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.
Welcome to the June issue of City Lifestyle! This month, we’re celebrating all things bold, courageous, and downright fun—perfectly suited for those who know how to live life to the fullest. This issue is dedicated to my wonderful husband, Gary, and my precious son, Jaxx. It’s all about honoring the gents who are out there making an impact, whether that’s through business, service, or a cold brew at your local brewery (we won’t judge if that’s what you're most excited about!).
We’ve got a packed issue that’s sure to inspire you, entertain you, and make you appreciate the little (and big) things in life. We’re shining a spotlight on local business owners whose contributions make our community thrive. Their service is as impressive as their passion for what they do—and trust us, you’ll want to know more!
In the spirit of giving back, we’re also highlighting the amazing work of the Young Men’s Service League. These young gents are already showing the world what it means to serve with heart, and their story will leave you inspired to get involved.
This issue’s journey of courage is one you won’t forget. Our talented photographer, Ty Harper, shares his personal battle with cancer—a reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. His story will make you smile and remind you that life, like a great shot of whiskey, is best enjoyed with grit, grace, and gratitude.
And because we believe in playing just as hard as we work, we’re bringing you the lowdown on adult sports leagues. Get out there, meet some new faces, and relive the glory days—or maybe make some new ones. We’re also raising a glass to our local breweries, where the craft brews are as fresh as your next great idea.
So, gents, here’s to living large, loving local, and always staying true to yourself. Whether you're suiting up for an evening out or kicking back for a game, we hope this issue reminds you that there’s always a reason to celebrate.
Enjoy the read, and as always, cheers to you!
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
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Brittany McCaffety | brittany.mccaffety@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Averly Burns, Deborah Dove, Fatima Durrani, Valerie Merrick, Ken Crawford
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ty Harper Photography, Joseph Rivers: Jay Sonata Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Gary Burns
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Gwendolyn Everett; Mary Richard Photography
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
1-14: The Plano Chamber of Commerce recently hosted an engaging Leadership Plano Information Session at the contemporary Aloft Hotel Plano. Sponsored by Plano City Lifestyle, the event brought together community leaders, alumni, and prospective participants for an evening of networking, program insights, and civic connection. Guests had the opportunity to learn more about the impact of the Leadership Plano program, ask questions, and hear firsthand how the initiative fosters leadership, collaboration, and long-term community involvement in the City of Excellence.
We would like to shine a light on the amazing student voices behind the Superintendent's Student Advisory Committee 2025 in Plano ISD! These students meet with Superintendent Williams to share ideas, provide feedback, grow as leaders, and help shape the future of our schools. Their commitment, collaboration, and courage inspire us all! Thank you for representing your peers and making a difference.
We would like to wish Captain Anderson a heartfelt congratulations on his recent retirement! He started with Plano Fire-Rescue on April 15, 1991, and retired on April 30, 2025. Thank you for your 34 years of service! We wish you the best!
Did you know that the individuals and organizations we feature in the magazine throughout the year come from YOUR nominations? We have eight categories for which you can nominate a community member or organization. When they are selected they will also be recognized at our Annual Community Recognition Dinner. To learn more or nominate someone visit https://tinyurl. com/CL-Community-Nomination.
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES, AND EMBRACE
AUTHENTIC
From fathers and brothers to partners and friends, the men in our lives fix everything from loose showerheads to a broken heart. They’re the providers, the protectors, the jokesters, and a source of strength and stability. To thank them for all they do, we’ve curated a list of local experiences guaranteed to create the perfect day for the men who hold a special place in our hearts.
