because all their children and grandchildren live here. They have a son and a daughter, both of whom are married and have children. Their grandchildren include two boys in their early twenties plus two girls, ages four and eight. They are happy their move will keep them close by for family get-togethers. Dan and Dotty also have a new Cavalier King Charles puppy named Bentley who “isn’t spoiled at all” (smile).


From the Executive Director

Kristen Jordan

Kristen’s Korner

Happy New Year to our VIPs!  2024 is going to be such an exciting year for us at The Outlook at Windhaven, and we are thrilled that you will be a part of our Grand Opening this year. My favorite item to see happen over this past month was our pool and whirlpool break ground.  We also made the final design touches for the area, and it will definitely be a relaxing place to go for a swim, enjoy water aerobics or sit poolside and catch up on your favorite book. I cannot wait for everyone to see it once completed.

I am also very excited to announce that Katie Snezhkova has joined our team as Director of Resident Services. Katie relocated to us from Houston and will be leading our Community Life, Wellness and Resident Services such as transportation.  She has an extensive career in Senior Living and holds many certifications related to Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Activity Director. Katie also completed her B.S. in Kinesiology/Preventive and Rehabilitative Exercise Science from Northern Illinois University. In her spare time, Katie can be found supporting her favorite baseball team, the Houston Astros, alongside her dog named Missy and two cats, Emma and Patches, or enjoying hot yoga and spin class. Katie will be attending our VIP events and is very excited to get to know our residents as we get closer to our Grand Opening.

Katie is building a great Community Life Program and would love your input! Please follow the link below to a short survey.


William Mockabee

Introducing William Mockabee

Many of you may have already met our newest teammate, William Mockabee! A recent SMU graduate with a degree in marketing, William joined us this month as The Outlook Marketing Assistant and looks forward to working with you. Outside of work, William enjoys scary movies and playing chess—feel free to challenge him to a game!


By Elias P. Papasavvas, CEO
Second Act Financial Services
Retirement Banking, Understood.
secondact.com/theoutlook

It was such a pleasure meeting all of you at November’s Moving Expo! All of us felt the energy and excitement in the air! As you prepare for your move to The Outlook at Windhaven, you and your financial advisors may be evaluating how to best fund your Entry Fee and monthly service fees. As a senior-focused division of a Federal Savings Bank in business since 1889, and having personally helped retirees for over 25 years with this decision, I share a checklist of things to consider that can be helpful in your financial decision-making process!

At the end, we also share a link to a downloadable Guide on how to Fund Your Entry Fee. Many Life Plan Community residents and their financial advisors tell us it is quite helpful in their financial deliberations.


Brenda Thompson

Downsizing Your Furniture and Décor

www.BrendaThompsonBroker.com

It has been my pleasure chatting with several of the future residents of The Outlook at Windhaven, whether at the events at Stonebriar Country Club, Plano Chamber of Commerce, or in your own personal home. I look forward to continuing to be a resource, by providing this monthly guide, as we progress toward your move to The Outlook at Windhaven. This month, our focus is on downsizing—specifically, navigating the process of downsizing your furniture and décor. As you prepare for this exciting transition, creating a living space that aligns with your vision is key.


Move-In Planning with Dear Rachel

Rachel McGowan

Dear Abby Rachel,

I recently received my 60-Day Letter. Do I have to move in by the date mentioned in the letter?

-Excited Cottage VIP

Dear Excited VIP,

Receiving the 60-Day Letter can undoubtedly be an exciting moment. Let me assure you that the date specified in the letter is not a strict move-in deadline. Instead, it serves as a notice of availability, indicating that you now have the green light to plan and schedule your closing and move.

The beauty of this process lies in its flexibility. While every resident is given a timeline to adhere to after receiving the letter, the cottages, in particular, provide an extended timeframe. This means you have ample time to organize your move and settle in comfortably.

So take a deep breath and approach this transition at your own pace. Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further guidance.

Warm regards,
Rachel


WHAT DO I DO WITH…My Used Shoes

At GotSneakers.com, their mission is to partner with the sneaker community to recycle and reuse quality pre-loved sneakers. By participating in their sneaker drive fundraiser, you contribute to keeping sneakers out of landfills and reducing toxic chemicals in the environment. All reusable sneakers are recirculated to secondhand markets, making quality, pre-owned footwear accessible at affordable prices. Heavily used and damaged footwear is recycled to reuse materials or convert waste into new energy.

For easy donation, The Outlook at Windhaven has bags available in the office for mailing sneakers.

For a more comprehensive guide to donating electronics, clothes, sneakers, and tools, along with recommended places to contribute, reach out to Rachel at rmcgowan@nullforefrontliving.org and request a copy of our handy guide.


Construction Corner

See the great construction progress we are making. Take a look at our most recent time-lapse video as of January 2023:

In the next six weeks, The Outlook at Windhaven construction progress will include:

  • Continuation of drywall installation in Commons, Independent Living (IL) apartments and Assisted Living/Memory Care (AL/MC) residences
  • Continuation of interior finish work in Cottages
    • Several Cottage residences are nearing completion
  • Continuation of hardscaping and landscaping in areas surrounding Cottages
    • Began work in The Grove (Cottage Courtyard)
  • Completion of exterior façade finishes on Commons, IL and AL/MC buildings
Cautionary Tale: Rachel’s tire

DO NOT ENTER!

The construction crew has asked us to kindly request that you stay out of their active work site. They are moving heavy equipment overhead, and there is debris on the roads that can damage your car. Unauthorized people onsite are a safety hazard to you, your vehicle, and the construction workers. Thank you for adhering to this request.


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, an educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as some photos of a recent event—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Save-The-Date
for these upcoming Inside the Outlook exclusive events

Questions about any of these events? Give us a call at (972) 996-3887.


Jewelry Fixing Happy Hour

Thursday, February 15
Drop in from 2:30-3:30 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Have jewelry in need of repair? Need a new clasp? A new watch battery? Join us and let our expert make your jewelry wearable again while you enjoy light refreshments and mingle with your future neighbors.

No RSVP needed.


Second Floor Social

Thursday, February 22
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Watch for an invitation to this Happy Hour exclusively for those of you who selected an apartment on the second floor.

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.


Other fun events to note:

  • Rachel will be reaching out to schedule Cottage VIPs Walk-Throughs tentatively planned for late February.
  • Watch for our 3rd Floor Social in March
  • And more!

Previous Inside The Outlook Event

Holiday Celebration

December 12

We had a great time at the VIP Holiday Party! Many of you wore your most festive sweater to our seasonal gathering held at Haggard Barn. Our thanks to Charlotte’s husband Monty Slaver, who serenaded us with traditional holiday songs. It was a wonderful afternoon filled with music, delicious food, drinks and the company of future neighbors!


On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the January 2024 On the Forefront newsletter.


Welcome Select New Outlook VIPs

Jane Chadima

Lenora and Jerry Levin

Deborah Williamson


VIP Directory Available

Our directory of Outlook VIPs has been sent to those who requested it. If you would like a copy and to be included in the directory next quarter, please email info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org.


November/December 2023

Holiday greetings to all of you from all of us at The Outlook at Windhaven! We hope you enjoy this special double issue of your VIP newsletter! Look for the next issue in your inbox at the end of January. 

In this issue, meet your future new neighbor, Lynn Harris. Get up to speed on the current real estate market (hint: it’s hearty and healthy!). Last time, we introduced you to our new Executive Director, Kristen Jordan—find out what she’s been up to. Plus, get the latest info on construction as well as an opening timeline. And, as always, mark those calendars for all the great events coming up! 

Just think—when you move to The Outlook in 2024, you’ll be able to say “so long” to winter home maintenance for good! But until then, we’ve got some great tips for winterizing your home.  

Perhaps you know someone who’d be ideal for The Outlook at Windhaven?
If so, let us know at (972) 996-3887 or info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org and get rewarded now—and in the future! Click here to learn more.


Meet Your Future Neighbor

Lynn Harris

Lynn Harris has lived in various places prior to moving to Texas at the age of four; she was born in Tacoma, Washington and when she was 3 moved to Iowa before arriving in Midland, TX a year later. Her father was a geologist whose schooling and work for Socony Mobil Oil Company (which became Mobil Oil) brought them to Midland. When she was 10 years old, her father was transferred to Houston, where she graduated from high school. The day she graduated from high school, her father was transferred to New Orleans, but Lynn stayed behind to attend college at Texas Tech in Lubbock.

Lynn enjoyed science and math and received concurrent degrees in German and Math at Texas Tech. She was not entirely sure what she wanted to do next and got a “stopgap” job with Tech in a residence hall as a dorm mother. This was sort of an experiment for Texas Tech because she was only 21 and most of the dorm mothers were elderly women. While watching over 404 freshman women, Lynn also worked on her master’s in counseling and guidance and finished her graduate degree in 1972. During this time, she also met her husband, Ron Harris, who was the accountant for the residence halls. They were married in 1973 in Lubbock.

Lynn and Ron moved to Dallas soon after their wedding. Ron had found work in insurance there, and Lynn got a job with Federated Department Stores, where they placed her in the training department. This ended up being a nice match with both her graduate degree and the skills she had developed as a dorm mother. Her work there evolved into a position in human resources, and she remained in that field for the entirety of her career, working everywhere from retail to banking to communications. It was an interesting time to be in human resources as women were entering the workforce in droves and the notion of sexual harassment became more recognized. Companies had to make adjustments to their corporate cultures, and Lynn was busy with many cases in this sphere. Lynn’s last workplace was American Messaging Services, which was formerly Verizon Paging. She enjoyed this experience in communications for 20 years and actually retired twice—once as employee and then again just recently as a contractor.

Ron moved from insurance to leadership in local government. He ran for County Judge and won, holding the office in Collin County for four terms, which remains the record. He enjoyed his work, and the political spotlight brought him and Lynn into many interesting circumstances, including meeting Bob Hope and rubbing elbows with the George W. Bush family. Lynn found Laura Bush to be particularly gracious and kind; she even gave Ron a tour of the Rose Garden. He also got to have a photo taken of him calling his mother from The Oval Office! Sadly, Ron passed away a year ago.

Over the years, Lynn and Ron moved from Dallas to Garland to Plano to McKinney. Their son Chris was born in Garland in 1977. Like his parents, he attended Texas Tech and now lives in Pflugerville and works as VP of Sales for an organic medicine company. “I couldn’t ask for a better son…he takes great care of me.” says Lynn. She also adores her daughter-in-law, Beth, who is just “the best of the best.” Lynn has two beloved grandkids as well, Cooper (16) and Parker (13).  As many grandparents would say, “They are the Best of the Best also!”

Lynn and Ron spent several years looking at senior living locales. They even had a down payment on one place when they caught wind of The Outlook at Windhaven in a newspaper article. Ron was in declining health and they needed a community with assisted living. They paid The Outlook a visit in 2021 and fell in love with both the idea of the place and all of the staff. “Its quality really impressed me,” notes Lynn, and she connected with Forefront Living’s values and business sense. The supportive environment of The Outlook made her feel very comfortable, and as she says, “I am ready to go!”

One of the things Lynn is most looking forward to about The Outlook is getting back to the gym. She notes that having the gym in the same building means, “I cannot have excuses for not going!” She is also enamored with all of the activities they will have. “I don’t think I’m ever going to be bored,” she laughs. Lynn has other friends who will be fellow residents and looks forward to spending time with them. And who can forget the bliss of no home maintenance? She is glad that “Mr. Fixit” will be just a call away.

