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.
As the summer sun beckons and wanderlust begins to stir, we welcome you to our July Travel Issue—a celebration of exploration, adventure, and the incredible connections that come when we step outside our everyday lives.
Travel has long been associated with rest and rejuvenation, and rightfully so. There’s something deeply healing about sinking your toes into a new shore, savoring unfamiliar flavors, or watching the sun set from a place you’ve never been. But beyond the comfort of five-star resorts or secluded villas lies something even more valuable: perspective.
In an increasingly globalized world, travel offers us one of the few remaining ways to truly step outside our bubble. It allows us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant diversity of human experience—to learn, not just from books or screens, but from people. Whether you’re walking through a centuries-old market, sharing a meal in a remote village, or listening to the rhythm of a language you don’t speak, travel reminds us that there are countless ways to live a beautiful life.
In a time when the world feels both vast and more connected than ever, understanding the cultures, customs, and values of others isn’t just enriching—it’s essential. Global interconnectivity means that our actions, economies, and ideas are constantly influencing one another. When we take time to experience life through someone else’s lens, we not only deepen our empathy, but we also gain insight into how intricately our lives are intertwined. Exposure to other cultures cultivates open-mindedness, fuels innovation, and fosters a greater appreciation for both the uniqueness and the common threads that connect us all.
At City Lifestyle, we believe that luxury isn’t only defined by what you experience but by how deeply you experience it. True luxury is cultural curiosity, the willingness to engage, to learn, and to be changed by the world around us.
Whether your passport is freshly stamped or you're simply dreaming from the coffee table, we invite you to see the world through a wider lens. The world is waiting to teach us, if only we’re willing to listen.
Here's to travel that opens your heart as much as it opens your itinerary.
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Angela Martinez | angela.martinez@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Morganne Eikelbarne morganne.eikelbarner@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Ken Crawford, Deborah Dove
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia, Zaharra Hemani Photography, Gracelyn Baggett: Sun Kissed Imagery
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Hang Le | hang.le@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ramil Paredes, Stephanie Hasbrouck, Sue G. Collins, Adeline Merrick
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Photography by Misty
Corporate Team
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
Summer in Texas doesn’t play around. From triple-di git temps to surprise storms, your HVAC system is about to clock some serious overtime. At Big D Mechanical , we believe comfort shouldn’t be a luxury it should be your standard. Here’s how to make sure your A/C is ready to carry you through the season like a champ.
1. Start with a Tune-Up
Before you crank it down to 68 and cross your finge rs, schedule a professional maintenance visit. A season al check-up can prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency , and lower your energy bills—because no one wants a surprise repair bill on top of a sky-high electric one.
2 . Call in the Pros
Whether you’re prepping for a heatwave or planning ahead for future upgrades, Big D Mechanical offers expert service, honest advice, and a team that trea ts your comfort like it’s our own. We’re not just HVAC techs—we’re your neighborhood’s cool-down crew.
DONT SWEAT IT! BEAT THE HEAT!
Call Big D Mechanical today to schedule your summer service. Let’s make sure your system is running col d, quiet, and cost-efficient all summer long.
1 - 7: Be a Tourist in Your Own Town! On May 1st, Plano came alive with global flair at Salt the Rim and AsiaFest, held in Haggard Park and McCall Plaza in the heart of Downtown Plano. From margarita tastings to vibrant cultural performances, locals explored the world without leaving the city. Travel the globe—no passport needed, just Plano pride! If you missed out this year be sure to check VisitPlano.com for all the details and keep an eye on our events page!
MaxStrength Fitness is now open in West Plano, offering a premier boutique gym experience with personalized one-on-one training and top-of-the-line equipment designed to help you achieve your fitness goals in a focused, high-performance environment. Visit them at 19009 Preston Rd., Ste. 116, Dallas, TX 75252 or call (469) 561-0100 to get started today.
Blo Blow Dry Bar Plano is now open, bringing a chic and modern blowout experience to West Plano with expertly trained stylists, premium products, and a glam atmosphere perfect for any occasion—from everyday confidence to special events. Visit them at 1900 Preston Rd., Plano, TX 75093 or call (469) 931-7597 to book your blowout today.
Magnolia Soap and Bath Co. is a woman- and veteran-owned shop offering plant-based, handmade bath and body products that smell amazing. Now open in Plano at 8604 Preston Rd., Ste. 120, Plano, or visit their shop online at mymagnoliasoap.com/plano.
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACELYN BAGGETT: SUN KISSED IMAGERY
DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES, AND EMBRACE AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES.
