Family safe after house fire on Church Street, near Finch Park on July 1

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 9:45 p.m. on July 2, 2009

Pablo Oliva and his family are safe and sound after their home in the 600 block of Church Street, just one block north of the Boys and Girls Club in McKinney, caught fire midday on July 1.

About 50 percent of the one-story home's interior was consumed in the fire, which is believed to have started due to a window air conditioner unit that caught fire, according to Oliva's 16-year-old Yesenia, said Fire Captain Bill South of the McKinney Fire Department. Yesenia and her younger cousin were in the home when the fire began and quickly left the house unharmed. Her father had recently spent $6,000 to install new cabinets, sheetrock and other improvements to the interior, which was destroyed in the fire.

South, along with fire fighters, emergency management technicians, and paramdeics from Fire Station 1, 2, 4, and 6, arrived at the house around 12:30 p.m.

While the Olivas won't be staying in their home this Fourth of July holiday, they do have home insurance. Oliva said he was planning to call his insurance agent and to notify members of his church at St. Michael's Catholic Church in McKinney.

Pictured in the photo above are McKinney fire fighters who finish extinguishing a fire at a home in the 600 block of Church Street, near Finch Park in McKinney on July 1. Photo by Brandi Hart / McKinneyUpdate.com editor

McKinney Red, White and Boom returns July 4 with fireworks, parade

Annual Killis Melton Ice Cream Crank Off to add some flavor to Chestnut Square on July 4

The McKinney free Red, White and Boom Independence Day event returns to downtown and Craig Ranch with festivities that will entice car enthusiasts, entertain children and will end with a dazzling fireworks display to commemorate the holiday.

Red, White and Boom events will begin at 10 a.m. with an antique car show that will be held until 4 p.m. and many cars are expected to be housed on the lot as the 2008 Red, White and Boom car show included more than 200 cars. Full article

Council members disclose interest in property near future roads, companies in financial statements

Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 10:14 p.m. on July 1, 2009

Four of the five McKinney City Council members who did not run for office in the May election have filed their personal financial statements, and one of the four council members who filed their most recent reports in April show interest in property along the proposed Farm-to-Market Road 543 Connector Route.

Council member for District 2 Geralyn Kever listed in her personal financial statement dated April 28 that she and her spouse share an interest in the Seeds for the Future LP, which owns about 40 acres south of the proposed FM 543 Connector Route that the city is planning to build west of Lake Forest Drive.

The road is slated to be an east to west road north of US 380 and will connect to US 75. Kever has recused herself from any votes taken concerning the FM 543 Connector Route due to her interest in the Seeds for the Future LP.

Council member at-large Pete Huff owns stock in various national companies, which range from owning 1,000 to 4,999 shares in the Colgate-Palmolive Company; 500 to 999 shares in General Mills; a 1,000 to 4,999 shares in McDonald's; and 1,000 to 4,999 shares in Independent Bank. Huff included 13 double sided pages of stock that he owns in his April 28 personal financial statement. Full article

Cooper Clinic closes its doors in Craig Ranch due to the economic downturn

Cooper Aerobics Center in McKinney still thriving

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 7:20 p.m. on June 29, 2009

Cooper Clinic at Craig Ranch in McKinney is no more as it has closed its doors for good on June 12 due to a downturn in the economy, officials said on June 29.

The clinic closed because it did not have the demand for patients to keep the clinic open, said Amy George, Director of Communications at the Cooper Aerobics Center in Dallas and McKinney. The Cooper Clinic at Craig Ranch employed five physicians, who have since relocated to the Cooper Clinic in Dallas, and also employed about 20 staff members, George said.

David Craig, President of Craig International said on June 29 that the Cooper Clinic is a fine organization and has been a valued tenant at Craig Ranch. Full article

Judge Roach, Jr. recuperating after encounter with gun filled with blanks was fired in training exercise

Collin County District Judge John Roach, Jr. is recuperating after a firearm filled with blanks was discharged near his face during a training exercise on June 27, Collin County Sheriff's Office officials said on June 29.

The incident occurred at approximately 10 a.m. during a training exercise that involved personnel from the CCSO, Collin County Homeland Security, Collin County District Attorneys Office, McKinney Police Department, and volunteers from the community participated in a training exercise at the Collin Court House in the 296th District Court.

A firearm loaded with blanks and used by a volunteer actor accidentally discharged near the face of Roach, Jr. He suffered injury to both eyes and was transported to Plano Medical Center for treatment.  Roach was then released and is at home recuperating, CCSO officials said.

