Sports + Recreation

Explore the Great Outdoors

Top Allen Parks to Visit This Summer Article and Photography by City of Allen Discover a day of family fun without traveling far by exploring Allen's parks. Depending on what your family's adventure appetite is like, see what Life in Allen has to offer! From playground adventures to tranquil nature hikes, Allen's parks provide endless opportunities for local summer enjoyment. Country Meadows Park Prepare to take flight at the newest park playground in Allen. This hot-air balloon themed...

June 2024

Local Services

Officer Graves - a Very Special First Responder

He’s Dedicated His Career to Serving Those Who Are Overlooked Article by Marisa Binghan | Photography by Lovelyn Photography When you see a police officer, you envision strength and poise, maybe even a little fear if they’re in your rearview mirror accompanied by flashing lights. When you see Officer Graves, though, you can’t help but notice that he’s extraordinary. “The moment I decided to become a policeman was when one came to my mom’s hair salon. He talked to me like I was his equal. I...

June 2024

Arts + Culture

Remember When?

Preserving Your Vacation Memories Through Useable Art Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Carey Lynn, Artistic Endeavors Remember the time when your family went to Hawaii for a reunion, and grandma did the hula dance? Or when your son graduated? Or the 10th Disney trip you made that you were still excited about? Capturing memories is an art. In today’s digital world, most of us rely on our phones to snap hundreds of pictures in a matter of minutes. But then what happens? You’re back at...

June 2024

Travel

Travel With a Plan

Tips and Tricks from My Haven Travel By Cruise Planners Article by Cortney Wilbanks With 12 years of travel industry experience, the owner of My Haven Travel By Cruise Planners, Kendra Healy, has a record of bringing unique experiences to every trip planned. Considering herself a travel concierge, Kendra is more than your average travel planner; she is your passport to a world of travel tips, packing prowess, and seamless planning. We sat down with her to discuss travel tips and tricks to...

June 2024

Home + Design

Need a Break From the Backyard Blues?

A Little Creative Landscaping, Lighting May Put Your Wanderlust to Bed Once and for All Article by Garland Hancock | Photography by Provided The pandemic left people no choice but to make do with a staycation, but now that the friendly skies once again beckon, many folks are still staying put. In turn, this trend has fueled the latest craze in backyard makeovers. After all, why not take the $6,000 Americans typically shell out for a vacation and instead invest it in turning your backyard into...

June 2024

Life + Culture

Local Experiences

Discover local gems, create memories and embrace authentic community experiences. Article by Kathy Moreno NRH2O:  17-acre park, has 23 attractions and is considered one of the best water parks in the country.  9001 Boulevard 26 North Richland Hills, TX, 76180 Hilton Anatole-Jade Waters Resort Pool Complex:  Play the day away in their leisure pool with a swim-up bar, kids splash and play area, lazy river, luxury cabanas, two 180 ft. slides, and more.  2201 N Stemmons Fwy., Dallas, TX 75207 ...

June 2024

Education

Student of the Month

Triumph and Tenacity: Navigating High School with Autism Spectrum Disorder Article by Kathy Moreno | Photography by Lovelyn Photography Being selected as the Student of the Month is always a momentous occasion. This month, the honor goes to an exceptional student at Allen High School, whose journey is as inspiring as it is unique. Anthony Barajas, a talented and determined individual who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), has risen above challenges and misconceptions to earn this prestigious...

June 2024

Travel

Traveler Megan Steiner Takes on Africa

From South Africa to Jordan, It Was a Year Like No Other Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Megan Steiner When Megan Steiner embarked on her year of solo travel in Africa, she was excited but nervous. Although she had taken two solo trips before, in Western Europe and South America, Africa definitely took her out of her comfort zone. However, she made the most of it, even during the pandemic. From cage diving with great white sharks in South Africa to feeding wild hyenas in Ethiopia...

June 2024

Food + Beverage

English Rhubarb Crumble

Take Your Tastebuds Across the Pond Article by Courtney Wilbanks Ingredients 8 cups chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb 1-1/4 cups sugar, divided 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup quick-cooking oats 1 cup cold butter Custard Sauce: 6 large egg yolks 1/2 cup sugar 2 cups heavy whipping cream 1-1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract Directions In a saucepan, combine rhubarb and 3/4 cup sugar. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb is...

June 2024

Local Services

Non-profit of the Month

The Why Behind The Joseph Groh Foundation Article by Cortney Wilbanks | Photography by Provided In the heart of Fairview Texas, nestled within the warm embrace of community spirit, lies the story of the Joseph Groh Foundation. Founded in 2009 by Mr.Joe Groh himself, this 501(c) organization extends necessary resources to help support individuals within the construction trades industry. Mr. Groh's journey to philanthropy began with a personal tragedy that changed his life forever. Following a...

May 2024