There are countless modes of transportation by which to explore the world, and the DFW Metroplex offers unique opportunities to experience them all—without leaving town! From enjoying tea by bus, to racing exotic cars, to cruising serene lakes under the Texas stars, adventures await that will ignite your passion for movement and exploration.
Frontiers of Flight Museum | 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX
Experience the stories and artifacts of aviation and space flight—from Leonardo da Vinci, to the Wright Brothers, to the spacecraft of the twenty-first century— all in one museum.
Sail with Scott | 2055 Summer Lee Dr, Rockwall, TX
Cruise Lake Ray Hubbard aboard a sailing catamaran built of beautiful Spanish cedar. Outings include sunrise, sunset, and starlight cruises and daytime family cruises.
Interurban Railway Museum | 901 E 15th St, Plano, TX
This museum features interactive exhibits on electricity, science, and the history of the City of Plano and the Texas Electric Railway. They also offer guided tours through Historic Car 360.
DriveXotic | 9012 Performance Ct, Cresson, TX
Drive an exotic car such as a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and more on a private 1.3-mile racetrack. Included in the price is Farr’s Movie Cars Museum.
Tea Around Town Dallas | https://topviewtix.com/dallas/ tea-around-town-classic Enjoy a delightful blend of exquisite teas and delicious cuisine with sumptuous decor, stunning views, and live entertainment aboard a luxury bus transformed into a mobile tearoom.
Explore North Texas’s Premiere Entertainment
Located just off US 75 in Allen, Credit Union of Texas Event Center is one of the most diverse arenas in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Its unique ability to host various events in a cozy, clean, and friendly atmosphere has made it a favorite venue for thousands of North Texas entertainment seekers.
“Good vibes flowing. Tastebuds rocking. Excitement building.”
Credit Union of Texas Event Center hosts over 100 events annually, including Allen Americans professional hockey, concerts, trade shows, skating exhibitions, Esports tournaments, family shows, and more. Guests can enjoy an exhilarating full-house (6,500seat) sporting event one night and an intimate 2,700seat concert the next.
Adding to the guest experience is the facility's stateof-the-art lighting, video, and sound systems. When the Allen Americans hit the ice for a home game, the Event Center literally turns into a Rink of Red with guests bathed in red lighting as music pulsates through every seat, creating an electrifying atmosphere and setting the tone for the fast-paced action ahead.
Before you make your way to the best seats in the house, because they all are, be sure to check out the Event Center's delicious variety of food items on the concourse. Whether you want a full meal or just something to snack on, there's something for everyone to enjoy, from mouthwatering corn ribs and freshly baked pizza to "walking tacos" and barbecue.
For those who want to take their event to the next level, Credit Union of Texas Event Center offers a premium level experience. Entertain clients, co-workers, or friends and family in a private, spacious suite, or just kick back in a comfortable leather club seat. There's even exclusive access to a private lounge and bar. And the food? Chef Mark Turner and his team CONTINUED >
“Credit Union of Texas Event Center hosts over 100 events annually, including Allen Americans professional hockey, concerts, trade shows, skating exhibitions, Esports tournaments, family shows, and more. ”
serve up a delicious array of exclusive menu items like Peninsula Pasties (hand-held meat pies of the North) and fresh takes on fan favorites such as pizza, fajitas, hot dogs, and more.
Did you know that Credit Union of Texas Event Center has more than one ice rink? It's true! Right next door is the Allen Community Ice Rink, an indoor, full-size ice surface that is open to the public. New and experienced skaters can enjoy time on the ice during specially scheduled open skate sessions. There are also learn to skate programs, youth and adult
hockey leagues, and figure skating programs for all levels. Learn more about Allen Community Ice Rink at LifeinAllen.org.
Are staycations your thing? After a day of skating and a night of cheering on your favorite team or artist, enjoy a relaxing stay steps away at the Courtyard by Marriott Allen at the Event Center. Good vibes flowing. Tastebuds rocking. Excitement building. Discover your next thrill inside the Credit Union of Texas Event Center in Allen. Visit CUTXEventCenter.com to see all of the upcoming events.
ARTICLE BY KEN CRAWFORD
In a world where pets are family, finding a trustworthy, comfortable, and luxurious boarding experience for your furry friends can be a challenge. K9 Resorts in Plano, Texas, offers just that—a premium dog boarding and daycare facility designed with both pets and their owners in mind. With a focus on exceptional care, comfort, and cleanliness, K9 Resorts stands apart from traditional boarding options.