P&Z commissioners highlight strengths and weaknesses facing McKinney development

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 11 p.m. on June 28, 2009

The pace of growth, variety of development types and the McKinney ISD were some of many strengths that the McKinney Planning and Zoning Commission members compiled in a recent retreat. Full article

City offices to close on July 3 for Fourth of July holiday

Oak Hollow Golf Course to remain open

City of McKinney offices will be closed on Fri., July 3 in observance of the Independence Day Holiday on July 4. The refuse recycling collections will remain the same for the holiday.

McKinney City Hall and other city administrative offices will be closed, along with the Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Public Library, 101 E. Hunt Closed will be closed July 3 through July 5.Full article

Former Lowry Crossing City Secretary Eddie Sturgal turns himself in to local authorities
for allegations of stealing $13k from city funds

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 11:14 a.m. on June 26, 2009

Former city of Lowry Crossing City Secretary Eddie Sturgal turned himself into Collin County Sheriff's Office personnel at 10:20 a.m. on June 26 for allegations of stealing $13,000 from city funds in 2008, said Sgt. Ron James of the CCSO. Full article

Collin County Jail passes annual inspection for 22 consecutive years

The Collin County Detention Facility has passed its annual jail occupancy inspection with flying colors.  The detention facilities, both the main jail and minimum security, were inspected this month by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards (T.C.J.S.).

The facilities passed all of the more than 600 points inspected that cover areas from fire drills and life safety equipment to the laundry and kitchen facilities.

This is the 22nd consecutive annual inspection of Collin County Detention Facilities and the 15th in the current facility that have been successfully completed.

Collin County Sheriff Terry Box stated, "I attribute the success of the facility to the hard work, dedication and professionalism of the detention staff.  I am very pleased with the results of the inspection.”

Former council member Bill Vitz celebrates opening of new law office

On June 19 former City Council member for District 3 Bill Vitz celebrated the opening of his new law office, where his son, Tony Vitz his son-in-law Gene Sera, who are also attorneys, work at 1413 Harroun Street, one block south of US 380, and south of the University Drive Collin County Courts Facility in McKinney.

Pictured in the photo on the left are McKinney City Manager Frank Ragan, McKinney Community Development Corporation board member Joe Maxey, McKinney Economic Development Corp. President David Pitstick, MCDC Chairman Ray Eckenrode, and Bill Vitz. Photo by Brandi Hart / McKinneyUpdate.com

Police and fire fighters to help Serenity High School students in golf tourney on June 29

The McKinney Police and Fire departments are picking up their golf clubs to fight neighborhood crime by participating in the 5th Annual Partners Against Crime Golf Play Day on June 29 at Eldorado Country Club.

The event is hosted by the Partners Against Crime (PAC) program, a collaborative effort of McKinney public safety officers, residents, and city and county officials to reduce crime and bring education and awareness to drug prevention. Proceeds will benefit Serenity High School in the McKinney ISD, which is a school designed for students who have substance abuse problems.

“Serenity High School provides a safe education to students who have successfully completed drug and alcohol treatment. Not only does Serenity rebuild confidence and restore respect, but the educators take an active role in PAC by changing lives for the betterment of the entire community,” said Awareness and Education Officer Randy Haak.

Registration for the tournament starts at 8 a.m. on Mon., June 29, and spots for foursomes are still available for the rotating tee scramble. For information about cost and registering, contact Haak at 972-547-2795.

MEDC board offers 10-acre property incentive for Traxus Technologies to relocate to McKinney

President David Pitstick says city needs to tighten up land uses to help spur development

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 9:35 p.m. on June 23, 2009

The McKinney Economic Development Corporation is hoping that a North Texas area remote control toy manufacturing company has its sites set on moving to McKinney as the MEDC's Board of Directors recently approved an incentive to give 10 acres of land to the company.

The MEDC board voted on June 18 to give Traxus 10 acres of land located in what is known as the University Business Park north of University Drive, which is also known as US 380, near Redbud Boulevard. Full article

Last day of McKinney P &Z retreat focusing on development issues is June 23

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor

The last day of the McKinney Planning and Zoning Commission Retreat is June 23 and commissioners will meet with city staff and a two consultants from 2 to 5 p.m. today.

The city paid $10,000 to two consultants to review and monitor development trends and progress on the city's Comprehensive Plan over the course of three workshops, with the last one being held on June 23. at the Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library, 101 E. Hunt St.

The June 23 retreat meeting will include a work session to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunity threats and to prioritize actions and issues. The retreat will include a discussion of implementation of the city's Comprehensive Plan; identify adjustments needed to achieve plan goals, prioritize issues and actions, and to determine next steps; and will focus on building teamwork.

Council member for District 2 and P & Z Commission council liaison Geralyn Kever and P & Z Commission Chairman Robbie Clark organized the retreat.

The P & Z Commission retreat is open to the public and McKinney City Council members may also attend the meeting, but a council meeting will not be held in conjunction with the June 23 meeting, according to the agenda on the city's Web site www.mckinneytexas.org under the Development Services drop down menu and under the P & Z Agenda link.

