TRAVEL ISSUE
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!
The World Awaits...
As the summer sun beckons and wanderlust begins to stir, we welcome you to our July Travel Issue—a celebration of exploration, adventure, and the incredible connections that come when we step outside our everyday lives.
Travel has long been associated with rest and rejuvenation, and rightfully so. There’s something deeply healing about sinking your toes into a new shore, savoring unfamiliar flavors, or watching the sun set from a place you’ve never been. But beyond the comfort of five-star resorts or secluded villas lies something even more valuable: perspective.
In an increasingly globalized world, travel offers us one of the few remaining ways to truly step outside our bubble. It allows us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant diversity of human experience—to learn, not just from books or screens, but from people. Whether you’re walking through a centuries-old market, sharing a meal in a remote village, or listening to the rhythm of a language you don’t speak, travel reminds us that there are countless ways to live a beautiful life.
In a time when the world feels both vast and more connected than ever, understanding the cultures, customs, and values of others isn’t just enriching—it’s essential. Global interconnectivity means that our actions, economies, and ideas are constantly influencing one another. When we take time to experience life through someone else’s lens, we not only deepen our empathy, but we also gain insight into how intricately our lives are intertwined. Exposure to other cultures cultivates open-mindedness, fuels innovation, and fosters a greater appreciation for both the uniqueness and the common threads that connect us all.
At City Lifestyle, we believe that luxury isn’t only defined by what you experience but by how deeply you experience it. True luxury is cultural curiosity, the willingness to engage, to learn, and to be changed by the world around us.
Whether your passport is freshly stamped or you're simply dreaming from the coffee table, we invite you to see the world through a wider lens. The world is waiting to teach us, if only we’re willing to listen.
Here's to travel that opens your heart as much as it opens your itinerary.
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Morganne Eikelbarner morganne.eikelbarner@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Angela Martinez | angela.martinez@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Averly Burns, Ken Crawford, Deborah Dove, Fatima Durrani
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia, Gracelyn Baggett: Sun Kissed Imagery, Jay Sonata Photography
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Hang Le | hang.le@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Megan and Tessa Steiner
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
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1 - 7: A night to remember at the annual Big Z Bash, held at Heritage Ranch Golf & Country Club, was an evening filled with love, laughter, and legacy as we honored the life of Zach Hoefler—gone too soon at 19, but never forgotten. Through the Big Z Foundation, Zach’s spirit lives on by supporting families facing tragedy or illness.
8 - 14: With a high-energy performance by Empire 6 Band and a heartwarming visit from Cantor, the beloved service dog from Children’s Hospital’s pediatric cancer wing, it was a night of music, meaning, and memories.
Photography by Jay Sonata Photography
15 - 21: Looking to expand your network, connect with fellow professionals, and have a great time doing it? Join us for our Monthly Business Happy Hour, a vibrant gathering of local business leaders and entrepreneurs, held on the 4th Friday of each month from 6–8 PM. We alternate between Allen and Plano venues, creating the perfect backdrop for building relationships, sharing ideas, and discovering new business opportunities.
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Congratulations, Handsome Home Services!
Welcome to the Allen Fairview Chamber! In addition to remodeling services, Handsome Home Services also assists clients through the repair process with insurance claims, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen, refresh your living space, or completely remodel your home, their experienced team is here to bring your vision to life. Contact handsomehome.co for details.
Chicken N Pickle Comes to Allen!
We’re excited to welcome Chicken N Pickle to Allen—a unique indoor/outdoor entertainment complex that brings together a chef-driven restaurant, multiple bars, pickleball courts, and tons of backyard-style fun! With indoor and outdoor pickleball courts, lawn games, fire pits, and plenty of gathering space, it's the perfect spot for family outings, date nights, or just a fun hang with friends. Now open at 190 Century Parkway, Allen, TX 75013
Thank you, Councilmember Schulmeister!