Boardroom Styling Lounge | This salon just for him provides a complete luxurious grooming experience—from stylish haircuts and precise beard trimming to luxurious shaves and skin care. 4001 Preston Road, #506, Plano, Texas; 5760 Legacy Drive, #B5, Plano, TX
High Point Tennis Center | Play pickleball with your favorite active guy on one of numerous outdoor pickleball courts. Paddles can be rented but it’s BYOB (bring your own balls). 423 W. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano
Go Ape Zipline and Adventure | Take the adventurous man in your life on an adventure—one with 423-feet ziplines, challenging obstacles up to 28 feet in the air, and heart-stopping Tarzan swings. Oak Point Park, 5901 Los Rio Boulevard, Plano
Omni PGA Frisco Resort | Spoil Dad with a round of golf on a championship course, practice on a two-acre putting course, or continue after dark at The Swing, a lighted 10-hole short course. Nearby PGA District offers glistening pools, a spa, and 13 dining destinations. 4341 PGA Parkway, Frisco, Texas
Better Than Sex | Satisfy his sweet tooth at the most unique dessert restaurant in downtown Plano. The perfect romantic date night destination, Better Than Sex features mouthwatering desserts in an intimate speakeasy-like setting. 1010 E 15th Street, Plano
HOW SERVICE BUILDS CONNECTION, CONFIDENCE, AND MENTAL STRENGTH
ARTICLE BY AVERLY BURNS | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF YMSL
Young men today face immense pressure to embody strength and independence, often at the expense of their emotional well-being. Too frequently, vulnerability is seen as a weakness, leaving many to struggle in silence. Organizations such as the Young Men’s Service League challenge this norm by fostering service, leadership, and genuine connection. By uniting mothers and their sons in community service, they help young men build emotional resilience, confidence, and lifelong mental wellness through meaningful relationships.
Mental health challenges are common among all ages, but for many men, acknowledging emotional struggles remains stigmatized. From a young age, boys are often taught to suppress vulnerability and “tough it out,” leaving them unequipped to manage emotional stress in healthy ways. The Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) provides an opportunity for young men to connect, express empathy, and develop leadership skills through service, encouraging openness and growth starting in high school.
Founded in 2001 by Pam and Julie Rosener, YMSL began in response to a lack of service programs specifically for young men. The organization has since grown into a national initiative, with more than 135 chapters across 18 states, encompassing over 25,000 members. YMSL’s core mission is to cultivate confident, capable, and compassionate leaders through a combination of community service, education, and relationship-building.
The North Star Chapter in Plano, Texas, exemplifies this mission. Mothers and sons work together, committing to at least 20 volunteer hours annually, partnering with local nonprofits like Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, and ACEing Autism. This shared experience helps young men develop empathy by interacting with people from diverse backgrounds while making a meaningful impact in their communities. The opportunity for bonding also strengthens their commitment to service.
In addition to service, YMSL offers leadership training. Each year, members engage in life-skills education on topics like financial literacy, health, and social responsibility. These lessons are reinforced through guest speakers and hands-on activities designed to teach real-world skills and help them grow into capable adults.
An essential aspect of YMSL is strengthening the mother-son relationship. Most service hours are completed together, fostering emotional closeness and communication. In a time when
“Our long-term impact is on the young men whom we raise to understand the importance of serving others.”
many boys begin distancing themselves from family, these shared experiences encourage open dialogue and emotional support, essential for mental health and resilience.
In a society where young men are often expected to be stoic, YMSL provides an environment that nurtures emotional well-being, growth, and healthier emotional expression.
FIGHTING CANCER WITH STRENGTH AND CONFIDENCE FROM WITHIN
There are really no words to describe the quiet heroes living amongst us.
And there are many of them, although their paths may be different. Some have risked helping others while endangering themselves. Others, like Ty Harper, have endured an illness but emerged stronger and more resilient on the other side of it.
Ty’s life turned upside down in February 2024 when he noticed persistent swelling in his lymph nodes. Assuming it was just an infection, Ty took several rounds of antibiotics. However, when the swelling persisted, a biopsy was performed, confirming Hodgkin lymphoma, a highly treatable cancer primarily affecting people in their twenties.
Growing up in a military family, Ty had experienced life in Japan, Korea, and New York before settling in Dallas. But traveling, enjoying Dallas’s urban vibe, and freelancing in photography, an industry he is passionate about, all came to a screeching halt.