In her free time, Lynn enjoys canasta (she currently plays with three groups!), shopping, reading, and floral arranging. She hopes to be able to expand on her enjoyment of the last two via groups at The Outlook. Before Ron’s health waned, they enjoyed traveling together, and Lynn would still like to take a trip or two, particularly to Portugal and Spain. As she puts it, “My life is all about having a good time, enjoying friends and family, and just plain being with people.”


From the ED

Kristen Jordan

Kristen’s Korner

The past two months since I have been a part of The Outlook at Windhaven have been very exciting for me. I have really enjoyed meeting our VIPs and teammates who have been so welcoming, and I am thrilled to be a part of our new community. Jennifer, Charlotte, Angela and Rachel have done a tremendous job hosting so many great events getting everyone together that I have enjoyed attending as well.

As The Outlook continues to evolve, I have been participating in our various construction meetings and walking the grounds to observe how everything is coming together. The community will be so gorgeous once completed! I have also been working behind the scenes on our very large to-do list. This includes ordering our custom Sprinter van that will arrive in February and will transport our residents to various community life events, shopping excursions, personal appointments, and errands.  We are also finalizing our Fitness Center and Wellness Room needs along with identifying and ordering all the various items that our Culinary team will utilize in their day-to-day to serve residents.

I want to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday and I look forward to an even more exciting 2024 with the opening of The Outlook at Windhaven!


Brenda Thompson

Exploring The Area Around Your New Community

by Brenda Thompson
CEO / Managing Broker / Owner of HomeSmart Stars

www.BrendaThompsonBroker.com

Getting Acquainted: Your Future Oasis
As we progress on this exciting journey toward your move to The Outlook at Windhaven, it’s time to delve into the heart of your upcoming vibrant community. This month is all about exploring and getting acquainted with the surroundings that will soon become your new haven.

Understanding Your Move Timeline
Begin by assessing your move timeline. Knowing when you plan to make the transition will help you set realistic goals and milestones. Are there specific events or commitments you need to consider? This clarity will be instrumental in planning your move effectively.

Determining What to Take With You
Take a moment to envision your new lifestyle at The Outlook at Windhaven. What are the essentials that will seamlessly fit into this fresh chapter? This is another great time to assess your belongings and curate a selection that aligns with the elegance and simplicity of your new community. Consider the amenities and services provided by The Outlook and how they may influence your packing decisions.  What items can you choose not to move with you because they already exist at your new home, or will not be necessary for your lifestyle there?

Explore Your Surroundings
Many of you are familiar with the Plano area, but if you are moving here from outside the area, you might consider these tips on exploring the area around your new community. Now let’s venture beyond the borders of The Outlook at Windhaven. Familiarize yourself with the local landscape.  Seek out nearby grocery stores (HEB, Kroger, Tom Thumb), boutiques, coffee shops, dry cleaners, and other essentials. Visit nearby Willow Bend Mall, Legacy/Legacy West, and the restaurants nearby.  This not only provides practical convenience but also introduces you to the vibrant community that extends beyond the doors of your new home.

Identify hospitals, medical facilities, and doctor’s offices in the area. Knowing where to access healthcare services will offer peace of mind in your new environment. If you will be changing doctors to an office closer to your new home, now is the time to schedule a first visit. Establish yourself as a patient now, as their schedule may be booked out for a few months for new patients. Schedule now, while there’s ample time to get medical records transferred and build rapport with your new clinics.

Connect with Local Services
Are there specific services you rely on in your daily life? Whether it’s a favorite hair salon, a trusted dry cleaner, or a yoga studio, now is the time to scout for local businesses that align with your preferences.

Getting Involved in the Community
Consider researching churches, religious organizations, local events, clubs, or groups that align with your interests. This is an excellent opportunity to start building connections within the wider community.

Your Call to Action: Let’s Navigate Together
As you embark on this exploration of your new community, remember that you’re not alone. I’m Brenda Thompson, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking advice on the move process, need insights on local amenities, or have questions about the real estate market, I’m your dedicated guide.

Reach out today to schedule a personalized consultation. Let’s discuss your specific goals, address any concerns, and create a customized plan that aligns perfectly with your vision for this exciting transition. Together, we’ll ensure that your move to The Outlook at Windhaven is a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Here’s to a month filled with exploration, discovery, and anticipation of the enriching lifestyle that awaits you!


Good News!

As many of you heard during our November 28th presentation, the real estate market is looking hearty and healthy in this area. See page 11 in November’s Community Impact. Things are looking good on a national level as well—check out this article in the November 16th Wall Street Journal.


Move-In Planning

Rachel McGowan


I have really enjoyed working with many of you reserved in the Cottages to discuss your upcoming move.  During our time together, I provided helpful information and tools, including The Outlook at Windhaven Moving Guide. The guide includes resources and tips and has been crafted to help ensure a smooth transition to your new home. If you have a cottage secured and we haven’t scheduled a visit, please call or email me. I am here for you to address questions and offer guidance as needed.

Sincerely,
Rachel McGowan

Rachel, 
I want you to know how much both Paula and I enjoyed your visit to our home to discuss with us all the different aspects associated with our planned move into the cottages at The Outlook. While it is still months away, you made us both realize how the little things we should consider are no less important than the big things. You have made our planning much easier and more organized. Again “Thanks”.

– Jerry Cavitt

Dear Abby Rachel,

When should I consider having my estate sale while preparing to move to The Outlook?
– A Stressed VIP

Dear VIP,

You are not alone! Several people have inquired about the timing of their estate sales and when they should plan them. First, it’s crucial to identify what you want to include in your estate sale. We have various ways to assist you in choosing the right items to take with you to your new home. However, this process can be challenging. Even with gridded floor plans, it can be hard to truly envision how something will work in a new space. Many of you have been contemplating whether to part with certain items, and during my visits to your homes, armed with my tape measure and gridded floor plans, we delve into this and make decisions about what fits.

When it comes to planning your estate sale, I’ve taken inspiration from some of our neighbors who have already laid out a plan for themselves.

In the sale of your home, negotiate a 30-day leaseback, move into your new home at The Outlook, and get settled. Take the 30 days to assess what fits and make your new space feel like home. While you’re settling in, have your estate sale. This approach offers several benefits. If you find that something doesn’t quite fit, you can include it in the sale. On the other hand, if you realize that something you initially thought wouldn’t fit now does, you can retrieve it.

This thoughtful process allows for flexibility and ensures that your new home is curated with items that truly enhance your living experience.

-Rachel


Apartment Opening Timeline*

*Subject to change and based on current construction timelines


Construction Corner

See the great construction progress we are making. Take a look at our most recent time-lapse video as of November 2023:

In the next six weeks, The Outlook at Windhaven construction progress will include:

  • Installation of insulation and sheetrock in Commons, Independent Living (IL) and Assisted Living/Memory Care (AL/MC) buildings
  • Continue exterior façade work for Commons, AL/MC and IL buildings
  • Continue interior finish work for Cottages (flooring, trim, mirrors, tiling)
  • Continue flatwork for Cottages (sidewalks and driveways)
  • Begin Cottages landscaping
Cautionary Tale: Rachel’s tire

DO NOT ENTER!

The construction crew has asked us to kindly request that you stay out of their active work site. They are moving heavy equipment overhead, and there is debris on the roads that can damage your car. Unauthorized people onsite are a safety hazard to you, your vehicle, and the construction workers. Thank you for adhering to this request.


Tips for Winter Weather Preparedness

Congratulations! This will be the last winter that you have to deal with getting your home ready for winter. Next year, you will be enjoying your new home with worry-free maintenance provided by The Outlook at Windhaven’s expert team. But in the meantime, we thought you might appreciate these tips from LiveGreenInPlano.com.

As winter rolls around, it’s important to prepare our homes accordingly. Here are our tips for a cozy, safe and winter-ready home.

Before freezing temperatures arrive:

  • Insulate external pipes, outlets and the attic.
  • Disconnect and drain garden hoses. Cover outdoor faucets.
  • Add caulk and weather stripping to windows and doors.
  • Have heating systems cleaned and inspected.
  • Turn your irrigation controller off to keep sprinklers from running.
  • See if trees need pruning.
  • Have the chimney assessed and cleaned.
  • Prepare emergency supplies for your family. Learn more about disaster preparedness from the City of Plano’s Emergency Management department.  

During freezing temperatures:

  • Keep garage doors closed if the car isn’t running.
  • Let faucets drip. Open cabinets with pipes to let heat in.
  • Close the fireplace damper if not in use.
  • Turn your thermostat down a few degrees to conserve energy.
  • Know how to shut the water off if a pipe bursts. Watch a how-to video.

Empower your family with the tools and knowledge to prevent danger and property damage. Download the Live Green in Plano Winter Weather Checklist.


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, an educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as a recording of a recent event—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Save-The-Date
for these upcoming Inside the Outlook exclusive events

Questions about any of these events? Give us a call at (972) 996-3887.


“Sip and Stroll” Referral Event

Thursday, December 7
Drop in from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Bring a friend* in so they can learn about The Outlook at Windhaven. They’ll enjoy a casual introduction over their favorite beverage and discover all The Outlook has to offer, including the peace of mind of the continuum of care. Thanks to you, they’ll have the chance to find out just how warm and comfy a whole new Outlook can really be.

*This is a referral event, please bring someone you would like to have as a neighbor and help us fill the remaining 24 apartments.

Click here to RSVP. Questions? Please call (972) 996-3887.


Holiday Celebration and Ugly Sweater Contest

Tuesday, December 12
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Haggard Party Barn
5948 McKamy Trail
Plano, TX 75024

It’s time to celebrate the holidays together, and what better way to do it than in ugly sweaters? Join us for appetizers and drinks. Prizes for the ugliest/funniest sweater.

We’ll have a gift for everyone who attends!

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.


Previous Inside The Outlook Events

3rd Annual Celebration of Gratitude

November 1

In a discussion guided by Rabbi Howard Wolk and Rev. Jarod A. Cooper, we kicked off the Thanksgiving season remembering all the things for which we are grateful.


Rightsizing Webinar

November 7

On November 7th, Jeanice Kett with Get Organized! hosted a webinar with tips, tricks, and ideas for rightsizing your life.


Moving Expo

November 17

More than 100 of you participated in our Moving Expo, held at Stonebriar Country Club on November 17th. If you weren’t able to attend, reach out to Rachel for a list and contact information for vendors who participated.


Real Estate Update

November 28

Here are some great takeaways from the event:

  • Start interviewing realtors now. The more lead time, the better.
  • Find a realtor you “fit” with.
  • Lease-backs are an option that can be worked into the contract.
  • You are in charge. You can set showing times and your move schedule. Your realtor works for you.
  • You can choose to move and then do an estate sale if that works better for you.
  • PODS are a good option if you need to make a temporary move.
  • Next year should be a good selling year! Election years are historically good selling years, and interest rates are already coming down.
  • Time on market in this market is currently 60-90 days (listing to closing), which is still a seller’s market.

On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the November 2023 On the Forefront newsletter.


Welcome Select New Outlook VIPs

Pat and Mike Harris


Look for our next Outlook Charter in January!


October 2023

In this issue, meet your new Executive Director, Kristen Jordan, and get to know VIPs Aggie and Allen Stryker. In preparation for your move in 2024, embark or continue on your rightsizing journey. See the latest construction progress on The Outlook and save the date for all the great events coming up this fall!