On Tuesday, May 13, a special reception was held to honor outgoing Councilmember Chris Schulmeister for his service on Allen City Council since 2019. We appreciate your service and commitment to the community.
Photography by Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce
Photography by City of Allen
Photography by Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACELYN BAGGETT: SUN KISSED IMAGERY
Local Experience
DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES, AND EMBRACE AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES.
There are countless modes of transportation by which to explore the world, and the DFW Metroplex offers unique opportunities to experience them all—without leaving town! From enjoying tea by bus, to racing exotic cars, to cruising serene lakes under the Texas stars, adventures await that will ignite your passion for movement and exploration.
Frontiers of Flight Museum | 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX
Experience the stories and artifacts of aviation and space flight—from Leonardo da Vinci, to the Wright Brothers, to the spacecraft of the twenty-first century— all in one museum.
Sail with Scott | 2055 Summer Lee Dr, Rockwall, TX
Cruise Lake Ray Hubbard aboard a sailing catamaran built of beautiful Spanish cedar. Outings include sunrise, sunset, and starlight cruises and daytime family cruises.
Interurban Railway Museum | 901 E 15th St, Plano, TX
This museum features interactive exhibits on electricity, science, and the history of the City of Plano and the Texas Electric Railway. They also offer guided tours through Historic Car 360.
DriveXotic | 9012 Performance Ct, Cresson, TX
Drive an exotic car such as a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and more on a private 1.3-mile racetrack. Included in the price is Farr’s Movie Cars Museum.
Tea Around Town Dallas | https://topviewtix.com/dallas/ tea-around-town-classic Enjoy a delightful blend of exquisite teas and delicious cuisine with sumptuous decor, stunning views, and live entertainment aboard a luxury bus transformed into a mobile tearoom.
A liate and Partner with The Franchise Consulting Company, a collection of professional franchise executives with decades of experience who collaborate to make these dreams a reality.
Ready VACATION BODY
Feel Confident, Strong, and Energized with Smart, Time-Saving Strength Training
ARTICLE BY AVERLY BURNS
PHOTOGRAPHY
If you’re dreaming about your next vacation, now is the perfect time to start feeling your best. Whether you’re picturing beach days, active adventures, or simply looking great in vacation photos, the foundation of looking good is feeling strong—and that starts with building and maintaining muscle.
Muscle is more than just definition. It plays a vital role in metabolism, posture, energy, and overall health. Starting in our thirties, muscle mass naturally declines, which can lead to fatigue, reduced mobility, and a slower metabolism. However, you can rebuild it with the right approach.
Resistance training remains the most effective way to preserve and grow muscle. Traditional methods include free weights, resistance bands, machines, or bodyweight exercises. For those who want maximum results with minimal time commitment, EMS (electro-muscle stimulation) offers a powerful alternative. BODY20 uses EMS technology to engage up to 90 percent of muscle fibers in just 20 minutes, including deep muscles that are often missed in conventional workouts.
Every session at BODY20 is guided by a certified coach who personalizes the workout based on your goals, lifestyle, and current fitness level. Whether you’re new to exercise, a seasoned athlete, or coming back from a break, the experience is tailored to help you succeed.
BODY20’s approach is about more than quick results; it’s about building strength that lasts. Regular EMS sessions not only improve muscle tone and endurance but can also boost posture, core stability, and everyday energy, transforming how you look and feel.
What makes BODY20 truly unique is its commitment to inclusivity and body positivity. It is a welcoming, encouraging space that celebrates all bodies and backgrounds. There’s no pressure to look a certain way—just support to feel your strongest, most confident self. You’ll find a team that motivates, uplifts, and genuinely cares about your progress every step of the way.
Vacation readiness isn’t just about appearance. It’s about energy, movement, and the freedom to enjoy yourself fully. BODY20 helps you get there not just with cutting-edge technology but with a supportive environment that fosters confidence and consistency. It’s fitness that fits your life and empowers your goals.