For the next six months, Ty was consumed with biweekly chemotherapy appointments, alongside a newly approved therapy that was physically grueling. Radiation followed. With a fulltime job, and living alone with only a few family and friends nearby to lend a hand, Ty began to question whether he had it in him to endure this process.
Beyond this external struggle, something else was waging war within him and casting doubt on his core identity.
“My reputation as a mindful, strong, intuitive person in my community clashed with the mental health challenges I faced. I expected myself to be resolute, but the treatment broke me. My side effects became so excruciating that I was hospitalized.”
CONTINUED >
Ty’s expectations of himself were high. “I didn’t feel like a 'good' survivor. In my cancer support group, others seemed to manage it better than me, while I felt I had failed to rise to the challenge.”
To help cope, he resorted to overly legislating his life with rigid self-help strategies such as detailed planners and accountability partners, but it just wasn’t working.
Deep inside, Ty knew that the version of him that was fighting cancer wasn’t the real him. “My oncologist then reminded me that I was chosen for this specific therapy precisely because I was strong—not weak. This triggered me to reframe my perspective and embrace my own vibe instead of mimicking others.”
Part of the reframing process included reflecting back on what made him so successful in college as a top-notch sociology major at Baylor in Waco, Texas. “In college, the Forest app helped me, blocking distractions while rewarding my focus. So, I applied this philosophy to chemo. Instead of trying to consume someone else’s self-help info all the time, I began to separate all my tasks by using a 30-minute kitchen timer.”
decided to do something—anything—that would improve his circumstances without overthinking. About 25 minutes later, he looked around to see what he had accomplished: mail had been sorted, dishes washed, clothes organized, and more. This watershed moment helped Ty regain his confidence.
They say it’s the small victories in life that change everything, and it was no different for Ty. Every 30-minute segment helped him delve into the chaos that had piled up around him. Breaking up his cancer treatment into small, manageable moments slowly eased the mounting frustration and overwhelm.
“I want people to know they already have what it takes to survive challenges, so they should embrace that openly and confidently.”
In November 2024, Ty went into remission wiser and stronger.
“One of the hardest realizations was how many people weren’t there for me. When I announced my diagnosis, I lost 100 followers on Instagram. Many people simply don’t know how to handle cancer, so they avoid the conversation altogether. That doesn’t mean they don’t care.”
The first time Ty applied this technique, the results astounded him. For the next 30 minutes, Ty
“Post-cancer, my goal is to educate others about the importance of reaching out to friends battling illness. When others engage with our story, we all grow. I want people to know they already have what it takes to survive challenges, so they should embrace that openly and confidently.”
CREATING CAMARADERIE THROUGH ADULT SPORTS LEAGUES
As adults, we often long for the carefree days of our youth. Many of us enjoyed connecting with others through intramural sports in college and exploring new activities; others grew up playing team sports from a young age.
But as anyone who has tried to beat rush hour to get to the gym after work or squeeze in a run between kids’ homework and activities knows, finding time for fitness—and connecting with others—in adulthood is challenging.
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH RIVERS: JAY SONATA PHOTOGRAPHY
However, there is a solution where your competitive spirit can roam free once again and you can meet new friends and feel supported in your fitness goals. According to Rick Miller, Assistant Superintendent for Athletic Operations for Plano Parks and Recreation, “Whether you’re nostalgic for the sports you played growing up or you’re just looking for a fun way to stay active, adult sports leagues offer a built-in community.”
“As an adult, especially if you’re single or don’t have kids yet, it’s hard to find friends,” concurs Hannah Rushing, Athletic Superintendent at Plano Parks and Recreation. “One of the challenges adults have is finding others to play with. We offer a free agent list which allows individuals to find other team members; sometimes our recreation supervisor will form a new team from the list. This system naturally creates a sense of camaraderie and the forging of friendships.”
“ONE OF THE
ADULTS HAVE IS FINDING OTHERS TO PLAY WITH."
