Life + Culture

Travel Back in Time at Heritage Farmstead Museum

Preserving a Blackland Prairie Past: Plano's Iconic Landmark Tells a Tale of Sustainability Article by Garland Hancock | Photography by Lovelyn Photography, Heritage Farmstead Museum Plano had just turned 18 — when its now crowned jewel first shone on a blackland prairie that would ultimately evolve the city into a retail hub for area farmers. Today, that crowned jewel — aka the "Farrell-Wilson House" — annually draws 35,000-plus visitors. Folks arrive not only to tour the Victorian...

July 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

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

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

Life + Culture

First Responder of the Month

Dee Dee Falls is No Ordinary Executive Assistant Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Kristin Jewell Dee Dee Falls is the executive assistant to City Council. She ensures the office runs smoothly, which is no easy feat. Her duties include scheduling the appearances of seven council members at events, liaising with the Multicultural Outreach Round Table (MCOR), and responding to public requests for information. That’s tedious work! What gives Dee Dee the grit to power through her days...

June 2024

Sports + Recreation

Explore the Great Outdoors

Top Plano Parks to Visit this Summer Article by Hang Le | Photography by City of Plano, Donna de Chabert, Zoe Pletl This summer, take your family on a mini vacation right in the city of Plano! Discover the variety of local parks that offer endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Enjoy a picnic at Bob Woodruff Park, or stroll through the trails of Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. Head to Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve for birdwatching, or explore the arts and sculptures at the Art Centre of...

June 2024

Education

Student of the Month

Violet Harrah: A Passionate Leader and Artist Article by Angi Burns | Photography by Provided This month's standout student, Violet Harrah, is a shining example of determination and leadership at Schimelpfenig Middle School. Driven by a personal commitment to excellence, they believe in making the most of life. Her schedule includes playing volleyball at PSA 1, dancing with Chamberlain Ballet, and participating in theater productions around Plano ISD. As a National Junior Honor Society member...

June 2024

Sports + Recreation

Kicking Against the Odds: Brandon Aubrey's Journey

From Plano Senior High to the Dallas Cowboys Article by Kathy Moreno | Photography by Zoe Martin Brandon Aubrey's path to the NFL is a story of perseverance, passion, and the unexpected twists of fate. From his days at Plano Senior High School to Notre Dame, Brandon Aubrey never dreamed of landing in the NFL, let alone as a kicker for the Dallas Cowboys. Aubrey's journey is a remarkable tale of dedication and unexpected opportunities. Despite never envisioning himself as a football player...

June 2024

Professional Services

Family Values

The Family Men Behind Big D Mechanical Article by Jennifer Stone | Photography by Lovelyn Photography In the world of HVAC, where technical expertise meets customer satisfaction, Jared and Brian, the brother-in-law duo behind Big D Mechanical, stand as shining examples of dedication both in their professional and personal lives. As owners of Big D Mechanical, they have not only built a thriving business but also cultivated strong family values that serve as the cornerstone of their success...

May 2024

Education

Sophie Guerin: A Rising Star

Valedictorian, Engineer, Performer: Inspiring Excellence in Plano Article by Gina Fawcett | Photography by Kristin Jewell Plano resident Sophie Guerin plans to take the world by storm after graduating as valedictorian from the Einstein School. As a student, Sophie challenges herself with rigorous courses. At Einstein, she completed their college-level honors humanities sequence and is among those advanced enough to take Einstein’s classes in Mechanical Engineering and Thermodynamics. She also...

May 2024