Perhaps you know someone who’d be ideal for The Outlook at Windhaven?
If so, let us know at (972) 996-3887 or info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org and get rewarded now—and in the future! Click here to learn more.


Introducing Kristen Jordan

The Outlook at Windhaven Executive Director

As Executive Director, Kristen brings her impressive track record of leadership and hospitality experience in sales and marketing spanning more than 25 years to The Outlook at Windhaven. Her accomplishments include successfully opening five hotels and earning such accolades as the Hospitality Impact Award in 2013, Sales Director of the Year in 2011, and the President’s Award in 2008.

In 2020, Kristen transitioned into the senior living industry and served as Executive Director at The Village of River Oaks, a luxury senior living community in Houston. Kristen holds certifications from the Texas Assisted Living Association in Assisted Living Standards and Assisted Living Management. 

“I am incredibly proud to be joining The Outlook team as Executive Director. I look forward to helping lead the community while building strong and meaningful relationships with our residents, their families, and my teammates,” says Kristen. 

Having lived in locations including Florida, New York, Nevada, Ohio, Venezuela, Virginia, and currently Texas, Kristen and her husband, Bill, recently made the move from Houston to Dallas. She is the proud mom of two adult daughters, Angelica and Melissa. Additional family members include Brownie, a Chocolate Labrador; Dallas, a Plott Hound mix; and Sammie, a silver lab.

During her free time, Kristen enjoys watching movies, cycling, playing pickleball and volunteering with the Mile High Labrador Retriever Mission, a Colorado-based organization that rescues Labrador Retrievers and relocates them to new loving homes. 

Sammie
Meet Kristen’s newest puppy: “Sammie” a silver lab

Meet Your Future Neighbors

Aggie and Allen Stryker

Aggie Stryker was born in New York and moved back and forth between there and San Antonio as she was growing up. She considers San Antonio home since many of her formative years, including all of high school, were spent there. Southwest State Teachers College, now Texas State University, is where Aggie received her undergraduate degree. She remains a teacher through and through, having taught every grade at some point in her career. Aggie mainly focused on kids with learning disabilities or those who did not want to be at school. She still uses her teaching skills regularly when she helps her grandkids learn from things in everyday life and volunteers at their schools.

Allen Stryker was born and raised in San Antonio. While attending Texas A&M University, U.S. Navy recruiters came through and Allen was inspired to join. He went into the Navy after college and became a pilot; he served during the Vietnam War. After the war was over, it was difficult to find work as a pilot because the market was flooded. With no immediate prospects of flying, Allen found work as a telephone company engineer in San Antonio.

The couple got married at the beginning of Allen’s naval career and moved several places for training before settling into his base in Quonset, Rhode Island. Allen was a carrier pilot, flying around the Arctic Circle in search of Russian submarines. “Navy wives were led to believe that all of their husbands were the best pilots in the world,” says Aggie. Because of this, she never worried about Allen when he was flying. It was not until many years later, when Allen showed her from the deck of a cruise ship how challenging it is to land on an aircraft carrier, that she realized how dangerous his work was (and was glad she did not know it at the time!).

After the Navy, they had stints in San Antonio, Saint Louis, and then finally landed in the Dallas area about 43 years ago. Allen continued his work for the telephone company, where he taught engineering accounting. After he retired from this work, he took up flying again. Up until about four years ago, he worked flying single- and twin-engine freight planes.

Throughout these years, Aggie was teaching. She taught whenever she could, and when there were more teachers than there were jobs, she became a Certified Childbirth Instructor and opened her own practice. Aggie continued her professional training, earning both master’s and doctorate degrees in education from Texas A&M-Commerce. Eventually, she worked at this institution as a trainer to new teachers. For a time, she was in charge of all of the elementary student teachers from the Texas A&M system who were in Plano and Wiley ISDs. As Allen puts it, “She’s a teacher’s teacher.” Aggie retired three years ago and though she says she will not go back (despite the efforts of many!), she does hint at there being some school-based volunteer work in her future.

Allen and Aggie have three children: a daughter in Florida, a daughter who lives in the Dallas area, and a son who lives in Louisiana. They are very proud grandparents, aka “Poppy” and “Moppy” (nicknames given by the first grandchild), of seven gorgeous grandkids. Five of these are still school age. Two are in college, and one of these is in Rome, where Aggie and Allen were lucky enough to pay her a recent visit. Aggie laughs that like all the other future residents of The Outlook, they “have the best grandchildren in the world.”

Allen and Aggie began thinking about senior living communities about ten years ago. Aggie had been through the difficulties and heartache of handling her own parents’ deaths and came to Allen one day and told him, “We’re moving to senior living when we’re 80.” Aggie wanted their lives to be simpler as they got older so that their children would have it easier than she did—she sees this move as a big “I love you” to them. As she puts it, “It’s the most logical next step because we are loving parents.”

As they began their search, they looked at many places, but The Outlook stood out in the best way. “Everything just fell into place … everything we thought we needed will be there,” says Allen. They already feel a camaraderie with their fellow VIPs and appreciate the way the staff at The Outlook has worked hard to create community before they have even moved in. One fun example of how the staff has gone above and beyond? After learning of Aggie’s marked preference for Diet Dr. Pepper, the beverage has been available at every event she’s attended. “How can you beat that?” asks Aggie.

Allen is looking forward to getting to lie back and enjoy himself and not having to worry about house upkeep, which will free up time for his hobbies. Aggie plans on continuing to keep busy with walks, lunch with friends, and exercise classes. She also lovingly notes that, “home is wherever Allen is.”


Decluttering Your Way to a Fresh Start
Clearing the Path: Decluttering Your Current Living Space

by Brenda Thompson
CEO / Managing Broker / Owner of HomeSmart Stars

Brenda Thompson

Welcome back to our monthly journey toward your exciting move to The Outlook at Windhaven. This month, we’re diving into a crucial step: decluttering and organizing your current living space. This process is about more than just tidying up; it’s about making room for the new experiences and memories that await you upon your move to your luxurious active adult community.

Here are some practical tips to get you started:

  1. Start with a Vision: Envision your new life at The Outlook at Windhaven. Imagine the elegant, clutter-free spaces you’ll enjoy. This vision will be your guide as you declutter.
  2. Take It One Room at a Time: Tackling an entire house can be overwhelming. Start with one room. This focused approach allows you to see progress quickly and keeps you motivated.
  3. The Five-Box Method: As you go through your belongings, use five boxes: “Keep,” “Sell,” “Donate,” “Discard,” and “Gift.” This system streamlines decision-making and keeps you organized.  As mentioned last month, the “Gift” box is to gift to friends or relatives.  Donation options may include Salvation Army, Frisco Resale, 1-800-Got-Junk, or GiveBackBox.com.
  4. Sentimental Items: When it comes to sentimental items, take a moment to consider if they align with your vision for your new chapter. Select a few cherished pieces that truly resonate with you.
  5. Declutter By Saving Digitally: As you declutter, consider what items may be saved or stored digitally, thereby reducing physical clutter. Save documents, old tax receipts and tax returns, and photos and videos to digital storage solutions such as DropBox, Google Drive, or Microsoft OneDrive. CVS even has options for digitizing photos. And check out MixTiles.com to create framed prints of your favorite pics.
    • Documents to keep handy
      • If you have a current home to sell:  Set aside current home survey and/or floor plan, if you have them. You may also set aside appliance or owners’ manuals for systems that will transfer with the home. Buyers greatly appreciate these items, and you can simply leave in a box for them. 
      • Social Security Card, Insurance Cards, Car ID cards, Driver’s License, Bank/Utility Bills for mail forwarding
  6. Find a shred event to take old paper documents to, once saved digitally. Most cities have a city location for recycling of items such as old electronics or paper shredding.  Call or see your city website for details.  Typically, you only need a city utility bill to show residency. (Also, keep in mind that we will be hosting a shredding event for Outlook VIPs in the future.)
  7. Consider hiring a professional organizer or estate sale organization. They can make the entire process quicker and more relaxed for you!

Strategies for a Stress-Free Process

Decluttering can be emotionally challenging, but with the right strategies, it can also be a deeply rewarding experience:

  1. Set Realistic Goals: Break the decluttering process into manageable tasks. For example, commit to decluttering one room per week.
  2. Create a Sorting System: Designate specific areas for “Keep,” “Sell,” “Donate,” “Discard,” and “Gift.” This prevents items from being shuffled around and keeps the process organized.
  3. Celebrate Your Progress: Acknowledge your achievements along the way. Treat yourself to something special after completing a room, like ice cream, coffee or tea. Celebrate the lighter, more organized space you’ve created.
  4. Seek Support: If you find it challenging to part with certain items, consider asking a friend or family member for their perspective. They can provide valuable insight and emotional support.
  5. Donate Responsibly: Ensure that items you donate are in good condition. Local charities and organizations would greatly appreciate your contributions.

Remember, this process is about curating a living space that reflects the vibrant, luxurious lifestyle you’re moving toward. Embrace the opportunity to let go of what no longer serves you.

As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that you have a dedicated guide in me, Brenda Thompson. Whether you need advice on decluttering or have questions about the real estate process, I’m here for you. Reach out today to schedule a personalized consultation. Let’s discuss your specific goals, address any concerns, and create a customized plan that aligns perfectly with your vision for this exciting transition. Together, we’ll make this journey a seamless and enjoyable experience.


A Note from Rachel

Rachel McGowan


Hello, Outlook VIPs!

I am thrilled to be jumping into my role as The Outlook’s Move-In Coordinator, and I wanted to provide you all with an update on what to expect in the coming weeks and months.

I have already started scheduling home visits for November with VIPs reserved in the cottages. During your visit, I will be bringing helpful information and tools and sitting down with you to discuss your upcoming move. This will include The Outlook at Windhaven Moving Guide, which includes resources and tips. It has been crafted to help ensure a smooth transition to your new home. I am here for you to address questions and offer guidance as needed. If you have a cottage secured and we haven’t scheduled a visit, please call or email me, even if you don’t plan to move right away. 

I hope you can join us at the upcoming Moving Expo, featuring a variety of vendors, including realtors, closet organizers, estate sales representatives, movers, and more. This event will take place on November 16th at 10:30 am at the Stonebriar Country Club in Frisco. I’ll also have Moving Guides available for pick-up!

Whether you are just starting the downsizing process or you need some guidance on next steps, join us online on November 7th for another rightsizing webinar. This time, Jeanice Kitts of Get Organized will share tips, tricks and inspiration for rightsizing your life and the value of eliminating clutter. 

I’m excited about our community opening next year and I am honored to be a part of this experience with all of you. Your well-being and comfort during the moving process are of utmost importance to me, and I’m dedicated to making this transition as seamless as possible for you.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the journey to your new home, and I’m looking forward to all that lies ahead!

-Rachel


Construction Corner

See the great construction progress we are making. Take a look at our most recent time-lapse video as of October 2023:

In the next six weeks, The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) construction progress will include:

  • Finish framing Independent Living (IL) and Assisted Living/Memory Care (AL/MC) buildings
  • Set windows in Commons, IL and AL/MC buildings
  • Waterproof Commons, IL and AL/MC buildings
  • Run mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering (including heating, ventilation and air conditioning) through Commons, IL and AL/MC buildings
  • Continue exterior finish work for Cottages
  • Begin interior finish work for Cottages
Construction

DO NOT ENTER!

