Plano South | February 2025

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Plano South Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 6 FEB. 25MARCH 21, 2025

Paving Plano

Proposed bond includes $130 million for 38 miles of asphalt repairs

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

Street construction has become so commonplace in Plano, Mayor John Muns called the orange trac cone the city’s ocial ower during his State of the City address in 2024. The reason for the road work goes beyond showing o Plano’s prized ora—the city is getting older. Most Plano roads were built in the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, when the city was experiencing “booming growth,” City Manager Mark Israelson said. “The echo eect is that we’re needing signicant maintenance, repair and even replacement now, 30 and 40 years later,” he said. A large portion of that road work is arterial overlay projects, a con- crete repair process that is meant to lengthen a road’s lifespan by more than a decade, Plano Senior Engineer Samson Bekele said. Included in Plano’s 2025 bond package, which voters will decide on in May, is $130 million for 38 more miles of overlays.

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More than 50 miles of arterial overlay projects were funded by Plano’s 2021 bond and 31 miles have been completed.

MICHAEL CROUCHLEYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Also in this issue

2025 Private School Guide

Impacts: New Kroger Marketplace opens in north Plano—see additional business updates (Page 7)

Transportations: City approves plan for upcoming Silver Line stations—read more (Page 13)

Education: See a variety of private school options in and near Plano (Page 10)

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Your Drinking Water is Safe and Meets All Regulatory and Quality Standards Temporary Change in Disinfectant March 3-31

What’s Different? The North Texas Municipal District (NTMWD) first disinfects water using ozone and chlorine as part of the treatment process to eliminate bacteria and viruses. Then, for most of the year, NTMWD also adds chloramine (chlorine + ammonia) as a secondary disinfectant to keep drinking water clean as it travels from the treatment plants through miles of pipes to homes and businesses. Each spring for 28 days, NTMWD temporarily suspends the use of ammonia and uses free chlorine as the secondary disinfectant to maintain water quality year- round. In 2025, that time period is March 3-31. This is a preventive measure to maintain the system and high water quality year-round. Individuals sensitive to chlorine may notice a stronger smell or taste for a few weeks during NTMWD's temporary change in drinking water disinfectant.

DRINKING WATER TIPS .

Refrigerate water in an open pitcher for several hours . Add a slice of citrus or cucumber . Consider installing filters on kitchen faucets Add a crushed 1000 mg Vitamin C tablet to bath water . Consider installing filters on bathroom faucets or shower heads

BATH OR SHOWER TIPS .

Sign up for weekly news updates from the City of Plano at Plano.gov/News For more information and helpful tips, visit NTMWD.com/SafeWater or Plano.gov/Water or call 972-442-5405 (NTMWD)

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About Community Impact Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

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PLANO SOUTH EDITION

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Impacts

more. The business will be located in the Preston Park Village shopping center. • Opening TBD • 1900 Preston Road, Ste. 134, Plano • www.blomedry.com 8 Claw Zone The new business will be located next to Nishiki Ramen and Bros Saigon Kitchen, which is temporarily closed for renovations. • Opening TBD • 109 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150, Plano 9 Good Hand Tacos and Pupusas Enchiladas, burritos, pupusas, tortas and more Mexican food will all be on the menu at the upcoming restaurant. • Opening TBD • 1116 W. Parker Road, Ste. 300, Plano • www.ghtacosandpupusas.com 10 La Francia Joyeria The business currently has a location in Carrollton, and will sell a selection of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more. • Opening TBD • 2100 Dallas Parkway, Ste. 150 • www.lafranciajoyeria.com 11 Paris Baguette The bakery will offer baked bread, sandwiches and salads. It will also sell desserts such as full cakes and cake slices, mochi donuts, danishes and more. • Opening in summer • 3420 K Ave., Ste. 100, Plano • www.parisbaguette.com 12 Pure Green The menu will include superfoods such as smoothies, oatmeal and toasts, as well as acai bowls and cold pressed juice. • Opening in the second quarter of 2025 • 1900 Preston Road, Ste. 132, Plano • www.puregreenfranchise.com 13 Southfork Cafe The eatery will serve breakfast and lunch. The breakfast menu features a variety of egg dishes such as omelets and eggs Benedict. • Opening TBD • 1941 Preston Road, Ste. 1004, Plano • www.southforkcafetx.com 14 Two Maids The business offers recurring and one-time cleaning services. Service options also include deep cleaning, move-in or move-out cleaning, apartment cleaning and more. The company also has locations in McKinney and Fort Worth. • Opening Feb. 24