Visit BODY20.com to learn how EMS training can help you feel confident, strong, and ready for whatever adventures lie ahead.
FIRST EXPERIENCE
Initial Discovery (includes X-Rays) 1st Life Changing Adjustment
Posture Analysis
Stretch Session
We’re not your typical 55+ community—we’re a lively, social, and engaging place where every day offers something to look forward to. From early tee times to latenight laughs, life here is about enjoying the moment, connecting with friends, and doing what you love. At Heritage Ranch, good times aren’t occasional—they’re part of the routine.
THE COFFEE CONNECTION
Bringing the Flavors of Coffees from Around the World to Allen
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ADELINE MERRICK:
For coffee lovers, there are only two kinds of people in the world: those who are hard-core coffee connoisseurs and those who wish they were. In either case, having an aromatic cup of coffee is a ritual that brings meaning to existence.
Rob Miller understands this obsession for coffee. When he combined his love of fresh roasted coffee with his desire to meet people and build relationships, Papa Rob’s Coffee was born.
“When Rob Miller combined his love of fresh roasted coffee with his desire to meet people and build relationships, Papa Rob’s Coffee was born.”
“I start my morning with my coffee and reading my Bible, and this often sets the mood for the rest of the day,” he reflects. As a pastor for many years in Mission Viejo, California, Rob began roasting fresh coffee as a hobby fifteen years ago.
Rob and his wife, Karen, moved to McKinney, Texas, to be near family. He then turned his passion for coffee into a profession in September 2021. Only weeks after starting his business, through the unsolicited help of a social media influencer who tried his coffee and posted about it, his sales shot up to over 1000 orders in six weeks. The orders haven’t stopped coming in!
Rob sources only the highest quality green coffee beans from around the world that come from small family farms and are hand-picked at the peak of
freshness. Whether you desire a single origin light roast, a rich and smooth medium roast, or a bold, dark roast, Papa Rob has the coffee to fit your flavor profile.
Papa Rob’s Coffee offers 17 different organic and non-organic coffee varieties, which come from an impressive list of countries: Guatemala, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Vietnam. He also offers blends such as the Villa Dal Mare, which marries three different coffees from the tropical regions of Costa Rica, Brazil, and Guatemala.
Beyond being fresh and tasting fabulous, coffee beans should be of the highest quality. In recent years, concerns about mold in coffee crops have been considerable. “If you’re buying a current crop and ‘double pick’ beans like I do, then there should
be no mold,” adds Rob. “But if the beans have been sitting in a dark warehouse for months, that’s when mold can form.”
The search for healthy coffee can be elusive. “There aren’t a lot of small coffee roasters in McKinney. Most coffees are large-scale and are sold in grocery stores or coffee shops. These usually sell coffee which is at already three to six months old. Coffee is only considered fresh twenty-one days after roasting,” he explains.
“My goal is to give customers the best coffee experience by giving them what they will really love. I’m a relational person. Adding the human touch is important to me, and so I will hand deliver samples to people locally. I love helping people discover their coffee; this is part of my heart’s work. I am focused on quality and the positive experience of my customers with my one-on-one approach.”
With all the varieties of coffee he offers, we had to ask Papa Rob what his favorite is. “My favorite light roast is the coffee from Rwanda. It has flavor notes of milk chocolate and citrus with a slight cherry and fruit finish. My favorite medium roast is the Organic Guatemala. It has flavor notes of chocolate, brown sugar, and oatmeal cookie. My favorite dark roast is the Ethiopia Yirgacheffe flavor with its notes of dark chocolate and a nutty and fruity finish.”