The construction crew has asked us to kindly request that you stay out of their active work site. They are moving heavy equipment overhead, and there is debris on the roads that can damage your car. Unauthorized people onsite are a safety hazard to you, your vehicle, and the construction workers. Thank you for adhering to this request.


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, an educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as a recording of a recent event—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Save-The-Date
for these upcoming Inside the Outlook exclusive events

Questions about any of these events? Give us a call at (972) 996-3887.


Reverend Jarod Cooper, M. Div. and Rabbi Howard Wolk

What are you grateful for?

Wednesday, November 1
10:00 am

Presbyterian Village North, Auditorium
8600 Skyline Drive
Dallas, TX 75243

As the calendar turns to November, we are often reminded of all we have to be grateful for. Join us for our 3rd annual discussion on gratitude with Reverend Jarod Cooper, M. Div., Chaplain at Forefront Living, and Rabbi Howard Wolk, Community Chaplain at Jewish Family Services. RSVP Required to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or (972) 996-3887.


What do I do with all that stuff?

Tuesday, November 7
2:00 pm

Webinar (RSVP to receive Zoom link)

Over the course of 32 years of marriage, Jeanice Kett and her family moved thirteen times. With these moves, she developed an exceptional understanding of the value of eliminating clutter. 

Join us for this informative webinar where Jeanice will offer tips, tricks, and inspiration for rightsizing your life. With The Outlook opening in 2024, now is the perfect time for you to start—or continue—your rightsizing process.

After you RSVP for the webinar, you’ll receive a link and phone number. You can watch this live presentation on your computer, tablet or smartphone. Or just call in and listen.

Have issues connecting to these webinars? If so, let us know to learn about an alternative.


Moving Expo

Thursday, November 16, 2023
10:30 am

Stonebriar Country Club
5050 Country Club Dr
Frisco, TX 75034

Come meet vendors to help in your move process and pick up your moving guide!

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or 972-996-3887.


Real Estate Update

Tuesday, November 28
10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Plano Chamber of Commerce
5400 Independence Pkwy, #200
Plano, TX 75023

What does the real estate market look like today? What are my options? Bring your questions for the professionals. Brenda Thompson and Bruce & Jill Walpole will present and answer your questions and share their resources.

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or 972-996-3887.


Wine and Cheese

Wine & Cheese Mingle by Floor Plan

Wednesday, November 29
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Watch for an invitation to this Happy Hour exclusively for those of you who selected the following apartment homes: Mockingbird, Oriole, Robin, Skylark & Combos.

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or 972-996-3887.


Holiday Celebration and Ugly Sweater Contest

Tuesday, December 12
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Haggard Party Barn
5948 McKamy Trail
Plano, TX 75024

It’s time to celebrate the holidays together, and what better way to do it than in ugly sweaters? Join us for appetizers and drinks. Prizes for the ugliest/funniest sweater.

We’ll have a gift for everyone who attends!

RSVP to Info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org or 972-996-3887.


Previous Inside The Outlook Events

What’s in the fine print?

Did you miss our “What’s in the fine print?” webinar? If so, you can watch it here.

2nd Annual Pet and Human Costume Pawty

Although the cold weather moved us from Windhaven Meadows Park to the Information Center, a good time was had by all!

Charlotte with Cisco and Cowboy
Best Dressed Dog – Della as Bo Peep
Best Dressed Dog – Yin in a cute bandana
Cowboy dressed as a skunk
Best Combo – Nikki Shanabrook & Scamper
Best Dressed Person – Aggie Stryker as Purple Witch

On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the October 2023 On the Forefront newsletter.


Welcome Select New Outlook VIPs

Darrell and Susan Conway

Eva and Jim Sikes


September 2023

In this issue, meet VIP Bob Drotman and our new Marketing Assistant, Janet Bergman. Embark on a downsizing journey. See the latest construction progress on The Outlook. And get the answers to one of our most frequently asked questions. Want to meet one of the US Secret Service’s first five female Special Agents? Mark your calendar for Kathryn Clark Childers on October 18—and lots of other great events to come this fall!  

Perhaps you know someone who’d be ideal for The Outlook at Windhaven?
If so, let us know at (972) 996-3887 or info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org and get rewarded now—and in the future! Click here to learn more.


Meet Your Future Neighbor

Bob Drotman

Bob Drotman

Having grown up in El Paso, Bob Drotman has lived in Plano for about 30 years. After a rewarding career as an accomplished scientist, he is looking forward to moving into his cottage at The Outlook at Windhaven and continuing to fully enjoy his many pastimes!

Bob’s late wife, Judy, was also from El Paso. The two of them met there when she was 16 and he was an 18-year-old freshman at UTEP. They hit it off from their very first date and were together over 61 years, 55 as husband and wife. “We were matched really well,” says Bob. Bob received his BS from UTEP in 1965, an MS from Texas Tech in 1967, and a PhD in biochemistry from Rice in 1970.

After Bob received his PhD, the couple moved to Northern California, where Bob taught at UC Davis for two years. They loved living there (and visiting the wine country!), but ultimately Bob did not enjoy academia. He took his training in experimental toxicology to Procter and Gamble in Cincinnati. There, he worked in the Professional and Regulatory division at the Miami Valley Laboratories for ten years. Bob really enjoyed his time there and remains friends with some of his colleagues from that time.

Bob’s career next took him to Mary Kay Cosmetics in Dallas, where he was the Director of Product Safety. He covered areas such as toxicology, microbiology, and regulatory affairs. Bob was with Mary Kay for five years before moving to Frito-Lay as Group Manager of Food Safety and Regulatory Affairs. Eighteen years later, Bob retired from Frito-Lay as Vice President of Worldwide Technical and Regulatory Affairs, where he oversaw over 100 employees. “It was a great company to work for,” says Bob.

During his career, Bob was a sought-after presenter for professional and trade association meetings. He also published over 20 papers in scientific journals as well as chapters in books. In addition, Bob served on the National Academy of Sciences/Institute of Medicine’s Food Forum for about 10 years. He served on several university boards, including those of Texas A&M, the University of Wisconsin, and the University of Georgia.

Bob Drotman

In his retirement, Bob enjoys a variety of diversions. He likes to exercise and works out at least four times a week. He was an avid cyclist, though he has had to take a break from the cycling due to balance issues. He misses biking and is currently in the market for a recumbent cycle.

Gourmet cooking is another of Bob’s favorite activities. He especially enjoys making Mexican and Middle Eastern food. “Being a biochemist … I can mix all sorts of things together and they don’t blow up!” he laughs. He also is a fan of jazz music, both live and recorded. He indulges this habit locally at The Kitchen Cafe in Dallas. Bob loves to travel as well. This fall he will join a Tauck Tour of the Southwest that ends in Las Vegas. In November, he and a group of buddies will head to Big Bend National Park. Of his style of travel, Bob says, “I like to rough it, which means I turn the thermostat down to 70.”

Bob Drotman

Bob’s wife of 55 years, Judy, passed away in the spring of 2022. She was an amazing and well-respected person in the community, being named Plano Citizen of the Year in 2000. Judy served on the boards of and led numerous nonprofits. She was also an avid and successful painter. Bob has established three memorials in Judy’s name: a small chapel at Grace Church, a bell tower garden at Transfiguration Church, and the sponsorship of The ArtCentre of Plano Garden Party.

Bob is an arts lover if not an artist. He has a nice collection of Texas art and especially likes oil landscapes. Bob was involved with The ArtCentre of Plano for 20 years, serving as Chair of the Board for three of those. He also was Chair of Plano’s Public Art Committee and was on the Advisory Committee for the Plano Symphony.

Bob has two children and two grandchildren. His daughter lives in Plano and is VP of HR for the North Texas Food Bank. His son lives outside of Detroit and is an Executive VP with Ford. The grandkids live in Detroit, where Bob enjoys visiting them and watching them play sports.

Ultimately, it was Bob’s daughter who discovered The Outlook at Windhaven and told him he needed to check it out. He knew almost right away that it was the place for him. He loves the location and its proximity to shopping. The floor plans and the security the layout affords, as well as the amenities and the price, were very appealing, too. Bob also finds the staff to be extremely competent and kind. “I really am excited about this. I think it’s going to be a great move for me … and a great move for my family.”

Bob Drotman

Embarking on a Downsizing Journey

by Brenda Thompson
CEO / Managing Broker / Owner of HomeSmart Stars

Brenda Thompson

Downsizing isn’t just about decluttering your physical space; it’s a chance to declutter your life, both mentally and emotionally. Start by taking a deep breath and acknowledging the adventure you’re about to embark upon.

Begin with small, manageable tasks that make the process begin with ease. As you begin this journey, here are 5 action items to do this month that will set you on the path toward your goal of moving into The Outlook at Windhaven:

  1. Set Clear Intentions: Reflect on your downsizing goals. Write down your reasons for moving, the lifestyle you envision, activities you want to take part in, and what you hope to achieve in your new community.
  2. Start Small: Choose a specific area in your current home to declutter, whether it’s a closet, a room, or a corner. Starting with a small space will give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue. Tackle one room at a time. Set a timeline goal to complete each room.
  3. Categorize Possessions: Sort your belongings into “Keep,” “Sell,” “Donate,” or “Discard” categories. This systematic approach will make decision-making easier and keep you organized. Personally, I also like to have a pile to ‘Gift’ to friends or relatives. The act of letting go can be liberating, creating space for the experiences and memories that lie ahead.
  4. Create a Moving Timeline: Outline a basic timeline for your move. Decide on a preferred moving date and work backward, setting milestones for packing, organizing, selling possessions in the “Sell” pile, a plan for selling or renting your current home, and scheduling your move. Even if its too soon to know your move date to The Outlook—pick a hypothetical date such as Summer 2024.
  5. Explore Your New Community: Begin researching the benefits of your new community.  Look into amenities, location, and available activities. This helps create excitement about your move, so the task of organizing and sorting possessions will feel like less of a chore!

Over the coming months, look for more articles with goals and action items to take toward your move to The Outlook at Windhaven. Setting clear goals is the compass that will guide you. Together, we’ll make the downsizing transition a seamless and enjoyable experience, setting the stage for a vibrant chapter of your life. Visit BrendaThompsonBroker.com for more information.


Cottage Opening Timeline*

(Apartment Timeline will be available in a future Outlook Charter soon.)

*Based on current construction timelines.


Construction Corner

See the great construction progress we are making. Take a look at our most recent time-lapse video as of September 2023:

In the next six weeks, The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) construction progress will include:

  • Finishing wood framing of Independent Living (IL) building
  • Beginning exterior finish work for Commons and IL buildings
  • Framing metal for the roof of Assisted Living/Memory Care (AL/MC) building
  • Hanging drywall in Cottages
  • Continuing exterior finish work for Cottages
Construction

DO NOT ENTER!

The construction crew has asked us to kindly request that you stay out of their active work site. They are moving heavy equipment overhead and there is debris on the roads that can damage your car. Unauthorized people onsite are a safety hazard to you, your vehicle, and the construction workers. Thank you for adhering to this request.


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, an educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as a recording of a recent event—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Save-The-Date
for these upcoming Inside the Outlook exclusive events

Questions about any of these events? Give us a call at (972) 996-3887.


Magnifying glass

What’s in the Fine Print?