For more information, call the city at 972-547-7500.

Stonebridge Ranch to host fireworks show to people who live in the Stonebridge development on July 3

Created at 6:20 p.m. on June 22, 2009

The Stonebridge Ranch residential development and the Adriatica commercial and residential development in McKinney are having a Fourth of July fireworks show and live entertainment on July 3 at Adriatica for Stonebridge Ranch residents.

According to a newsletter about Adriatica that was sent on June 3, the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association and Adriatica are hosting the fireworks events for residents of Stonebridge Ranch. The newsletter also says the event will "no longer have Stonebridge Ranch residents driving south for festivities as this year the SBRCA is also providing live entertainment at the amphitheater at Adriatica." The event is being paid for by the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association and not by city funds.

For more information about the Stonebridge Ranch July 3 celebration, call the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association at 214-733-5800. Adriatica is at the southeast corner of Virginia Parkway and Stonebridge Drive in McKinney.

The city of McKinney is also holding the Red, White and Boom Fourth of July event for the second year in a row at both Craig Ranch, in southwest McKinney, and in downtown McKinney. Morning events will be held in downtown McKinney, east of US 75 and just west of State Highway 5, with a parade that will begin at 10:30 a.m. Evening events will kick off at 4:30 p.m. at The Soccer Fields at Craig Ranch. The rock band IMI and the country band Texas Gypsies will perform before a fireworks show that will occur after the concerts.

Red, White and Boom is a family event that is free and open to the public, and all McKinney residents as the event is being paid for by McKinney taxpayers through the city's budget and the McKinney Community Development Corporation, and is also being co-sponsored by Craig Ranch. The events in Craig Ranch are also open to all McKinney residents and the general public.

For more information about the 2009 McKinney Red, White and Boom event, click here or visit the city's Web site www.mckinneytexas.org .

City to postpone demolition of former courthouse on State Highway 5

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 10:30 p.m. on June 19, 2009

McKinney City Council members voted on June 16 to postpone the demolition of the former Collin County Courthouse on State Highway 5 as they want to look at the cost associated with building a new government center in its place.

The city owns the site of the former courthouse at 210 S. McDonald St., which is also known as SH 5, in McKinney, and the site includes two annexes, including Annex A, which housed the former Collin County Jail.

Council member for District 1 Don Day said at the June 16 council meeting that he wants the city to postpone the demolition of the former courthouse for the next 180 days due to concerns with the cost associated with the city demolishing the building to erect a 45,000 square foot new government center in its place.

A quorum of four council members previously voted in the last six months to demolish the former courthouse and Annex A, located north of the six story courthouse, and to build a new, green or sustainable government center that would initially be 45,000 square feet in its place. An option to renovate the existing structure was not approved by the council.

Day said the estimated costs associated with building phase one of the new government center, which will house the Development Services Department staff members, are three to four times the amount it cost simply to construct the expansion of the Grand Hotel Day recently built in downtown McKinney.

Day suggested that the council wait for the Collin County Commissioner's Court to adopt a resolution to deal with the fact that Texas Historical Commission officials sent a letter to Collin County Judge Keith Self that the county did not notify the THC about the sale of the courthouse to the city years ago, which is required by law under the Texas Government Code. For more information about the THC and courthouse sale issue, read the following story listed in the column on the left, or by clicking here .Full article

Council members Day, Ussery to discuss postponing demolition of courthouse at Tues. June 16 meeting

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 9:35 p.m. on June 14, 2009

The demolition of the former Collin County Courthouse at 210 S. McDonald St. may be put on hold as two McKinney City Council members are going to ask the city staff to look at the cost estimates associated with demolishing the building and constructing a new building it its place.Full article

Former Mayor Bill Whitfield honored by family, friends and Crape Myrtle Trails board members

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor

Congressman Sam Johnson, McKinney Airport Development Corporation Board member Harry McKillop, Mayor Brian Loughmiller, former McKinney Mayor John Gay, Council member for District 2 Geralyn Kever, and about 160 other people at Pat Lobb Toyota on June 7 to celebrate former McKinney Mayor Bill Whitfield's time he spent on the McKinney City Council and as mayor.

Whitfield's daughter Michele spoke at the event, along with Johnson, McKillop, who is a long-time EDS employee and Whitfield's close friend, Loughmiller and Pat Lobb. Whitfield's granddaughter also sang "The Wind Beneath My Wings" to Whitfield and his wife of more than 60 years, Jo Ann. Whitfield credited being married to Jo Ann for more than 60 years as being his greatest achievement and listed that as a quote on photos of he and Jo Ann that were displayed at the event. The Crape Myrtle Trails hosted the event to honor Whitfield, who also sat on the Crape Myrtle Trails board.