Plano Recreation also offers a “Singles and Mingles” league, which helps younger adults combine the benefits of fitness with the opportunity to meet new people.
Adult sports leagues not only help adults expand their social circles while staying active and healthy, but they are also conducive to professional team building efforts. With nine fields at Heritage Yards and over 200 teams each season, the availability and scheduling of games make it easy for corporations to form teams and hold events for their employees. The city of Plano even runs an employee kickball league, enabling its staff members from
different departments to interact outside the workplace.
Plano’s adult leagues are open to both residents and nonresidents. The most popular sports currently include softball, cricket, soccer, volleyball, and kickball, with emerging trends like spike ball on the horizon. While soccer is an evergreen sport that is often immune from the latest trends and fads in sports, the staff at Plano Parks and Recreation are excited to offer something new this year: a grass volleyball league.
Interested? Here are some tips to plan your next visit:
• Games are played weekly Monday –Thursday; weekends are often reserved for high economic impact tournaments or youth sports only.
• Cricket leagues operate on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.
• Softball leagues operate Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
• Kickball leagues operate once a week, typically on Wednesday.
• Small-sided soccer leagues operate Monday and Thursday.
• Grass volleyball will be held at Frito Lay Pepsi Youth Championship Ballpark.
• Plano’s competition quality athletic fields include Archgate Park, Cheyenne Park, Enfield Park, Frito-Lay Pepsi Youth Championship Ballpark, Heritage Yards Athletic Fields, High Point Park, Hoblitzelle Park, Horseshoe Park, Jack Carter Park, Russell Creek Park, McCreary Sports Fields, Old Shepard Place, Preston Meadow Park, Carpenter Park, and Schell Park.
There are also numerous practice fields that are open for drop-in practices year-round.
For more info, contact: https://www. teamsideline.com/plano
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MENtal MATTERs, a nonprofit founded in July 2023, is dedicated to promoting, protecting, and prioritizing the mental health and wellness of Black men. Born from the vision and personal experiences of founder and president Dwayne Ware, who recognized a critical lack of accessible resources, MENtal MATTERs aims to create a safe, affirming community where men can talk, heal, and access support. Under the leadership of CEO Daphne C. Harris, PhD, the organization is building a strong, holistic support network.
Currently, MENtal MATTERs offers "Chop It Ups," biweekly, in-person sessions that serve as the cornerstone of their community engagement. These sessions provide a space for Black men to connect, share experiences, and receive support. Designed to be flexible, "Chop It Ups" can be implemented anywhere. The first pilot group is in Denton, Texas, in partnership with Project Hope. MENtal MATTERs plans to expand these sessions to a barbershop in Lewisville and men's groups throughout Collin and Denton counties.
Recognizing diverse needs, MENtal MATTERs also offers one-on-one sessions for those who prefer a more personal approach. Additionally, virtual group sessions will launch this summer for one-on-one and group experiences, expanding accessibility. These varied formats ensure men can engage with MENtal MATTERs in a way that best suits them.
ARTICLE BY KEN CRAWFORD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MENTAL MATTERS
Looking ahead, MENtal MATTERs is planning workshops and seminars on coping techniques and alternative healing practices such as yoga and mindfulness. These initiatives will provide a holistic approach to wellness, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul. The organization also plans to connect men with essential resources like housing assistance, fatherhood advocacy, and other vital services.
Advocacy is a key pillar of MENtal MATTERs' work. They intend to train more individuals in mental health first aid, empowering them to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health issues and provide support within their communities. This training is open to everyone, reflecting the organization's commitment to broader community well-being. MENtal MATTERs is working to partner with Collin County MHMR and to train men to become certified trainers.
An interactive website is in development to foster ongoing engagement, featuring forums, blogs, and other resources to keep men connected outside formal sessions. A journaling initiative called "Raw Reflections" will also launch, offering weekly prompts and audio journaling options to encourage self-reflection and expression.