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North Plano

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South Plano

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4 MOD Facial The business specializes in facials, a company representative said, and offers several services such as hydrapurge, nanoneedling, dermaplaning and more. • Opened Jan. 16 • 1601 Preston Road, Ste. N, Plano • www.modfacial.com 5 Sazon De Loa The lunch and dinner menu features specialty items such as Cochinita Pibil and Chile Relleno. Other options include tacos, enchiladas, seafood and more. The eatery’s brunch menu offers a variety of egg dishes such as huevos rancheros and omelete De Loa. • Opened Jan. 4 • 3421 E. Renner Road, Ste. 113, Plano • www.sazondeloa.com 6 Cortica The 8,400-square-foot center in south Plano offers personalized care for neurodivergent children. • Opening Feb. 20 • 5025 W. Park Blvd., Ste. 300, Plano • www.corticacare.com

Now open

1 Crossroads Diner The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, and will soon serve dinner, the website states. The breakfast menu includes sticky buns, frittatas, pancakes and more. The lunch menu features a crispy fried chicken and warm brie cheese sandwich, build-your-own burger, salads and more. • Opened Jan. 30 • 645 Powell Lane, Plano • www.crossroads-diner.com 2 Echo Suites According to the company’s website, the hotel suites feature kitchens with cooktops and full-size refrigerators, free standard Wi-Fi and smart televisions. Dog-friendly suites are available for an extra fee. The property also has a gym and laundry facilities. • Opened Jan. 23 • 3333 E. President George Bush Highway, Plano • https://bit.ly/3ZGMOWm

3 Happy Beauty Co. The company sells makeup, skin care products,

• 2305 Coit Road, Ste. C, Plano • www.twomaidscleaning.com

fragrances and more. • Opened in November • 1900 Preston Road, Ste. 306, Plano • www.happybeautyco.com

Coming soon

7 Blo Blow-Dry Bar The business will offer blow outs, washes, updos and

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Now open

15 La Bamba Tacos The menu features tacos, quesadillas, torta con jamon, tostadas, shrimp cocktail and more. • Opened Jan. 6 • 901 W. Parker Road, Ste. 147, Plano • www.labambatacos.com

17 Kroger Marketplace The new store features a Starbucks kiosk, Murray’s Cheese counter, fuel center, full-service grocery, produce, floral, meat and seafood, pharmacy, and expanded general merchandise, including outdoor living products, home goods, apparel, toys and more.

• Opened Jan. 24 • 9617 Coit Road, Plano • www.kroger.com

16 Jashan The new restaurant offering Indian cuisine is set to open in Legacy North, according to the shopping center’s website. Construction is set to start on March 13 and finish on June 1, according to a project listed with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. • Opening TBD • 7401 Lone Star Dr., Ste. 120, Plano • www.shopsatlegacynorth.com/directory/ coming-soon-jashan Graceful Transitions The business offers services geared toward families who have lost a loved one and need help sorting through belongings or managing a home. It will serve the Dallas- Fort Worth area and surrounding cities.

• Launching March 1 • www.graceful-transitions.com

Libraries Director Libby Holtmann said that the current shelving is more than 40 years old. She added that the new shelving would be the same as in the city’s newer libraries, allowing the libraries to share shelving. • 5024 Custer Rd, Plano • www.plano.gov/1025/Schimelpfenig-Library

In the news

18 McDonald’s According to a project listed on Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, construction will start on the fast food restaurant in July, and is expected to finish on Dec. 31. • Corner of SH 121 and Coit Road • www.mcdonalds.com 19 Schimelpfenig Library The library is set for an upgrade to its shelving. Plano

Closings

20 Macy’s Clearance sales began in January and will run for approximately eight to 12 weeks. • Closing TBD • 6209 W. Park Blvd., Plano • www.macysinc.com

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Government

Plano Mayor, council seats up for grabs The city of Plano will hold elections for several council and board of trustees seats in May, including mayor. The filing period opened on Jan. 15 and closed on Feb. 14. Up for election The even-numbered Plano City Council seats are up for election. Council members Anthony Ricciardelli, Kayci Prince and Rick Smith currently hold Places 2, 4 and 8 respectively, and all three are set to hit their term limit and cannot run for re-election. Place 6 is held by Mayor John Muns, who was elected in May 2021. Election day is on May 3 and early voting will run from April 22-29.