Is your nose giving you the signal? Follow its lead. Contact Papa Rob for more information!
www.paparobscoffee.com
TAKE A VACATION FROM CLEANING
Consider for a moment the elevated luxury of coming home from vacation to a clean and organized space. We experience the scrambled trip preparation with laundry and other logistics, often not leaving time or energy for tidying up. What if your home greeted you with the same detailed attention as your resort? You arrive back at your home or office and everything is in its place, fresh and clean and ready for you to resume your regular activities. Debby’s Complete Services gives you this peace of mind. Their work shines brightly, offering a personal touch, meticulous detail, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. For Debby Gowen, the owner and heart behind the business, cleaning with care is a calling. Her clients become neighbors and friends. She treats their homes with the same care she would her own. Debby is personally involved in every cleaning job, ensuring her high standards are met. “I take pride in knowing the work is done right. My clients can see that I genuinely care about their homes.”
Debby’s Cleaning Services is known for going beyond the basics. Her team picks up each object, dusting the item and the surface beneath it. She customizes her services to meet each homeowner’s needs, from cleaning products to organization. She takes the time to understand any past issues clients have had with other cleaners, ensuring her service stands apart.
Her deep cleaning service is a standout offering, perfect for new clients or those looking for a seasonal refresh. This service includes washing baseboards, cleaning cabinets with Murphy’s Oil or vinegar, dusting blinds, and ensuring every surface is spotless. These are also great bonus services for that cleaning while you are away, returning to a fresh, like-new feeling. For clients with specific needs, Debby offers specialized services
such as post-remodeling cleaning, move-in or move-out cleaning, and even upholstery and carpet cleaning. Equipped with a professional-grade carpet cleaning machine, she can tackle even the toughest stains.
Beyond her standard services, Debby offers grout cleaning and sealing, protecting surfaces from moisture and staining—an essential service for families with young children or homes with high foot traffic. Clients who combine multiple services receive special discounts, a popular option for realtors preparing homes for sale. Debby’s is fully insured and bonded, providing clients with peace of mind knowing their homes are in trustworthy hands. Clients are never charged upfront; payment is due only after they are fully satisfied with the cleaning.
CONTINUED >
Raised in McKinney, Debby has lived in the area for decades, and her business has grown through word-of-mouth and glowing recommendations on platforms like Nextdoor, where she has been voted a neighborhood favorite for four consecutive years. Reviews from clients are consistent: “Debby is professional and responsive in her communication.
“A HAPPY CUSTOMER MEANS THE WORLD TO ME. THEY ARE THE ONES WHO WILL RECOMMEND ME TO OTHERS, AND THAT'S HOW MY BUSINESS HAS GROWN—ONE HAPPY CLIENT AT A TIME.”
She and her assistant did an excellent, thorough deep clean of my house at a reasonable price, and she’s very pleasant to work with. Highly recommended.”
Understanding that every client’s needs are different, Debby offers a range of cleaning schedules, including weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly options. Her clients appreciate the ability to customize their cleaning plans, whether they need a regular touch-up or a deep clean for a special occasion. Debby also works around her clients’ schedules, accommodating those who work from home and even handling last-minute requests from realtors.
Debby and her team also clean businesses and churches, providing full service at home and work. Clients might start with home service, and then expand to contracting office cleaning also, or the reverse. Debby’s Complete Services is more than just a cleaning company—it’s a trusted partner in maintaining a clean, welcoming home or business.
Get started today with this level of care and attention to detail. Visit Debby’s website: debbygowen.weebly.com/ or contact her directly: 469-667-6501 or dgowen68@gmail.com.
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
FOLLOW
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN AND TESSA STEINER
LEAPING INTO THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME IN AFRICA
POWER SISTERS, UNITE!
The best ideas are often born at the intersection of coffee, camaraderie, and curiosity. Sitting at Allen’s local Sayfani cafe, sipping on Yemeni chai, sisters Megan and Tessa Steiner unleashed a bold plan.
Inspired by her older sister Megan’s 2021 trip, where she backpacked solo from South Africa all the way up to Jordan, Tessa asked what they could do together. Tessa was in between critical life phases, having graduated from Texas A&M in December 2024 and starting
The girls then embarked on an unforgettable 24-hour bus ride to Namibia and continued backpacking there for another three weeks. Namibia is known for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and natural mineral resources. English is widely spoken in Namibia, as is German and several local languages, including Swahili. The country is almost as large as the state of Alaska.