Support from the community is crucial for MENtal MATTERs' growth and sustainability. As a startup, funding is a significant need. The organization seeks donors passionate about mental health and the Black community, as well as partnerships with community organizations, businesses, churches, fraternities, and individuals with expertise in relevant fields. Rather than reinventing the wheel, MENtal MATTERs aims to collaborate with existing resources.
Internship opportunities will soon be available for high school and college students, providing valuable experience in nonprofit management and mental health awareness. Interns will also receive mental health first aid training. Service projects and community visibility are important to MENtal MATTERs, and they welcome opportunities to participate in events and volunteer efforts.
While women play a crucial role in administrative and operational tasks, MENtal MATTERs prioritizes having men as the primary community-facing representatives. However, women can volunteer behind the scenes, helping with group setup, communication, and event coordination.
To get involved, individuals can connect with MENtal MATTERs through their developing website, email, or by phone. They can become donors, offer expertise, volunteer time, or request a "Chop It Up" session for their community or organization. MENtal MATTERs is eager to collaborate and build a strong network of support to achieve its mission of empowering Black men and fostering mental wellness. Connect with them here to learn more: 800-578-2350, https://mentalmatters23.org/ or email at info@mentalmatters23.org.
BART BRADY’S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
Bart Brady, owner of Squeegee Squad and a dedicated member of the Masons, has built a life centered around helping others. Whether it's through his business or his volunteer work, Bart is driven by a desire to serve without needing recognition. “I was born and raised here, and I want to see this place thrive,” he shares. That hometown pride is a big part of what led him to join the Masons, an organization rooted in values like brotherhood, charity, and self-improvement. His involvement isn’t just symbolic—it’s where his passion lies. “I love being a part of the Masons,” he says. “I wish I had joined earlier.”
Bart’s journey into the Masonic world started through his father, who was a university chemisty professor and served as a quiet example. “He let me find it on my own,” Bart says. When the timing felt right, Bart joined the fraternity, discovering a strong sense of belonging and purpose. Since then, he’s become deeply involved, participating in both the York Rite and Scottish Rite—branches of Freemasonry that offer their own unique traditions and structures.
For Bart, the best part of the Masons is the opportunity to give back. “I love being able to help people,” he says simply. On average, the Masons in the United States donate just over $2.6 million per day to charities! This philanthropic mindset carries over into Bart's business as well. As an owner of Squeegee Squad, Bart sees every job as a chance to make a difference. “We help people every day,” he explains.
That’s where Bart’s heart for service really shines. “It’s not just about the job,” he says. “It’s about being there for people when they need it, even if it’s something small.” That attitude has helped build a loyal client base that trusts him not just for quality work, but for kindness and care.
Still, Bart isn’t one to boast. “I don’t like to brag about it,” he says. “I just like to help people.” That humility is part of what makes him stand out. He doesn’t seek credit—he just shows up and does the work, whether it’s helping with Masonic events or making someone’s day a little easier through his business. In fact, one of the things Bart values most about the Masons is that quiet commitment to doing good. “We’re here to support each other, to lift each other up, and to help where we can,” he says. “It’s not about awards or titles.”
Bart also appreciates the camaraderie and structure that the organization offers. “There’s something special about being in a room with people who share the same values,” he notes. “You learn from each other, grow with each other.” His favorite memories with the Masons aren’t about big events or public recognition—they’re about the small, meaningful ways the group comes together to support others. Whether it’s organizing a fundraiser or lending a hand to someone in need, the goal is always the same: to make a difference.
“There’s something special about being in a room with people who share the same values. You learn from each other, grow with each other.”
“I don’t like to brag about it. I just like to help people. I’m there to help others, whether it’s through the Masons or my business. I want to make a difference in people’s lives, even in small ways.”
At the heart of Bart’s work is his partnership with his wife, Donna Brady. Bart credits Donna with being his unwavering support system. “She’s been there through it all,” he says with deep admiration. “We talk about everything. She understands why it matters to me, and she’s always encouraging me to keep going.” Their shared values of service and community have strengthened both their marriage and their collective ability to give back. For Bart, Donna’s support is crucial. “Having someone who believes in what you’re doing makes all the difference,” he explains. “I couldn’t do it without her.” The couple’s commitment to helping others is reflected not only in their personal lives but also in the way they approach their work, both in the Masons and in their daily interactions.
