CO2 – carbon dioxide – laser resurfacing uses targeted beams of light to remove the superficial layer of your skin. This type of laser treatment can remove skin cancer, address cosmetic skin issues, such as fine or keep lines, wrinkles and acne scars; and treat areas of skin discoloration, like sunspots or age spots.
The professional team at Allen Dental Center is like a family. We genuinely care about taking care of our patients, and we are able to provide them with virtually any dental procedure right here in our office. You can be confident you will receive the highest quality care from our knowledgeabe, experienced, and gentle dentists.
Allen Dental Center is ecstatic to announce that we are expanding our office in an effort to accommodate and serve a greater number of patients. Stay tuned for updates!
OVER 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. ALL OF YOUR DENTAL CARE IN ONE PLACE FRUSTRATED WITH YOUR TEETH? WE HAVE A SOLUTION!
Sticky fingers, muddy paws, and unconditional love
As a parent to three amazing kids—Ash, Averly, and Jaxx—and a proud pet parent to our spirited trio (Hulk, our seven-pound chorkie with the heart of a lion, and our two curious cats, Vinny and Rocket), I know firsthand how much joy—and occasional chaos—comes from a life filled with little feet and furry paws.
This Kids & Pets issue is close to my heart because it celebrates the bonds that shape our daily lives in the most genuine, messy, and beautiful ways. Whether it’s a quiet cuddle on the couch, a backyard adventure, or a spontaneous living room dance party involving toddlers, teenagers, and tail-waggers, these shared moments are what turn a house into a home.
Our community is truly special in the way it embraces families of all kinds. From weekend festivals to pet patios and kid-friendly community events, there are always new ways to connect, explore, and make memories together. It’s a joy to see how local events and opportunities continue to bring kids and pets together in fun, meaningful ways—helping them grow, learn, and form the kind of friendships that last a lifetime.
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey. Here’s to the everyday magic that comes from sticky fingers, muddy paws, and unconditional love.
ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @ALLENCITYLIFESTYLE
Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Do you have someone you would like to nominate for Student, Nonprofit, or First Responder of the Month? Contact us for information on how you can be included in upcoming articles and share your events and ideas. We would love to partner with you to host our events in your neighborhood! Just give us a shout. We want to meet you.
Deborah Dove, Tiffany Ditto, Ken G. Crawford, Travis Hager, Marisa Bingham
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Pam Reid
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Craig Hanna, Sara Ellis, Shayne Studdard, Tina Austin
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1 - 7: Congratulations to the 2025 UIL State Championship participants. 2: Animation students earn top honors at the UIL State Film Festival. 3: Girls track and field athletes. 4: Allen High School student artists who were honored in the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. 5: Boys track and field athletes Julius Baker and Johnathan Simms 6: Congratulations to journalism and broadcast students for their success at the UIL Press Conference Spring Convention. 7: Jaelyn Walker and Savanna Cragg advanced to the Girls Doubles Semifinals at the UIL State Tennis Tournament. Photography by Allen
business monthly
Blue Ribbon Dermatology Is Now Accepting Patients
Congratulations to Blue Ribbon Dermatology on the grand opening of their new practice at 1150 North Watters Road, Suite #105, Allen! We’re excited to welcome this outstanding dermatology team to the Allen community. Blue Ribbon Dermatology offers compassionate, expert care for patients of all ages. Their arrival brings expanded access to skin health services right here in Allen, and we’re proud to celebrate their official ribbon cutting and launch.
Vaqueros Texas Bar-B-Q Celebrates Grand Opening
Congratulations to Vaqueros Texas Bar-B-Q on the grand opening and official ribbon cutting of their brick-and-mortar location at 965 Garden Park Drive in Allen! Founded by Trey Sánchez and rooted in generations of Texas barbecue tradition, Vaqueros brings a bold fusion of classic smokehouse flavors and TexMex creativity to the heart of Allen. We’re proud to welcome Vaqueros BBQ to Allen and wish them continued success in this next chapter!
