BARBECUE WITH THE BOYS
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.
A Gentle Reminder for the Gentlemen Among Us
When I think about what it means to be a “gentleman,” I don’t think about titles, status, or even outward success. I think about character. I think about consistency. I think about the quiet, everyday ways someone shows up for the people they love. For me, that reflection begins at home.
I am endlessly grateful for my husband, Gary Burns. Gary leads our family with a steady kind of strength rooted in integrity, patience, and love. He doesn’t just talk about values, he lives them. Whether it’s through the way he handles challenges, supports our family, or simply shows up day after day, he sets the tone for what leadership truly looks like. It’s not loud or boastful, it’s intentional, grounded, and deeply felt.
And then there’s our son, Jaxx.
At 12 years old, he’s at that beautiful, impressionable stage of life where he’s watching everything, absorbing more than we realize, and beginning to shape his understanding of the world and his place in it. It’s incredible to witness, and it’s also a powerful reminder of how important strong male role models are for the next generation.
Young men like Jaxx are learning not just from what they’re told, but from what they see. They’re learning how to treat others, how to handle adversity, how to lead, and how to love. That responsibility doesn’t fall on just one person, it belongs to all of us as a community.
This Gentleman’s Issue is a celebration of the men who are showing up in meaningful ways, fathers, mentors, coaches, business leaders, and friends who are choosing to lead with character. It is also a gentle call to action.
Who are the young men in your life or your community who could benefit from your time, your encouragement, or your example? Sometimes showing up doesn’t require grand gestures. It can be as simple as offering guidance, listening without judgment, or modeling what respect and integrity look like in everyday moments.
As we celebrate the gentlemen featured in this issue, I encourage each of us to reflect on the role we play in shaping the next generation. Because the impact of a good man, of a present, intentional, and values-driven man, ripples far beyond what we can see.
June 2026
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
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Jennifer Dartez | jennifer.dartez@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Ashton Burns | ashton.burns@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Ayesha Durrani, Deborah Dove
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kim Hill, Eve Bushman, Pauli Reep, Gary Burns
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Brittany Dawn Short
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
inside the issue
Smoky, savory, and
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1 - 14: Celebrating 150 years of community, Allen 150 Fest brought downtown to life with live music, vibrant local art, and family-friendly fun. From food trucks and hands-on activities to historical exhibits and high-energy performances, the event captured the spirit of Allen’s past, present, and future. This once-in-a-generation celebration united residents in a dynamic, citywide birthday bash filled with connection, culture, and unforgettable moments.
Photography by Chris Bigenho Photography
business monthly
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, the Corporate Challenge brought teams together for a high-energy, unforgettable day of competition and community spirit. Big congrats to this year’s winners: Texas Health (repeat champs!), Allen Fire Department, Leadership Allen Class 37. Contact the Chamber to have your company represented next year!
From Allen to the NFL
Join us in celebrating an incredible hometown achievement as Allen High School Class of 2022 graduate Jordyn Tyson was selected 8th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. From Friday night lights in Allen to football’s biggest stage, Jordyn’s hard work, talent, and determination have paid off in a major way. His journey is a true testament to dedication and perseverance, and the entire Allen community couldn’t be more proud. A-Up!
Happy Retirement, Dr. Robin Bullock!
Allen ISD Superintendent Dr. Robin Bullock is closing out an incredible career spanning more than 30 years in public education and over a decade of service to Allen ISD. Since stepping into the superintendent role in 2020, she has led the district through continued growth, academic excellence, and meaningful community connection. Her leadership helped strengthen Allen ISD’s reputation as one of the top districts in Texas, while always keeping students at the center of every decision.
Photography by Shahmeen Khan
Photography by Allen Independent School District
Photography by Allen Chamber of Commerce
A Journey Rooted in Empathy
A PASSION FOR CARE AND PURPOSE
SHIFTED A DENTIST’S CAREER
ARTICLE BY AYESHA DURRANI | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ROBERT W. JONES III
It’s never too late to live your dream, and Dr. Joseph Brier’s story is a testament to that truth. Born and raised in Central Missouri, Dr. Brier always had a fascination with medicine. His first taste of dentistry came in high school, when he worked at a local dentist’s office. Later, his focus shifted to psychology, and after earning his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, he worked with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), focusing on treating clients with dignity and helping them lead independent lives.