Commission OKs new Willow Bend plan The redevelopment of The Shops at Willow Bend in Plano will now include the demolition of Macy’s, along with additional townhomes. The gist Plano Planning and Zoning Commission recom- mended approval of the new zoning and concept plan for the redevelopment, coined The Bend, during its Feb. 3 meeting. The redevelopment was initially approved last February, and included demolition of the northern half of the mall, between anchor stores Neiman Marcus and Dillard’s, according to city documents. The mall’s third anchor store, Macy’s, announced in January that its Plano location, along with 65 other locations, would be closing this year. Developer Centennial reworked the plan to now demolish the southern half of the mall, including Macy’s, preserving the section from

The redevelopment plan for The Shops at Willow Bend is being updated by the developers.

RENDERING COURTESY CENTENNIAL

Neiman Marcus to Dillard’s. “It did give us reason to pause and rethink our strategy,” said Michael Platt, Centennial executive vice president of mixed-use development. “I think you’ll see an updated plan that makes a lot of sense.” The new plan also includes the addition of 50 townhomes at the corner of Plano Parkway and Chapel Hill Boulevard.

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BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

Plano voters will consider $647M bond in May 3 election Plano voters will have the opportunity to vote on a $647 million bond referendum in May. Plano City Council called the bond election during its Feb. 10 meeting, and the 2025 bond referendum is the largest in the city’s history. The breakdown The $647 million bond will be broken down into seven propositions. Proposition A is the largest, and asks for $316.47 million for street improvements. The largest chunks will go towards arterial concrete repairs and residential street and alley repairs at $130 million and $92.75 million, respectively. The proposition was trimmed by more than $26 million from the initial proposed bond project list, as work on screening walls, sidewalks, bridges,

City seeking funds for trail construction Plano is applying for up to $5.5 million in grant funding to pay for construction of a 2-mile long trail at Los Rios Park. The specifics The 2-mile, 12-foot wide trail will connect the Cottonwood Creek Greenbelt Trail to Bob Woodruff Park Trail. The program could fund up to 80% of construction costs, according to city documents.

Bond breakdown

A Street improvements B Police HQ replacement C Police Training Center D Public safety facilities E Fleet Operations facility F Schimelpfenig Library G Parks and recreation Proposition

Cost

$316.47M $155.55M $51M $37.49M $45.14M $1.87M $40M

C E G D F

SOURCE: CITY OF PLANO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

alleys and downtown right of way infrastructure were cut from the scope of the bond. What else? The projected tax rate increase is $0.032 in 2029 if all propositions are approved, according to city documents. A virtual town hall dedicated to the 2025 bond referendum is set for April 17.

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PLANO SOUTH EDITION

Education Private School Guide

2025

Good Tree Academy Type: Montessori, religious-based Grades served: K-12 Religious orientation: Muslim Extracurricular activities: after-school clubs, athletics, spelling bee, science fair Tuition: $5,650-$8,700 annually • 3600 K Ave, Plano • www.goodtreeacademy.org John Paul II High School Type: religious-based Grades served: 9-12 Religious orientation: Catholic Extracurricular activities: athletics, school clubs,

North Texas Performing Arts Academy Type: traditional Grades served: 6-12 Religious orientation: N/A Extracurricular activities: productions outside of class, show choir Tuition: $7,400-$8,000 annually • 6121 W. Park Blvd., Ste. B216, Plano • www.ntpa.org/academy

Plano

Einstein School Type: traditional Grades served: 5-12 Religious orientation: N/A Extracurricular activities: arts, intramural sports, stock market club, games club, chess club Tuition: $16,900 annually

• 4011 W. Plano Parkway, Plano • www.theeinsteinschool.com

Prestonwood Christian Academy Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-12 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: athletics, fine arts Tuition: $7,939-$28,303 annually • 6801 W. Park Blvd., Plano • www.plano.prestonwoodchristian.org

Faith Lutheran School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-12 Religious orientation: Lutheran

fine arts, chess, robotics Tuition: $25,300 annually • 900 Coit Rd., Plano • www.johnpauliihs.org

Extracurricular activities: athletics, academic competitions, fine arts, spelling bee, talent show Tuition: $4,120-$11,540 annually • 1701 E. Park Blvd., Plano • www.flsplano.org

Prince of Peace Catholic School Type: religious-based

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Religious orientation: N/A Extracurricular activities: soccer, dance, piano, dancing Tuition: not provided

Grades served: K-8 Religious orientation: Catholic Extracurricular activities: athletics, fine arts, school clubs

Frisco

Acton Academy Type: Montessori

• 3900 Breckinridge Blvd., Richardson • www.breckinridgemontessori.com

Tuition: $10,505-$14,490 annually • 5100 W. Plano Parkway, Plano • www.popschool.net