Bright Night Marketing Celebrates Launch in Allen
Bright Night Marketing helps nonprofits, small businesses, and other organizations amplify their brand. With a focus on tailored, cost-effective strategies, they provide services including social media management, content creation, digital advertising, email marketing, and brand messaging. They aim to help you reach your target audience, increase visibility, and grow your impact. From fractional to full-service, their tailored solutions drive growth and help you share your message. BrightNightMarketing.com
Photography by Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
Local Experience
DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES, AND EMBRACE AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES.
Welcoming a new baby is a joyous and transformative experience, but it can also be overwhelming as you navigate the challenges of motherhood. From managing sleepless nights to understanding your baby's needs, every new mom deserves a helping hand. The following local resources can ease the journey, allowing you to savor this precious and all-too-fleeting time.
Karen Laine Photography | karen-laine.com or 469-9270225 | Capture the first precious weeks with newborn photos you’ll cherish forever, from stunning color-saturated artistic shots to first smiles to black-and-white photos of ten perfect, tiny toes.
Amma Lactation Services | (972) 439-5412 or ammalactation @gmail.com | Certified lactation consultants are available to support you throughout your breastfeeding journey. Services include a home visit, tele visit, and in-clinic, depending on your preference and needs. Most insurances accepted.
Modern Pediatrics | https://www.modernpediatrics.com/ classes | This in-home pediatric provider offers free online classes via Zoom geared to help new parents care for their newborn. Choose from Newborn Care 101, Breastfeeding 101, Infant Sleep 101, and Infant CPR and Choking, or take all four.
Rockin’ AB | 113 N. Kentucky St., #102, McKinney, TX | This downtown McKinney boutique stocks everything you need for baby: adorable outfits, baby accessories, unique gifts, retro toys, and books.
Emler Swim School | 909 W. Stacy Road, Allen, TX | Geared for infants two to five months old, Bathtime Babies classes allow you to bond with your baby while you enjoy one-onone pool time and learn water safety skills.
“I had a great experience getting my eye exam at Allen Eyecare Center! Kara S and Jacob at the front desk welcomed me as soon as I walked in. They had great energy, and they took the time to smile and greet me. Dylan was an excellent technician and was very professional. Dr. Brooks is a wonderful doctor. He is very patient and takes the time to explain everything. Eye exams usually make me nervous, but the professional attitude of the staff and the friendly faces helped calm my nerves and let me have a great experience!”
-Joanna
CODY’S FRIENDS RESCUE
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY DITTO | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TINA AUSTIN
Each morning, Tina Austin reviews dogs listed on that day’s euthanasia list (aka “code red”) by area shelters, hoping a foster steps up so Cody’s Friends Rescue can save another dog.
“We usually save 12 dogs a week,” said Austin, the nonprofit’s founder. “Often, I see a dog that's about to be killed who tugs at my heart, but we don’t have a foster to care for it.”
Based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, the volunteer-run rescue has saved nearly 11,000 dogs since
becoming a nonprofit in 2012. Currently, the nonprofit does not have a physical location and relies entirely on foster homes and donations from supporters.
Austin says a local boarding facility helps when fosters aren’t available. Although discounted, the nonprofit spends approximately $12,000 monthly on boarding costs—an expense that is not sustainable for much longer. Furthermore, basic vetting for each dog averages $250.
“Our adoption fee is around $300, but we don’t make money,” Austin said.
Saving Dogs from Euthanasia, One Foster at a Time
According to the ASPCA, many shelters across the country are full, and animals, especially dogs, are often staying longer in their care before being adopted. Austin’s group is one of many who are working to combat that statistic. Despite the challenges, Austin says the organization’s greatest need is fosters.
“The only thing stopping us from saving more dogs is fosters,” Austin said. “If you haven't had a dog before or you want to get involved, fostering is a good way. We pay for everything. If we had 10,000 fosters, we’d save 10,000 dogs.”
Cody’s Friends hosts adoption events throughout the metroplex and is seen frequently at The HUB in Allen.
To adopt, foster, volunteer to work an adoption event, or donate, visit codysfriendsrescue.org.
