Local Services

Meet Michael McCoy the Chef to Shelters

How One Man’s Struggle Led to a Mission of Compassion Article by Courtney Wilbanks | Photography by Provided If you were to ask Michael McCoy, founder of Chef to Shelters, what his life would look like outside his then-executive title eight years ago, his vision would have probably included more money and corporate recognition. On the outside, Michael appeared to have it all. He drove luxury vehicles, wore designer clothes, flew first-class on flights, and had many friends. What most failed...

Food + Beverage

Choosing the Right Franchise

The Top 5 Considerations When Purchasing a Food and Beverage Franchise Article by Rudy Frederico | Photography by Provided Investing in a food and beverage franchise offers aspiring entrepreneurs a promising path to business ownership, backed by an established brand and proven model. However, this significant financial and personal commitment requires careful consideration. Here are the top five factors to weigh before diving in. 1. Franchise Brand Strength and Reputation One of the...

Local Services

Non-Profit of the Month

Amazing Grace Food Pantry: How Faith, Community, and Determination Turned a Mistake into a Mission of Hope Article by Garland Hancock | Photography by Provided “If not for the grace of God and our many volunteers, we would've closed long ago,” says Karen Ellis, who oversees Collin County's Amazing Grace Food Pantry. Not only has the pantry remained open, but it also projects to have distributed 2.4 million pounds of food in 2024 by the end of October—more than any of the North Texas Food...

Food + Beverage

Wayback Burgers

A New Taste of Tradition in Allen Article by Wayback Burgers | Photography by Lovelyn Photography When we asked Zalak, the owner of the newest Wayback Burgers franchise in Allen, Texas, why she chose to open a franchise with the company, her response was rooted in both business sense and community spirit. "Wayback Burgers is a fast-growing company nowadays," Zalak explained. "They also provide great opportunities and support to new franchisees with their already proven formula for success."...

Food + Beverage

The Holidays are Better with Elke's

Elke Wins Over the Hearts and Appetites of the Locals Article by Marisa Bingham | Photography by Magnolia Fire Photography As the holiday season rolls around, the owners of Elke’s Café have one thing on their minds… bringing homemade food to your table. From delicious sandwiches and soups to cheeseboards, fruit trays, warm breakfast casseroles and sweet bread platters this couple has thought of it all! Their goal is to make life easier for those hosting guests at their homes, by delivering...

Food + Beverage

Spotlight on Allen's Oldest Mexican Restaurant

Mexi-Go: A Family Legacy of Flavor and Tradition Article by Mexi-Go Restaurant | Photography by Provided Mexi-Go Restaurant, a cherished family-owned establishment, has been serving the Allen, TX community since 1998. When you dine with them, you’re family. They take pride in their unique family recipes and freshly prepared cocktails, crafted daily by their dedicated staff. The journey of Mexi-Go Restaurant began at an ice cream shop on the corner of Arapaho and Coit in Dallas, TX. Jose, a...

Food + Beverage

Local Experiences

Discover local gems, create memories and embrace authentic community experiences. Article by Kathy Moreno Magic Time Machine  Servers dress as popular pop culture icons from the past, present, and future, providing humorous, family-friendly entertainment through their interactions.  5003 Belt Line Rd, Dallas, TX 75254 Larks Entertainment  Whether you’re nailing that perfect shuffleboard slide, dominating the arcade, or just enjoying the vibe at one of our 3 full-service bars, there’s...

Food + Beverage

Sizzling Success

The Journey of Ian Stubblefield from College Student to Traveling Hibachi Chef Article by Angi Burns | Photography by Provided Ian Stubblefield’s culinary adventure reads like a page from a feel-good novel, with a twist of hibachi flair. Picture this: a college student in Oklahoma, knee-deep in Computer Science and Mathematics, who’s just trying to scrape together enough cash for a car and a dorm room. Enter the world of hibachi cooking—where the kitchen’s heat and fire would soon become his...

Shopping

Local Experiences

Discover local gems, create memories and embrace authentic community experiences. Article by Kathy Moreno | Photography by Jodie Jolley Elegancia Formal Wear: The newest trends in fashion for your formal events. with a wide selection of dresses that include; quinceañera, prom, homecoming, bridesmaid, mother-of-the-bride.  2129 N Josey Ln. Carrollton, TX 75006 Winnie Couture Bridal Atelier:  Explore, indulge, fantasize, and fall in love with the wedding dress of your dreams.  2995 Preston...

Education

Student of the Month

Faizan Zaki: Rising Star in Spelling Competitions Article by Valerie Merrick | Photography by Adeline Merrick Seventh grader Faizan Zaki chose to start spelling competitively in the first grade since it was fun. Once Faizan realized he was “pretty good” at it, it seemed he couldn’t be stopped from doing his best. “Pretty good” can hardly describe the large collection of medals and trophies he has accumulated throughout the past few years. Faizan began seriously studying two years ago, often...