As Bart reflects on his work—both with the Masons and through his company—his message is clear: “Do good. Help where you can. Don’t expect anything in return.” In today’s world, where attention often goes to the loudest voices or the flashiest efforts, Bart Brady is a reminder that real impact often happens quietly. His steady, consistent service—rooted in tradition, community, and heart—has left a mark on the people around him.
And for Bart, that’s more than enough.
To learn more about Squeegee Squad, visit https://squeegeesquad.com/
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
EXPLORING COLLIN COUNTY'S LOCAL BREWERIES
A traditional pub crawl might be the invention of the British, but who says exploring multiple pubs can't be done right here in Collin County? Thanks to a handful of local breweries that make their own craft beers, the spirit of the pub crawl can be enjoyed right here at home. Check out one or all of these local breweries and experience a fun night out with friends trying new beers, experiencing something new, and supporting local businesses.
ARMOR BREWING CO. 9 PRESTIGE CIR., ALLEN
With a climate-controlled covered patio, indoor seating, and a stage for live music, there’s always something brewing at this pub. Enjoy alfresco vibes in the beer garden, shoot darts, and, of course, sample one or more of the brewery’s 24-tap selection.
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402
Located on a four-acre property nestled in Downtown McKinney’s Mill District, Tupps Brewery offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site, including seasonal brews and limited releases. The Grain Restaurant provides great food beyond the typical bar fare, and the vast indoor/outdoor space hosts live music, music bingo, goat yoga, and more. Brewery tours are also available.
5880 HIGHWAY 121, PLANO; 308 WEST VIRGINIA ST., MCKINNEY
With two prime locations—one at the Boardwalk in Granite Park in Plano and one in Historic Downtown McKinney—this locally owned brewpub has a West Coast feel fused with deep Texas roots. Both venues offer indoor and outdoor seating, a chef-driven menu, and award-winning beers brewed in a 30-barrel brewhouse in downtown Denton.
7800
Located on the third floor of Legacy Hall, Unlawful Assembly’s taproom features creative and bold-flavored house-brewed beers—from IPAs to lager—on tap and in cans. With indoor space to watch the big game and an outdoor patio overlooking the Legacy Hall stage below, the vibrant atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop to unwind.
03 04 05
1001 14TH ST., #500, PLANO
At this pub in the heart of downtown Plano, you’ll enjoy a wide range of craft beer and Cajun-style pub fare. With a calendar loaded with fun events—from live music to drink specials to trivia night—Voodoo Brewing is the perfect spot to meet up with friends.
IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT. 2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.
1 pork shoulder (6-10 lbs)
• 2 packets McCormick Carne Asada Seasoning
• 1 bottle Stubb's Pork Marinade
• 1 bottle yellow mustard
• 1 bottle pork or rib dry rub
• Black pepper, kosher salt, apple cider vinegar, apple juice
• Aluminum foil or butcher paper
Step 1: Prep the Pork Coat the pork shoulder in yellow mustard as a binder. Rub on your favorite dry rub, then sprinkle with McCormick Carne Asada seasoning. Finish with a light dusting of kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Set Up the Smoker Preheat the smoker to 275°F–325°F, using lump charcoal and apple or cherry wood for flavor. Place a sheet of foil
on the grill grates, and set the pork on top, fat side up. Smoke for 6-8 hours, depending on size.
Step 3: Keep It Moist Spritz the pork every hour for the first 3-4 hours to build a flavorful bark. Alternate between Stubb’s Pork Marinade and a mixture of apple cider vinegar and apple juice.
Step 4: Wrap for Tenderness After 3-4 hours, wrap the pork in foil or butcher paper, adding a splash of apple juice and Stubb’s Pork Marinade. Continue smoking for 3-4 more hours without unwrapping.