BECOME A CODY’S FRIENDS RESCUE FOSTER
Thinking about fostering? Here’s what you should know:
• No long-term commitment; many dogs are adopted in just weeks.
• The rescue provides all vetting, food, and supplies.
• You don’t need prior experience, just love and patience.
• Fostering saves lives. Area animal shelters often get overcrowded, forcing city staff to euthanize adoptable pets. By fostering, you help prevent this.
• Children and pets? No problem! Cody’s Friends matches dogs to your household.
• Travel for work? You can still help by fostering short-term or during the holidays.
Fostering is a rewarding way to help homeless pets. Many fosters say they were “only going to do it once,” then end up saving dozens. Sign up at codysfriendsrescue.org
WAYBACK BURGERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA
THE ULTIMATE POST-GAME SPOT
ARTICLE BY WAYBACK BURGERS
Wayback Burgers in Allen, Texas, offers more than just a great meal—it’s a go-to dining destination for fresh and flavorful burgers, shakes, and delicious sides with a welcoming atmosphere that truly brings its guests together. Whether you are looking to grab a quick lunch or if you are celebrating after a big game, Wayback Burgers makes quality the main ingredient in everything they serve.
Wayback Burgers offers a variety of made-to-order, delicious burgers available as a single patty or classic double patties. The “Cheeeesy” is a fan favorite and comes with four slices of melted American cheese and two beef patties made-to-order, sandwiched between an inverted, grilled, and buttered bun. Going “way” beyond the burger, Wayback Burgers also offers cheesesteaks, crispy and grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie and Impossible™ Burgers, CONTINUED >
chicken tenders, fresh salads, and delicious sides, including fries, tater tots, onion rings, and fried pickles. A perfect complement to any meal, Wayback Burgers is famous for its rich, hand-dipped milkshakes, crafted to order with Blue Bunny® ice cream and milk.
Wayback Burgers is especially popular with families and young athletes who stop in for a meal after a game. With its spacious dining area, comfortable seating, and fast, friendly service, it proves to be the perfect place to refuel and relax. Kids love the burgers, side options, and shakes! Parents love the food as well but also appreciate the affordable pricing, consistency, and cleanliness. It’s the perfect spot for a team to celebrate a win or just simply enjoy some downtime together.
Something that really sets Wayback Burgers apart is its community spirit. Wayback Burgers in Allen, Texas, isn’t just a place to eat. It’s a place that supports local families, schools, and sports leagues—a place that truly takes pride in being part of the neighborhood. Wayback Burgers is always giving back. Whether sponsoring events or hosting fundraisers, its commitment to the community is always top of mind.
Next time you’re looking for a bite after practice or a game, bring the team and your family to Wayback Burgers! You will be welcomed with quality food, a warm vibe, and something on the menu for everyone.
Guests can also join the Wayback Rewards program which allows them to earn and redeem points for rewards on the Wayback app, in-restaurant, online, and at kiosks in select locations. Stop by for a meal that will satisfy the whole team—from the first bite to the last fry!
Visit Wayback Burgers at 380 E Bethany Dr #130, Allen, or at https://waybackburgers. com/locations/us/texas/allen/
Helping Our Allen Eagles Soar!
Foundation For Allen Schools Directly Impacts Students and Teachers in Allen ISD
The Foundation For Allen Schools was established to support and expand the learning experience for students and teachers across Allen ISD. This mission comes to life through three focus areas: Educational Grant Program, Student Scholarship Awards, and Teacher Support and Recognition Program.
Grants from the foundation bring innovation and enrichment directly into Allen ISD classrooms. These grants empower teachers to implement creative and challenging learning experiences. Whether it's a specialized microscope for a biology lab, funding for an extra field trip, or providing a campus visit from an author, artist, or musician, these grants spark student curiosity and deepen learning.
“Math by the Book is a great example of the impact foundation grants have in our Allen ISD classrooms,” explains Regina Taylor, foundation director. “This grant provided specifically selected books for every kindergarten and first grade classroom across the district. The concepts in the books make connections between math and other curriculum areas such as science, reading, and comprehension, and even ways to problem solve. Math is brought to life in a very fun and meaningful way.” Over the last three school years, the books have been used by more than 8,100 elementary students.