Their travel adventures seemed endless: driving a rental car with a “rooftop tent,” breathing in the salty
“BACKPACKING THROUGH AFRICA WAS THE PERFECT ENVIRONMENT FOR A MINI-METAMORPHOSIS.”
a three-year physical therapy doctorate program in Oklahoma in May 2025 and getting married in August 2025. Megan, on the other hand, had already been planning her return to Africa for countless days. Together, they knew it was the right time.
Backpacking through Africa was the perfect environment for a mini-metamorphosis. The sisters first visited South Africa for five weeks. A haven for tourists seeking both cultural and linguistic diversity and natural beauty, South Africa maintains 12 official languages. Its sheer size lends to significant geographical variety, such as rolling grasslands and plains, beaches, wetlands, forests, and deserts.
air of the seacoast, witnessing majestic sand dunes, and feeling the dry heat of desert climates. For those who love animals, Africa is a dream come true. One of Megan and Tessa’s standout moments was witnessing the grandeur of a family of lions emerge from the savannah at Etosha National Park, Namibia's premier wildlife destination, alongside rhinos, giraffes, elephants, zebras, and hyenas.
“When I reminisce about our trip, it’s nice to have someone who has lived through it too,” says Megan. “Going solo has its own pros and cons, but having a shared connection with someone like your sister creates memories for a lifetime. This doesn’t mean we
didn’t argue! But who else could relate to the coolness of the night, sleeping on top of a car, inside a makeshift roof? Or going to the local grocery store, stocking up on meat and potatoes, and using a rented propane tank and burner to cook a decent dinner!”
Although the dynamic duo never felt particularly unsafe in Africa and took all necessary precautions, Megan witnessed the presence of many more tourists this time around. In fact, during one overnight camp stay, she serendipitously bumped into a woman whom she had previously met in Zanzibar in 2021!
“There is such a stark difference between vacationing and traveling/ exploring,” Tessa reflects. “The latter is immersive; where you have the freedom and time to lose yourself in the moment.”
Vacationing, however, often entails preplanned itineraries. “But when you’re traveling like we did, you’re exploring on the fly, staying in hostels at the last minute, changing routines, and getting word of mouth referrals from fellow travelers,” she says. “Yet, I had so many reflective moments; moments in which I thought about what kind of family I wanted to start. Yes, schooling and careers are great for kids, but there is so much more. Traveling gives you that contrast.”
“THERE IS SUCH A STARK DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VACATIONING AND TRAVELING/EXPLORING.”
The process of reintegration upon arriving home is a well-known phenomenon. For some, it can be bumpy. “When you’re traveling, certainly every day is different and spontaneous. But once back home, the routine of day-to-day life enforces a certain type of 'same-old, same-old' mentality,” explains Megan.
This can lead to a kind of “travel homesickness,” where travelers romanticize their adventures to such an extent that it prevents them from being present in their current circumstances. “On a deeper level, I’d say make sure travel is not just an escape, because when you return, you still have to deal with ‘you.’”
“One of my biggest takeaways from being abroad is observing how most people around the world don’t have access to our modern-day, industrialized conveniences. But yet, they’re still happy. They don’t live like us, nor think like us. Our way is not the only way,” she reflects.
While Megan and Tessa miss the stars of the clearest skies they have ever seen in Namibia, or the majesty of the orange sunset at the Twelve Apostles mountain peaks in Cape Town, South Africa, they take comfort in knowing their next trip is just a dream away.
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK
vacation VIBES
THESE EXOTIC COCKTAILS WILL TRANSPORT YOU TO PARADISE
Vacation time is just around the corner. We are dreaming of sitting on a secluded beach, sipping exotic cocktails with umbrellas in them. But why wait till vacation to enjoy a fun cocktail? These two easy and refreshing classics will instantly transport you to paradise.