While working full-time as a social worker, Dr. Brier found the work rewarding, yet he couldn’t shake a lingering feeling. “I felt like I had given up on my real dream,” he recalls. Determined to return to his first passion, he went back to school, completing a post-baccalaureate program at San Francisco State University before achieving acceptance into his dream school, the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. There, he graduated cum laude in 2017, a culmination of hard work and unwavering determination.
Dr. Brier’s journey eventually led him to Lucas, Texas, where he opened Dental Care of Lucas. The town’s strong sense of community made it an ideal location for a practice built on care and comfort, where patients feel more like guests than visitors.
From the very beginning, Dr. Brier built his practice with a social worker’s heart. He understands that dental visits can provoke anxiety, so he intentionally designed a patient-centered environment. A sensory room offers soft lighting and calming music, while a comfort menu includes TV, stress balls, lip balm, headphones, soft and weighted blankets, sparkling water, coffee, neck pillows, and ear plugs. Treasure chests are provided for both children and adults, filled with treats like hand cream and face masks, adding a touch of joy and surprise to every visit.
Although he eventually left social work to become a dentist, his study of psychology continues to greatly
influence his work. In his dental practice, he believes it’s not only teeth he’s taking care of, but the whole person. Each individual is different, and Dr. Brier and his staff work diligently to tailor the experience to each patient’s needs, ensuring a calm and positive visit. The environment is so soothing that some patients don’t even require sedation, an accomplishment that reflects Dr. Brier’s thoughtful approach to care and his ability to put people at ease.
Dr. Brier’s commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond his practice. He has found ways to combine dentistry with continuing to advocate for the IDD community, partnering with My Possibilities (MP), a local nonprofit enriching the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He makes a donation for every new patient seen in his office, features a monthly MP attendee, volunteers, and raises awareness for both MP and intellectual and developmental disabilities. He also serves on the board of Harbor Village, a day center for individuals with highlevel needs, and regularly contributes dental articles to the Allen Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of his innovation and dedication, he was awarded the Allen Chamber Entrepreneur of the Year 2025.
“You live only once, you have one life. You don’t want to look back and have any regrets,” Dr. Brier says.
His journey is an inspiring reminder that career changes are possible and that following your dream can not only transform your life but touch the lives of countless others. For Dr. Brier, dentistry is more than a profession. It is a way to bring comfort, confidence, and high- quality care to every patient who walks through his doors, turning even the most anxious visits into moments of relaxation and genuine human connection.
For more information, visit dentistinlucas.com or call 972-372-4568.
“You live only once, you have one life. You don’t want to look back and have any regrets.”
His journey is an inspiring reminder that career changes are possible and that following your dream can not only transform your life but touch the lives of countless others.
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
Pitmaster Picks
A Curated Roundup of Four Local Spots Bringing Serious Smoke and Standout Flavor
In Texas, barbecue isn’t just food. It’s a well-honed craft shaped by time, fire, and the state’s cattle ranching history. And enjoying barbecue isn’t just a meal. It’s a community gathering, a tradition of sharing food around a smoker, the kitchen table, or at a local barbecue joint. It’s a process that can’t be rushed and a culture that rewards patience, precision, and respect for the meat.
What sets Texas barbecue apart is its simplicity, its focus on beef rather than pork, and a low and slow smoking technique that elevates simple ingredients into a complex and flavorful culinary experience. From barkcrusted brisket with a perfect smoke ring to tender ribs that pull clean from the bone, every detail reflects a commitment to doing things the right way—the Texas way.
But great barbecue isn’t confined to one legendary spot or a single style. It thrives in neighborhoods, at roadside joints, and in family-run smokehouses where recipes and techniques are passed down and refined over generations. Each pit tells its own story, shaped by local tastes and the personality of the pitmaster behind it.
In this roundup, we highlight four local barbecue joints carrying that tradition forward—serving up bold flavors, time-honored methods, and plates that capture the true spirit of Texas barbecue.
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
Great barbecue isn’t confined to one legendary spot or a single style. It thrives in neighborhoods, at roadside joints, and in familyrun smokehouses where recipes and techniques are passed down and refined over generations.
Big Ray’s is more than a restaurant. It’s a family legacy built on tradition and care. This locally owned barbecue joint sources only the highest quality meats and time-tested smoking techniques passed down through generations. Every brisket, rib, and pulled pork is slow-smoked to perfection using their signature blend of hardwoods to create a perfect bark and tender, juicy interior barbecue lovers crave.