K9 Resorts in Plano is a family-owned and operated franchise with a heartwarming backstory. The owners, a close-knit family of dog lovers, transformed their shared passion for pets into a thriving business. The journey began when they sought a way to combine their love for dogs with a sustainable business model. They chose to partner with K9 Resorts, a nationally recognized franchise, for its strong support system and commitment to excellence. After extensive training at the brand’s headquarters in Fanwood, New Jersey, the family launched their Plano location, which has quickly become a beloved destination for pet owners.
K9 Resorts offers a range of accommodation options to suit every dog’s needs and personality. For families seeking a more traditional option, K9 Resorts also offers spacious kennels, with a focus on comfort and safety. Each pet has its own locker for personal items, ensuring a sense of familiarity.
The luxury suites are the pinnacle of canine comfort, providing a private space with DogTV to keep pets entertained. For those who want a mid-level option, the executive suites provide a 5x7 space, complete with all the amenities pets need to feel at home. In addition to overnight stays, K9 Resorts offers a large dog daycare and a small dog daycare, both featuring indoor and outdoor play areas. Safety is a top priority, with constant supervision and a secure entry and exit process.
Providing a unique approach to pet care, unlike many other boarding facilities, K9 Resorts in Plano goes above and beyond to create a nurturing environment for pets. The facility is meticulously maintained, with daily disinfection of play areas and a turf surface that ensures cleanliness. The staff are passionate about their work, treating each pet as their own. The owners themselves are hands-on, often spending time in the daycare areas getting to know each dog by name.
This personal touch is what truly sets K9 Resorts apart. The owners recount stories of anxious dogs transformed into confident, playful companions thanks to their patient care. One memorable example is a dog who initially struggled with socialization but now happily plays with his friends, thanks to gradual, personalized acclimation.
The owners prioritize peace of mind for pet parents. Understanding that leaving a pet behind can be stressful for both pets and their owners, K9 Resorts offers complimentary evaluation days for new guests. This allows dogs to experience the daycare environment while giving owners a sense of how their pets will be cared for. For especially anxious pets, the team offers personalized comfort, even spending one-on-one time to build trust.
K9 Resorts maintains constant communication with pet parents, sharing updates and photos to keep them connected. This focus on transparency and trust helps ease any anxiety pet parents may have about leaving their furry friends.
For pet parents seeking a safe, clean, and truly loving environment for their dogs, whether for day visits or extended overnight stays, K9 Resorts in Plano is the clear choice. Visit and experience the caring staff and elevated facilities first hand. Learn more or schedule a tour at K9 Resorts Plano Website, https://www.k9resorts.com/plano/
The Global Journey that Shaped My Lens— and the Love Stories I Now Get to Tell
They say one photo can hold a thousand words—so at this point, I must be working on a few novels. My life has stretched across four continents and wound through three careers, but the one thread running through it all has been my love of photography.
I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and aside from the monkeys on my university campus, it could’ve been Texas. I grew up with a brother obsessed with cows, a mum who made Sunday dinners feel like a weekly holiday, and a dad who made sure I knew every classic rock anthem by heart. Yet even with all that love, I always had an itch to live life a little differently—to explore beyond what I knew.
I started by making the jump to Australia before eventually settling in South Korea. In that first move, I had to sort through everything I owned. Amid the chaos of downsizing, one thing was certain: the photo of my grandmother was coming with me. It’s the only photo I have of her, and it holds all the love she gave me before passing away. I didn’t know how, but I knew I wanted to help others hold onto memories like that too.
At first, photography wasn’t my job but just my passion. South Korea brought me new languages, new faces, new smells, new stories—it was all so alive. I’d always loved storytelling, but being in a new world made me crave a way to hold onto it all. That’s when I picked up my iPhone and started snapping—not for Instagram, not for perfection, but for memory. For the tiny, tender, fleeting stuff that made life feel big.
These moments, like meeting my future wife, Valerie, our trips to Jeju Island, and staying in traditional villages, live on in my memory every day thanks to the images. And through these images, I see myself grow up—both literally and artistically—as I documented the neighborhoods, markets, and quiet routines that shaped me.
Opposite Top: Adeline's family in South Afria
Opposite Left Bottom: Traveling in South Africa
Opposite RIght Bottom: Traveling in Hot Springs
Above: Adeline and Valerie on safari in South Africa
During the pandemic, Valerie and I traveled to America, got married, and never looked back. While waiting on my green card, I had this wild window of time to just practice. No pressure. Just photography and joy with my cats, my niece, and Valerie dancing in the kitchen. Every photo reminded me, “Capturing love matters.”