Grades served: ages 5-12 Religious orientation: N/A Extracurricular activities: N/A Tuition: $9300-$11,200 annually • 7110 Elm St., Frisco • www.actonacademyfrisco.com

Salam Academy Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-12 Religious orientation: Islam Extracurricular activities: Quran class Tuition: $292-$629 monthly • 735 N. Plano Road, Ste. 100, Richardson • www.salamfoundation.us

Spring Creek Academy Type: traditional Grades served: 1-12 Religious orientation: N/A

Extracurricular activities: student council, National Honor Society, high school basketball Tuition: not provided

Legacy Christian Academy Type: religious-based Grades served: Pre-K 3-12 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: athletics, visual arts, drama, band, choir, various clubs Tuition: $15,400-$27,900 annually • 5000 Academy Drive, Frisco • www.legacyca.com

• 6000 Custer Road, Ste. 5, Plano • www.springcreekacademy.com

St. Joseph Catholic School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-8 Religious orientation: Catholic Extracurricular activities: athletics, clubs, dance, cheer, band, author camp, choir

St. Mark Catholic School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-8 Religious orientation: Catholic Extracurricular activities: athletics, fine arts, karate, robotics, coding, school clubs, student council Tuition: $9,575-$13,150 annually • 1201 Alma Dr., Plano • www.stmcs.net

Tuition: $9,700-$10,100 annually • 600 S. Jupiter Road, Richardson • www.stjosephccschool.net

Richardson

Breckinridge Montessori School Type: Montessori Grades served: pre-K-5

This list is not comprehensive.

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PLANO SOUTH EDITION

Education

BY DUSTIN BUTLER

PISD ‘one third’ through 2022 bond program Plano ISD’s bond projects are progressing well, Director of New Construction Tony Pearson said. The overview Since November, four Phase 1 projects—the Men- denhall Elementary employee childcare center and HVAC work for Harrington Elementary, Beverly Elementary and Andrews Elementary—have been “substantially completed,” Pearson said. Additionally, the board approved five contracts— structural repairs for Clark High School, the Career & Technical Education Center, which broke ground in November, and renovations to Plano West High School, Plano East High School and Vines High School. What else? Several Phase 2 system and compliance capital improvements are currently underway, Pearson

Plano ISD expects budget shortfall in fiscal year 2025-26 Plano ISD Chief Financial Officer Court- ney Reeves said the district is likely facing a $26.5 million deficit for the coming fiscal year. “We know we still have a lot of work to do,” Reeves said. The details Preliminary data estimates the district’s revenue at $527.29 million with a majority coming from property tax collections, Reeves said. Expenditures are estimated at $553.79 million. Additionally, Reeves said demographer projections indicate a 1.7% decline in stu- dent enrollment. The decline is an approxi- mately $7.6 million loss in revenue.

ANDREWS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

BEVERLY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

HEDGCOXE RD.

PARKER RD.

HARRINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

MENDENHALL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

said, adding that they are on track for completions in summer 2025. Quote of note “We’re a third of the way through our bond program,” said Johnny Hill, deputy superintendent for business and employee services for PISD. “One more large program and then we will have all of our major projects underway.”

Plano ISD plan aims to improve commute safety

District policy states that transportation must be provided to all students who cross:

Dallas North Tollway President George Bush Turnpike Preston Road Active railroad tracks Areas that do not have sidewalks or a safe path

Four- or six-lane roadway with a speed limit over 45 mph Four- or six-lane roadway that does not have pedestrian- activated traffic signals US 75

uncontrolled major artery road, industrial or commercial area or other comparable conditions. In total, 20 routes will be discounted and three new routes will be added. The district currently has 210 bus routes , 220 drivers and 305 buses , Ewing said. Additionally, the budget for transportation is $20.6 million with a TEA allotment of $1.5 million , leaving about a $19 million funding gap.

In an effort to make student commutes to schools safer, Plano ISD is intending to update its hazardous road policy. Diving deeper The Texas Education Agency defines a haz- ardous roadway as an area where no walkway is provided and students must walk along or across a freeway, expressway, underpass, bridge,

SOURCE: PLANO ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

DART’s Silver Line project is expected to be operational in late 2025 or early 2026.

