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

Storehouse Community Center: Building Hope and Empowering Communities Through Compassion and Action Article by Storehouse Community Center | Photography by Jay Sonata Photography & Provided Founded in 2009, The Storehouse Community Center provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin, Dallas, and Denton counties through four programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost...

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

Midnight Cravings to a Culinary Craft

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Truluck’s with Chef Thomas Dritsas Article by Garland Hancock | Photography by Provided by Truluck's A clock chimes midnight, and moments later, my phone rings. It is Thomas Dritsas, the corporate chef for Truluck’s, a high-end seafood brand whose Shops at Legacy Plano location turns one year old in December. Dritsas has just wrapped up work, which explains our oddly timed rendezvous. But the day is only about to begin for Truluck’s supply chain. In about four...

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...

Food + Beverage

A Flavorful Venture

A Leap into Seasoning Success Article by Kathy Moreno | Photography by West Images and Provided I had the pleasure of speaking with Jason Valleau, the creative mind behind the delectable Goodness Steak Seasoning and the owner of Ohh Hail Contractors. Curious about the story behind his remarkable seasoning, we delved into how this culinary venture came to life. Here’s what Jason shared with us. Q: What inspired you to create your own steak seasoning? Was there a particular moment or...

Home + Design

A Resort-Style Retreat Right at Home

Harmonizing Nature with Modern Design Article by Kathy Moreno | Photography by Day Star Landscapes In the world of landscaping, the art of creating stunning outdoor living spaces is evolving with a focus on new design elements. Imagine stepping into a personal oasis, adorned with healthy trees, robust plants, and vibrant flowers, where meticulous attention to detail brings your landscaping dreams to life. Today's landscaping trends merge natural beauty with modern amenities, transforming...

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...