Final Step: Rest and Shred Once the pork reaches tender perfection, let it rest for 30-45 minutes. Then, shred with forks or meat claws—if the bone pulls out easily, you’re ready to serve.
Taco Time! Serve the shredded pork in warm tortillas, topped with chopped onions, cilantro, salsa, and lime. Enjoy the smoky, juicy goodness of your homemade street tacos!
“Enjoy the smoky, juicy goodness of your homemade pork shoulder street tacos!”
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
Enjoy a movie night together with popcorn, candy and all the fixings. Home movies enable strolls down memory lane, or one of his favorite movies from his childhood makes for fun conversation. Ordering a projector for a large format screening makes the movie night feel extra theatrical.
Learning a new skill together, or sharing a favorite hobby, is a great way to bond. If Dad likes woodworking or fishing, finding a class to attend together goes beyond gifting tools and allows fun.
Brainstorm childhood memories together and enjoy a day reliving them. If he chaperoned a trip to the zoo, experience it again together. If short on time, stop at a favorite ice cream stand and tell him how much you cherish the memories.
Wesley Everett knew he wanted a change. After being born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, alongside his six siblings, Everett began searching for opportunities that would help him see more of the world. He found his answer in the military, joining the army at 21.
“Well, I'm gonna say the biggest challenge for me while I was in the army was to complete it,” Everett recalled. “At first when I was in basic training, I didn't know what I was getting into. But after I finished my basic training, it was all smooth from there.”
After joining the army in Texas, Everett served for two years before being discharged in Seattle. Looking back, he’s grateful for his time serving. “It kept me out of trouble. It helped me to be alert. I've really been blessed.”
Now, as an older gentleman at the age of 68, Everett enjoys his blessings by staying active with his wife Gwen and offering advice to other young people who are considering joining the military. He and Gwen have a big family consisting of three sons, one daughter, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
FAST FACTS:
Favorite way to stay in shape? Chair volleyball
Favorite way to pass the time? Play bingo at the Sherman Rec Center
Favorite place to go?
New Birth Cathedral in Sherman on Sundays
Favorite foods?
Beef tips and rice, oxtails, collard greens, and corn bread
Favorite TV shows?
Bruce Lee or anything with action
ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GWENDOLYN EVERETT
Wesley Everett Counts His Blessings
JUNE 2ND AND JUNE 16TH
Plano Community Band: Summer Concert in the Park
Haggard Park: 901 E 15th St., Plano, TX 75074 | 7:00 PM
The Plano Community Band invites the community to enjoy a relaxing picnic in the shade while listening to live music. The band, made up of around 70 volunteer musicians, will serenade attendees with a range of performances. This free event is perfect for music lovers of all ages, with leashed dogs welcome to join in the fun.
JUNE 5TH
Haggard Library: 2501 Coit Rd., Plano, TX 75075 | 3:00 PM
Designed for ages 50 and older, this session introduces the world of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) through engaging lessons and hands-on activities. This month’s session focuses on nature journaling, offering participants a creative and educational way to connect with the natural world.
JUNE 10TH
Haggard Library: 2501 Coit Rd., Plano, TX 75075 | 3:00 PM
Presented by the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center, this program offers a chance to meet and learn about the birds of prey native to North Texas. Attendees will discover the vital roles these hawks, owls, and falcons play in the environment, with specially trained educators guiding the experience. Tickets are available 30 minutes before the program begins and must be obtained in person.
JUNE 19TH
Juneteenth Fashion Show
Legacy Hall: 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano, TX 75024 | 6:00 PM
The Juneteenth Fashion Experience at Legacy Hall’s Lexus Box Garden celebrates 160 years of Juneteenth with a spectacular fashion show and cultural celebration. This year’s theme, "We Are One," highlights Black Excellence, Joy, and Culture through bold designs, music, and movement. Attendees are encouraged to dress in all white and enjoy the afterparty filled with dancing and entertainment.