Piña Colada
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 oz cream of coconut
• 2 oz light rum
• 3 oz pineapple juice
• Juice of ½ lime
• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
• 1/2 cup ice
• Pineapple wedge for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Blend frozen pineapple and ice for a couple of seconds. Add in the liquid ingredients and blend until smooth. (To make thicker, add ice. Add pineapple juice if too thick.) Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
Bay Breeze
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz vodka
• 3 oz cranberry juice
• 2 oz pineapple juice
• Pineapple wedge & maraschino cherry for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Put desired amount of ice in glass, add vodka and pineapple juice. Top with cranberry juice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, maraschino cherry and umbrella (of course).
Mindful Mermaid Metaphysical Boutique
SAIL Away TO Paradise
Cruises are popular for a reason. They’re all-inclusive, they allow travelers to explore multiple destinations in one trip that would cost much more time (and money) to see by plane or car, and they provide the perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxation, with all the details already handled. In fact, 19 million Americans will go on ocean cruises this year, a 4.5 percent increase over 2024, and the third straight year of record cruise passenger volume. “They’re like floating hotels,” says Kendra Healy, owner of My Haven Travel.
But all cruises aren’t created equal. There are as many types of cruises as there are…well…places to go. While most people think of big ocean cruise ships such as Carnival, Princess, or Norwegian when they think of cruising, river cruises and private yacht cruises offer a different cruising experience.
Big ship ocean cruises are the mainstays of the cruising industry, offering onboard amenities such as world-class entertainment, fine dining, spas, and recreational facilities that rival top resorts. “Cruising is its own destination,” says Healy.
CONTINUED >
Explore the World Aboard Your Own Floating Hotel
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KENDRA HEALY
Big ship cruises vary in length from three days to weeks, with popular destinations including the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Asia, and Hawaii. Cruises range from large economy (cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, and Virgin that accommodate 4000 passengers with prices starting at $800 per person) to luxury options. Big luxury ships include Celebrity, Viking, and Princess and start at $1200 per person. While small luxury cruise lines like Seabourn, Silversea, Oceania, Ritz-Carlton, and Azamara come with a $4,000-plus price tag, they typically include all excursions, five-star Michelin dining, all exterior suites, butler service, and only 300-400 guests.
Unlike big ship cruises, river cruises stop at a different location each day, with no days at sea. “River cruises are more active, with lots of walking,” explains Healy. She adds that the Rhine and Austria offer popular river cruise itineraries.
Private yacht cruises offer below deck accommodations with a captain and staff and can run up to $40,000 for a group of eight. Or sail like the rich and famous on a mega yacht for the ultimate private yachting experience. Whatever your destination, booking a cruise through a travel agent such as My Haven Travel can ensure you get the lowest rate as well as perks such as massages, room decorations, or a bottle of wine. “It’s like having your own trip director!” says Healy. Whether you’re dreaming of the white sands and sparkling blue water of the Caribbean, the timeless history of the Mediterranean, or the majestic wilderness of Alaska, a cruise allows you to explore the world in comfort and style.
TIPS FOR SMOOTHER SAILING
• Always purchase travel insurance.
• Take anti-nausea medication. If you’re prone to seasickness, choose a cabin on the lower levels.
• Book specialty dining and excursions immediately after booking your cruise.
• Take magnetic hooks to maximize cabin storage.
• Take a waterproof phone carrier for excursions.
• Less is more when packing.
After years in hospitality management and event planning, Kendra Healy opened My Haven Travel, a fullservice travel agency that prioritized customer service and helping clients get the best deals. For more information or to book your cruise, visit www.myhaventravel.com.
events
JULY 4TH
Red, White, and BOOM
Downtown McKinney: 111 N Tennessee St., McKinney, TX 75069 | 10:00 AM
Celebrate Independence Day in small-town style at McKinney’s Red, White, and BOOM! Enjoy a festive parade, Yankee Doodle Block Party, live music, food, kids’ activities, and a spectacular fireworks show. Free and open to the public. No pets, canopies, or personal fireworks. Presented by the City of McKinney.
