Love Local
This time of year, I find myself torn between resisting the commercialization of another greeting card holiday and indulging in all the sweet excuses to enjoy the season.
To celebrate Valentine’s or Galentine's out or enjoy a cozy night at home? To buy a card or just say a kind word? I usually land somewhere in between. We’ll each arrive at different answers based on our preferences and personalities, but what we hold in common is an opportunity to make sure those around us know we love them. Regardless of how you choose to celebrate, we hope the pages of this month’s magazine will help you do just that as we highlight what’s to love in our local community.
While we teeter between the chill of February winter and the excitement of spring, we hope you’ll be inspired to take a moment to come together with the people in your life. The ones in your home and on your street. In our neighborhood.
This concept of “Love local” means local businesses, but it also means loving what's near. We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told in these pages month after month.
Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like. Our hope is that we inspire you to love it just a bit more than you did before.
Happy February!
SHARON DUFFY THOMAS, PUBLISHER @FRISCOMAG
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Sharon Duffy Thomas | sharon.duffy@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
William Thomas | william.thomas@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Amy Schmidt | amy.schmidt@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Alexis Jacobs, Cheryl Parton, Mel Boban, Bailey Hall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
In Celina, Texas, there is a place where the charm of history meets the sophistication of modern luxury. It’s a haven where golf isn’t just a game; it’s a celebration of opulence. And guess what? We’ve got an exclusive offer just for you to become one of our very first Founding Members, unlocking a world of unique perks and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. As a Founding Member, you’ll etch your name in the walls of 1876 Country Club. Picture this: you’ll be the first to grace our meticulously crafted course, a masterpiece reserved for those who have a taste for the extraordinary. But there’s more to 1876 than the greens.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Cafe Maiko with Japanese tea/soft serve to open in Frisco, 9244 Prestmont Place, Ste. 207. 2: Senior Helpers of Frisco opened to serve seniors and their families in surrounding communities. 3: FASTSIGNS of Frisco is now open at 9411 Preston Road, Ste. 105. 4: Indian restaurant/bar The Flavor Lounge launched in Frisco at 5855 Preston Road, Ste. 600. 5: Little Hearts of Hope received a grant from Frisco Arts Foundation for summer arts camps/teaching. 6: Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week: Frisco mayor, representatives of Social Services Housing Board; Venetta Windom. 7: Prism Bar/Grill new in Frisco, 6377 Custer Road; wagyu meatloaf, vegetable stir fry, chicken wings.
CITY OF FRISCO
COURTESY OF LHOH
COURTESY OF TFL DALLAS
FRISCO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SENIOR HELPERS OF FRISCO
8: Frisco Chamber Board Chair Chad Sterling and Frisco Chamber President/CEO Christal Howard. 9: U.S. Chamber of Commerce awarded Frisco Chamber with highest 5-Star Accreditation. 10: For African meals/items, look to recently opened Southwest Farmers Market in Frisco, 7070 Preston Road.
FRISCO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
FRISCO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Frisco SRO Saves Frisco Woman's Life
Kudos to Pioneer Heritage Middle School Resource Officer Rodginald Cayette, who saved the life of Frisco resident India Love with a Heimlich maneuver after she was choking on a popsicle in the school's parking lot. India says her airway was completely shut off. "I appreciate him from the bottom of my heart, and I thank God that he was there to actually give me the assistance that I needed at the time," she shares.
Photography Frisco Police Department
CRAV Co. Offers Candles Plus At The Star In Frisco
CRAV Co. is now open in Frisco at The Star, 6775 Cowboys Way, Ste. 1315. The store's staff sells luxury, handpoured candles and scented products such as room sprays, diffuser oils, candle cloches, scent diffusers and accessories. Staffers indicate their products are non-toxic, eco-friendly and soy-based. They also provide candle-making classes. This is the company's second location in Frisco. Founder Adrian Valdez founded CRAV Company in July 2021, starting at the Dallas Farmers Market.
Photography Courtesy of CRAV Company
The Community Grill Restaurant Now Open For Monday Lunches
Diners now can enjoy lunch and dinner at comfort food restaurant The Community Grill, every day, along with brunch with bottomless mimosas on weekends. New times of operation: weekday hours: open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; weekend hours: open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; happy hours: Mondays through Fridays 12-6 p.m. The staff likes to think of their location as "where neighbors gather." They also have a carryout service.