400 E Main St, Allen
Big Ray’s BBQ
Vaqueros Texas Bar-B-Q
Offering classic Texas barbecue with regional Mexican flavors, Vaqueros has hit numerous “best of” lists for barbecue. From tender hickory-smoked brisket and pork ribs to BBQ birria tacos, smash burgers, and loaded brisket nachos and with scratch-made sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and apple gorgonzola slaw, this is barbecue—elevated.
965 Garden Park Dr, Allen
True Texas BBQ (Inside H-E-B)
True Texas BBQ starts with all-natural meats slow-smoked to perfection in-house over natural Texas oak wood. And since no Texas barbecue would be complete without the side, they offer brisket beans, creamed corn, homestyle potato salad, and more. Order by the plate, by the pound, or a family meal.
575 E. Exchange Ave, Allen
If there’s a name synonymous with barbecue in Collin County, it’s Hutchins. Established in 1978, Hutchins moved to McKinney in 1990 and has been consistently voted “Best in Texas” for over a decade. The menu offers smoked meats like prime brisket, burnt ends, pork ribs, sausage, turkey, “Texas Twinkies,” and more, as well as traditional sides and delicious desserts such as their crowd-pleasing banana pudding.
1301 N. Tennessee St, McKinney
Hutchins Barbecue
Nice? Is Whiskey On Ice
In speaking to Whiskey lovers (most happen to be men, but do accept me in their brethren as a fellow enthusiast, writer, and educator), I’ve learned a great many opinions on how to drink Whiskey. Specifically, preferences on adding water and ice vary greatly.
A brand ambassador that I had the privilege of listening to recently said the obvious: both dilution and temperature change when you add ice, so if you are going to add something, a little water is best. I personally prefer to use a water dropper, so I can add one drop at a time until I get to the desired taste.
HERE ARE THE DIFFERENCES:
THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY YOUR WHISKEY: ON THE ROCKS, ROCK, NEAT, OR WITH WATER
Rocks: Provides the highest rate of dilution as a lot of ice melts quickly. If you are drinking a barrel proof Whiskey, it kind of defeats the purpose as the distiller didn’t add water as they do in every other type of finished Whiskey.
On the Rock: The single rock, cube, or sphere is the slowest to melt and thought to be the most aesthetic. It’s nice if you want to stretch out your tasting. I often order on the rock if I want my drink to last longer.
Neat: This is the way single malt Scotch is served at a tasting event, in a branded Glencairn or Neat glass so that proper nosing for aromas can be achieved - and a dram of Scotch, smaller than an ounce, fits in them perfectly.
Water: As I mentioned above, quoting the brand ambassador, a little water is better for a fine Whiskey over any kind of ice. Often, if ordered with water, the water is served in a separate vessel on the side so you can add in as much as you want.
Quoting another expert on the subject, Richard Paterson of The Dalmore famously and enthusiastically demonstrates in his Scotch classes how to drink single malt Scotch Whiskey: Paterson fills a lowball glass to the rim with ice, adds Scotch and then ceremoniously throws it over his shoulder onto the carpet of the classroom – because that much ice makes the drink worthless. One more quote, never “add green tea or milk to Whiskey. You can add a little water, but not a lot of ice.”
Ultimately, the reason we add ice can be for aesthetics, to stretch out the time spent on one glass, for cooling, and for dilution. However, the number one reason enthusiasts add water is … drumroll please … because adding a little water actually opens up a Whiskey to show more aromas and flavors.
Men of Influence
FIVE LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS TALK ABOUT LEADERSHIP, SUCCESS, AND LEGACY
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
Joseph
Brier, DMD, FAGD Owner and Dentist at Dental Care of Lucas
WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL MAN IN YOUR LIFE?
My grandfather played a huge role in shaping me into the man I am today. He was intelligent, quick witted, and deeply social, and he taught me the value of a firm handshake, how humor can help build genuine rapport, and how to thoughtfully bring people together in ways that benefit everyone.
WHAT PRINCIPLES HAVE BEEN KEY TO EARNING TRUST AND RESPECT IN YOUR INDUSTRY?