MICHAEL CROUCHLEYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

New plan outlines vision for Plano’s Silver Line stations

Join us for an Open House! Tuesday, February 25, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

The 12th Street station calls for an “extension of the walkable ‘Main Street’ feel from historic downtown Plano to the 12th Street station,” according to the plan. The plan also denoted the south- west corner of that intersection for higher-density residential and commercial development. The city’s vision for the Dou- glass Community—a historically Black neighborhood just north- west of the upcoming 12th Street station—was not impacted due to the area’s historical signicance, according to the plan. The plan’s vision for the Shiloh station includes a walk- able mixed-use space at the intersection of Shiloh Road and 14th Street, along with space for research and technology develop- ments south of the station.

Plano has adopted a plan that will guide future development and revitalization around the upcoming Silver Line stations. What you need to know The Dallas Area Rapid Transit Silver Line—a $1.8 billion, 26-mile commuter rail that will connect Plano to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport—is expected to be operational in late 2025 or early 2026. The rail will have two stops in Plano and the Silver Line Station Areas Plan, which was adopted by council on Jan. 27, provides guidelines on how to develop the surrounding area. The specics The plan recommends a mix of uses surrounding both upcoming stations.

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PLANO SOUTH EDITION

Paving Plano From the cover

Two-minute impact

Plano overlay projects Completed overlay 2024-25 overlay Future overlay

SRT TOLL

Arterial overlay projects on sections of Los Rios Boulevard, Plano Parkway and East Parker Road finished late 2024, while three more projects are set to complete in the first half of 2025. Those three projects funded by the 2021 bond on Hedgcoxe Road from Custer Road to Preston Road, Parker Road between Preston and Parkwood Boulevard and Midway Road between Park Boulevard and Parkway are currently on hold due to winter weather, but expected to start back up in “late March or early April,” Bekele said. Additionally, a contract for work on sections of Independence Parkway and Alma Drive will go to council for approval on Feb. 24. Director of Public Works Abby Owens said that half of the city’s roads are more than 30 years old, and “preventative maintenance treatments” are needed to avoid road deterioration that requires more extensive reconstruction.

MCDERMOTT DR.

MAIN ST.

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CUSTER RD.

LEGACY DR.

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SPRING CREEK PKWY.

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INDEPENDENCE PKWY.

PARKWOOD BLVD.

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PRESTON RD.

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PLANO PKWY.

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SOURCE: CITY OF PLANO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Why it matters

Life span of a road

While creating more road work in the short term, the arterial overlay process is meant to extend the lifespan of Plano’s roads. Bekele said the arterial overlays are meant to protect the asphalt from deterioration, and last about 15-20 years before needing maintenance. Streets that undergo a concrete replacement without an overlay would need maintenance every five years, on average. “It’s way too much disruption for the public if we have to go back that frequently,” Bekele said.

1 + 2 Concrete repairs alone: 5 years

1 + 2 + 3 Concrete repairs and arterial overlay: 15-20 years

Panels of road that need to be replaced are removed. 1

Concrete is poured back. 2

An emulsion layer is put down, and a machine called a spray paver applies the overlay. 3

SOURCE: PLANO SENIOR ENGINEER SAMSON BEKELE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

What they’re saying

What’s next

In Plano’s most recent citizen survey, conducted in 2022, maintenance of city streets was ear- marked as the city’s top priority. Street maintenance ranked as the fifth-top pri- ority for city residents, while only 57% of respon- dents were satisfied with Plano’s current level of street maintenance—the four public safety related categories that ranked above street maintenance in importance all had more than 90% satisfaction. The survey also showed that 36% of respondents were satisfied with the city’s traffic congestion, below the national average of 47%. Bekele noted the process of concrete replace- ment and overlays can take 18-24 months. Parker Road is one Plano roadway that has seen traffic impacts from arterial overlay projects, a recently completed water main replacement and multiple intersection improvement projects. Amber Lopez is the owner of Woof Pack, a dog grooming and boarding business at the corner of Parker and Alma. The business opened in August

and Lopez said that she’s already seen the impacts of Parker’s extensive construction. “A lot of our customers have said that the traffic and construction has been ongoing for more than a year and they hate it,” Lopez said. “Some people are avoiding Parker altogether.” Council member Maria Tu acknowledged the negative impacts of Plano’s road construction, but called it “necessary.” “We cannot have that continuously,” Tu said. “But we need to look 20 years down the road.”

With 31 miles of arterial overlays already done, Bekele said the city plans to complete 9 more miles of road each year, on average. The ultimate goal, he added, is to have arterial overlays on every Plano road by 2036, making the city’s streets less prone to needing maintenance going forward. Voters will decide whether or not to fund the next 38 miles of overlay projects in May.

