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.
There’s something magical about the way food brings us together. Whether it’s an impromptu dinner with friends, a carefully planned holiday spread, or a spontaneous happy hour after work, food has a way of turning everyday moments into shared memories. This October, as the air turns crisp and autumn settles in, we’re celebrating all the delicious ways food connects us, from cozy gatherings to lively nights out.
Personally, I’ve always had a soft spot for a good happy hour. There’s nothing quite like catching up with friends on a perfect Texas patio at sunset, drink in hand, as laughter fills the air and the day winds down. It’s not just about the cocktails—it’s about the pause, the presence, and the people.
In this month’s Food & Drink Issue, we’re serving up a feast of inspiration. From our spotlight on local restaurants and must-try menus to the best karaoke spots where dinner turns into a show, you’ll find plenty of reasons to explore our city through your taste buds.
We’re also proud to highlight our Nonprofit of the Month: Feed the City—an organization making sure no one in our community goes without a meal. Their mission is a powerful reminder of how food is not only a joy but a basic human need, and one we can help share.
This issue also includes a special feature for ADHD Awareness Month, offering an educational look at Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and the many ways it impacts individuals of all ages. From personal stories to expert insights, this article helps break the stigma and encourages greater empathy and understanding in our schools, workplaces, and daily lives.
And with Halloween just around the corner, don’t miss our favorite spooky snacks and creative treats—perfect for parties, family nights, or simply embracing the playful spirit of the season.
Here’s to the meals that bring us closer, the stories shared around tables, and the flavors that linger long after the last bite.
Cheers,
ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @PLANOCITYLIFESTYLE
Are you on the association board for your subdivision? We would love to partner with you to host our events in your neighborhood! Do you have someone you would like to nominate for Student, Educator, Veteran, Athlete, Artist, Good Human, NonProfit or First Responder of the Month? Contact us for information on how you or your nominee can be included in upcoming articles. We encourage you to share your events and ideas with us. Just give us a shout. We want to hear from you.
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Hang Le | hang.le@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
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia
STAFF WRITERS
Saanavi Shah, Fatima Durrani
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Bryna Talamantez, MS, LMFT, Mel Boban, Emily McKeever
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
David Aguilar: Meek Monster Media
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
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1 -7: The Plano Chamber Women’s Division Luncheon at Fleming’s Steakhouse! Rachel Kennedy shared some amazing tips and tools to level up on LinkedIn and to grow one’s personal brand. What an amazing afternoon! Photography Courtesy of Plano Chamber of Commerce.
This curated list highlights the top karaoke spots in Collin County, featuring standout singers, electric atmospheres, and delicious food and drinks. From high-energy weekend hangouts to cozy private-room experiences, each venue offers a unique vibe perfect for music lovers and night-out seekers. Whether you're a seasoned performer or first-timer, these spots deliver the perfect mix of fun, flavor, and unforgettable karaoke moments.
Austin Avenue Grill & Sports Bar | Classic sports bar and grill with TV screens, pool tables, outdoor tables, and wings on the menu. 935 W Parker Rd #410, Plano, TX 75023
Space Karaoke Bar & Karaoke | Private karaoke rooms featuring karaoke machines, plus cocktails and snacks. 121 W Spring Creek Pkwy #331, Plano, TX 75023
Voodoo Brewing Co. | Craft kitchen. Craft cocktails. Local vibes. An independently owned pub proudly pouring in downtown Plano, TX. 1001 14th St # 500, Plano, TX 75074
Bethany Tavern | Classic “dive bar” venue bringing together TVs screening sports, regular live music, a vast beer selection, and pub grub menu. 604 W Bethany Dr #102, Allen, TX 75013
Legacy Hall | Outdoor live music stage and courtyard modeled from shipping containers at an entertainment complex offering live band karaoke. 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano, TX 75024
G.O.A.T’s Arena Sports Bar | Upscale eatery offering burgers, tacos and wings to casual diners, plus a DJ and big screens for sports fans. 235 Town Pl, Fairview, TX 75069
El Noa Noa | Laid-back, no-frills Tex-Mex spot with seafood dishes aplenty, plus burritos, fajitas, and nachos. 1915 N Central Expy #100, Plano, TX 75075
Between fall feasts and pumpkin spice everything, there’s one more thing to check off your table this season: your estate plan. It’s easier (and more satisfying) than you think. Let’s toast to peace of mind—contact us today!