ARTICLE BY FOUNDATION FOR ALLEN SCHOOLS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FOUNDATION FOR ALLEN SCHOOLS
Student scholarships are a significant part of the work of the foundation. Each year, the foundation awards on average 175 scholarships to graduating seniors to help them pursue post-secondary education, whether at a community college, trade school, or university. These scholarships are all locally funded, and the foundation works with families, civic groups, businesses, and alumni who wish to support graduating Eagles.
“I am so honored that the foundation is here to work with our scholarship donors. Often, we help families establish a memorial scholarship, and many have told us that it gives them great comfort that their loved one can be remembered in such a positive way while helping a student pursue their goals,” added Taylor. “We also have many companies that provide a scholarship for specific fields of study, helping them grow their future workforce!” A named scholarship can be established by contacting the foundation and must be a minimum of $1,000. To date, the foundation has awarded 1,921 scholarships to Allen High School graduates worth $1.9 million.
Teachers are at the heart of student success. The foundation’s third focus invests in programs that support, retain, and recognize educators. These include funding for the district’s teacher tuition reimbursement program for educators working on special certifications or graduate degrees, supporting the Teacher of the Year recognitions, and assisting with special campus events.
One major initiative is the Mentor Teacher Program, fully funded by the foundation for $80,000 annually. Through this program, 200 experienced teachers mentor every firstyear teacher in the district. Mentors receive special training, a stipend, and a detailed roadmap to guide their mentees. “This support structure
addresses a critical challenge in education,” Taylor explained. “It is vital to retain new teachers as so many leave the profession within their first five years. The foundation is dedicated to helping recognize and inspire our classroom educators.”
Thanks to the foundation’s support, teachers gain resources and training, students receive enriched, engaging learning experiences, and the community has specific opportunities to be involved—all helping to build a strong, vibrant educational community in Allen ISD.
To learn more and get involved, visit www.AISDfoundation.org, email the foundation director at regina.taylor@allenisd.org, or call the office at 972-727-0362, extension 401462.
Step outside the ordinary and host your next meeting, seminar, or celebration at Heritage Ranch With beautiful indoor spaces, full-service catering, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, we make it easy to plan events that feel anything but corporate Whether it’s a leadership retreat, holiday party, or client appreciation event, we’ll help you create an experience that’s polished, seamless, and memorable
LACEY K9 Detective
Lacey the K9 Detective
Sniffing Out Clues, Comforting Victims Along the Way
ARTICLE BY MARISA BINGHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CITY OF ALLEN
Lacey isn’t your average pup—she’s a one-and-a-halfyear-old K9 trained by Homeland Security and partnered with Digital Forensic Detective Keith Compton of the Allen Police Department. Together, they fight crimes against children using cutting-edge technology and her highly specialized sense of smell.
Lacey is trained to detect TTPO, a chemical compound found in all electronic devices like phones, laptops, and USBs. Her work has already made a huge impact. During a narcotics sting, she located a hidden iPhone 12 that led to the discovery of crypto codes tied to a disturbing child exploitation ring.
“She makes sure we don’t miss anything,” says Keith, one of only two digital forensic detectives in Allen.
Lacey trains three times a day, even on her days off. Her routine? Work the room, alert by sitting, then she eats. That dedication makes her both efficient and reliable, so much so that she’s even been flown out to help other agencies.
But she’s not all business. Lacey also acts as a therapy dog, comforting young victims during tough interviews.
“This is my first dog ever,” Keith says. “And she’s made me a happier person. Honestly, I feel like I won the lottery.”
More Than Man’s Best Friend
SERVICE DOGS OFFER LIFELINE FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
ARTICLE BY KEN G. CRAWFORD | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CRAIG HANNA
Children living with autism, severe allergies, or psychiatric conditions know everyday life can present extraordinary challenges. But with the help of specially trained service dogs, many of these children are gaining safety, independence, and the confidence to navigate their world in ways that once seemed impossible.