$2M cost per mile

$3.45M cost per mile

0 4 8 12 16

"We have to take care of a city that had a huge growth period, and now is asking for us to repair it so that it will be relevant for the

next 30 or 40 years." JOHN MUNS, PLANO MAYOR

SOURCE: CITY OF PLANO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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PLANO SOUTH EDITION

Events

Nonpro t

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

BY KAREN CHANEY

Journey of Hope Program Director Kerri New- man said the mission of the nonprot organization is to renew hope, foster healing and develop resil- ience in the hearts of children and their families grieving the death of a loved one. “We are the soft landing, a place where kids don’t feel alone in their grief journey,” Newman said. “People can be afraid to talk about the death [of their loved one]. We teach that grief is not a sign of weakness.” The approach Journey of Hope oers twice-a-month meetings in Plano and Frisco. Every meeting begins with dinner, then children will split based on grade level. Parents and caregivers are divided based on their relationship with the person who passed. Journey of Hope oers grief counseling for children, parents

• $20-$250 • Legacy Hall and Box Garden, 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano • www.legacyfoodhall.com

March

Texas Independence Day Festival Legacy Hall is hosting a Texas themed festival with themed drinks, craft beer tastings, live country music and more. Attendees will also have the opportunity to reserve VIP lounges for the event. • March 2, 2 p.m. • $17-$480 • Legacy Hall and Box Garden, Mardi Gras at FIZZ FIZZ in west Plano is hosting a Mardi Gras celebration. • March 4, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. • Free (admission) • FIZZ, 3310 Dallas Parkway, Ste. 115, Plano • www.izzplano.com 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano • www.legacyfoodhall.com Play Hooky Dallas The event known as Ditch Day Dallas is returning as “Play Hooky Dallas,” an event that encourages attendees to “trade in our workday blues for good times.” The event will feature live DJs, line dancing, lawn games and more. • March 14, 11 a.m.

St. Patty’s Day at Ringo’s Pub The pub in the Shops at Legacy is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day event where attendees are encouraged to dress in green and come celebrate the holiday. • March 17 • Free (admission) • Ringo’s Pub, 5865 Kincaid Road, Plano • www.ringospub.com The Texas Golf Expo The event will feature vendors selling golf equipment, apparel, accessories and rounds. Attendees will also have the chance to demo new golf products and win several freebies. • March 21-23 • $15, free (kids 16 and under) • Plano Event Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano • www.texasgolfexpo.com

Kerri Newman and Dick Evans sit at the nonprot’s headquarters in Plano.

Activities are age-appropriate with a goal of giving participants the opportunity to share memories about their loved ones.

Texas Forever Fest 2025 The city of Plano is hosting its annual Texas Forever Fest. The event meant to celebrate Texas food, art and music will feature live music, activities, vendors and more. The Spirit of Texas is also hosting the Texas Whiskey Festival at the event. • March 22, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • Haggard Park, 901 E. 15th St., Plano • www.plano.gov/2060/Texas-Forever-Fest

Activities are age-appropriate with a goal of giving participants the opportunity to share mem- ories about their loved ones. Activities can include art projects, charades, journaling and more. Dick Evans, Journey of Hope interim executive director, said many group facilitators were former participants, and over half have experienced the death of a loved one.

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FIRST EDITION!

A TOUR OF THE STATE, MADE ESPECIALLY FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT FEBRUARY 2025

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

EXCURSIONS: A Port Aransas Quest CRITTER: Black-Tailed Prairie Dog OUT THERE: Meanwhile, in Texas MADE IN TEXAS: A Western Wear Pair FEATURE PREVIEW: Panhandle Fires, One Year Later

Above: Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, in Port Aransas.

PLANO SOUTH EDITION

TEXAS MONTHLY FEBRUARY 2025

Dear Fellow Texan, WELCOME

I couldn’t be prouder and more excited to bring you this special edition of Texas Monthly ’s February issue within the pages of Community Impact . One great Texas institution meets another. Community Impact and Texas Monthly have shared goals: to equip you with the news and perspectives that help you understand your state and your neighborhood and inspire you to engage with the people and places that surround you. Each month, we’ll provide you a kind of sampler of what Texas Monthly has to offer. Food, drink, travel, critters, and a taste of some of the award-winning storytelling Texas Monthly is known for. Enjoy the next few pages, thank you for welcoming us into your home, and please consider subscribing to Texas Monthly. —ROSS McCAMMON

EXCURSIONS Among the Craniacs North America’s tallest bird stalks Port Aransas once again. Its fans are back too. BY ROSE CAHALAN