Feed the City Serves Over Eight Million Meals and Counting
Grab your keys, grab a friend, and go make a sandwich. This simple vision has empowered Feed the City to provide meals for over 8 million people in need and break three Guinness World Records.
“Our mission is to educate, nourish, and empower communities through healthy and nutritious food,” said Nick Marino, the volunteer executive director of Feed the City. “We started in January of 2015 with one monthly event. We’re now at 40 monthly events all around the country.”
Feed the City began through a mobile app called TangoTab. Beginning in 2012, TangoTab fed people in need for every check-in at a restaurant. Tango Charities grew out of the company, eventually becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit after several years of Feed the City events.
“The Tango Tab app was all about dining out, and people stopped dining out [because of Covid-19],” Marino said. “I said I would continue to run the nonprofit arm of Tango Charities as a volunteer executive director. We still continue to do the city events that we started 10 years ago, [like our] Cultivate Garden programs and our Weekend Warrior programs, which help with kids' meals over the weekend.”
As they grew, Feed the City broke records— literally. In 2016, 2,586 volunteers gathered at a Dallas Convention Center to make sandwiches together. Together, they broke the Guinness World Record for the most people making sandwiches simultaneously. Other Guinness records that the organization has broken include the most sandwiches made in one hour (their record: 57,662) and the longest line of sandwiches (10,852 sandwiches).
“Beyond just the meals going out, this impacts the people that are actually volunteering as well,” Marino said. “You have people volunteering for the first time with their kids, and young, future leaders having their first experience and making an impact.”
Marino met Orion Jean when Orion was just six years old, interviewing him for a school project. Years down the line, Orion was named Time Magazine Kid of the Year.
“He's all over the place now, but he's become a little mentee of mine,” Marino said. “Just to see something like that spark from our events is awesome. You never know where these young kids will go and head.”
Today, over 100,000 volunteers have signed up for these events, ready to get their gloves on and sandwiches prepped. At each event, volunteers bring enough materials for each participant to make 25 to 30 sandwiches. After gathering materials, participants form groups to make sandwiches in an assembly line.
“We partner with different food pantries, soup kitchens, after-school programs, senior facilities, or veteran nonprofits that will receive the meals, and then they distribute them on their own time, through their own means,” Marino said. “We're not replacing organizations that are out there. We're here to help them put more food on their shelves.”
“I call it the best hobby I could have,” Marino said. “I can't tell you what city we will be at next, because it's whatever volunteer reaches out to us that wants to lead an event. We want to bring this to more cities, because there's no zip code out there that is immune to hunger.”
To volunteer with Feed the City, simply visit www.tangocharities.org. The organization is looking for volunteers, especially in new cities that are looking to set up events in their own hometowns.
Feed the City works to educate, empower, and nourish communities through volunteer-led events preparing meals. Volunteers of all ages can participate, though minors must be accompanied by an adult. To register for an event or start one in your hometown, visit tangocharities.org and stay updated with their email newsletter. Search Tango Charities on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for more.
Indulge in an afternoon of refined elegance at Omni PGA Frisco Resort's The Lookout Lounge & Bar via an exclusive Afternoon Tea experience. These special teas are available Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Savor a curated tea selection by Dallas-headquartered zakti, featuring premium options such as White Down Silver Needle, Pearl Jasmine, Keemun Hao-Ya English Breakfast and Organic Peppermint. This company provides ethically sourced teas from small, family owned farms and larger plantations growing specialty teas. The team is known for their positive energy ethos.
Complement chosen teas with a variety of delectable tea cakes and pastries. The Omni PGA Frisco pastry team is led by Executive Pastry Chef Leen Kim Nunn. Other key members include Ryan Stipp and Gelyn Cruz Widelski. These professionals are known for their creativity and ability to deliver "authentic local flavor" in their desserts, including showstopping creations for events such as the Savor Festival.
In fact, Leen was one of four incredible finalists in the Chef's Roll 2025 Center Stage competition. Chef's Roll is a global culinary
community consisting of Michelin-starred chefs, culinary students, mixologists, sommeliers and hospitality industry representatives.
Tea time fare offerings include Raspberry Shortbread Cookies and Lemon-Yuzu Glazed Madeleine Cookies. The resort's scones and savory treats elevate the experience to the next level, featuring Blueberry Lavender Scones served with Clotted Cream and Seasonal Jam, as well as a selection of savory bites like Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry, Egg Salad Sandwiches and Smoked Salmon & Dill Sandwiches.