I’ve always believed in doing the right things for the right reasons and being a resource for those around me. Whether I’m recommending treatment to patients, coaching my team, educating others about dentistry (even if they never step into my office) or connecting people in meaningful ways, my goal is simple: to do right by people.
Gregory Casale
Co-Owner, Elke's Market Café
WHAT HABITS OR PRINCIPLES HAVE BEEN KEY TO EARNING TRUST AND RESPECT IN YOUR INDUSTRY?
As a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, I started my learning path and never really stopped. While I currently own a small mom and pop sandwich shop and caterer known for simple flavors, I still take the time to crack open a cookbook or research something a little deeper. Learning is key to evolution.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE LEADERSHIP, AND HOW HAS YOUR DEFINITION EVOLVED OVER TIME?
Leadership is not just about barking out orders but being willing to put in the hard work alongside your team. Being a small business owner, it has become more important than ever to know when to step up and be the navigator, but also know when jump into the trenches with my crew. When your team sees you are willing to put in the hard work, they are much more willing to go the extra mile.
Rudy Frederico, CFE
Affiliate and Partner with The Franchise Consulting Company
WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL MAN IN YOUR LIFE?
First, my father. He led by example, not words. He was a devoted husband and father who focused on his children's success. In business, I worked for a man named Roger Goertz who taught me a great deal about running a franchise organization by developing relationships and solving problems so that everyone felt like they won.
WHAT DOES BEING A MAN OF INFLUENCE MEAN TO YOU?
Being a man of influence means leading by example, acting with integrity and putting others' needs above my own. This works in both business and community settings.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE LEADERSHIP?
Leadership is about making other people better. It's not just telling people what to do. It's about showing them how to do it, comprehending why they are doing it and prompting a desire to do it to the best of their ability.
Tony Mack II
Bryce Washum Founder/Owner, TMack Elite Training Owner,
WHAT DOES BEING A MAN OF INFLUENCE MEAN TO YOU?
Being a man of influence is a responsibility. It means I have to live my core values every day, which are grit, spirit of excellence, and integrity. I lead by example so the next generation can see that your attitude toward life shapes what life gives back to you. I want people to understand that success comes from persistence, consistency, and the willingness to show up even when you do not have all the answers.
WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?
I want my legacy to be simple and real. I loved people. I helped people. I stayed genuine. I loved God and lived my life with purpose. I explored life, I poured into others, and I gave everything I had to make a difference. If people can say that I made them better and showed them what was possible, then I did what I was called to do.
Send IT Solutions
WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL MAN IN YOUR LIFE?
Without question, my dad. I had a front-row seat to his life as an entrepreneur—the way he treated my mom, his employees, and his clients, how he handled tough decisions, and how he responded to both wins and losses. He brought stability to our home and set the standard for the kind of business leader I want to be.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE LEADERSHIP?
Anyone can call themselves a leader, but real leadership shows up when the rubber meets the road—not in follower counts or mailing lists. For me, it's about being a trusted, go-to resource for the people in my circle, and letting that speak for itself.
WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?
I want to be remembered for the way I treated people. Not for having the best price or the fastest turnaround—but for doing what I said I was going to do and having your back through the whole relationship.
Pit Boss Perfection
MASTERING THE ART OF SMOKED MEATS
ARTICLE BY GARY BURNS
WOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS
Light Meat (Pork and Chicken) pairs with Fruit Woods: Cherry Wood, Apple Wood, Pecan Wood Fruit Woods are used because they are less harsh on the lighter meats. Lighter meats cook faster and absorb more smoke. With mesquite, oak, or hickory woods, it can easily make the lighter meats taste bitter or sour.
Dark Meat (Beef) pairs with heavier wood: Mesquite, Oak, Hickory Wood Mesquite, oak, and hickory are best used on beef. Beef is denser and will not absorb as much smoke, so harsher woods will work without leaving the meat bitter or sour. These meats tend to have a savory flavor.
Ingredients
• 3–5-pound Beef Tri-Tip
• Black Pepper
• Kosher Salt
• Garlic Salt
• Onion Powder
• Olive Oil
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Foil or Butcher Paper
Suggested smoking method
Lump Charcoal, Mesquite, or Hickory Wood
Directions
Step 1.
• Trim tri-tip.
• Preheat smoker to a 250–300-degree range with lump charcoal.
• Once at a steady temperature, add 8 small chunks of hickory or mesquite.
