Loving All Things Local
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, PUBLISHER @MCKINNEYANDPROSPERLIFESTYLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Sharon Duffy Thomas | sharon.duffy@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
William Thomas | william.thomas@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Alexis Jacobs
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alexis Jacobs, Cheryl Parton, Julie Brown Patton, Sue Collins, Mel Boban, Bailey Hall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Erin Goodrich, Janie Jones, Photo by Rachel Azzaro of San Marcos Photography
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 Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
L.I.F.T.
Create
Craving
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Christie Rhyne and her State Farm team assembled and painted picnic tables for La Tiendita. 2: Volunteer McKinney participants assist needs of Collin County nonprofits, including ISDs, PTOs/PTAs, service organizations, churches. 3: McKinney Chamber of Commerce WAM Lunch and Learn "Pioneering Success: Women Thriving in Male-Dominated Environments." 4: Happy first anniversary to Sake Sushi Hibachi steak house in Prosper, 4580 W. University Dr. 5: Leadership Prosper learning 21 Irrefutable Habits of a Leader with Marc Rylander. 6: It was wonderful to see everyone 'Home For The Holidays." 7: Texas regional book author Virginia Herrin participates at McKinney Senior Recreation Center events.
PROSPER
business monthly
Congratulations To McKinney Police Officers
McKinney police officers received well-earned promotions for exemplifying professionalism, commitment and service: Sgt. Christopher Krieger; Sgt. Joey Mendez; Sgt. Randall Willemstein; Lt. Zac Craven; Lt. Travis Ray; and Deputy Chief Carl Rogers. Congratulations to these remarkable leaders. Collectively they have significant training and experience in SWAT teamwork, neighborhood policing/property detective work, combatting narcotics, training unit instructorship, criminal investigations, internal affairs, patrolling, leading in high-pressure situations and mentoring new police officers.
McKinney Slated To Get New Surfing/Beach-Themed Attraction In 2025
McKinney officials unveiled plans for a $200 million surfing- and beach-themed adventure park and resort, set to open in 2025. Arizona-headquartered developers Cannon Beach indicate this project includes a surf lagoon, resort hotel with rooftop pool, sandy beach, entertainment spaces, lounge areas and cabanas, cliff diving and a stationary surf wave. The vision is to surround these attractions with uses such as a skateboard park, movie theater, bowling alley, health club and indoor recreation facilities.
Completion Of Prosper Trail Improves Traffic Flow
The Prosper Trail extension, from Teel Road to Legacy Drive, was part of a developer-driven project that city officials stated took approximately 10 months to complete. The project included the installation of storm pipe, water main and concrete paving. City representatives say this extension was a high-priority project, as it helps alleviate traffic from the ongoing construction at First Street and Legacy, improving traffic flow in the area.
Photography by McKinney Police Department
Photography Courtesy of Cannon Beach
Photography by Town of Prosper
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5. Energizes and Boosts Mood
6. Connects You to a Community
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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 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: 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.
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
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.
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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
Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars
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.
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
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ALTERNATIVE Snacks V-DAY
3 4 5
Craving Something Other Than Chocolate Or Strawberries For Valentine's Day?
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
1. RASPBERRY-LEMON CHEESECAKE
Pretty raspberry bites or swirls in creaminess are both stunning, scrumptious.
2. MINI MERINGUE KISSES
Bypass chocolate kisses to provide sweethearts with melt-in-mouth, bite-sized desserts.
3. CANDIED FIGS
Pleasing, chewy treats made by simmering/ soaking fresh figs in sugar syrup then drying.
4. WATERMELON HEARTS
Cut heart shapes from the middle of watermelon, the sweetest part of the fruit.
5. HONEY-GLAZED ALMONDS
Crunchy, honey, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a bit of salt.
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BECAUSE.
CHOCOLATE.
Chocolate Fondue
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 pound premium semisweet chocolate (recommended: Lindt or Callebaut)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon brandy
• Strawberries, bananas, pineapple, brownies, waffles, marshmallows, Oreos, pound cake, pretzels or any other dipping item of your choice!
Put approximately four inches of water in a saucepan and bring to a slow boil. Place a mixing bowl on top and pour in the heavy cream. Let heat. Or, use a double boiler. Meanwhile, break up or chop the chocolate into small pieces. When the cream feels hot to the touch, add chocolate and whisk until smooth. Whisk in vanilla and brandy (optional). Pour into the fondue pot and light the handy fuel underneath. Keep the flame low as not to burn the fondue. Arrange dippers on a platter and enjoy. For the grown-ups, a spiked chocolate drink from our friend, Martha Stewart.