Photography Courtesy of The Community Grill
Emerald Evening: High Tops & High Heels Plus Daddy/ Daughter Dances
Two events, one wicked fun theme! On Feb. 8, Play Frisco presents "An Emerald Evening" at the Frisco Conference Center, 7600 John Q Hammons Dr. High Tops & High Heels for mothers and sons dance will be hosted from 2-3:30 p.m. Daddy/ Daughter Dance for fathers and daughters can choose from three different evening timeslots: 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. (while tickets last). Tickets for these events on sale at PlayFrisco.org/Tickets
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REMODELING
PAINTING
LIFTING LIVES TOGETHER
L.I.F.T. R&R: Connecting People With Resources To Heal, Grow and Thrive In Collin County
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY L.I.F.T. R&R
In the face of unimaginable loss, Rolanda Macharia turned tragedy into a mission of hope. After her husband of 19 years died in 2014, she found herself navigating a new and difficult reality. “With five children to care for and no time to grieve, I faced logistical hurdles while searching for emotional healing. In this
“L.I.F.T. R&R changes lives, supports changemakers and brings smiles to people and families through their impactful initiatives.”
process, I discovered how challenging it was to locate resources for myself and my struggling 15-year-old daughter,” she recalls.
Eventually, Rolanda says she found support through GriefShare for herself and Christian Works at Camp Erin for her daughter. These programs helped them begin their journey toward healing. However, the experience revealed a significant gap in access to critical resources, which inspired Rolanda to create something meaningful for others facing their own struggles.
In 2015, she launched L.I.F.T. R&R, which is short for “Laboring in the Field Together: Resources and Referrals.” This outreach program was born to provide a lifeline for those in need, connecting individuals and families with nonprofit organizations, community partners and local institutions offering crucial support.
The mission of L.I.F.T. R&R is simple yet impactful: to ease burdens for those who are physically or
emotionally struggling by connecting them with free resources and referrals. The organization’s work extends across Collin County, amplifying the visibility of nonprofit organizations and bridging the gap between services and those in need.
Rolanda says one of the main events L.I.F.T. R&R helps with is Another Man’s Treasure. This annual September event helps 200-plus Collin County residents facing poverty by giving them donations of new furniture and clothing, along with a $75 gift card. This event also brings together more than 20 nonprofit groups to share their services, encouraging connections and teamwork.
Additionally, she says L.I.F.T. R&R helps distribute Toys for Tots and provides care packages to seniors in nursing homes during the spring and Christmas seasons. The holiday packages include gifts and treats, bringing happiness and respect to the elderly residents of McKinney Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center.
Rolanda Macharia, L.I.F.T. R&R founder (second from left).
In 2024, the L.I.F.T. R&R group expanded their impact with the launch of the LIFT REACH Scholarship, awarding $4,000 in scholarships to two graduating high school seniors in Collin County. “This scholarship emphasizes resilience and perseverance, with a focus on students who have overcome significant obstacles to achieve their goals,” Rolanda states.
The organization also introduced Nonprofit Expos in partnership with Celina and Anna ISDs. These expos brought together 45-plus nonprofits, providing residents with opportunities to access services, volunteer or collaborate with local organizations.
In collaboration with First United Bank, L.I.F.T. R&R implemented a financial literacy program aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty. Participants attend a 10-week Financial Peace University course, learning critical financial skills before receiving a no-fee bank account and $200 to jumpstart their journey toward stability.
Looking forward, Rolanda says L.I.F.T. R&R has set its sights on achieving two primary objectives. Firstly, the organization is dedicated to expanding financial literacy by providing families with the necessary tools and knowledge to make informed financial decisions, ultimately promoting longterm stability and success. Rolanda emphasizes the importance of financial literacy in shaping generations, influencing financial habits and aiding individuals in saving, investing and managing debt effectively. Secondly, L.I.F.T. R&R aims to enhance nonprofit collaboration by organizing additional Nonprofit Expos throughout Collin County. Through these expos, more residents will be connected with valuable no-cost resources, while also strengthening partnerships within the nonprofit sector.
Opposite Page: Rolanda Macharia (middle).
“There are great nonprofits in Collin County doing profound and necessary work to be a life-changing resource for our residents, but people don’t know they exist,” states Rolanda Macharia, founder of L.I.F.T. R&R.
At the core of L.I.F.T. R&R is a commitment to personal connection and advocacy. Rolanda is passionate about understanding the missions of local nonprofits and sharing their stories with others. An example is her experience with the Community Garden Kitchen in McKinney, which serves free, restaurant-quality dinners to anyone in need, no questions asked.
“I wanted to see for myself the experience,” explains Rolanda. “The level of service was incredible, from being greeted at the door to ordering from a menu. It was a five-star experience with outstanding compassion.”
Rolanda says the organization’s current needs include donations to sustain its programs, as well as skilled content creators to enhance its social media presence. There’s also a call for fundraising experts to join the board and help strategize new growth opportunities.