The encouragement of my friends and family led me to start two image and video businesses: Merrick Multimedia (for commercial work and branding) and Hey Love Studio (for all the warm, vibrant, love-celebrating moments). Photography has taken me across California, Arkansas, Colorado—and even Canada! And no matter where I go, it’s the same magic: light, connection, and the deep honor of witnessing something real.
Travel cracked me open, and photography stitched me together. Whether it’s a backyard wedding in Santa Rosa or a museum in Arkansas, I show up with my camera and my whole heart. Because joy multiplies when you have the courage to chase it—camera in hand.
Celebrating 80 years of Service Above Self, Friendships, and Supporting the Community and the World ARTICLE BY
The Plano Rotary Club was formed on May 14, 1945, and was sponsored by the Richardson Rotary Club. From that rousing beginning to the present, the Plano Rotary Club has raised and distributed funds each year to local charities, scholarships, and nonprofit community organizations.
Today, there are several Rotary Clubs in Plano that a service-minded person can join.
The Plano West Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at noon, Plano Metro Rotary meets every Wednesday at noon, Plano Sunrise Rotary meets every Friday morning, the North Texas Pioneer Rotary meets every Wednesday evening, and the Plano Rotary Club meets every Thursday afternoon at Gleneagles Country Club.
Besides fundraising for local charities and various nonprofits in the Plano and DFW area, the Rotarians of the Plano Rotary Club volunteer at local events like the Angel Tree Project at Samaritan Inn, Plano Cops Coat Drive, and the Plano Balloon Festival; put together Welcome Boxes for Children's Hospital Plano; recognize outstanding students at local Plano elementary schools for Citizens of the Month; and support veterans and first responders at the annual Plano Flags of Honor at Oak Point Park.
The Plano Rotary Club also develops young leaders through the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) program. Every year juniors from high schools throughout Plano are eligible to compete and get nominated by each club from the area. The winners are given the opportunity to attend a weeklong camp that offers a more immersive and intensive leadership and team building experience.
Each week, members gather to hear from guest speakers about how to improve our lives and the community, learn about history, see art, and hear music from local orchestras. They get together to plan upcoming events and network to support members and their endeavors. People join Rotary to make a difference in their community and the world.
The community is encouraged to join a club and can do so by visiting the local Rotary District website at www.rotary5810.org, or contact Ramil Paredes at ramil@paredesco.com for more direction to the local Rotary Clubs in the Dallas area.
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK
THESE EXOTIC COCKTAILS WILL TRANSPORT YOU TO PARADISE
Vacation time is just around the corner. We are dreaming of sitting on a secluded beach, sipping exotic cocktails with umbrellas in them. But why wait till vacation to enjoy a fun cocktail? These two easy and refreshing classics will instantly transport you to paradise.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 oz cream of coconut
• 2 oz light rum
• 3 oz pineapple juice
• Juice of ½ lime
• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
• 1/2 cup ice
• Pineapple wedge for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Blend frozen pineapple and ice for a couple of seconds. Add in the liquid ingredients and blend until smooth. (To make thicker, add ice. Add pineapple juice if too thick.) Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz vodka
• 3 oz cranberry juice
• 2 oz pineapple juice
• Pineapple wedge & maraschino cherry for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Put desired amount of ice in glass, add vodka and pineapple juice. Top with cranberry juice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, maraschino cherry and umbrella (of course).
JULY 1ST - 31ST
Plano Library Locations
It’s not too late to join Plano Library’s Summer Reading Program! Track your progress online with READsquared and earn badges as you reach reading milestones. Log your minutes or books on paper, move your Beach Ball in Spark Spaces, and earn a completion prize. Don’t forget to get your library card for access to books, eBooks, magazines, and more!
JULY 1ST
Davis Library: 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, TX 75025 | 3:00 PM
Come get inspired by the vibrant colors and patterns of nature! Discover how cheetahs, zebras, and colorful birds influence fashion and rituals with their stunning designs. Learn how animals use their hues for camouflage, attraction, and defense—and see live animals up close for a truly colorful experience! Tickets available 30 minutes prior to the program, in-person only.
JULY 3RD
Central Market Cooking School Plano: 320 Coit Rd., Plano, TX 75075 | 1:00 PM
Roll up your sleeves and get baking! In this hands-on class, you’ll team up to create classic holiday desserts with expert guidance. Make blueberry hand pies, a cherry cobbler, and a gluten-free apple crisp to take home. Ages 13 and up. Tickets required per person—arrive early to sign the waiver!