The Spiked Jones
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole coffee beans
• 2 ounces semisweet chocolate (61% Valrhona), chopped
• 2 tablespoons Kahlua
• 1 teaspoon confectioner's sugar
• 1 tablespoon dark chocolatecovered coffee beans, chopped
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, 1/2 cup cream, and whole coffee beans. Bring to a simmer, turn off heat, cover, and steep beans for 1 hour. Strain liquid and return to saucepan; discard beans. Bring the milk-and-cream mixture back to a simmer, add chocolate, and whisk until incorporated. Remove from heat; whisk in Kahlua. Whip remaining 1/2 cup cream and the confectioners' sugar until soft peaks form. Divide the hot chocolate between 2 cups and garnish each portion with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chopped chocolate-covered coffee beans.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
When my kids were little, we would address valentines to classmates, deliver flowers to neighbors and decorate the house with hearts and snowflakes (cut from white coffee filters). For dinner, I would make their favorite meal: dessert! Why not? I'd melt chocolate (the good stuff) and let them line up their dippers. They thought dessert for dinner was magical. Of course, I'd fed them a protein-packed after-school snack and served "dinner" early so they could get their sugar wiggles out before bed. Delightful! Happy Valentine's Day!
CHOCO OLATEC LATECH
DENIZEN, Peppy SONG WRITERSINGER
ARTICLE
BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN GOODRICH
“I’ve been scribbling lyrics since I was about 10 years old,” confides McKinney resident KellyMarie Spencer. She’s the self-proclaimed “girl who wrote an entire album of songs inspired by the TV show The Office,” called ‘It Is My Album.’
The Office was a mockumentary sitcom television series. KellyMarie says she wrote all the album’s songs during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. She explains, “After having a baby, I was inspired to take on the challenge of writing love songs based on my favorite show. It was one of the coolest things I’ve ever done, a wonderful whirlwind.”
“Like many others, The Office has meant more to me than mere entertainment. This show has gone with me as I navigated heartbreak, moved cities, battled anxieties, ventured in the professional world, fell in love, and made it through sleepless nights as a new mom,” she adds. “I made sure to fill each track with nostalgia by weaving in references to our favorite scenes and characters. Digging into the feelings of the characters of this brilliant comedy sparked my compassion in a new way.”
KellyMarie’s debut EP in 2018 was titled “On A Whim.” This past December, KellyMarie released a
“I’M SO humbled , REFLECTING BACK ON WHEN THESE songs WERE SIMPLY PHRASES AND MELODIES IN MY HEAD… AND NOW WE ARE HERE. I’M SURROUNDED BY incredible PEOPLE, AND I’M SO HONORED AND SO STINKING GRATEFUL.”
Christmas single entitled, “Hey, A Child Is Born!” as an upbeat, joyous celebration of the birth of Christ. It also included participation from her three, young children.
“Growing up, I had hopes of becoming a singer, but kept the music to my own little world. It’s a running joke with my parents that no one knew I could sing until college. I finally found the courage to pursue my musical dream in college, and I’ve been singing ever since,” she quips.
While she grew up in the Dallas area, she moved to McKinney in 2015 after marrying her husband at the Flour Mill and falling in love with the city.
KellyMarie says she especially relied on doodling lyrics in her notebook and songwriting during her teenage years to process change, sadness, beauty and celebration.
“I always laugh when I look back on my moody teenage lyrics from high school, but I think songwriting has been vital in helping me process difficult situations in my life,” she states.
This local musician plays piano and ukulele for songwriting purposes only.
“I consider my main instrument my voice. I’m incredibly passionate about layering vocals in my music and finding unique ways to incorporate this into my songs. In my songwriting, the more layers, the better, honestly,” she says.
Regarding genres of tunes, KellyMarie says she adores vintage music, fashion and knick-knacks. “Oldies, such as Fleetwood Mac, Ella Fitzgerald and The Beach Boys, have always left an impact on me, and continue to inspire me musically. I love the energy and sound of these songs as well as the memories with my dad that I associate with them.”
Her songwriting process typically starts with one line, not even a melody at that point.
“Something I think, see or hear will inspire me, and I have to ever so purposefully seek it out for the line to leave the scribble stage of my songwriting process.
YOU MAY RECALL KellyMarie FROM WHEN SHE PERFORMED AT Collective Coffee OR COCKTAIL CREAMERY IN DOWNTOWN MCKINNEY.
It’s a challenge and takes a lot of patience, but is magical when it finally all comes together,” she says.
In this season of KellyMarie’s life, she says she’s mostly inspired by people’s stories. “So, currently I find stories, whether in books, shows or in real life, and I throw myself into their thoughts and feelings until I find the song. Next, I think about what the mood of the song should be to specifically match the character I’m singing about.”