518.551.6715
LiftRandR.org
Nonprofits, such as L.I.F.T. R&R, rely on community support to continue their vital work.
For those interested in supporting L.I.F.T. R&R or learning more, Rolanda encourages people to follow the organization online via Facebook and Instagram. “We’re grateful to serve our residents and Collin County nonprofit partners,” she says. Through its programs and partnerships, L.I.F.T. R&R has become a cornerstone of hope in Collin County. Rolanda’s vision continues to uplift lives, ensuring that no one has to navigate their challenges alone.
ALTERNATIVE Snacks V-DAY
2 3 4 5
Craving Something Other Than Chocolate Or Strawberries For Valentine's Day?
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
RASPBERRY-LEMON CHEESECAKE
Pretty raspberry bites or swirls in creaminess are both stunning, scrumptious.
MINI MERINGUE KISSES
Bypass chocolate kisses to provide sweethearts with melt-in-mouth, bite-sized desserts.
CANDIED FIGS
Pleasing, chewy treats made by simmering/ soaking fresh figs in sugar syrup then drying.
WATERMELON HEARTS
Cut heart shapes from the middle of watermelon, the sweetest part of the fruit.
HONEY-GLAZED ALMONDS
Crunchy, honey, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a bit of salt.
TO MY
Valentine
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Create timeless keepsakes for those you love with this easy DIY Valentine Stationary. There is something special and reminiscent of our earlier years of creating homemade valentines for those special in our lives. While stores are filled with Valentine candy, cards and gifts, the thoughtfulness and time put into to a handmade card holds a different meaning. Words are the things we treasure most, so let those you care about most know how you treasure them this Valentine’s Day.
What you will need
• Kitchen Knife
• Red or Russet Potato (for heart)
• Romaine lettuce (for rose)
• Acrylic Paint
• Paint Brush
• Blank Envelopes
• Blank Cards
• Heart Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Hand Lettering Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Light Box
Instructions for Heart Prints
1. Cut the potato in half. Using a small knife, carefully carve a heart shape onto the flat side of the potato. Carve freestyle or use the free template under “DIY Stationery” on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/ blog/diy-stationery. Even when using the template, each carving will come out as unique art like the ones you see here.
2. With a paint brush, apply paint to the heart shape on the potato.
3. Stamp the potato heart onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Instructions for Rose Prints
1. Cut the end off of romaine lettuce. Set leaves aside and use the stem.
2. Using a paintbrush, apply paint to the lettuce stem.
3. Stamp the lettuce “rose” onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Once your stationery is completely dry it is time to add beautiful Valentine’s Day lettering. If you have beautiful handwriting then draw free hand. If you’re not as confident use a light box and my hand lettering template (found on the blog at SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIYstationery) to transfer lettering onto the stationery. To do this, first lay the hand lettering template on a light box with the stationery on top. Then trace the hand lettering onto the stationery with a pen or marker of choice.
ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON
BY JANIE JONES
DIY VALENTINES
Simple Projects to Celebrate at Home
The first Valentines were handmade in the 18th century, long before printing presses and mass-produced options. Today, handmade signifies the ultimate in personal mots d’amour. Enjoy these sweet projects as a couple, a family, or with friends.
1. Arts
Create heart ornaments to hang on a Valentine’s Day tree. The ornaments can be used as clue cards for a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Participants find their picture on the tree and hunt for a hidden treasure.
2.Sweets
A home-based holiday is made complete with a dessert table. Whether made from scratch or store bought, a collection of decorated confections is as beautiful as the treats are delectable to eat.
3.Sentiments
Poetry is a most personal way to express your heart. No need to be intimidated by haiku, a short form of Japanese poetry. While there are several variations of the form, a traditional place to begin is with a seasonal word that divides 17 syllables into three lines of five/ seven/five. Simple and sweet.
ARTS SWEETS SENTIMENTS
smart SWEETS
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars
Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites
At Jensen Orthodontic Arts, we combine ART, SCIENCE, and EXPERTISE in orthodontics to customize your smile and improve or reconstruct the function and harmony of your teeth. That alone says a lot, but Dr. Doug Jensen also uses his training in the closely-related specialty of PROSTHODONTICS and dental aesthetics to create wonderful outcomes for unusual or complex dental problems– Think VENEERS, CROWNS, IMPLANT CROWNS, and DENTURES. Dr. Jensen is one of the few dual specialists in both orthodontics and prosthodontics in America, and we are lucky to have his experience in this area. He offers clear orthodontic treatment options including CLEAR BRACES, LINGUAL BRACES, and CLEAR ALIGNER THERAPY to meet your aesthetic needs. Count also on getting treatment rendered efficiently without ignoring the balance that should be present between the teeth, joints and muscles in a properly functioning bite.
