Life + Culture

Nonprofit of the Month - Community Garden Kitchen

A Compassionate Nonprofit Committed to Ending Hunger in Collin County Article by Ayesha Durrani | Photography by Photography Courtesy of Angela Poen Collin County, the third-wealthiest county in Texas, paradoxically faces a stark reality: 15 percent of its residents live below the poverty line.  Food insecurity profoundly affects the well-being of families. According to Community Garden Kitchen (CGK), without proper nutrition, children struggle to keep up academically, often falling behind...

Education

Smoke

A Story of Trauma, Healing, and Community Article by Ken G. Crawford | Photography by Courtesy of Smoke Film When Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd teamed up with filmmaker Josh Gallas of Prelude.tv, they set out to tell a story bigger than firefighting. The result was Smoke , an award-winning short film that explores the hidden toll of trauma on first responders, their marriages, and their families. The film follows a firefighter returning home after the worst shift of his career—forced to...

Life + Culture

Every Child Deserves a Happy Halloween

Goblins, Goons, and Gummy Worms for All Article by Fatima Durrani Halloween is a widely anticipated holiday, but it can bring on anxiety and dread for those who suffer from food allergies, sensory overload, or certain diseases.  As a community, it’s important to educate ourselves on the physical and emotional impact these conditions have on our kids. For those children who feel excluded—and yet have to watch their costumed friends giggle as they devour Kit Kats and Snickers —we can make a...

Education

Student of the Month

Miles Lewis Found His Passion in Robotics Article by Valerie Merrick | Photography by Photography Courtesy of Lewis Family When some seniors see Advanced Physics on their schedule, they start negotiating with parents and school administrators to update their class list. But not Miles Lewis. Instead, Miles asked for robotics classes leading to a transformative year full of competitions and volunteerism. As a member of the Allen Eagles Robotics, Miles discovered his knack for understanding and...

Food + Beverage

The Game Is Always On at GOAT’s Sports Bar & Grill

Bringing a “Big Stadium Atmosphere” to the Community Article by Tiffany Ditto | Photography by Ty Harper Photography At GOATs Arena Sports Bar & Grill in Fairview, game day spills across two floors, onto dozens of TVs, and through three separate audio zones. Texas Rangers fans can cheer in one section, while Dallas Cowboys supporters listen to their game steps away. “It’s one of the things that sets us apart,” says Bella Becerra, general manager. “We can play three audios at the same time...

Food + Beverage

A Taste of Europe

Experience the Flavor of France at Home at Andreas Prime Steaks & Seafood Article by Deborah Dove | Photography by Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia Allen, Texas, may be thousands of miles from the sun-soaked tavernas of Greece, the bustling tapas bars of Barcelona, and the rustic trattorias of Italy, but international chef Andreas Kotsifos brings the same worldly flavors to the suburbs with Andreas Prime Steaks & Seafood. A native of Greece, Andreas—the executive chef and owner of the...

Life + Culture

Local Experiences

Discover local gems, create memories, and embrace authentic community experiences. Article by Angi Burns Austin Avenue Grill & Sports Bar Classic sports bar and grill with TV screens, pool tables, outdoor tables, and wings on the menu. 935 W Parker Rd #410, Plano, TX 75023 Space Karaoke Bar & Karaoke Private karaoke rooms featuring karaoke machines, plus cocktails and snacks. 121 W Spring Creek Pkwy #331, Plano, TX 75023 Voodoo Brewing Co. Craft kitchen. Craft cocktails. Local...

Style + Beauty

Express Yourself

The Art of Personal Style Article by Deborah Dove | Photography by Courtesy of Carey Lynn Expressing your personal style is more than just choosing an outfit. It’s an ongoing artistic journey that reflects who you are and what you love. And what better way to showcase your own unique flair than by customizing your look with products designed by you ! Artistic Endeavors, home to Carey Lynn Creates, empowers you to define your individuality in ways you never imagined. With an expansive range...

Beauty

Wash, Blo, Go

The Empowering Experience of a Professional Blowout Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia The philosophy behind Blo Blow Dry Bar is simple: give people the power to feel runway-ready at a moment’s notice. No cuts, no color; just wash, blow, and go. In a world where time is short, this concept has “blown” up in popularity! Blo Blow Dry Bar Watters Creek officially opened its doors in May of 2016. “Whether it’s for a weekly blowout, special event...

Health + Wellness

Honoring Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Heroes for Children – 21 Years of Hope for Families Battling Childhood Cancer Article and Photography by Courtesy of Heroes for Children For 21 years, Heroes for Children has provided critical support to families in Texas navigating the unimaginable—a child’s cancer diagnosis. Through their core programs—financial assistance, social assistance, and comfort and care—Heroes for Children helps bridge the gaps left by insurance, ensuring parents can focus on their child’s healing instead of...