While enjoying tea times, soak in the spectacular, panoramic views of the rolling Frisco Hill Country and championship golf courses from this bar's location.
For an extra touch of indulgence, enjoy signature cocktails or sophisticated champagne options. Priced at $75 for adults and $35 for children 12 and younger, this experience is the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon in good company.
469.305.4500 OmniPGAFriscoResort.com
At Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa, summer isn’t just a season—it’s a state of mind. Indulge in the warmth of golden days and breezy nights where the sun never sets on unforge able experiences. Whether you're lounging by the pool with a handcra ed cocktail, teeing o on championship golf courses, or unwinding at the spa with treatments inspired by the spirit of summer, every moment is designed to feel timeless. Savor fresh, seasonal cuisine, dance under the stars to live music, and explore curated events that celebrate the joy of endless sunshine. This is your invitation to escape the ordinary and embrace the season that never ends.
At Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa, summer isn’t just a season—it’s a state of mind. Indulge in the warmth of golden days and breezy nights where the sun never sets on unforge able experiences. Whether you're lounging by the pool with a handcra ed cocktail, teeing o on championship golf courses, or unwinding at the spa with treatments inspired by the spirit of summer, every moment is designed to feel timeless. Savor fresh, seasonal cuisine, dance under the stars to live music, and explore curated events that celebrate the joy of endless sunshine. This is your invitation to escape the ordinary and embrace the season that never ends.
Discover your endless summer at Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa, where every day feels like vacation.
Discover your endless summer at Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa, where every day feels like vacation.
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For those planning a corporate celebration, a special event, or a social gathering for the upcoming holiday season, Truluck’s in Plano offers a refined yet welcoming setting where every detail is thoughtfully curated. Known for its commitment to hospitality and exceptional seafood and steak, Truluck’s delivers an experience that elevates entertaining.
Private and group dining at Truluck’s blends ambiance with seamless execution. The restaurant’s intimate private rooms are ideal for hosting business dinners, team appreciation events, milestone birthdays,
and festive get-togethers. Each space is designed for comfort and sophistication, complete with AV capabilities, custom décor options, and a dedicated service team. The entire restaurant is available for a full venue buyout for larger gatherings.
Momentous celebrations, higher caliber business events, and seasonal cheer is complemented by Truluck’s signature classics—succulent cold-water lobster tails, expertly prepared hand-cut steaks, and their world-class carrot cake—alongside festive cocktails like spicy blackberry margaritas or a bourbon-based Holiday
Truluck's Plano's Intimate Private Rooms Offer the Perfect Venue to Celebrate Special Events
Nog. And beginning October 15 through May 31, diners can enjoy a Truluck’s specialty: fresh Florida stone crab claws that arrive fresh from the traps to the table in less than 24 hours. Guests enjoy the same polished service and culinary excellence found in the main dining room, tailored to the occasion and personalized to each group.
Vanessa Sbraga, Sales and Events Manager, works closely with clients to craft events that feel effortless and memorable. With more than a decade of hospitality experience and deep roots in the Plano community, she brings personalized care to every event.
Whether you're toasting with colleagues, thanking top clients, or gathering loved ones, Truluck’s private dining offers a place where moments become lasting memories. Your table is waiting.
For more information, visit https://trulucks.com/locations/plano-tx/.
• Ideal For: Holiday parties, corporate gatherings, birthdays, retirements, anniversaries
• Capacity: Seated events for 12-225, Reception events for 12-250
• Custom Options: Prix fixe menus, wine pairings, AV setup, floral & décor package
• Holiday Booking Tip: Plan early to secure a prime date—consider a lunch celebration or a January kick-off to avoid the December rush
• Availability: Lunch or dinner events any day of the week
• Planner Contact: Vanessa Sbraga – planoevents@trulucks.com. Every private event at Truluck’s reflects the same care and culinary excellence as the main dining room—tailored to fit your group, your goals, and the season.
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI
Halloween is a widely anticipated holiday, but it can bring on anxiety and dread for those who suffer from food allergies, sensory overload, or certain diseases.
As a community, it’s important to educate ourselves on the physical and emotional impact these conditions have on our kids. For those children who feel excluded—and yet have to watch their costumed friends giggle as they devour Kit Kats and Snickers —we can make a difference.