I'M LEANING ON the rail of the Scat Cat, a red-and-white charter fishing boat in Aran- sas Bay, when two bottlenose dolphins leap majestically out of the water alongside our wake. The midday February sun gleams on their fins as the pair chases us. “Look!” I shout. A few of my sixty or so fellow passengers turn to watch, but this is only a warm-up for the real stars of the show: the whooping cranes. Today’s tour is part of the Whooping Crane Festival, an annual four-day winter celebra- tion of one of the continent’s rarest avian

species—and its tallest. About two thousand birders have descended on Port Aransas, a Gulf Coast town of around 2,900 residents on Mustang Island, for the twenty-seventh iteration, which is packed with more than fifty events, including birding tours and lectures by scientists. (This year’s festival happens February 20–23.) Before the arrival of European settlers, more than ten thousand of these birds soared across the continent, but habitat destruction and overhunting drove them to the brink. By

EDITOR IN CHIEF, TEXAS MONTHLY

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Its Reputation As a Ranch Pest Is Changing. The most common of the five species of prairie dogs in North America, these charismatic creatures today inhabit only about 2 percent of their native range, which once covered roughly 100 million acres of the Great Plains. Agriculture and urban development have consumed much of that habitat, and some ranch- ers, worried that these prairie dogs were competing with cattle for grass, exter- minated them. It turns out, though, that they are beneficial for grasslands. SO HOW DO THEY HELP? Prairie dogs nibble down the woody shrubs that could hide their predators and that often take over grasslands. This preserves habitat for birds and animals such as pronghorn. Plus, the rodents’ digging mixes and aerates the soil, and their scat provides nutrients. HOW DO WE KNOW FOR SURE? Scientists collected data from a group of GPS collar–wearing cattle that grazed on three pastures within a pre- serve. In warm seasons, the herd spent more time on the prairie dog colony than in areas outside it. I HEARD THEY CARRY PLAGUE. IS THAT TRUE? Prairie dogs are susceptible to the syl- vatic plague, caused by the same bac- terium as the bubonic plague. But it’s primarily fleas, not rodents, that spread it. At a respectful distance, you can en- joy them without fear. —Robyn Ross CRITTER BLACK�TAILED PRAIRIE DOG

early efforts to revive whooping cranes with captive breeding. During several breeding seasons in the late seventies and early eight- ies, he even lived in a shed with a female crane named Tex, who had imprinted on humans after hatching at the San Antonio Zoo. “Cranes require a great deal of space,” Ar- chibald said. “Each species selects a different type of wetland or grassland.” Unfortunately, those are some of the most easily destroyed habitats: With no trees to cut down, develop- ers can simply pave them over. Captive breed- ing has played a crucial role in the comeback of the species. In the past decade, the Dallas Zoo has picked up the baton, as one of seven organizations in the U.S. and Canada to carry on Archibald’s legacy of breeding baby whoop- ing cranes to release in the wild.

1941 only 21 whooping cranes were left in the wild. Today, after decades of extensive conservation work, there are about 700 wild whoopers left. Wherever there are cranes, there are crani- acs. The birders who visit Port Aransas—“We estimate the economic impact to be near $1 million,” says Brett Stawar, president and CEO of the town’s tourism bureau—bring with them an intense enthusiasm. The undisputed king of the craniacs is George Archibald, the 78-year-old cofounder of the International Crane Foundation. Archibald was a leader in

A birder at Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, in Port Aransas, on December 14, 2024; birders in Port Aransas; a sign at the preserve.

PLANO SOUTH EDITION

January 18-February 14

Give your loved one the ultimate symbol of endless love… a hissing cockroach.

Stop by the Museum Store to visit our Valentine's Roach Motel!

Endless Love supports conservation efforts of the Cockrell Butterfly Center

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TEXAS MONTHLY FEBRUARY 2025

MADE IN TEXAS

All Loud on the Western Wear Front With its bold colors and modern designs, the Kennimer label is drawing the attention of pop stars and New York Fashion Week.

