Food + Beverage

An American Pub Crawl

Exploring Collin County's Local Breweries Article by Deborah Dove A traditional pub crawl might be the invention of the British, but who says exploring multiple pubs can't be done right here in Collin County? Thanks to a handful of local breweries that make their own craft beers, the spirit of the pub crawl can be enjoyed right here at home. Check out one or all of these local breweries and experience a fun night out with friends trying new beers, experiencing something new, and supporting...

Health + Wellness

Helping Boys Grow Into Men

How Service Builds Connection, Confidence, and Mental Strength Article by Averly Burns | Photography by Courtesy of YMSL Young men today face immense pressure to embody strength and independence, often at the expense of their emotional well-being. Too frequently, vulnerability is seen as a weakness, leaving many to struggle in silence. Organizations such as the Young Men’s Service League challenge this norm by fostering service, leadership, and genuine connection. By uniting mothers and their...

Life + Culture

Veteran of the Month

Wesley Everett Counts His Blessings Article by Valerie Merrick | Photography by Courtesy of Gwendolyn Everett Wesley Everett knew he wanted a change. After being born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, alongside his six siblings, Everett began searching for opportunities that would help him see more of the world. He found his answer in the military, joining the army at 21.  “Well, I'm gonna say the biggest challenge for me while I was in the army was to complete it,” Everett recalled. “At first...

Entertainment

Local Experience

Discover local gems, create memories, and embrace authentic community experiences. Article by Deborah Dove Boardroom Styling Lounge: This salon just for him provides a complete luxurious grooming experience—from stylish haircuts and precise beard trimming to luxurious shaves and skin care. 4001 Preston Road, #506, Plano, Texas; 5760 Legacy Drive, #B5, Plano, TX High Point Tennis Center :  Play pickleball with your favorite active guy on one of numerous outdoor pickleball courts. Paddles...

Health + Wellness

A Journey of Self-Awareness

Fighting Cancer with Strength and Confidence from Within Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Ty Harper Photography There are really no words to describe the quiet heroes living amongst us.  And there are many of them, although their paths may be different. Some have risked helping others while endangering themselves. Others, like Ty Harper, have endured a chronic illness but emerged stronger and more resilient on the other side of it.  Ty’s life turned upside down in February 2024...

Fitness

Big Wins

Creating Camaraderie Through Adult Sports Leagues Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Joseph Rivers: Jay Sonata Photography As adults, we often long for the carefree days of our youth. Many of us enjoyed connecting with others through intramural sports in college and exploring new activities; others grew up playing team sports from a young age.  But as anyone who has tried to beat rush hour to get to the gym after work or squeeze in a run between kids’ homework and activities knows...

Health + Wellness

MENtal MATTERs: Wellness for Men

Empowering Black Men's Mental Health Through Supportive Communities, Innovative Programming, Education, Advocacy, and Partnerships Article by Ken Crawford | Photography by Courtesy of MENtal MATTERs MENtal MATTERs, a nonprofit founded in July 2023, is dedicated to promoting, protecting, and prioritizing the mental health and wellness of Black men. Born from the vision and personal experiences of founder and president Dwayne Ware, who recognized a critical lack of accessible resources, MENtal...

Home Services

A Life of Quiet Service

Bart Brady’s Commitment to Community Article by Averly Burns Bart Brady, owner of Squeegee Squad and a dedicated member of the Masons, has built a life centered around helping others. Whether it's through his business or his volunteer work, Bart is driven by a desire to serve without needing recognition. “I was born and raised here, and I want to see this place thrive,” he shares. That hometown pride is a big part of what led him to join the Masons, an organization rooted in values like...

Entertainment

Wine and Dine Someone Special

Every Night Out Is a Special Occasion at Truluck’s Article and Photography by Courtesy of Truluck's May is for celebrating the incredible women in our lives—the mothers, sisters, wives, and friends that enrich our lives in countless ways. What better way to treat mom for Mother’s Day (or any day), indulge your wife or significant other with a romantic dinner, shower your best friend with a celebration worthy of the years of friendship and laughter you’ve shared, or enjoy a dazzling night out...

Life + Culture

Nonprofit of the Month: Emily’s Place

Plano Organization Builds a Bridge from Shelters to Community Article by Valerie Merrick | Photography by Courtesy of Emily’s Place “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women,” argues Maya Angelou. And in a local residence in Plano, women are standing up for themselves each and every day. Since 2002, Emily’s Place has served as a way for women and their children who are escaping abusive relationships to move from...