Here are some simple alternatives that can help keep all our kids feel safe and included:
Colored pumpkins are a terrific visual cue for awareness. A blue pumpkin signals that a child has autism or sensory processing disorder. A teal pumpkin indicates that a house offers non-food treats (think pencils, bookmarks, and stickers!) for those with food allergies. A purple pumpkin represents epilepsy awareness.
Food allergens can impact a child’s quality of life in a major way—and are secretly disguised in non-food items too. For example, when choosing non-food “fun” items, be careful of things like moldable clay which may contain wheat. For those with celiac disease, this is a red flag. Similarly, provide non-sugary treats as an alternative choice for diabetic children (Rice Krispie treats made with stevia, anyone?).
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Rarely do we speak of “invisible” disabilities, which can completely disrupt a child’s life. Kids with focus issues, anxious tendencies, or those with certain autoimmune conditions can also hide emotions behind their own masks. Thus, it’s best to refrain from asking things like “Why aren’t you wearing a costume?” Or, even worse, to push for an answer if you are met with silence to your question. 01
For children who may suffer from sensory overload, providing treats in a bowl closer to the sidewalk may be helpful. This option allows them to grab candy without having to walk up (on a sometimes darkly lit pathway), ring a doorbell, and face a person with a scary mask! Children with limited mobility (or in wheelchairs) may also appreciate this easier accessibility to goodies.
We have done quite a few projects with Rooster and will continue to use them for all future work we need! [Rooster] is genuine, honest, and upfront and never cut corners or take the easy way out... They also do a great job keeping you updated and consistently finish projects ahead of schedule! I highly recommend them for any project!
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
How To Stay Festive And Healthy? Sure Thing
Halloween is typically filled to the brim with salt, sugar and carbs. It can be hard to stay on the nutrition wagon during spooky season, but there are plenty of fun ways to add a festive spin to favorite healthy dishes.
With luck finding a melon or watermelon at the store, simply carve it like a jack-o-lantern and make the mouth large enough to have other sliced fruit emerging, such as cut pineapple, sliced grapes and apple chunks. Along the side, peel mini oranges and add a green stem to mimic pumpkins.
These fan favorite boards can easily be kept healthy with some additions. Make any treat spooky with edible eyeballs. Adding them to a small snack such as mini bell peppers or grapes and strawberries is a fun way to stay on theme without sacrificing a healthy streak. Eyeball salami rolls also can be added, starting first with a green olive in the center, surrounded by a roll of mozzarella cheese and then surrounded by salami or even prosciutto.
This fall staple easily can be incorporated into a fall gathering or Halloween night by carving jacko-lantern faces in orange peppers, and resuming a favorite recipe from there. Serving bread on the side? Use a skull or pumpkin shaped cookie cutter to re-shape it.
Hummus and pitas can be made scary in no time. Use a ghost shaped cookie cutter to shape pita bread, lightly toast and serve with red pepper hummus, which is usually orange in color.
The easiest bet for a quick and healthy Halloween treat? You can’t go wrong with a veggie tray shaped like a jack-o-lantern. Use baby carrots as the base, and cucumber or celery to shape the mouth and stem. The eyes? Two round bowls of veggie dip.
AWARENESS MONTH
ARTICLE BY BRYNA TALAMANTEZ, MS, LMFT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA
Imagine you are sitting in class all day long, being told to stay in your chair. You try your best to not move around because you are told that is a distraction. You take a deep breath and tell yourself you just have to try harder to focus. You understand the things you are learning, but attending to your assigned task and getting the work done is hard to do, especially if you don’t find the subject you’re learning about particularly interesting or useful.
There are many things that make it hard to get through the school day: the bright lights, loud classmates, assemblies, and building and maintaining friendships with others can be difficult and anxiety provoking. Even with these hurdles, no one notices how much you struggle to get through the day. You’re smart, quiet, and overall a good kid. You get good grades. However, you sometimes forget to turn in assignments you’ve finished, have a hard time organizing yourself, and struggle regulating your emotions. There are days this leads you to have self doubt, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. You shy away from telling others how much of a daily battle you fight inside your own brain, because at the end of the day, you think everyone is fighting their brains this much, so on you go.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder has resurfaced as a trending topic on social media. In the age of getting a lot of information from the apps we visit daily, we are flooded with the thoughts, opinions, and personal experiences of many in this space. But what is ADHD? What are some signs your child might have ADHD? How can you support your child if you suspect they have ADHD and then receive a diagnosis?