JULY 4TH
Plano’s All American 4th 2025
Oak Point Event Field: 2801 E Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, TX 75074 | 6:00 PM
Boom, sparkle, and celebrate at Plano’s All American 4th! Gather your crew for an unforgettable evening of free family fun, games, eats, and drinks—capped off by a dazzling fireworks show over Oak Point Park. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and patriotic spirit—but leave the pets at home. Parking’s easy at Collin College. This is the Fourth of July done right!
JULY 5TH
McCall Plaza: 998 E 15th St., Plano, TX 75074 | 9:30 AM
Start your summer mornings with movement and mindfulness at the Free Yoga Summer Series, led by Shala Yoga Loft in McCall Plaza. Bring your mat and flow through an energizing 75-minute class under the open sky. Join the community and find your center in the heart of Downtown Plano.
JULY 6TH
North Texas Performing Arts (Willow Bend Center of the Arts): 6121 W Park Blvd. B216, Plano, TX 75093 | 2:00 PM
Cool off with a Plano Symphony Orchestra trio and enjoy the music of Moana, Encanto, and other beloved characters! Kids can join in on stage for this interactive performance. Arrive early to make magic and water-themed crafts in the lobby. A fun, family-friendly event you won’t want to miss!
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/PLANO
JULY 7TH
Schimelpfenig Library: 5024 Custer Rd., Plano, TX 75023 | 3:00 PM
Get ready to be amazed by Bernie the Bubble Lady! Watch in awe as bubbles grow bigger and bigger while learning the science behind them. It’s a bubbly good time for all ages! Tickets available 30 minutes before the show—be sure to grab yours in person!
JULY 7TH
Fiber Art with Christine Miller
Davis Library: 7501-B Independence Pkwy., Plano, TX 75025 | 6:00 PM
Engage your senses and unwind through a soothing creative art project designed to reduce stress and spark self-expression. Presented by Garage Arts Project and ArtCentre of Plano, with support from the City of Plano Major Arts Program and a Texas Commission on the Arts grant. Tickets available 30 minutes prior to the program, in-person only.
JULY 13TH
Legacy Hall: 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano, TX 75024 | 7:30 PM
Get ready for Fool House – The Ultimate 90s Party! Dance to hits from NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, Eminem, and more! Grab general admission tickets or upgrade to a balcony VIP lounge for the best view and cocktail service. Afterparty with DJ in the UABC Taproom (21+). Legacy Hall’s 20+ eateries and bars await!
JULY 21ST
Urban Crust: 1006 E 15th St., Plano, TX 75074 | 6:30 PM
Sip, savor, and cast your vote at the ultimate Margarita Dinner Showdown! Enjoy a chef-crafted four-course meal, each dish paired with a bold margarita contender. You be the judge—only one can win. Seats are limited, so gather your crew and let the flavor battle begin!
I ASKED MY EXPAT AND TRAVEL-SAVVY FRIENDS TO RECOMMEND BOOKS TO TAKE ME FAR AWAY. HERE YOU GO!
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
BY GERALD DURRELL
Three classic tales of childhood on an island paradise - My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives and The Garden of the Gods by Gerald Durrell - are available in a single edition for the first time in The Corfu Trilogy.
BY TONY HORWITZ
Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before
The Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist travels to various parts of the world, following in the footsteps of explorer James Cook.
BY ELIF SHAFAK
It is 1974 on the island of Cyprus. Two teenagers, from opposite sides of a divided land, meet at a tavern in the city they both call home. The tavern is the only place that Kostas, who is Greek and Christian, and Defne, who is Turkish and Muslim, can meet, in secret, hidden beneath the blackened beams from which hang garlands of garlic, chili peppers and wild herbs. This is where one can find the best food in town, the best music, the best wine. But there is something else to the place: it makes one forget, even if for just a few hours, the world outside and its immoderate sorrows.
Just before the Second World War the Durrell family decamped to the glorious, sun-soaked island of Corfu, where the youngest of the four children, ten-year-old Gerald, discovered his passion for animals: toads and tortoises, bats and butterflies, scorpions and octopuses. Through glorious silver-green olive groves and across brilliant-white beaches Gerry pursued his obsession . . . causing hilarity and mayhem in his ever-tolerant family.
BY ABRAHAM VERGHESE
Cutting for Stone is a novel written by Ethiopian-born, IndianAmerican medical doctor and author Abraham Verghese. It is a saga of twin brothers, orphaned by their mother’s death at their births and forsaken by their father.
BY ORHAN PAMUK
The author is a Nobel-laureate Turkish novelist. The book, set in Istanbul between 1975 and 1984, is an account of the love story between the wealthy businessman Kemal and a poorer distant relative of his, Füsun.