Thursday, October 12
10:00 am

Webinar

Join us for this informative webinar with Scott Polzin, Chief Operating Officer at Forefront Living, who will review Forefront’s approach to continuing care through its unique contract.

Call (972) 996-3887 or email info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org to RSVP & get webinar link.

Don’t worry if you can’t make it; we will record & share as requested.


Kathryn Clark Childers

Scared Fearless: An Unlikely Agent in the US Secret Service Presentation and Book Signing

Wednesday, October 18
3:00 pm

Forefront Living
12467 Merit Drive
Dallas, TX 75251

In this event for VIPs and potential VIPs, Kathryn Clark Childers, one of the US Secret Service’s first five female Special Agents, shares her life’s simple but powerful message, crafted after many years of fascinating choices and reinvention.

Books will be available for purchase and autograph, or bring your own copy for a personal message from the author.

Call (972) 996-3887 or email info@nullTheOutlookAtWindhaven.org to RSVP.
SEATING IS VERY LIMITED, SO DON’T WAIT!


Wine and Cheese

Wine & Cheese Mingle by Floor Plan

Thursday, October 26
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Watch for an invitation to this Happy Hour exclusively for those of you who selected the following two-bedroom/two-and-a-half-bath apartment homes: the HeronKingfisherMallard or Martin floor plan.


Puppy in halloween costume

2nd Annual Pet and Human Costume Pawty

Monday, October 30
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Windhaven Meadows Park
5400 Windhaven Pkwy
Plano, TX 75093

Watch for an invitation to our 2nd Annual Pet and Human Costume Pawty. Dress up yourself and your furry friend and come on by. No pet? Don’t be scared—stop by anyway just to pawty with us!


Reverend Jarod Cooper, M. Div. and Rabbi Howard Wolk

What are you grateful for?

Wednesday, November 1
10:00 am

Presbyterian Village North, Auditorium
8600 Skyline Drive
Dallas, TX 75243

As the calendar turns to November, we are often reminded of all we have to be grateful for. Join Reverend Jarod Cooper, M. Div., Chaplain at Forefront Living, and Rabbi Howard Wolk, Community Chaplain at Jewish Family Services of Greater Dallas, as they lead us in our 3rd annual discussion on gratitude.


Previous Inside The Outlook Events

Single Gents Luncheon with the CEO

In August, Tim Mallad, CEO, Forefront Living, hosted a VIP luncheon for our single men. Looks like they had a great time getting to know each other. And don’t worry, ladies, your get-together is coming!

Men's CEO Luncheon

BBQ & “Barn Hall” with Forefront Living Leadership

Enjoy these photos from our Barn Hall Meeting on September 11


History of The Haggard Party Barn

A note from Rutledge Haggard

Rutledge Haggard

The Party Barn was built for my dad’s 90th birthday. We had been having parties in the back yard for the previous ten years and cooked for him. I also found a bunch of old shop equipment that I had used as a child out back of a building rusting and deteriorating. Told Dad that we need a place to store the equipment and a place for his birthday. So we built the first 40 x 100 part of the building with restrooms and kitchen. The first thing Dad said; “It won’t be big enough.” It was not big enough, and we doubled the size of it the next year. The first part did not have A/C, and flies nearly carried us off on his 90th birthday. The new addition included 20 tons of A/C.

My family settled in 1856 right here where we live. So the treasures on the walls (some would refer to them as junk) are an accumulation of things that we have used over the years. The lamps on the tables started with lamps that we had here on the farm, but most of them determined whether my wife and I had a good trip depending on how many oil lamps we brought home. The Blues Brothers were given to the barn by my sister-in-law. She had an antique shop and used them for display in a window but then had no place to store them. I was shocked one morning when I walked into the barn and saw the two men. Most everything in the barn has a history.

I do not rent the barn. I only let businesses or entities that family is involved with use the facility. I also let political events take place in the barn. Whether I am for or against the political person or event, I appreciate people wanting to serve, and they need a place to express their position. Church, charity and school events are also welcome.


Welcome Select Outlook VIPs

Barbara and Larry Glazer

Barbara and Larry Glazer


On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the September 2023 On the Forefront newsletter.


Thank you for spreading the love!

Thank you to everyone who has brought a jar of peanut butter to support the North Texas Food Bank’s peanut butter drive. Thus far, we’ve collected over 100 jars. If you’d like to participate, there is still time to drop by a jar. Bring it by the Information Center by noon today, September 29th!

Outlook sales counselors with Peanutbutter jars

August 2023

In this issue, meet VIPs Ed and Carol Maier. Learn about the seasonality of the real estate market. And congratulations to Rachel McGowan on her recent promotion to Move-in Coordinator at The Outlook—you’ll love working with her in her new role! Enjoy some great music with our Outlook VIP Spotify Playlist, a compilation of tunes curated by our VIPs themselves (you can contribute to the playlist, too!). Plus, get the latest news on construction as well as upcoming events, including a don’t-miss presentation by Kathryn Clark Childers, one of the first five women to be hired as a Secret Service Agent. 

Perhaps you know someone who’d be ideal for The Outlook at Windhaven?
If so, let us know at (972) 996-3887 or info@nullForefrontLiving.org and get rewarded now—and in the future!


Meet Your Future Neighbors

Ed and Carol Maier

Ed and Carol Maier

Carol and Ed Maier are both native Chicagoans who met while attending DePaul University. They have been married for over fifty years and in that time have lived in Chicago (twice!), Florida, and Dallas (twice!). They have lived in Frisco since 2007 and have a son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren who live nearby. Their next (“and hopefully last!” they say) move will be to a cottage at The Outlook at Windhaven.

Carol initially began work toward a chemistry degree at DePaul but decided this was not the path for her. She transferred to the University of Illinois and earned a degree in accounting. Carol worked in public accounting for a while until their son was born in 1972. She then took some time off before doing freelance work in accounting and consulting, some in the not-for-profit sector, until she retired three years ago.

Ed also studied accounting and earned his degree from DePaul. He then worked for a large accounting firm in Chicago for 6 months before doing military service for a couple of years. He returned to the same firm, and the many moves the couple made over the years were company-driven. Ed enjoyed his work, his colleagues, and the firm itself but nevertheless retired from accounting in 2002 to try something new. During the course of his career, one of the things Ed enjoyed most was working directly with people through teaching/training programs. When he retired, he opened his own executive coaching firm and ran it for over a decade; he still does some of this work occasionally, mostly for people he already knows.

Both Carol and Ed are avid volunteers. Carol was very involved with The League of Women Voters in Chicago and Florida. About six years ago, she had to pause this work to address a medical condition. Carol underwent procedures at the University of Florida that helped her—in fact, she is doing so much better that she is considering getting more involved in The League of Women Voters for the next election cycle.

Ed does volunteer work with several organizations. Project Unity is a Dallas-based group devoted to trying to help people bridge the racial divide through conversation. And Braver Angels’ mission is to get people from opposing political backgrounds talking in hopes of lessening the negative impact of political division. As in his work life, Ed enjoys running dialogue-centered meetings, so he serves as a moderator for both of these organizations. He finds the work “very challenging, interesting, and educational.”

About three years ago, Carol decided that running the home enterprise had lost its luster, and she and Ed started looking at senior living communities. They also had in mind Carol’s condition and the fact that they did not want to burden their son with the decision of moving them if something were to happen to either of them. Carol and Ed have friends at Presbyterian Village North and liked it a lot but preferred to be closer to where they currently live. They found very little comparable to PVN in their area until Ed read in the paper that Forefront Living was opening The Outlook at Windhaven, which was very close to their house. They contacted The Outlook staff immediately and the rest is history!

Ed and Carol have been to nearly all The Outlook gatherings. They’ve enjoyed meeting their future neighbors and were surprised to find that one of their fellow VIPs is a friend of Ed’s from a previous volunteer engagement. Ed has even renewed his interest in golf and been playing with The North Texas Senior Golf Association thanks to an Outlook VIP. “They’re doing a good job of building community before we are even in…it’s good what they’re doing, and I think we’re going to be very happy when we get there,” says Carol.

Carol is looking forward to managing a smaller home space and getting involved in some of The Outlook’s activity groups, perhaps book club or card playing. People-person Ed is looking forward to meeting and getting to know folks from different facets of life. The wellness programs are also a draw. Ed is intrigued by the variety of options and the subsequent opportunity to keep his brain engaged by trying different things—like the piano lessons he started taking four years ago—not to mention the ease of doing it because everything is right there! But don’t expect him to be part of the musical entertainment!

In their free time, Ed and Carol enjoy attending the numerous sporting events of their grandchildren. “They keep us going!” says Carol. They also have an adorable mini schnauzer named Barkley who demands lots of time and attention. Travel is another favorite pastime of the Maiers’, especially river cruises. They have taken several European ones and next month look forward to exploring the Columbia and Snake Rivers here in the US.


Rachel McGowan
Promoted to Move-In Coordinator

We are thrilled to announce Rachel’s promotion from Marketing Assistant to Move-In Coordinator. Rachel’s friendly demeanor, problem-solving skills and organizational abilities made her a favorite among VIPs. Rachel will bring these same qualities with her as Move-In Coordinator. In her new role, Rachel will ensure that your move goes as smoothly and headache-free as possible! Rachel leaves big shoes to fill, and we are taking the time to find just the right person to fulfill the role of Marketing Assistant. We hope to introduce you to our pick very soon. In the meantime, please continue to call us at the Information Center with any questions you may have, (972) 996-3887.

Rachel McGowan and Lane Phanthavong checking MEP changes in the 30 cottages

Spotify

VIP Spotify Playlist

Looking for some good tunes to listen to while you work on your rightsizing efforts? Look no further than the Spotify Outlook VIP Playlist. We’ve assembled these songs from titles submitted by VIPs like you. Don’t hear your favorite? Let us know what it is and we’ll add it to the list.


“The Seasonality of Real Estate:
When Is The Best Time To Sell Your Home?”
by Bruce Walpole

We’re sure you’ve begun to think about selling your home, and we thought this article on the seasonality of real estate might come in handy. Each season brings its unique set of advantages and challenges for sellers, making it essential to understand the market dynamics throughout the year.

Sell your house more quickly than you thought (yay!)? The Outlook team has information on short-term lease options. Call us for resources.

Bruce Walpole, REALTOR® Walpole Realty Group

Construction Corner

See the great construction progress we are making. Take a look at our most recent time-lapse video as of August 8, 2023:

In the next six weeks, The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) construction progress will include:

  • Framing roof of Independent Living building
  • Setting windows in the Commons, Assisted Living and Independent Living buildings
  • Continue exterior and interior work on Cottages
  • Framing roof of Assisted Living building

OAW campus buildings – Blue outlines the Commons building, housing administration offices, kitchen and dining. Green highlights the three stories of Assisted Living and Memory Care. Red showcases the five-story Independent Living building, including additional common spaces such as the fitness center and pool.

Construction Personnele Only

Save Your Tires

We know how exciting it must be to see your new home under construction; why spoil it with a flat tire? Until The Outlook is ready for you to move in, it is an active construction site and may not be safe—so please do not drive on site.

Join us for our BBQ & “Barn Hall” with Forefront Living Leadership on September 11 for a drive-thru look at construction progress via shuttle bus!


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, an educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as a recording of a recent event—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Save-The-Date
for these upcoming Inside the Outlook exclusive events

Questions about any of these events? Give us a call at (972) 996-3887.


