Health + Wellness

First Responder of the Month

The Heart Behind the Headset: Life as a 911 Dispatcher Article by Marisa Bingham | Photography by Joseph Rivers: Jay Sonata Photography When Jennifer Stavinoha answers a call, it’s often the worst day of someone’s life. As a telecom officer for the past three years, she handles emergencies with calm precision, offering critical support in high-stress situations. Yet outside of her demanding job, Jennifer is a fun-loving, compassionate person who finds joy in simple things—like her six rescue...

Education

Student of the Month

How Amelia Clark’s Life Was Shaped by Allen’s Ag Sciences Article by Valerie Merrick | Photography by Courtesy of Kayrene Janak Amelia, a junior at Allen High School, is bubbly, kind, and busy—but there's something special about her mornings. She arrives at school with Pruitt, a service dog in training. “He’s definitely one of the highlights of everyone's day,” she says. Through the Allen FFA’s partnership with Canine Companions, Amelia is teaching Pruitt basic commands so that he may enhance...

Finance + Legal Services

A Message from "A Man in Finance"

Bill Fruit Shares His Decades of Experience Article by Marisa Bingham | Photography by Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia For over 30 years, Bill Fruit has been guiding individuals as well as large and small businesses on their financial journeys. He has built a life centered on family, community, and helping others achieve their financial dreams. A devoted husband to Catherine for 32 years and a proud father of three daughters, Bill’s journey is one of balance—balancing his love for family...

Professional Services

Secure Your Future

Discovering the True Value of Insurance for Long-Term Security Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia Navigating the world of insurance—policies, claims, premiums, and endorsements—can be overwhelming. However, these essential tools not only safeguard against unexpected events but also contribute to a secure financial future for you and your loved ones. Working with an insurance agency can help to effectively protect your assets and ensure peace of mind...

Shopping

Children's Entrepreneur Market

Fairview Economic Development Corporation Offers a Boost to Youthful Ambition Article by Karin Anderson | Photography by Courtesy of Fairview Economic Development Corporation New business ventures are like rockets. To reach orbital altitude, the payload must be lean so the ship can escape gravity’s pull. The fuel must be powerful and plentiful. And that potent energy must be controlled with a highly sophisticated guidance system.  It’s a nearly impossible demand, but when it succeeds, the...

Arts + Culture

Local Experience

Discover local gems, create memories and embrace authentic community experiences Article by Angi Burns 1. Allen Contemporary Theatre - Allen Contemporary Theatre seeks to entertain and enrich the cultural life of the community through a wide variety of challenging and creative theatrical experiences. Allencontemporarytheatre.net 2. Allen Arts Alliance - The mission of the Allen Arts Alliance is to support and nurture local arts and cultural groups as they present inspiring and...

Education

Nonprofit of the Month

Top Achievers Foundation Provides Free Financial Literacy Classes to Collin County Youth, Mentorship, and Scholarship Opportunities Article by Tiffany Ditto | Photography by Courtesy of Lawrence Mann As the cost of living continues to inflate, local nonprofit Top Achievers Foundation equips the next generation with the skills to achieve financial independence. Located in Collin County, the six-session Youth Financial Literacy class aims to ensure middle and high school students understand what...

Finance + Legal Services

More than Just a Tax Accountant

How the Altland & Harris Financial Group Helps You and Your Business Article by Valerie Merrick | Photography by Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia With tax codes getting more complicated, it’s easy for everyone to feel overwhelmed. Thankfully, the team at Altland & Harris Financial Group combines the knowledge, experience, kindness, and guidance that individuals and small business owners need to navigate complicated tax laws. Henry Harris III, owner and CEO of Altland & Harris, took time to...

Life + Culture

EMPTY BOWLS PROJECT

Fighting Hunger One Bowl at a Time in McKinney Article by Angi Burns | Photography by Courtesy of Empty Bowls Project The mission of Empty Bowls is to hold an annual community event featuring local artisans and food purveyors that raises money and awareness to support nonprofit organizations that directly address hunger in our community. This annual McKinney event showcases handcrafted bowls made and decorated by professional and amateur artists. There also are larger bowls that are part of...

Finance + Legal Services

Navigating the World of Legal Solutions

A Local Law Firm with Roots in Allen Invests in Community Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Courtesy of Brad Walsh: B&E Photography For many, traveling through the world of attorneys, probate courts, and complex laws often feels confusing. The team at Allen Texas Attorneys understands how finding appropriate legal representation can be challenging and strives to make their clients’ journey easier and less stressful.    Allen Texas Attorneys represents clients in Allen, Collin County...