There are three types of ADHD:
1. 1. Hyperactive: This type is often what people associate with ADHD. Children may struggle to sit still, fidget constantly, be “always on the go,” interrupt, talk excessively, and have difficulty waiting their turn. They may also be impulsive, struggle with concentration, have trouble regulating emotions, and face challenges with organization.
2. Inattentive: Often undetected, these children may misplace items, get distracted easily, forget daily responsibilities like brushing their teeth, have short attention spans, and show poor listening skills. They struggle to pay attention even when directly spoken to and have challenges with organization and multitasking.
3. Combined: Children with this type show signs of both hyperactive and inattentive ADHD.
In addition to the diagnostic criteria described above for the different types of ADHD, there are other traits commonly found among individuals with ADHD. These can include a strong sense of moral justice, heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or textures, deficits in working memory, time blindness, sleep difficulties, forgetting to eat, racing thoughts, social anxiety, and rejection sensitivity dysphoria. As you can imagine, navigating all these things, especially as a child or a teenager, can lead to complex feelings, including low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
What can you do if you suspect your child has ADHD? First, take a deep breath. Luckily, there are many people ready to help you and your child navigate the process to a potential diagnosis. Next, there are places that offer testing in the area. You can choose to start with
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“Research has shown that the best treatment for ADHD is a combination of behavioral therapy paired with an ADHD medication that works best for the person’s body.”
“Remember, ADHD is not a reflection of effort or intelligence. It’s a difference in how the brain processes and regulates emotions and attention.”
your child’s pediatrician for referrals, or you can reach out to a licensed therapist, such as myself, to provide you with referrals. Then, once your child has their diagnosis, you will determine with your team of providers what methods of treatment will be best for your child.
Research has shown that the best treatment for ADHD is a combination of behavioral therapy paired with an ADHD medication that works best for the person’s body. There are several types of medications that can be prescribed, and your doctors can elaborate further on what might work best for your child.
Alongside therapy and medication, there are practical ways you can help your child manage their ADHD. It is important to ensure that your child has a balance between physical activity—like running, walking, swimming, or riding their bike—for emotional regulation and restorative activities such as coloring, playing video games, or watching their favorite show. Regular movement should be incorporated into your child’s daily routine to support emotional regulation. There will be days that my clients show up for therapy and their adults tell me their kids have struggled that week with controlling their bodies at school, like hitting others, not being able to stand in line, or they have been extra emotional. This also tends to happen when the weather is yucky. My first suggestion is always movement. Let your kid RUN AROUND. I have several clients that spend 20-30 minutes at the park almost every day after school before doing anything else, and it has been life changing for their whole family system. Parents can also tell when their child misses trips to the park multiple days in a row, because their kids struggle with emotional regulation.
People with ADHD can be sensitive to sound and light, and there are ways we can help our children with these sensitivities. A helpful tool is noise canceling headphones which can be used in loud situations like assemblies or going to restaurants. This can be done with over-the-head headphones or by using Loops,
a brand of earbuds that are noise canceling. You can also adjust lighting at home with lamps or natural light instead of relying on bright overhead lights, which amplify symptoms. You can work with teachers and school staff to implement supports in the classroom too. Encourage your child to advocate for their needs by first practicing how to communicate their needs with you!
Routines are incredibly helpful for individuals with ADHD, though they often resist them. A paradox for people with ADHD is while they push back on routines, they truly thrive on structure, which then helps with their executive functioning. Supporting your children with routines now will help them learn what works best so they can maintain effective habits as they grow older and lose the built-in structure of school.
Finding support for your family doesn’t have to be scary, but it is important. There are therapists that offer social skills groups for kids and teens to help them learn and grow in ways that work best for them in addition to individual therapy. There is also support available for parents and adults with ADHD. We are here to help you and your children navigate this diagnosis, which can sometimes feel daunting because it looks so different for each person.
ADHD can feel overwhelming for you and your child but with understanding, structure, and support, children and their families can thrive. By recognizing your child’s unique needs, harnessing their strengths, and accessing resources, you can help them build emotional regulation, confidence, and lifelong skills for success. Remember, ADHD is not a reflection of effort or intelligence. It’s a difference in how the brain processes and regulates emotions and attention. With the right strategies and support, your child can flourish!