BBQ & “Barn Hall” with Forefront Living Leadership

Monday, September 11
11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Haggard Party Barn
5948 McKamy Trail
Plano, TX 75024

Join us for our first town hall-style meeting and get an update from our leadership on all things Forefront Living/The Outlook, followed by a fantastic BBQ lunch. Shuttle buses will be available to take you across to the construction site for a drive-thru look at construction progress.


What’s in the Fine Print?

Thursday, October 12
10:00 am

Webinar

Join us for this informative webinar with Scott Polzin, Chief Operating Officer at Forefront Living, who will review Forefront’s approach to continuing care through its unique contract.


Scared Fearless: An Unlikely Agent in the US Secret Service Presentation by the Author and Book Signing

Wednesday, October 18
3:00 pm

Forefront Living
12467 Merit Drive
Dallas, TX 75251

In this event for VIPs and potential VIPs, Kathryn Clark Childers, one of the US Secret Service’s first five female Special Agents, shares her life’s simple but powerful message, crafted after many years of fascinating choices and reinvention.

Books will be available for purchase and autograph, or bring your own copy for a personal message from the author.


Wine & Cheese Mingle by Floor Plan

Thursday, October 26
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Watch for an invitation to this Happy Hour exclusively for those of you who selected a two-bedroom/two-and-a-half-bath apartment home, specifically the Heron, Kingfisher, Mallard or Martin floor plan.


What are you grateful for?

Wednesday, November 1
10:00 am

Location: TBD

As the calendar turns to November, we are often reminded of all we have to be grateful for. Join Reverend Jarod Cooper, M. Div., Chaplain at Forefront Living, and Rabbi Howard Wolk, Community Chaplain at Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas, as they lead us in our 3rd annual discussion on gratitude.


Previous Inside The Outlook Event

You can watch the presentation below if you missed it.

The Future of Care

Joni Watson, MPA/HCA, PT
Director of Business Development
Forefront Living


Welcome Select Outlook VIPs

Judi and Tom Phares

Lynda Pillans 

Larry Foster


Refer a Friend and Get Rewarded Now and at Move-In

Contact us at (972) 996-3887 or click here for more information.


On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the August 2023 On the Forefront newsletter.


Forefront Living Is Expanding into San Antonio!

Tell your friends and family about our new expansion into south Texas!

BellaVidaSA.org


July 2023

In this issue, meet VIP Sarah Shlakman. Get to know this fascinating lady (and future neighbor) and find out why she chose The Outlook. Take a quick survey to let us know if you’d like us to create a resident directory. Plus, get the latest updates on construction and get caught up to speed on some recent VIP events (Couldn’t make them? There are more coming, so mark those calendars.). Also, did you know August 3 is National Watermelon Day? Learn how to make the perfect slice.

Perhaps you know someone who’d like to learn about The Outlook at Windhaven. If so, contact Rachel at (972) 996-3887 or RMcGowan@nullForefrontLiving.org and you will both benefit! Our VIP referral rewards program has been revamped. See details.


Meet Your Future Neighbor

Sarah Shlakman

Sarah Shlakman grew up in a farm-adjacent home in the “Garden Spot of America,” Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She got to ride horses and bear witness to all of the interesting activities of the large farm next door. “It was a very idyllic childhood,” says Sarah. Sarah and her brother were adopted, and when she was in her twenties, she found her birth parents. In recent years, she developed an interest in tracing her roots and hired a professional genealogist who found that Sarah’s ancestors were among the first to settle in southeastern Pennsylvania in the early 1700s. Amazingly, the home where she grew up is only five miles from her “ancestral home”—the land originally deeded by William Penn to her ancestors. “I truly ate from the soil of my ancestors!” she remarks.

Sarah attended Bryn Mawr College, majored in Art History, and has great memories of having a “wonderful liberal arts education.” After graduating cum laude, Sarah trained as a paralegal and worked in Philadelphia. She then moved to Washington, DC, where she worked for two prominent law firms. She met her husband Richard at one of these firms in 1978 and married in 1985. Sarah was Richard’s second wife; he had two daughters from his previous marriage, with whom Sarah is very close. She also has two beloved grown grandchildren from these special relationships.

Sarah eventually went to work for Electronic Data Systems (EDS). While working for them, she took accounting courses and became a CPA. She then went to work for an accounting firm but in time returned to EDS as an accounting supervisor. Richard also ended up working at EDS, and the firm moved him and Sarah to Dallas in 1989. Richard was tasked with setting up a world-class in-house law firm for EDS, which was both a great honor and a particularly challenging career move! Sarah took some time off to counter the stress of so much change. Ultimately, Richard moved to the business side of EDS and retired from there. While he lived with a progressive neuromuscular disease, Richard never let that define him. Sadly, he passed away in November of 2022.

Meanwhile, after being a student of yoga for 20 years, in 1998 Sarah embarked on a career as a yoga instructor. She enrolled in a two-year course and taught yoga for nearly 20 years after that, traveling all over the Dallas area to yoga studios, community colleges, and even corporate locales. She also had an in-home studio for private lessons.

Because of Richard’s declining health and his interest in seeing both himself and Sarah comfortably settled, the two started to look at senior living communities. One of these places was The Outlook at Windhaven, which was just half a mile from their home. They both loved it, and Sarah feels fortunate that they already had their plans for The Outlook in place when her husband passed.

Sarah is excited about the move. She has already downsized and would “move in tomorrow!” if given the opportunity. “The smaller community fits me to a T,” says Sarah. She already has a few friends who are also Outlook VIPs with whom she has attended events and has enjoyed meeting others. “I am just so grateful that they are creating a community before there’s an actual building,” she says.

Sarah will be joined at The Outlook by her two cats, Gizmo (15) and Charlotte (3). Charlotte was reported to be 11 when she was adopted two years ago, but Sarah learned at the veterinarian that she was, actually, a youthful one-year-old. “So Gizmo has a personal trainer… Charlotte keeps him young, and he keeps her in line,” laughs Sarah.

In 2018, Sarah was ready to try something (kind of) new. She had taken piano lessons as a child but gave it up in rebellion when she graduated from high school. With a renewed interest in learning to play, Sarah rented a piano and took lessons. She found a teacher she adores and now just loves learning, practicing, and playing in recitals twice a year. (She would like her future neighbors to know that her current piano does have a practice pedal!)

Sarah playing her piano

In addition to music, Sarah has recently been exploring the visual arts, trying her hand at drawing and painting. She lives quietly and prefers intimate gatherings to large parties. She loves walking, doing puzzles, and spending time in meaningful conversation. As you can tell, Sarah’s interests and talents are varied and many!

The genealogical research Sarah had done revealed that she comes from a line of very long-lived people. Taking this to heart, her goal is to live to the age of 97! She laughs, “I hope The Outlook is ready for me because they’ve got me for another 30 years!”


We want your input:
Online Resident Directory

We’ve had requests for and are considering creating a resident directory that would be available only to VIPs. Before we do this, we want to know if you are interested. Please take our simple “yes” or “no” survey below and let us know. 


Construction Corner

See the great construction progress we are making. Take a look at our most recent time-lapse video as of July 11, 2023:

Save Your Tires

We know how exciting it must be to see your new home under construction, why spoil it with a flat tire? Until The Outlook is ready for you to move in; it is an active construction site and may not be safe—so please do not drive on site. 


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, an educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as some photos and recordings of recent events—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Save-The-Date
for these Upcoming Inside the Outlook Exclusive Events

Questions about any of these events? Give us a call at (972) 996-3887.


Levels of Living at The Outlook

Wednesday, August 16
11:30 am & 1:30 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Learn more about the assisted living and memory support programs that will be offered at The Outlook.


Wine & Cheese Mingle by Floor Plan

Wednesday, August 23
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Watch for an invitation to this Happy Hour exclusively for those of you who selected a two-bedroom/two-bath apartment home, specifically the Dove, Eagle, Gadwell or Goldfinch floor plan.


BBQ & “Barn Hall” with Forefront Living Leadership

Monday, September 11
11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Haggard Party Barn
5948 McKamy Trail
Plano, TX 75024

A tradition from Presbyterian Village North that will be carried over to The Outlook at Windhaven is the Town Hall with residents. Join us for our first town hall-style meeting and get an update from our leadership on all things Forefront Living/The Outlook, followed by a fantastic BBQ lunch. After lunch, shuttle buses will be available to take you across to the construction site for a drive-thru look at construction progress.


What’s in the Fine Print?

Thursday, October 12
10:00 am

Webinar

Join us for this informative webinar with Scott Polzin, Chief Operating Officer at Forefront Living, who will review Forefront Living’s approach to continuing care through its unique contract.


Scared Fearless: An Unlikely Agent in the US Secret Service Presentation by the Author and Book Signing

Wednesday, October 18
3:00 pm

Forefront Living
12467 Merit Drive
Dallas, TX 75251

In this event for VIPs and potential VIPs, Kathryn Clark Childers, one of the US Secret Service’s first five female Special Agents, shares her life’s simple but powerful message crafted after many years of fascinating choices and reinvention.
Books will be available for purchase, or bring your own copy for a personal message from the author.


Wine & Cheese Mingle by Floor Plan

Thursday, October 26
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Watch for an invitation to this Happy Hour exclusively for those of you who selected a two-bedroom/two-and-a-half-bath apartment home, specifically the Heron, Kingfisher, Mallard or Martin floor plan.


What are you grateful for?

Wednesday, November 1
10:00 am

Stonebriar Country Club
5050 Country Club Dr
Frisco, TX 75034

As the calendar turns to November, we are often reminded of all we have to be grateful for. Join Reverend Jarod Cooper, M. Div., Chaplain at Forefront Living, and Rabbi Howard Wolk, Community Chaplain at Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas, as they lead us in our 3rd annual discussion on gratitude.


Recent Events

Taste of The Outlook

At this VIP exclusive event, more than 100 VIPs gathered in historic downtown Plano for an exclusive presentation about The Outlook’s culinary program with Ke’o Velasquez, Corporate Director of Operations at Forefront Living. The delicious tastings provided by the Presbyterian Village North culinary team were representative of the fantastic dining options that will be available in the bistro, wine bar, and main dining room. The tastings menu included:

Salmon Pops with Lemon Twists & Citrus Dill Mignonette Sauce (gluten-free) or Roasted White Grape & Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini (vegetarian) paired with Chenin Blanc

Mini Chicken Club Slider or BBQ Jackfruit (vegan) paired with Local Buzz Golden Ale

Deconstructed Beef Wellington Canape & Horseradish Crema or Dive-Free Scallops & Sunchoke Pea Puree (vegan/gluten-free) paired with Classic Mint Julep

Strawberry & Raspberry Tart or Rainbow Macaroons (gluten-free) or White Chocolate Mousse & Lemon Curd Parfaits (vegetarian and gluten-free) paired with Lemon Drop Martini


Previous Inside The Outlook Events

If you missed previous events, click on a video below to access the recordings of these engaging sessions. They will provide you with further insight into the exciting developments and future of The Outlook.

If you missed this presentation, stop by our office to collect your complimentary exercise band.


Fun Fact

Did you know that 350 trees of various sizes will be planted at The Outlook—that’s 3 times the amount that had to be removed for construction!