JULY 11TH
Patriotic SNAP Dance
Allen Senior Recreation Center: 451 St. Mary Dr., Allen, TX 75002 | 7:00 PM
Join Allen’s Special Needs and Adapted Programming for a dance party full of skill development and social fun! SNAP your fingers and shuffle your feet to patriotic-themed music with snacks for ages three and up. It’s all about having a great time while building confidence—just $15 to join the fun!
JULY 12TH
Cornhole & Rock N Roll – Crushing It for Cyndi!
The HUB: 1289 Johnson Rd., Allen, TX 75013 | 12:00 PM
Join the Cornhole & Rock N Roll event to support Cyndi Rowbotham, an Allen ISD SPED Coordinator battling Stage 4 Anal Cancer. Get involved by buying an event shirt, registering for the cornhole tournament, donating auction items, enjoying live music, or becoming a sponsor. Spread the word and help make a difference for Cyndi!
JULY 12TH
Keep Allen Beautiful - Litter Pick Up
Walmart: 730 W Exchange Pkwy., Allen, TX 75013 | 7:00 AM
Join Jamaica Youth Education Support (Jamaica YES) in helping keep Allen beautiful by picking up litter! This community effort takes one and a half to two hours, perfect for building service hours. Jamaica YES, dedicated to improving education in Jamaica, is making a difference, and you can too! Email martywalker@jamaicayes.org to sign up or for more info.
JULY 17TH
REV: Art in the Park
Bethany Lakes Pavilion: 745 S Allen Heights Dr., Allen, TX 75002 | 1:00 PM
Hosted by the City of Allen Parks and Recreation, join the Recreation Enrichment Vehicle and unleash your inner Bob Ross! Create your own masterpiece with all supplies provided. It’s time to get creative, have fun with art, and enjoy the fresh air while creating something wonderful outdoors!
JULY 20TH
National Ice Cream Day Social
Allen Heritage Village: 450 St. Mary Dr., Allen, TX 75002 | 1:00 PM
Celebrate summer and indulge in a bit of nostalgia this National Ice Cream Day at Allen Heritage Village! Enjoy yard games, music, and a chance to mingle with your neighbors. Explore some of the historic buildings with tours available from 2-4 p.m. Registration is free— bring the whole family for a fun afternoon!
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.
JULY 21ST
DCI McKinney
McKinney ISD District-wide Stadium: 4201 S Hardin Blvd., McKinney, TX 75070 | 8:00 PM
Discover the exhilarating world of Drum Corps International! Experience world-class ensembles showcasing precision, athleticism, and artistry through powerful percussion, soaring brass, and stunning visual effects. It’s a thrilling celebration of music, motion, and creativity as top marching corps compete in an unforgettable display of passion and performance.
JULY 25TH
Monthly B2B Happy Hour Hosted by Allen/Plano City Lifestyle
Neon Cactus: 241 E Stacy Rd., Fairview, TX 75069 | 6:00 PM
Join us for a fresh take on networking at our Monthly Business Happy Hour—an interactive evening for local professionals. Enjoy great conversation, door prizes, and a focus on building real, quality relationships. Appetizers and your first drink are on us. Follow City Lifestyle - Allen, Plano & Rockwall on Eventbrite for all of our upcoming events.
JULY 26TH
Back to School Ice Skate
Allen Community Ice Rink: 200 E Stacy Rd. #1350, Allen, TX 75002 | 11:45 am
Lace up for the Allen Community Ice Rink’s Back to School Open Skate! Enjoy free skate rental with your school supply donation and have a blast with friends and family. Don’t forget—adult supervision is required for children eight and under. It’s a fun way to kick off the school year with some chilly fun and excitement!
ALLEN EYECARE CENTER
“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