• Prepare tri-tip in the following order: Spread olive oil on all sides of the tri-tip. Lightly sprinkle onion powder and garlic salt. Heavily season with a 50/50 mix of black pepper and kosher salt.
Step 2.
• Place tri-tip fat side up.
• After 1 hour, mix 50/50 water and Worcestershire sauce.
• Lightly spritz water/Worcestershire sauce on tri-tip to keep it moist.
• Repeat step 3 exactly 1 hour later.
Final Step.
• 1 hour after the last spritz, take tri-tip off the smoker and place it in foil or butcher paper with more water and Worcestershire sauce. Use a slightly heavier amount this time so it puddles under the tri-tip. Wrap tightly and place back on the smoker for 2-3 hours.
• Once 2-3 hours have passed, place the wrapped tri-tip on a platter, wrap it, and let it rest for 20 minutes.
CONTINUED >
SMOKED TRI-TIP
Ingredients
• Ingredients:
• 6-10 Chicken Legs
• Olive Oil
• Garlic Salt
• Lemon Pepper
• Kosher Salt
• Olive Oil Spray
• Foil
Suggested smoking method
Apple Wood or Cherry Wood, Lump Charcoal
Directions
Step 1.
• Cover chicken legs with olive oil, light garlic salt, light onion powder, heavy lemon pepper, light kosher salt, and light olive oil spray.
• Preheat smoker to a 300-325-degree range with lump charcoal.
• Once temperature is steady, place 5-8 chunks of apple or cherry wood.
Step 2.
• Place a foil strip 4 inches wide and 12 inches long on the smoker, and cover it with olive oil.
• Place legs on foil.
• Cook for 1-1.5 hours, rotating chicken legs every 15 minutes.
• Spray lightly with olive oil as needed to keep them moist.
Final Step.
• Check the internal temperature of chicken.
• Once it reaches 165 degrees or higher in the center of the legs, remove them.
• Let rest for 5-10 minutes.
ARTICLE BY KIM HILL
GUYS’ GUYS’
Has it been too long since your tribe gathered to rib and one-up each other as only guys can do? To help plan a getaway for just the guys, City Lifestyle gathered an eclectic list of locations offering tons of things to see, do and experience. Here’s hoping the only ribs one will get on this guys’ getaway are the kind to hold in hands while barbecue sauce drips onto shirts. Scottsdale/Phoenix
There’s no other tournament on the PGA Tour like the Waste Management Phoenix Open and no hole like the legendary 16th, where 20,000 boisterous fans boo the tee shots that miss the green. The other 51 weeks of the year, golfers can play TPC Scottsdale or try one of more than 200 courses in the Scottsdale area, a top golf destination. Another winter event is the BarrettJackson Collector Car Auction. Even if one’s only collector car was a Hot Wheels, it’s a blast to peruse the acres of autos for sale before heading inside to watch the unique or renowned cars crossing the auction block. When it’s time to get moving, the strenuous hike up Camelback Mountain in nearby Phoenix
is a bucket-list item. Need a more moderate trail? Experience the same magic of the majestic saguaro cactus in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
New Orleans
It’s always a party in New Orleans (NOLA), especially when it comes to festivals, many of them centered around music. Folk to funk, gospel to jazz, zydeco, blues, African and other musical styles are celebrated on the Jazz and Heritage Festival’s 12 stages. If free admission is more desired, don’t miss the French Quarter Festival featuring local musicians and food vendors representing dozens of New Orleans restaurants. Part of the fun of Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo is admiring revelers’ watercraft, some of them homemade just for this festival on the banks of Bayou Saint John. If one of the festivals can’t be attended, there’s still plenty of NOLA live music, particularly the jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street. And when a break from crowds is needed, take a guided swamp tour. Kitschy, yes, but it’s a hoot to cruise around on a swamp buggy while looking for alligators.
Bowling Green, Kentucky
“America’s Sports Car” is produced at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, where visitors can join guided tours to observe Corvettes being built and learn the fascinating history of these sexy autos. See examples of all Corvette generations at the National Corvette Museum. And if the need for speed is still felt, a few times a year Xtreme Experience offers driving or ride-along events in exotics like Ferraris or Lamborghinis at the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park. After getting all revved up, cool down at Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest known cave system in the world and a World Heritage Site, where guided tours take participants through tunnels humans have used for thousands of years. And after all this touring, the Bowling Green area is the southernmost point in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail of distilleries.