She proclaims the whole process as life-giving as she’s “in the thick fog that so often is songwriting, I know that I am doing what God made me for.”
The singer says she’s had the privilege of working with amazing musicians on all of her projects. “My producer, Chris Jacobie, is crazy talented and knows how to bring out the whimsical flare that I so desire in my music.”
Based on her experiences, she says she would advise other emerging musical artists to not pay attention to what other artists are doing. “Just make music that you like and are proud of. Also, be patient and don’t be afraid to sit in the
CONTINUED >
uncomfortable silence as you fight to bring that musical inspiration to life.”
However, a fellow performer with whom KellyMarie says she’d like to collaborate with is Ingrid Michaelson, no doubt. Ingrid is a singer-songwriter from New York City who writes and performs primarily in hybrid pop genres. “She’s incredible and her music has largely influenced my own. If given the chance, I’d probably be speechless, but I would love to sit and learn from her.”
What’s next for this local performer? “Short term, I want to continue writing and recording music that is honest, whimsical and encouraging. And a long-term goal of mine is to write songs for movies and TV shows.”
KellyMarie says she wants to leave people feeling encouraged and hopeful and seen. “I want to be authentic in my music, and have people feel like they got to know me better after listening to my music. I also want people to move and groove to my melodies, and to see that there is beauty everywhere, sometimes you just have to wait for it.”
At press time, her next song was due to be released Jan. 17. Called “Don’t Offend The Room,” she says it was inspired by a children’s book and takes a look into the lives of a cast of kids. “It’s a real special one to me.”
In her free time, KellyMarie enjoys gardening and watching for birds and butterflies.
She says she also can be found frequenting her favorite thrift shops or going to escape rooms, especially the one in Frisco, with her husband. “I cherish motherhood as a precious job, too, and I love learning new things about my children every day.”
Additionally, according to this whimsical artist, a good day or bad day is always a reason to enjoy an iced chai latte.
Photo by Rachel Azzaro of San Marcos Photography
- Raj Narayanan
-
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 1ST, 8TH, 15TH, 22ND
Historic McKinney Farmers Market
Chestnut Square | 9:00 AM
History intersects with the present at the award-winning Historic McKinney Farmers Market. Let the hustle and bustle of a busy week melt away in the open air in a more natural, balanced way to do weekly or occasional shopping. Seventy-five vendors proudly promote homegrown, harvested and handmade products; all offered through labors of love.
FEBRUARY 1ST
Art Meets Poetry Exhibit
Tupps Brewery | 2:00 PM
This is an annual collaboration between the Art Club of McKinney and the Mockingbord Poetry Society in McKinney. This exhibit is where art inspires poetry, and poetry inspires art. Artists and poets are paired, with artists creating pieces based on poems, and poets crafting verses inspired by art. These pairings are the heart of the event.
FEBRUARY 1ST
Runnin' With The Nighthawks 5K and Family Fun Run/Walk
St. Martin de Porres Catholic School | 7:30 AM
Join a super-fun morning. Feel free to dress in favorite superhero outfit for a chance to win costume contest. Food trucks also will be available for after-the-run snacks. Run/walk with "fur" babies. Register dogs for $5 and receive a bandana for them. All dogs must be on a leash.
FEBRUARY 8TH
Royally Yours Princess Gala
The Landing In Myers Park & Event Center | 9:00 AM
Come one, come all to the Royally Yours Princess Gala. This event features 10 favorite fairytale princess friends in one place. Take photos, get autographs and spend time with those princesses, such as Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, The Beauty Princess, Bayou Beauty, Rapunzel, The Arabian Princess, Ice Sisters and Miracle Sisters, too! Tickets: Eventbrite.com
FEBRUARY 21ST, 22ND, 23RD
Collin County Home & Garden Show
Credit Union Of Texas Event Center | 2:00 PM
One place. One weekend. The 16th Annual Collin County Home & Garden Show returns. Talk face-to-face with pros who can turn home improvement dreams into a reality. Discover innovative designs, connect with skilled professionals and gather inspiration for dream outdoor spaces. Friday hours 2-6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
FEBRUARY 28TH TO MARCH 15TH
McKinney Repertory Theatre Presents 12 Angry Jurors
McKinney Performing Arts Center Courtroom Theater | 2:30 PM
Plot: An intense courtroom drama exploring the complexities of justice and human nature. Based on the classic play "12 Angry Men," 12 jurors deliberate the fate of a young defendant accused of murder. Tensions rise as personal biases and prejudices are exposed, leading to a gripping examination of morality and the legal system. Tickets: McKinneyPerformingArtsCenter.org
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.
Monday
Monday
Monday