Dr. Doug Jensen, DDS, MS
Board-Certified Orthodontist, Prosthodontist
Don’t wait! Come see us for an expert’s Complimentary Evaluation
Get a straightforward assessment and roadmap to the PERFECT SMILE!
Veneers
Photos & Smiles by Dr. Jensen
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Building the Perfect Bouquet
Valentine’s Day can be celebrated in many ways. Some people choose to go out for dinner and a movie, others hire a private chef for a romantic meal at home, some buy chocolates and find a fun activity in town, and some couples go out of town for an exciting getaway! One Valentine’s Day staple is giving a bouquet of flowers to someone special. Flowers are the gift that say I love you and can be given to your spouse, children, and mom. As a child, my father always got me roses on Valentine’s Day until I met my husband and he took over the tradition. A bouquet of flowers can say many things as each flower has a different meaning. If you’re wanting to say something special to the ones you love this Valentine’s Day, take a look at our list of three popular flowers, what they mean, and what flowers to pair them with.
Roses
LOVE & ROMANCE
Roses are by far the most popular flower to give on Valentine’s Day. They are beautiful by themselves or you can add Baby’s Breath to enhance the bouquet. These two make a romantic bouquet and are the perfect flowers to give to someone special.
Lilies
PURITY & FERTILITY
Lilies come in a variety of colors and are eye-catching! For a softer looking bouquet, pair your lilies with carnations. These two combined are fun and heartwarming and are a great gift for anyone.
Tulips
PERFECT FOR DEEP LOVE
A bouquet of tulips will brighten any space! Adding some Ranunculus, also known as buttercup, will compliment the tulips wonderfully. These flowers have a refreshing look that will decorate any home beautifully in a crystal vase.
FEBRUARY
2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 1ST - 9TH
Dallas Open Pro Tennis Competitors From Around The World
Ford Center | 1:00 PM
The 2025 rendition of the Dallas Open will mark its first as a 500-level ATP tournament, made possible by a unique partnership between GF Sports & Entertainment and the Dallas Cowboys. The upgrade provides players the opportunity to earn more ATP ranking points at the Dallas Open and will offer approximately $2.8 million in prize money. Weeklong ticket packages: SeatGeek.com
FEBRUARY 8TH
Daddy Daughter Dance
Frisco Conference Center | 4:00 PM
This is a 90-minute, semi-formal dance for parent and child. Tickets include event attendance with music and dancing, light refreshments and memories that will last a lifetime. Timeslots: 4-5:30 p.m. (4 yrs. through Grade 1); 6–7:30 p.m. (Grades 2, 3); 8–9:30 p.m. (Grades 4-6). On-site professional photography package options provided by Extreme Photography. For further details, email ymackenzie@ friscotexas.gov and/or arichardson@friscotexas.gov.
FEBRUARY 20TH - 23RD
WOGA Classic & Valeri Liukin Invitational
Ford Center At The Star | 8:00 AM
The 2025 WOGA Classic and Valeri Liukin Invitational attracts gymnastic competitors from across the United States and other countries. Experience these fantastic competitions under one roof in Frisco. Highlights of events will include Saturday night competitions for Women’s and Men’s Elite. Passes and free parking available. Email wogaclassic@woga.net or phone 972.985.9292 for specifics. Visit WOGA.net/Valeri-Liukin-Invitational.
FEBRUARY 22ND
4word
Gala
Omni Frisco Hotel | 5:30 PM
This will be the group's 10th Annual Gala. Paula Faris is keynote speaker with Cynt Marshall, CEO Dallas Mavericks. The 4word staff states that their nonprofit is the only global organization dedicated to Christian women in business, led by Christian women in business. Individual tickets start at $500. Sponsorships available. Email hello@4wordwomen.org with questions.
FEBRUARY 22ND
2025 Annual Awards Gala
Omni PGA Frisco Resort | 6:00 PM
Join Frisco Chamber of Commerce members for an evening of celebration and recognition. Dress up, network and honor outstanding businesses, organizations and individuals that have made a lasting impact on the Frisco community. With 600-plus of Frisco’s top business leaders in attendance, this prestigious event is the perfect opportunity to foster new connections. Register online via the chamber's website.
FEBRUARY 28TH - MARCH 2ND
Frisco College Baseball Classic
Riders Field | 2:00 PM
The Frisco College Baseball Classic is a premier early season NCAA Division I collegiate baseball tournament. As has been the case in previous events, the event includes four of the nation’s top teams. The lineup features the 2023 NCAA Men’s College World Series champion Louisiana State University alongside the University of Nebraska, Kansas State University and Sam Houston State University.