Frequently Asked Question

Patio Door Locks: We’ve had several questions about what type of lock will be used on patio doors of ground-floor apartment homes. We’re pleased to report that these locks will feature an easy-to-use keypad. Simply type in your code and the door will unlock. The patio door locks will work independently from your key fob, so no need to carry your keys for a quick walk on the trails.


Welcome to another Outlook VIP

Bonnie Kauffman


Refer a Friend and Get Rewarded

With more than 80% of residences reserved, it’s time to recommend The Outlook at Windhaven to a friend or family member. Because what could be better than getting to choose your neighbors? For a limited time, your potential new neighbor can take advantage of construction pricing and benefits while some amazing apartment homes are still available.

IF YOUR FRIEND RESERVES A RESIDENCE, YOU WILL RECEIVE A $500 GIFT CARD RIGHT NOW.*

AFTER YOU AND YOUR FRIEND MOVE IN, YOU WILL RECEIVE A CREDIT OF $3,500 & THEY WILL RECEIVE $2,500.*

Contact us at (972) 996-3887 or TheOutlook@nullForefrontLiving.org

*Offer valid for new referrals only. Effective through 12/31/23.


August 3rd is National Watermelon Day!

Nothing says summer like a refreshing slice of delicious watermelon. While so many of us love to eat it, we don’t necessarily enjoy slicing it—and cleaning up the mess that often follows. Not anymore! Check out this quick video tutorial below to learn the easiest way to tackle the task—and start enjoying perfect slices of watermelon, every time. Now you’ll be ready when the big day arrives!


On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the July 2023 On the Forefront newsletter.

June 2023

In this issue, get to know VIPs Phil and Cathy Davis! We’re all familiar with the term “spring cleaning,” but what about “summer decluttering?” Click on the link later in this newsletter to download our handy 12-month Decluttering and Move Plan, a monthly guide to getting your home in order and ready for sale. Plus, get the latest on construction, this month’s Frequently Asked Question, a recap of recent VIP events, and some Save the Dates for upcoming ones, so get your calendars ready. And on a sweet note, we’ve found the perfect dessert just in time for Independence Day (hint: it’s the berries!).

Perhaps you know someone who’d like to learn about The Outlook at Windhaven. If so, contact Rachel at (972) 996-3887 or RMcGowan@nullForefrontLiving.org and you will both benefit! Our VIP referral rewards program has been revamped. See details.


Meet Your Future Neighbors

Phil and Cathy Davis

VIPs Phil and Cathy Davis met thanks to University of Oklahoma sports fandom. Cathy’s dad grew up in Norman and was a huge fan of OU (He even received recognition at a football game for not missing a home game in 65 years!). Cathy was the oldest of three girls in her family and starting at age five, her father took her to every OU sporting event under the sun. She was destined to become an OU mega fan, too. Further down the road when she was at college there, Cathy was on the pom team and she and a good friend were bat girls for the baseball team. This friend was dating one of Phil’s best friends and the couple set Phil and Cathy up on a blind date. Initially, Phil thought Cathy too quiet but after watching her perform a pom routine on the basketball court, things changed. The rest is history and they have been married nearly 44 years!

Phil was raised an only child in a small town in southeast Oklahoma by his schoolteacher mother and both sets of grandparents. His parents were divorced, but he was fortunate that his dad was always available when Phil needed him. “He was a priceless influence throughout my entire life,” he says. Phil feels lucky to have had all of this support in his upbringing and thus notes he “has a soft spot in my heart for schoolteachers, grandparents, mothers, and fathers.”

Phil went to Oklahoma City University and graduated with a degree in business management. Initially, he went into business with his father in Oklahoma City. Over the years, he worked in and/or invested in agriculture, ranching, real estate, the hardware and appliance business, energy, stocks, bonds, start-up companies and a nursing home. Phil remains active in business and investing and maintained an office in Oklahoma City up until about two years ago. Currently he works out of his home office; he maintains an interest in the energy business, is involved in a waste disposal start-up company, and keeps an eye out for ranch real estate, among other things. Phil claims that although he grew up and lived for many decades in Oklahoma, he may have spent more time working, fishing, and vacationing in Texas than a lot of native Texans!

Cathy received a BS in Mathematics from OU.  She thought she might be a math teacher but following the advice of her dad, she got a degree in math instead of education to expand her opportunities. She still pursued education by taking the necessary electives and doing student teaching, and had a job offer to be a junior high math teacher upon graduation. However, her career path took a turn when Southwestern Bell recruited her during her senior year. They made her an offer that was a bit more attractive than a teacher’s starting salary, so Cathy decided to “try that for a while and see what happens.” Over 37 years later, Cathy reflects that she was well-satisfied with her choice to spend her career at Southwestern Bell and AT&T.

In 1997, Cathy accepted a promotion that brought her to Dallas. Fortunately, Phil was able to move his work here, too. Though it was supposed to be a temporary move, several subsequent career opportunities came Cathy’s way. “I never had an assignment for more than three years,” says Cathy. She had many exciting moments, did many different things, and never got bored! Cathy retired from AT&T in 2013 but she continues to work as a Jazzercise instructor at the beautiful Grapevine Recreation Center, not far from their current home. Cathy started doing Jazzercise in 1981 in OKC and became certified as an instructor in Dallas in 1999. She says Jazzercize keeps her both sane and fit!

Phil and Cathy started to think about downsizing to a senior living community a few years ago. They got a little more serious about it as the “joys” of home ownership became less joyful and the lure of “lock and leave” began to draw them in. Phil already knew a lot about senior living communities. He worked at a nursing home toward the beginning of his career (he even has a nursing home administrator’s license, but has not ever used it!) and has helped numerous family members find accommodations over the years. Cathy also had knowledge in this arena; her mother lives in a community in Norman. Their positive experiences and good fortune in quests for others gave the two a nice head start when they began looking at places for themselves. They heard about The Outlook at Windhaven through friends and were drawn to its location and the fact that it is not ready yet, since they weren’t quite ready either.

The Davis duo feels really fortunate to have reserved at The Outlook and like that they got to choose their finishes. Cathy is excited about all of the upcoming community activities, especially the yoga and fitness studios and pool. Phil is looking forward to not worrying about the upkeep of their current home. The convenience of having a team to help with the day-to-day homeowner chores, like changing HVAC filters and smoke alarm batteries, is another bonus.

In their leisure time, Phil and Cathy like to fish, go to horse races and attend college and professional sports.  They are also big fans of University of Oklahoma women’s softball (Cathy played first base on Southwest Bell’s Oklahoma women’s team, which won multiple five-state company championships). He and Cathy like going to concerts, plays, and other shows. The two often visit with family and friends in both Texas and Oklahoma and love to travel—river and ocean cruises are particular favorites. Cathy has an upcoming girls’ trip to France she is looking forward to, and both will embark on a Great Lakes cruise in July.


One of Our Most Frequently Asked Questions:
When can we move in?

We are all so excited to see The Outlook at Windhaven open in 2024! Here are the general timelines for move-in:

  • Cottages ready for move-in as early as February 2024
  • Common areas open, staffed, and operational late spring 2024
  • Apartment homes ready for move-in as early as summer 2024

As with all construction projects, timelines are subject to change. However, you will get a letter from us 60 days before your residence is ready for occupancy. And then you have another 60 days to close & schedule your move-in to maximize your benefits program.

Details, Details

As your exciting move to The Outlook approaches, we know you’re sure to have questions and would like to get all the details you can—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. In the meantime, join us for some of our great upcoming events to get more details on your move and get the answers to questions you may have.  


12-Month Decluttering & Moving Plan

If you are looking for motivation and a system to declutter your entire home in 12 months, here is a plan recommended by Lorraine Brock, Professional Organizer with Get Organized!

Get Organized! is offering Outlook VIPs a valuable coupon.

Let Get Organized! help you with decluttering, organizing, packing, unpacking, and complete home set-up. They are offering a free consultation ($150 maximum value) on any of their services including digital clutter organizing and interior design services.

For more information, call 972-841-0738 or go to GetOrganized.ws and Contact Us. Mention code: “July Windhaven”Expires 7/31/2023

“We look forward to giving you an organized, stress-free move.”
– Lorraine Brock


Construction Corner

In the next six weeks, construction progress will include the following:

  • Continue framing and boxing of Independent Living
  • Continue wood framing of Independent Living – Second Floor
  • Continuing metal framing on Assisted Living
  • Finish drying-in Cottages (building shell to be completed sufficiently to keep out wind, rain or general weather)
  • Beginning interior Cottage work

Save Your Tires

We know how exciting it must be to see your new home under construction, why spoil it with a flat tire? Until The Outlook is ready for you to move in, it is an active construction site and may not be safe—so please do not drive on site. 


Welcome to Inside The Outlook, a new educational and lifestyle series created especially for you—our VIPs. Below are some recent events you may have missed as well as some upcoming events—either way, we don’t want you to miss a single thing going on at The Outlook!


Finding Your Path Forward with Brad Breeding

Tuesday, May 23

This is about more than choosing where to live. It’s about choosing how to live…both today and tomorrow.

At this VIP exclusive event, senior living expert Brad Breeding explained the many financial benefits of choosing a senior living community like The Outlook at Windhaven in his presentation “Finding Your Path Forward.” For a PDF of his presentation, click here.


A VIP Happy Hour for those who have reserved the Bluebird & Cardinal residences

Wednesday, June 21

We are hosting happy hours by floor plan this year. Watch your email for your invitation!


Inside The Outlook – The Future of Wellness

Friday, June 23

VIPs got an inside look into the future of wellness at The Outlook. Presbyterian Village North (PVN) teammates Shannon Radford, Director of Wellness, and Deana Lisenby, Lifestyle Fitness Manager provided helpful tips on staying active. Additionally, VIPs viewed renderings of The Outlook fitness and aquatics center and learned about the various programs and therapies expected to be offered. After answering questions, Deana led a light exercise demonstration. For a PDF of their presentation, click here.


Save-The-Date

Mark your calendar!

A Taste of The Outlook

Wednesday, July 12
11:30 am – 1:30 pm

Event1013
1013 E. 15th St.
Plano, Texas 75074

Join us for a presentation at Event1013 about The Outlook’s culinary program with Ke’o Velasquez, Corporate Director of Operations at Forefront Living. Enjoy tastings representative of the dining options of The Outlook, presented by the Presbyterian Village North culinary team.


Levels of Living at The Outlook

Wednesday, August 16
11:30 am & 1:30 pm

Information Center
4017 Preston Road, Suite B520
Plano, Texas 75093

Learn more about the assisted living and memory support programs that will be offered at The Outlook.

Seating for these events is limited, so RSVP today to Rachel at (972) 996-3887 or RMcGowan@nullForeFrontLiving.org


Welcome Select VIPs

Joetta Guta

Steve & Tavolyn Wolf

Thank you to Ronni Campi for referring Steve & Tavolyn Wolf


Refer a Friend and Get Rewarded

With construction well underway and more than 80% of residences reserved, there is no better time to recommend The Outlook at Windhaven to a friend or family member. And what could be better than getting to choose your neighbors? For a limited time, your potential new neighbor can take advantage of special pre-opening pricing and benefits while some amazing apartment homes are still available.

So, if you know someone you think would be ideal for The Outlook, let us know. And you both win!

IF YOUR FRIEND RESERVES A RESIDENCE, YOU WILL RECEIVE A $500 GIFT CARD RIGHT NOW.*

AFTER YOU AND YOUR FRIEND MOVE IN, YOU WILL RECEIVE A CREDIT OF $3,500 & THEY WILL RECEIVE $2,500.*

Contact us at (972) 996-3887 or TheOutlook@nullForefrontLiving.org

*Offer valid for new referrals only. Effective through 12/31/23.