Austin
Live music rules here, with iconic venues such as Antone’s, The Continental Club, the White Horse and hundreds of other locations, from dive bars to big stages. From rock and blues to country and urban, music is heard every night of the week (and many afternoons as well). When guys are hungry, there are tons of barbeque and Tex-Mex joints. Unique food trucks are truly a thing here, with nearly 2,000 food trailers in town. Burn some calories biking or running the Southern Walnut Creek Trail or one of many paved paths. Get out on the water in a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard on Lake Travis or Lady Bird Lake. Take a dip in the historic Barton Springs Pool, where the underground springs keep the water around 68 degrees all year.
GETAWAYS
GETAWAYS
FOUR GREAT PLACES FOR GROOVES, GRUB AND GAWKING WITH BEST BROS
JUNE 2ND
Pickleball and Purpose
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Chicken N Pickle: 1221 Johnson Rd., Allen, TX 75013 | 6:00 PM
The 2nd Annual Smash for a Cause brings together startup energy, competitive pickleball, and meaningful networking in support of the PoweringU Foundation. PoweringU is dedicated to empowering students by providing access to scholarships, mentorship, and resources that foster success. Grab your friends and get your tickets at www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-smash-for-a-cause-where-community -meets-opportunity-tickets-1982939826400.
JUNE 4TH - 7TH
Forty-Five Years of Ice and Excellence
Credit Union of Texas Event Center: 200 E Stacy Rd. #1350, Allen, TX 75002
Skate Dallas is back for its 45th year, drawing competitive figure skaters from across the region to the Allen. From emerging talent to seasoned competitors, the multi-day competition showcases technical precision, artistry, and athleticism across all levels. Visit www. cutxeventcenter.com/events/detail/skate-dallas for the full schedule.
JUNE 5TH
Summer Swim Party
Ford Pool: 724 Whitman Dr., Allen, TX 75002 | 5:00 PM
Ford Pool is open and ready for the kind of summer day that becomes a core memory. This free community swim is the perfect way to beat the heat with friends and family in tow. Registration is required, so do not wait too long to claim a spot. Swim over to www.lifeinallen.org to register.
JUNE 6TH
Search for Neighborhood Treasure
Joe Farmer Recreation Center Parking Lot: 1201 E Bethany Dr., Allen, TX 75002 | 7:00 AM
Whether clearing out the garage or hunting for a hidden gem at an unbeatable price, this community garage sale delivers on both fronts. Sellers can turn forgotten items into extra cash while browsers enjoy free admission and the thrill of the find. Reserve a seller spot or plan a visit at www.lifeinallen.org.
JUNE 7TH
Summer Starts at the Brewery
Armor Brewing Co: 9 Prestige Cir., Allen, TX 75002 | 12:00 PM
Allen's summer kick-off market at creates the perfect afternoon worth lingering over. Local vendors bring handmade goods, boutique finds, custom accessories, and sweet treats to one of the area's most beloved gathering spots. Easy, unhurried, and full of discovery. Visit www.visitallentexas.com/event/allen-summer-kick-off-market to see the vendor lineup.
JUNE 11TH
Lawn Chairs, Soccer, and Good Company
Stephen G. Terrell Community Park: 1680 W Exchange Pkwy., Allen, TX 75013 | 1:00 PM
This community watch party brings soccer fans together for Mexico versus South Africa with all the right ingredients: food concessions, local vendors, lawn games, and open soccer play at a beloved community park. Grab a chair, pick a side, and enjoy the beautiful game. Visit their website for full details.
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JUNE 19TH
Honor Freedom with Community
Stephen G. Terrell Community Park: 1680 W Exchange Pkwy., Allen, TX 75013 | 6:00 PM
Juneteenth comes alive in Allen with a vibrant celebration honoring the day enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their freedom. Food trucks, local vendors, and a free concert from the genre-blending Extended PLAY make this an evening of joy, reflection, and community connection for all ages. Visit lifeinallen.org for details.
JUNE 20TH
Sip, Celebrate, and Support a Good Cause
Watters Creek Village: 970 Garden Park Dr., Allen, TX 75013 | 1:00 PM
Bourbon tastings, craft cocktails, live music, food, and giveaways make this Father's Day weekend celebration one worth raising a glass to. Every sip supports the Boyd Family Foundation, which provides full-ride scholarships helping underrepresented individuals pursue careers in fire service. Visit the events page at www.watterscreek.com to learn more and grab tickets.