Meanwhile, In Texas OUT THERE

BY TAYLOR PREWITT

A video of a horse riding in the back seat of a pickup truck in Fort Worth went viral on social media, with one viewer commenting “living in fort worth this normal to me at this point.” A woman in Dallas booked a rental car for one day, then drove to Wash- ington State and continued to use the vehicle for 46 days , telling Spokane authorities that she didn’t return the car because she was too busy. Claiming to be a member of the U.S. Army’s Delta Force special opera- tions unit, a man from Manor de- frauded victims of more than $12 million by falsely telling them that they were at risk of violence from drug cartels and offering “protec- tion” in exchange for money. A Richardson resident was named CNN’s 2024 Hero of the Year for running a nonprofit in North Texas that helps people going into treat- ment for addiction find temporary homes for their dogs. Billionaire Tilman Fertitta became the first restaurateur in Texas to of fer A5 Wagyu bone-in ribeyes from the Kagoshima region of Japan, which he sells at one of his Houston steakhouses for $1,000 each. Researchers at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi detect- ed low levels of fentanyl and other pharmaceuticals in the blubber of dolphins swimming in the Gulf of Mexico. —Meher Yeda

while Ben, who hails from the small East Tex- as town of Latch and previously worked in graphic design, handles the hats. They jump in to help each other with tedious tasks such as adding rhinestones or handsewing when needed. “We’ve always just worked well to- gether,” Ben says, recalling early collabora- tive projects that included a hot dog–cart side hustle and a screen-printing business. They work as a team to conceive a collection’s overarching look and theme. The couple are motivated by their network of musician friends, many of whom have be- come clients. “We’re excited to show people it’s not a trend,” says Bonnie of Western style. “It’s a staple.” They’re looking forward to de- buting a few couture looks in New York. Some of the pieces, which incorporate subtle nods to the Victorian era (such as high collars and covered buttons), are so intricate that they required around seventy hours of detailed handsewing.

IN LESS THAN a decade, Ben and Bonnie Kennimer have gone from teaching them- selves hat making and clothing design to cus- tomizing looks for some of music’s biggest stars. Their eponymous Western wear label, which they founded in Houston in 2017, is fa- vored by Fort Worth songwriter and soul sing- er Leon Bridges, the Houston trio Khruang- bin, DJ and producer Diplo, and pop star Joe Jonas. One of Bonnie’s dresses, for renowned songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jenee Fleenor, is housed at Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame. And this February the couple will take their creations to a New York Fashion Week runway for the first time. Now based in Bonnie’s hometown of Aus- tin, the married couple splits the work down the middle: Bonnie, who has a background in costuming and tailoring, designs the clothes,

Ben and Bonnie Kennimer.

PLANO SOUTH EDITION

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An estimated 15,000 head of cattle were killed in the Panhandle fires of February 2024.

flag warnings, an alert the National Weath- er Service issues a few dozen times a year in the Panhandle when a combination of strong winds and low humidity increases the risk of extreme wildfire. Though rain had been plentiful that winter and grass was thriving, unseasonably warm February temperatures had dried it out quickly. What should have beenarancher’sblessing—bountifulfieldsfor grazing—had instead turned into something ominous: “fuel load.” Adam, a 31-year-old with a slight build, shag- gy brown hair, and bright blue eyes, has the plumb posture of a man who takes pride in his work.He’dstartedpreppingforfireseasonthe week before, securing insurance for most of the 712 cattle he owned with his wife, Aubrie, a 30-year-old with sympathetic brown eyes and strawberry blond hair. They’d decided against paying the higher premiums to cover the full herd, largely because they’d made it through the previous five seasons unburned. Adam was no stranger to fire risks. The youngest of two boys, he’d known he want- ed to be in the cattle business since he was a five-year-old playing with a toy Ford pickup that was identical to the one his dad drove around their family’s ranch in Canadian, an almost utopian hamlet of 2,300 in the rolling sand hills and caprocks northeast of Amarillo. Adam earned a degree in ranch management at Texas Tech University. That’s where he met Aubrie, the daughter of an accountant and a rodeo competitor turned professor who’d given up horses when his children were born. To read the full story, please subscribe to Texas Monthly .

WHEN THE TOWERING black plume first sprouted on the western horizon, it wasn’t much cause for alarm. The sky in the north- eastern Panhandle is near-boundless, and from his Hemphill County ranch Adam Isaacs often spottedsmokefromfiresthatwereahundred miles away. Few of them ever threatened his property. This one, he knew, had gotten started roughly seventy miles west, and though the winds were blowing his way, the flames had a lot of ground to cover before Adam would allow himself to get concerned. His land, his livestock, his loved ones—none were at risk. Not right away. But the potential was there. That Monday morning, February 26, had brought one of the 2024 fire season’s first red

FEATURE PREVIEW

Where There’s Smoke After last year’s historic Panhandle inferno, Adam and Aubrie Isaacs are among the many ranchers in the region weighing how—and whether—to carry on. BY EMILY McCULLAR

READ THIS FEATURE AND MORE IN THE FEBRUARY ISSUE TK AUDIENCE SPACE

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PLANO SOUTH EDITION

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