Bryna Talamantez, MS, LMFT, of Talamantez Therapy offers therapy for kids, teens, adults, and families. Visit https://talamanteztherapy.com/ for more information.
LEARN MORE: Bryna Talamantez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and co-owner of Talamantez Therapy. She specializes in working with children, teens, and families navigating ADHD, grief, anxiety, and life transitions.
Fall’s best cookbooks for perfect cold season prep
Crisper air and shorter days call for cozy nights, whipping up a homemade meal in soft slippers and your favorite robe. Staying home on a Friday night in the fall doesn’t mean you’re giving up — quite the opposite! Think of it as carb loading before the championship game or a prep session before that major test. You’re practicing your winter hibernation skills, stretching those lounging muscles, and getting ready to win winter. And consider this roundup of cookbooks as your personal trainer. If you can make a hearty, succulent roast with confidence and ease as the leaves fall outside, imagine what you can do when it’s 20 degrees and snowing. Now, go get ’em!
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
Deliciously
When you hear “Pizza Night”, a picture appears of the entire family gathered ’round with good food and lots of laughs (with popcorn and a movie to wrap up the occasion, naturally). This collection of yum contains 52 seasonal pizza varieties, each with unique salad pairings. It’s like pizza night on overdrive. Now, when you plan the family’s favorite end-of-the-week event, you’ll have this in your arsenal.
The Art and Practice of Handmade Sourdough, Yeast Bread, and Pastry
We know you want to turn and run in the opposite direction after reading this title, but don’t be afraid! Take a glance at the reviews, and you’ll see words like easy, lovely, informative, inspiring, and our favorite, “great for beginner bread makers!” No equipment is required, just basic ingredients and a can-do attitude. It’s also a nice little piece of décor for your kitchen countertop.
You’ll find more than 70 recipes in this gorgeous compilation. Author/lifestyle blogger Lauren Thomas wants her readers to slow down and create a whole mood around their food, one that is beautiful, inviting, and… delicious. Her recipes are achievable for the novice and experienced chef and come with tips on tablescaping, cocktail mixing, and more. So, double knot that apron because you’re going to learn some stuff and eat very, very well.
Health Nut: A Feel-Good Cookbook
You may see Health Nut and say to yourself, ‘Booooring!’ but healthy food doesn’t have to be tasteless food. Flip through the vibrant pages of this trusty sidekick, and you’ll find good-for-you dishes with flavorful combinations the whole family will love. With practical instructions and helpful tips, it’s almost as if the author peeked into your pantry and built her recipes around ingredients you already have.
UNWRAP THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS IN THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY.
This season, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa becomes a sparkling winter wonderland. Stroll the Holiday in the Hills Light Trail, marvel at nightly snowfall and watch little ones light up with Santa’s Workshop, Letters to Santa, and visits from Santa & Mrs. Claus. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones, making new traditions, or simply soaking in the season’s joy, the Hill Country is calling.
SCAN THE QR CODE TO SAVE UP TO 20% ON YOUR STAY WITH OUR SPECIAL HOLIDAY OFFERS.
OCTOBER 4TH
Celebrate the Beauty of the Full Moon
Haggard Park: 901 E 15th St., Plano, TX 75074 | 6:00 PM
Experience the wonder of Japanese tradition at one of the region’s largest cultural festivals. This family-friendly celebration features live music, authentic food, cultural performances, and hands-on demonstrations honoring the full moon. Discover more and plan your visit at jasdfw.org.
OCTOBER 4TH - 5TH
Plano Event Center: 2000 E Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, TX 75074
Discover vintage charm and historic finds at this indoor antique show and sale featuring estate jewelry, postcards, furniture, and more. Perfect for collectors, decorators, and curious shoppers alike. Advance tickets include a branded tote bag! Learn more or register as a dealer at heritageeventcompany.com.
OCTOBER 8TH
Glow and Go
Lee Graves Salon: 6101 Chapel Hill Blvd. # 103, Plano, TX 75093 | 6:00 PM
Discover the latest in skincare, cosmetics, fitness, and holistic wellness at this uplifting self-care event. Enjoy complimentary samples, mini fitness sessions, wellness consults, and exclusive discounts from top vendors. Sip bubbly, snack, and explore in a relaxed atmosphere. Find more details by following @planocitylifestyle on Instagram.