Thank You to Our Wonderful Volunteers!

We wanted to say a special thank-you to all of you who have volunteered to make The Outlook such a great success. We would not be more than 80% reserved without your help. As you know, at Forefront Living communities, our residents are an important part of the way we make Each Moment Matter for those we serve. Opportunities abound for you to get involved—be featured in our VIP newsletter, participate in a photoshoot, attend an event and interact with potential future VIPs, serve on a future resident panel, and so much more!

Interested? Contact Rachel at RMcGowan@nullforefrongliving.org.


Looking for creative 4th of July dessert ideas?

This one’s the berries!

This Independence Day, why not serve up a special dessert at your next gathering, like these Chocolate-Covered 4th of July Strawberries? Perfect for the whole family or to take to a party, these festive treats are easy to make and so delicious (who doesn’t love fresh strawberries in the summer?). You can even make them in advance if you like. And when it’s time to add the sprinkles, we’ll bet the grandkids will be more than happy to help! Click here for instructions.


On the Forefront

Want to know more about Forefront Living and how we actively serve seniors across all our nonprofits? Click here to view the June 2023 On the Forefront newsletter.

May 2023

In this issue, meet VIP Joan Gore. The very embodiment of the word “active,” get to know this fascinating lady (and future neighbor) and find out why she chose The Outlook. Personalization Coordinator Lane Phanthavong answers some of your most frequently asked questions. Plus, get the latest updates on construction and get caught up to speed on some recent VIP events (Couldn’t make them? There are more coming, so mark those calendars). Want to win an Outlook at Windhaven T-shirt? Find out how later in this newsletter!

Perhaps you know someone who’d like to learn about The Outlook at Windhaven. If so, contact Rachel at (972) 996-3887 or RMcGowan@nullForefrontLiving.org and you will both benefit! Our VIP referral rewards program has been revamped. See details.


Meet Your Future Neighbor

Joan Gore

Joan Gore is the very embodiment of the word “active.” Currently, she is fresh off an exhilarating cruise of “calm seas and beautiful weather” where she traveled to the Caribbean, through the Panama Canal, and on to Costa Rica and Mexico. Joan also has taken river cruises in Europe and recently went on a trip with TCU called “Flavors of Northern Italy” where she stayed at a vineyard farmhouse and took cooking classes. She is up for an adventure and always enjoys trying “something different.”

Joan grew up in Fort Worth and attended Texas Christian University. She remains an active fan and alumna and served on some of their boards. “I love my university,” says Joan; she often shows her TCU pride by wearing purple! She enjoys the trips organized by TCU where even if you sign up as a solo traveler, you always find friends along the way.

Joan majored in education and has been in this field for the entirety of her career. “Once you’re an educator, you’re always an educator. It’s in your system,” she says. Her classroom days were spent exclusively teaching middle school. While working at the Hockaday School for Girls in Dallas, she got thrown into the world of technology when told she would have an Apple IIE in her classroom and she would need to learn how to use it. Like many teachers at that time, Joan fretted over this. However, she found her way through—teaching herself to use this new machine and changing the direction of her career as well. She became an educational technology specialist, and went from teaching kids BASIC at her dining room table to founding her own company in Highland Park called Computer Education Consultants. “Everybody was thirsty for that knowledge,” explains Joan.

She spent the last 15 years of her “9-5” career in the technology department of Lewisville ISD, retiring about 15 years ago. Nonetheless, Joan still does technology consulting with a partner/friend. “It keeps me current,” muses Joan, “and we’re good at it!” One of the reasons she believes they’ve done so well is the empathy she has for the teachers who have no choice but to use technology. Reflecting on her work, Joan says, “I was fortunate to have that path and see the growth…it was always very interesting and challenging.”

After a long marriage, Joan lost her husband to COVID in 2020. They had three sons, two of whom live in Plano and the other in Tulsa. She has ten grandchildren (ages 13-29) and is expecting her first great-grandchild in August. “They are such a support system,” she says. All but one of her immediate family members live either in the Dallas-Fort Worth area or Tulsa. When Joan began looking into The Outlook at Windhaven, she had all three sons come check things out with her.

Joan found The Outlook when she was not even looking to move. She already lived in a one-story home and had great neighbors. The Outlook slowly started showing up on her radar; she saw some Outlook literature and drove by the building site frequently on one of her shortcuts through town, but it still was not “clicking” as a place for her. However, after taking a deeper dive into the materials, she saw that it was a smaller community, and this really appealed to her. She went to several events and saw how nice the place would be and also discovered she knew many people who would be moving in. In addition, she found that “The staff are exceptional, very open and great at responding to questions and concerns.”

Joan was also beginning to see the downside of traditional home ownership. “Managing the house is not an easy job, and I did not realize how much my husband did,” she laughs. She likes the idea of going on a trip and being able to “lock and leave” versus all the preparations you have to do when you have a house. Joan also had a positive experience with her own mother living in a senior community. Her mother loved it, and Joan recalls the relief of having her cared for yet near the things with which she was familiar and loved. She wants her children to have the same with her, but with Joan in the driver’s seat. “This is something I want to be in charge of doing,” she says.

Though some of her future neighbors would love to move in right now, Joan is actually glad that The Outlook is not ready yet and finds it fun to watch it being built. It gives her time to think and downsize without being rushed. She has been slowly going through her things and notes that, “It’s kind of refreshing to clean out stuff—cleansing.” At Christmastime last year, all of her family members received a cookbook (“wrapped up so they couldn’t give it back!” she laughs), and she is bemusedly wondering if her family members are quietly choosing things they might like to have when she makes the move. Joan is looking forward to picking out colors and finishes for her new place in the coming weeks!

Once settled in at The Outlook, Joan laughs that she is most looking forward to the wine bar! But really, what she is excited for is the convenience and social aspect of the community. Joan is a very social person and finds being around others to be good for one’s mental health. She has loved going to The Outlook’s social events thus far and found the people to be interesting and outgoing. “Sometimes you know when something is right, and this is right for me.”

A Financial Decision

Joan’s sons thoroughly researched the CCRC model and specifically The Outlook at Windhaven before deciding it was the right place for their mom. Joan’s son Kevin Gore, CPA, a partner with the accounting firm FORVIS, started with the following questions:

  1. Why The Outlook?
  2. Did you understand the financial structure of a nonprofit CCRC before researching The Outlook?
  3. Do you think financial planners have a misunderstanding about the financial structure?
  4. What’s the difference between a Nonprofit vs. for profit CCRC?

Click here to read Kevin’s answers and more.


Personalization Update

Lane Phanthavong

An Update from Lane Phanthavong,
Personalization Coordinator

I’ve enjoyed working with you on personalizing your new home! Along the way, I’ve gotten a few questions from VIPs that you may have as well. Below are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. As always, should you have other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at design@nullforefrontliving.org.

Q: When do we have to pay for upgrades?

A: Upgrades are paid for when you finalize and sign off on selections.

Q: Can upgrades be paid for with a credit card?

A: Upgrades can only be paid with a check.

Q: If I don’t want something installed, do I get a credit? 

A: Certain items must be installed to pass inspection, so in general, there is no credit given if you choose to not have something installed. If you choose to upgrade, credits for the standard item not selected are worked into the cost of upgrades.

Q: Are there any ceiling fans included? 

A: In the apartment homes, a ceiling fan is included on the patio/terrace. Bedrooms and living room are prewired for fans.

Q: Are there any grab bars included?

A: Yes, there is a standard grab bar located at each bathroom shower.  It is installed at the entrance of the shower to assist with getting in and out safely.

Q: Do I need to schedule a preview time for finishes?

A: No, a preview is not required, but is an option if you would prefer it. You will have 2 hours of one-on-one time with me to answer all your questions and make your selections.


Construction Corner

In the next six weeks, construction progress will include the following:

  • Framing on Commons/Independent Living Building and Cottages
  • Run electrical and plumbing lines in basement and Level 1 of Main Building
  • Pour Level 2 slab for Assisted Living/Memory Care area of Main Building
  • Rough-in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems at Cottages
  • Prep for exterior Cottage work

Save Your Tires

As tempting as it is to see the construction progress for yourself, please don’t drive on-site.


VIP Appreciation Social at Capital Grille

Monday, April 10

VIPs enjoyed an array of sweet and savory bites and beverages at The Capital Grille, located in Plano’s popular Shops at Legacy. A crowd of approximately 100 filled the venue and everyone enjoyed mingling with their future neighbors, friends and Forefront Living leadership.


Interior Design Insight and Overview

April 4 and April 5

In early April, we hosted Bridget Bohacz, interior designer for The Outlook, and Mallori Smyers, architect with Greystone, at our design presentation. VIPs got a brief construction update, learned more about the residence finish options, and got a sneak peek of some of The Outlook’s amenity spaces.


Thank You!

We are grateful to Pam Tischler, Lynn Harris, John Thompson and Emily Martin, & Jan and Gary Basham for serving as VIP panelists at our Happy Hour for potential new neighbors on May 4th.


Refer a Friend and Get Rewarded

With construction well underway and more than 80% of residences reserved, there is no better time to recommend The Outlook at Windhaven to a friend or family member. And what could be better than getting to choose your neighbors? For a limited time, your potential new neighbor can take advantage of special pre-opening pricing and benefits while some amazing apartment homes are still available.

So, if you know someone you think would be ideal for The Outlook, let us know. And you both win!

IF YOUR FRIEND RESERVES A RESIDENCE, YOU WILL RECEIVE A $500 H-E-B GIFT CARD RIGHT NOW.*

AFTER YOU AND YOUR FRIEND MOVE IN, YOU WILL RECEIVE A CREDIT OF $3,500 & THEY WILL RECEIVE $2,500.*

Contact us at (972) 996-3887 or TheOutlook@nullForefrontLiving.org

*Offer valid for new referrals only. Effective through 6/30/23.


Thank you to Sarah Shlakman for referring her neighbors, John and Bonnie Strauss

Sarah Shlakman
John and Bonnie Strauss and Eddie

Save-The-Date

Mark your calendar!

Inside the Outlook:
a lifestyle series exclusively for VIPs

Wellness

Friday, June 23 at 9:30 am

At The Carpenter Park Recreation Center
6701 Coit Rd., Plano TX, 75024

Get ready to boost your well-being! Join us at The Carpenter Recreation Center for a wellness presentation with Shannon Radford, Director of Wellness from Presbyterian Village North. We’ll end with a light exercise demonstration, so be sure to wear your comfy shoes!

Seating is limited so RSVP today to Rachel at (972) 996-3887 or RMcGowan@nullForeFrontLiving.org


Win an Outlook T-shirt and show your Outlook Pride

The Outlook at Windhaven T-shirts are in, and you can WIN one! Simply like our social posts on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn for the entire month of June. One like = one entry into the drawing for two lucky winners to be selected on June 30.

Click on the links below to follow us and be entered for a chance to win one of our new Outlook T-shirts!

The Outlook Sales and Marketing Team: Charlotte, Angela, and Jennifer

© 2023 The Outlook at Windhaven | Privacy Policy | Accessibility

* All renderings of The Outlook at Windhaven are artistic representations of planned structures and spaces and their details are subject to change.