JUNE 21ST
Plano Boys and Girls Club: 1111 H Ave., Plano, TX 75074 | 11:00 AM
Plano’s Juneteenth Celebration unites the community in a powerful tribute to freedom, culture, and resilience. The celebration features free barbecue, food trucks, live music, dance performances, historical exhibits, local vendors, and interactive activities for all! With the theme "Rooted in Resilience," this event is a meaningful celebration of heritage, community strength, and the ongoing journey toward justice and joy.
JUNE 25TH
Legacy Hall: 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano, TX 75024 | 6:00 PM
That Arena Rock Show delivers a high-energy tribute to the legendary rock anthems of the 70s and 80s. Featuring classic hits from artists like Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, and Bon Jovi, this performance goes beyond a typical concert. It’s an immersive, theatrical experience that brings the unforgettable sounds of arena rock to life with unmatched energy.
JUNE 20TH - 29TH
Repertory Company Theatre Presents Legally Blonde the Musical
Courtyard Theater: 1509 H Ave., Plano, TX 75074
Legally Blonde the Musical is an all-singing, all-dancing, feel-good comedy that promises endless fun and energy. Based on the book by Heather Hatch, this vibrant musical brings the story of Elle Woods to life with catchy tunes and a heartwarming storyline. It’s the perfect way to add a splash of pink to the summer and enjoy an unforgettable theatrical experience.
JUNE 26TH
Robinson Fine Arts Center: 1800 Alma Dr., Plano, TX 75075 | 2:00 PM
TEDxPlano invites attendees to engage with big ideas and innovative concepts through dynamic talks and an interactive lobby experience. Participants will have the chance to explore cutting-edge technologies and local collaborations aimed at creating a better future. Tickets include access to both the main stage talks and the interactive lobby, providing a unique, immersive experience.
JUNE 28TH
Plano Event Center: 2000 E Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, TX 75074 | 9:00 AM
The Shopping Days Vendor Market offers a vibrant shopping experience with a wide variety of unique products from local vendors. Attendees can explore everything from summer decor and trendy fashion to handcrafted jewelry and delicious homemade treats. With a lively atmosphere and friendly vendors, this event provides a great opportunity to discover hidden gems and support local businesses.
JUNE 28TH
Red Tail Pavilion: 2801 E Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, TX | 7:30 AM
The Wipe Out Kids' Cancer Run combines a great race with a fantastic afterparty, all in support of kids with cancer. Participants can enjoy a majestic course, free In-N-Out burgers, cold beer, live music, a DJ, and a commemorative T-shirt. Funds raised go toward supporting pediatric cancer patients and innovative research, while the event also offers family-friendly fun with a Kids Fun Zone.
Discover the ultimate summer escape at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, where weekends come alive with live music, family-friendly activities, and the best of Austin’s food, drinks, and artisan treasures.
July 3 and August 29
Back by popular demand, experience the soul of Texas music under the open sky. Enjoy crowd favorites Band of Heathens and Cory Morrow —each bringing their own sound to unforgettable nights of live music. Don’t miss the chance to catch these show-stopping performances in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
July 5
Celebrate Independence Day weekend with Texas BBQ, festive cocktails, and live music from Aaron McDonnell & The Neon Eagles , all leading up to a spectacular fireworks finale. For an elevated experience, upgrade to our Star-Spangled VIP Experience with exclusive access to the Mokara Spa pool terrace, gourmet bites, and premium views.
August 31
Celebrate the spirit of the Texas Hill Country at this lively outdoor festival featuring local breweries, distilleries, and wineries alongside live music from Ruthie Craft and family-friendly fun. Explore our curated vendor market, where you’ll find handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the creativity of the Austin community.
Nestled amidst the rolling greens of North Texas, Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa provides the perfect backdrop for your next getaway. Whether you’re planning a staycation with loved ones or reconnecting with golf buddies, take advantage of the resort’s laid back, authentic avor, and curated experiences while making memories to last a lifetime.