According to experts at United K9, a Texas-based training academy with nearly three decades of experience, service dogs are increasingly being recognized as vital support partners for children and their families. These dogs are trained not only in obedience but in life-saving tasks—tailored to the unique medical and emotional needs of their human companions.
One of the most common service dog placements today is for children and adults on the autism spectrum. These dogs are trained to serve as “anchor dogs,” physically preventing a child from bolting or running into dangerous situations. Elopement, or bolding, is a common behavior for individuals with autism, and may result from sensory overload, anxiety, or fixation. As that urge builds, the chemical signals emerge, enabling the dog to scent them and signal the need for additional care. Dogs may also be trained as psychiatric support animals, alerting to a coming meltdown or panic attack.
“Our dogs are trained to detect the chemical change before a panic attack or meltdown happens. It’s scentbased, like diabetic or seizure alert dogs,” explains Craig Hanna, United K9 founder and former military K9 handler.
This kind of training begins as early as six months of age and often starts with scent imprinting—introducing dogs to the unique chemical cues produced by their handler. Every emotion or medical event—anxiety, anger, low blood sugar—triggers a specific body chemistry. Dogs learn to associate these changes
with rewards, eventually learning to alert or intervene before a visible episode occurs.
Obedience, socialization, environmental desensitization, and behavior shaping follow in a structured and consistent progression. “It’s more than training a trick,” says Hanna. “We’re building a responsive, reliable teammate for the child.”
The breeds best suited for this type of work, according to United K9, include retrievers, labs, shepherds, beagles, and poodles—all hunting breeds with strong scenting ability and trainable temperaments. Trainers source dogs through a network of breeders, rescues, and shelters, and United K9 maintains a breeder directory and Verification Seal Program to help families find dogs with the right temperament and health.
The impact of these dogs is profound. In one case, a child with a severe peanut allergy was finally able to go to a movie theater with friends. His allergy-alert dog was trained to detect even trace amounts of peanut dust. The dog entered the theater first, signaling the need for cleaning before the child arrived. “That dog made it possible for the boy to have a normal night out with his friends,” says Hanna.
Although these dogs can cost thousands of dollars to train and place, Hanna points out one thing everyone can do to help: respect service dogs in public.
“Do not approach or even make eye contact with the dog, which teaches the dog to ignore its handler—and that ruins the dog’s training,” he explains. “The best way to support their work is to let them work.”
Service dogs are loyal companions, protectors, emotional anchors, and bridges to fuller lives. Through training, trust, and dedication, they offer children and families more than help—they offer hope.
“Our dogs are trained to detect the chemical change before a panic attack or meltdown happens. It’s scent-based, like diabetic or seizure alert dogs.”
“Do not approach or even make eye contact with the dog, which teaches the dog to ignore its handler—and that ruins the dog’s training. The best way to support their work is to let them work.”
ALLEN BAND IS ROSEBOUND
Allen High School Band Heads to Pasadena for Prestigious 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade Performance
ARTICLE BY MARISA BINGHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SHAYNE STUDDARD
The "Biggest Band in the Land" is heading west. Allen High School’s marching band, along with the Tallenettes and color guard, has earned the honor of performing in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, on January 1, 2026.
This is no small feat. The selection process takes two years, and Allen is the only band from Texas invited to march this year. With 550 students participating, they’ll take on the iconic 5.5mile route, including the famously difficult 105-degree turn. It’s a once-in-a-decade opportunity for the program, and the community is buzzing with pride.
Among those marching is trumpet player and junior Kaitlyn Koch, the fourth Koch sibling to come through Allen’s band program. Her mom, Kellie Koch, has been involved since 2017 and even marched in the Tournament herself in 1998 as a student from Minnesota. Now, she’ll return to Pasadena, this time watching her daughter take part in the same tradition.
What sets Allen’s program apart is its inclusive spirit. There is no varsity tier—every student gets to perform. “There’s a place for everyone,” says Kellie. “When they put on that uniform, they belong.”