JUNE 27TH
Allen USA
Celebration Park: 701 N Angel Pkwy., Allen, TX 75002 | 6:00 PM
This annual event presented is back with live music, two food court areas, and a spectacular fireworks show capping off an unforgettable evening in Celebration Park. Free tickets are required for all attendees, including infants, and are available starting June 1. Reserve your ticket at www.allenusa.org.
Pickle In A
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
PICKLE-BRINED CHICKEN WINGS SOAR TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH ALABAMA WHITE SAUCE.
I’ve spent years searching for the perfect wing flavor, never quite satisfied, until I heard a podcast suggestion: brining chicken wings in pickle juice. It sounded strange at first, but it yields incredibly tender and flavorful wings! Since then, I save pickle juice from every jar I buy just to recreate these beloved wings. If I run out of pickle juice, olive juice works too. I air fry mine, but if you don’t have an air fryer, cook them as you normally would. Don’t forget to toss them in a buttery dill sauce and try the Alabama white BBQ sauce for an extra layer of goodness!
Pickle Juice Brined Wings
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pounds chicken wings (flats and drummettes)
• Pickle juice - enough to cover wings
• 1 – 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 6 tablespoons butter
• A few dashes of hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Place chicken wings in a non-reactive container and pour pickle juice over chicken wings until completely covered.
2. Place it in the fridge and let it marinate, covered, for at least 8 hours.
3. Drain wings, discard pickle juice, and completely pat wings dry.
4. Put dried wings in a bowl and sprinkle with garlic salt and pepper. Mix well.
5. Place wings in an air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd. Cook at 400 degrees for 28 minutes, turning every 8 minutes until crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake them in the oven for 35 - 40 minutes at 400 degrees, flipping halfway through.
6. Melt the butter and add a few splashes of hot sauce of your choice and mix in a bowl. Add wings and completely cover with butter mixture. Sprinkle with fresh dill and toss a few times, and serve with my white barbeque sauce.
Alabama White BBQ Sauce
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (I prefer Duke’s)
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pepper, coarsely ground
• 1 tablespoon Creole mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
INSTRUCTIONS
Whisk all ingredients together until blended. Dip your pickle juicebrined wings in this sauce and taste the joy! Store in the refrigerator for 1 - 2 weeks.
From conceptualizing and planning to design and construction, Southwest Pools is a full-ser vice design-build team dedicated to creating exquisite outdoor spaces that reflect the uniqe tastes of each client.
The Art of Being a Good Neighbor
For many of us in Collin County, being a good neighbor still means something. It means supporting local businesses, appreciating personal service, and choosing places that feel close to home. That is why the Fairview Economic Development Corporation is inviting our Allen neighbors to take part in Shop Fairview, a simple way to shop just up the road, support businesses in Fairview, and get rewarded for doing it.
Shopping local is not only about convenience. It is about people. It is about the owner who greets you by name, the server who remembers your usual order, and the small-business owner putting in long hours to build something meaningful for their family and community.
That spirit is at the heart of what we call "Getting Neighborly." We believe that when local businesses thrive, the entire region benefits. Fairview and Allen share more than a border. We share customers, community ties, and a belief that small businesses still matter.
Fairview offers Allen-area shoppers a distinctive experience: local flavor, thoughtful service, and an atmosphere that feels polished without losing its smalltown charm. Whether you are heading out for lunch, shopping for a gift, or picking up something special for the weekend, Fairview makes it easy to keep your dollars close to home.
In a Gentlemen's Issue, it feels fitting to say this plainly: a gentleman values quality, supports good people, and understands that where he spends his money says something about what he stands for.
Shop Fairview makes that choice even more rewarding. Shoppers can visit ShopFairviewTexas.com to link their card through the OpenRewards app and automatically earn rewards at any Fairview business. Purchases at bigbox retailers earn 2 percent cash back, while purchases at local Fairview businesses earn 5 percent cash back.
Neighbors can also visit GettingNeighborly.com to join the insider list for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree to use at any Fairview merchant.
This June, shop with purpose, support the businesses that make this area special, and let Fairview be your next stop.
Why Your Next Stop Should Be Just Up the Road