OCTOBER 9TH
The Hope Center: 2001 W Plano Pkwy., Plano, TX 75075 | 8:00 AM
Step into a day of bold conversations, authentic networking, and powerful growth designed for women in business and leadership. With dynamic keynotes by Suzanne Castle and Noelle Leveaux, this summit challenges attendees to lead confidently and unapologetically. Learn more and register at planochamber.org.
OCTOBER 10TH - 12TH
Plano Event Center: 2000 E Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, TX 75074
Step into a festive wonderland with 130+ unique merchants offering gifts, treats, and seasonal cheer. From exclusive early access to photos with Santa, this shopping event is perfect for gathering your crew and getting into the holiday spirit. Learn more and get tickets at homefortheholidaysgiftmarket.com
OCTOBER 12TH
McCall Plaza: 998 E 15th St., Plano, TX 75074 | 5:00 PM
Sip, savor, and celebrate at a stunning 300-foot table stretching down the heart of Downtown Plano. This elegant night features a cocktail hour, multicourse dinner, and exclusive whiskey and cigar after-party—all highlighting local culinary gems. Learn more and get tickets at visitplano.com
OCTOBER 18TH
Plano International Festival
Haggard Park: 901 E 15th St., Plano, TX 75074 | 11:00 AM
Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the world at North Texas’s largest cultural celebration. With live performances, global cuisine, kids’ STEAM activities, a wellness fair, and eco-friendly fun, this free event offers something for all ages. Learn more at planointernationalfestival.org
OCTOBER 18TH
Red Tail Pavilion: 2801 E Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, TX 75074 | 7:30 AM
Lace up for a cause that matters. This impactful run/walk event supports hunger relief efforts, with every mile completed helping to provide meals to those in need. It’s more than a race—it’s a step toward a more compassionate world. Learn more and register at events. visitplano.com
OCTOBER 24TH - 26TH
Alice in Wonderland, Jr.
Genesis Children’s Theatre: 3100 Independence Pkwy. # 324B, Plano, TX 75075
Follow Alice down the rabbit hole in this vibrant, laugh-filled musical packed with quirky characters, catchy songs, and theatrical magic. With professional-level performances by young actors, this is family entertainment that delights all ages. Discover more and get tickets starting October 13th at genesischildrenstheatre.org
OCTOBER 25TH
Downtown Plano: 1021 E 15th St, Plano, TX 75074 | 5:00 PM
Downtown Plano transforms into a Halloween wonderland filled with live entertainment, carnival rides, eerie photo ops, and costumed characters. This free, family-friendly festival serves up festive food, chilling drinks, and frightfully fun vibes for all ages. Learn more at plano.gov/1043/Rest-in-Plano-Fest —if you dare.
MEET CAROLE GREISDORF
ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS
Carole Greisdorf’s name is synonymous with servant leadership, education, and community impact—making her a natural choice for Good Human of the Month.
A lifelong educator and communicator, Carole’s career has left an indelible mark on Plano. She served as Chief Communications Officer for Plano ISD for 12 years, where she was known not only for her professionalism but also for her deep commitment to students and families. Her passion for civic engagement extended beyond the classroom and into the heart of community leadership through her longtime involvement with Leadership Plano.
Carole served as Program Director for Leadership Plano across three separate terms—2005–2007, 2014–2018, and again from 2021 until her retirement in 2024. During her tenure, she helped shape the minds and missions of hundreds of emerging leaders, many of whom have gone on to serve in local government, nonprofits, and business leadership roles throughout the region.
Her retirement in 2024 marked not just the end of an era but the celebration of a legacy. In a powerful tribute to her service, Leadership Plano Class 40 dedicated their class project in her honor: the creation of a Plano ISD Head Start Family Resource Center. The center, now bearing Carole’s name, stands as a lasting symbol of her devotion to educational equity and community empowerment.
Carole Greisdorf’s leadership has uplifted generations. Through education, mentorship, and civic engagement, she continues to be a guiding light in Plano, proof that one person truly can shape the future of an entire community.
Start now for a stress-free season in a home that stuns.
Guests, Gathering. Great design, Now‘s the time to start your kitchen, bath or whole home refresh to ensure your space is both stunning and functional by the holidays. At Mae Reedy Build + Design, we handle every detail from start to finish - so you can focus on what matters most. Book your consultation now- Fall spots fill