The group travels in 17 buses and 2 semi-trailers, and with a trip this size comes a major need for fundraising. Their first major push will be at Fan Fest in August at Watters Creek, where they’ll perform and seek sponsors and donations. Spirit Week and other events will follow as the band rallies the community’s support.
The Rose Parade president will visit Allen’s homecoming on September 12 for outreach and celebration.
Under the leadership of Dr. Phillip Obado (band director) and Caitlin O’Neil (Tallenette director), the program is gearing up to represent Allen with excellence.
Check out the photo of the band spelling out “EAGLES” and one featuring the football team and band together, because in Allen, community means marching forward as one.
When disaster strikes, we show up for each other. Flooding across Texas has uprooted lives but hope is never far when neighbors come together. ity ifestyle is helping identify and support those most affected
KNOW SOMEONE IMPACTED?
Nominate a family, individual, or local leader in need of care. ou can help us reach those who need it most.
2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 2ND
Teen2Teen Resale
The Edge: 201 St. Mary Dr., Allen, TX | 7:00 AM
Ready to refresh your wardrobe or earn some extra cash? Buy or sell gently used clothes, room décor, sports gear, and more at this community resale event just for teens. Browsing is free—vendors must register in advance. It’s style, savings, and sustainability all in one! Register at cityofallen.org/calendar.php
AUGUST 8TH
End of Summer Bash
Ford Pool: 724 Whitman Dr., Allen, TX | 5:00 PM
Make a splash at the ultimate summer sendoff! Join the fun with a cannonball contest judged on style, height, and splash power. It’s free to attend, but registration is required—so grab your swimsuit and bring the energy. Summer isn’t over until you’ve made a wave! Register at cityofallen.org/calendar.php
AUGUST 10TH
Kids Festival and Pop-Up Market
The HUB: 1289 Johnson Rd., Allen, TX | 12:00 PM
Bring the whole family for a day of fun, shopping, and summer surprises! Enjoy bounce house water slides, face painting, crafts, and sweet treats—plus local vendors, permanent jewelry, and more. It’s a community celebration made for all ages. Free to attend with plenty of parking! Visit instagram.com/ntx_vintage_markets for updates!
AUGUST 11TH
Skate into the School Year
The Edge: 201 St. Mary Dr., Allen, TX | 7:00 PM
Start the school year rolling with a back-to-school skate night! Bring your own skates, grab a snack, and cruise into the new semester with friends. It’s free to attend, but registration is required. Skates not provided. Register at cityofallen.org/calendar.php to join the fun!
AUGUST 23RD
Feed The City - Allen
BoomerJack's Grill: 131 E. Stacy Rd., Fairview, TX | 8:00 AM
Grab your sandwich fixings and join the feel-good movement that’s feeding thousands! Powered by Tango Charities, this fun, high-energy volunteer event turns simple ingredients into life-changing meals. Bring your crew, earn service hours, and make a real impact—one sandwich at a time. All ages welcome. Learn more at tangocharities.org/feed-the-city-allen.
AUGUST 23RD
Farmers Market - Back to School Celebration
Lucas Community Park: 665 Country Club Rd., Lucas, TX | 8:00 AM
Calling all Lucas students—it’s dunk time! Take your shot at sending your favorite coaches, teachers, and administrators into a chilly splash zone. With fresh market goodies, local vendors, and big back-to-school energy, this morning is packed with fun, laughs, and community love. Bring your friends and your best aim! Find more information at lucastexas.us/lucas-farmers-market.
Kick off the school year with shopping, sips, and serious fun! Explore local vendors, permanent jewelry, charm bars, boutique finds, and back-to-school must-haves—plus axe throwing, lawn games, and fresh brews. It’s the ultimate hangout for the whole crew. Visit instagram.com/ntx_vintage_markets for updates!
AUGUST 26TH - 31ST
Dine With Your Dog While Giving Back
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar: 1851 N Central Expy., Allen, TX
Lazy Dog is serving up comfort for a cause! When guests order a Dog Bowl in-restaurant, $1 supports Pet Partners’ incredible therapy dog teams. Pups can enjoy a nutritious treat, and owners will walk away with a free Dog Bowl card for a future visit.
AUGUST 29TH
Live Music with Courtney Marie
Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel: 777 Watters Creek Blvd., Allen, TX | 6:00 PM
Get swept away by the sounds of pop, alternative, and indie hits as Courtney Marie takes the stage. Covering everything from Billie Eilish to Paramore, her soulful set is the perfect soundtrack for a relaxed summer evening. Free to attend—just bring your vibes and good company. Find more information at singcourtneymarie.com
UNPLUG HAVE FUN! &
ARTICLE BY PAM REID
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summertime is the best time for kids to disconnect and enjoy being outdoors.
Long, long ago, in a time before technology, children entertained themselves and played endlessly with nothing more than ... wait for it ... their imagination. They played outdoors for hours with friends, balls, jump ropes, buckets, chalk, bicycles, you name it! The level of creativity saw no limits in the minds of these children. While some families have plans for getaway vacations, there are those planning to stay home and scrambling for things their children can do. We’d like to share some ideas that don’t include technology or cost a boatload of money for that matter. The benefits of spending time outdoors and unplugged outweigh complaints about temperature or those annoying creepy crawlers. The added bonus is that many outdoor games secretly teach life skills. Technology is used only to confirm game rules.
Ready or not, it’s time to play! A day - or two or three - full of outdoor games will invoke a trip down memory lane for some adults, or a “this is great” thought for others. In either case, playing these games has tremendous benefits - young people can fully embrace human connection, get a break from the instant gratification associated with technical devices and social media, and enjoy some good wholesome, age-appropriate fun. Many adults admit they played many of their favorite childhood games well into their teen years, and still others say they relish in a good game of dodgeball or tug of war today. This list is not all-inclusive, but it certainly gets the games started!
CHILDHOOD GAMES
TUG OF WAR - contest between two teams at opposite ends of a rope; each team trying to drag the other across a center line.
SACK RACE - stand in your sack, hold on to the top of your sack and hop as fast as you can to the finish line!
FREEZE TAG - each player freezes when tagged and can be unfrozen only by a player who is not yet frozen. Game ends when all players are frozen.
RED LIGHT GREEN LIGHT - shout “green light” and all players run towards you, shout “yellow light” and they are allowed to walk, but when “red light” is shouted, they must stop and freeze. If player moves at “red light”, they go back to start line.
MUSICAL CHAIRS - walk to music around a group of chairs containing one chair fewer than number of players, and rush to sit down when music stops. The player left standing in each round is eliminated.
KICK THE CAN - find players in their hiding spots and put them in “jail”. Once a player is “jailed” the only way to be freed is for another player to beat the “IT” person to the can and kick it.
DODGEBALL - team sport in which players on two teams try to throw balls and hit opponents, while avoid being hit themselves. Consider water balloons instead of balls on a hot day.
There are more great outdoor games. Get unplugged and get outside!
BIG D MECHANICAL BIG D MECHANICAL
Summer in Texas doesn’t play around. From triple-di git temps to surprise storms, your HVAC system is about to clock some serious overtime. At Big D Mechanical , we believe comfort shouldn’t be a luxury it should be your standard. Here’s how to make sure your A/C is ready to carry you through the season like a champ.
1. Start with a Tune-Up
Before you crank it down to 68 and cross your finge rs, schedule a professional maintenance visit. A season al check-up can prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency , and lower your energy bills—because no one wants a surprise repair bill on top of a sky-high electric one.
2 . Call in the Pros
Whether you’re prepping for a heatwave or planning ahead for future upgrades, Big D Mechanical offers expert service, honest advice, and a team that trea ts your comfort like it’s our own. We’re not just HVAC techs—we’re your neighborhood’s cool-down crew.
DONT SWEAT IT! BEAT THE HEAT!
Call Big D Mechanical today to schedule your summer service. Let’s make sure your system is running col d, quiet, and cost-efficient all summer long.