Whitfield thanked everyone for attending and said that he was very proud to have served on council and as mayor. Johnson specifically credited Whitfield's tireless efforts on working with the Council of Government's Regional Transportation Council on expanding US 75 at State Highway 121.

Whitfield could not run for re-election as mayor as he had exhausted his term limits in the mayor seat.

Pictured in the top photo is Congressman Sam Johnson speaking to the crowd as Harry McKillop, pictured seated on the left, his wife, former Mayor Bill Whitfield, and his wife, Jo Ann listen. Pictured in the lower photo are Whitfield and City Manager Frank Ragan, of whom Whitfield was instrumental in hiring. Whitfield has publicly said that one of his greatest achievements at mayor was getting Frank Ragan to come to McKinney. Photos by Brandi Hart/ McKinneyUpdate.com

City leaders eye rezoning the four city council districts in near future

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpate.com editor
Created at 10 p.m. on June 29, 2009

The four McKinney City Council districts could look a little different in coming years as city officials are discussing the idea of rezoning the districts so they better represent the city's population.

Currently District 4, which includes most of Stonebridge Ranch and areas north of US 380 and west of US 75, such as Tucker Hill and McKinney Heights, located northeast of Raytheon, has the largest amount of people and coverage area. District 1, which includes areas east of Kentucky Street to Airport Drive and to north of US 380 along the State Highway 5 corridor, to just east of McKinney High School and south, to the Collin County Regional Airport, has the lowest population. Full article

New solar panel to be unveiled at Minshew Elementary on June 12

McKinney ISD has no reports on usage of existing solar panels, cisterns and windmills at other green campuses, according to school officials

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 9:30 a.m. on June 12, 2009

Through this initiative, McKinney ISD will have the opportunity to use one of the most high tech green teaching tools available, a photovoltaic (PV) solar electricity system, donated by TXU Energy.

To facilitate this project, TXU Energy is planning a Solar Academy Workshop for McKinney ISD teachers until 3 p.m. on Fri., June 12 in the library at Minshew Elementary. The workshop is planned to educate teachers on the importance of delivering interactive experiences about solar energy. A ribbon cutting ceremony is also planned for 11:45 a.m. on June 12 at the solar panel installation site at Minshew Elementary. Full article

Families of local service men and women honored by city leaders

Local family members of service men and women who are currently serving in the United States Armed Services overseas were given Blue Star Flags to hang in their windows of their homes to honor their family members by members of the McKinney City Council on June 2.

Pictured from left are Dennis and Pamela Dotson who accepted a Blue Star Flag from Council member for District 4 Ray Ricchi on behalf of the Dotsons' sons Travis Hitt and Casey Hitt. The Hitts are the city's first family to receive two Blue Star Flags to honor two family members currently serving overseas.

To view more photos click here .

July 10 storms leave uprooted trees, downed power lines in their paths throughout North Texas

Pictured in the photo on the left is Jeff Reinhard, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Craig International, Inc. standing near a large pecan tree that was uprooted by high winds near the TPC at Craig Ranch of McKinney. Courtesy photo from Peggy Broughton.

Deadline to participate in the McKinney Red, White and Boom downtown parade is June 26

Annual Killis Melton Ice Cream Crank Off included in this year's Red, White and Boom event on July 4

Created at 2 p.m. on June 11, 2009

The deadline for people to enter the Red, White & Boom Fourth of July parade that will be held in downtown McKinney is closely approaching.

This year's Red, White and Boom event will be held on one day only this year, on July 4 in both downtown McKinney and in Craig Ranch. The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. on July 4 and the parade will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Full article

Collin County Committee on Aging drastically cutting Meals on Wheels, CCART programs

CCCOA creates waiting list for Meals on Wheels program, asks for help from community

Created at 8:45 p.m. on June 9, 2009

The slowdown in the national economy is hitting home in more ways that one and is threatening the Meals on Wheels and Collin County Committee on Aging programs in Collin County as the agency is eliminating its weekend and evening meal programs. Full article

City hires new assistant to the city manager

Aretha Harvey of Fremont, Calif. chosen for city leadership team

McKinney City Manager Frank Ragan announced the hiring of Aretha Harvey to the Assistant to the City Manager position that has been vacant for about a month-and-a-half.

Harvey is an ICMA Local Government Management Fellow and is currently a Management Analyst for the City Manager’s Office in Fremont , Calif. She will start July 6. Full article

Congrats to the MISD Class of 2009

The McKinney High School, McKinney North High School and McKinney Boyd High School graduating classes of 2009 celebrated their end of their public education on June 5 at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano.

Pictured in the photo on the left are the top 10 students of the 2009 graduating class of MHS. They are Valedictorian David Oleson, pictured on the far

right; Salutatorian Eric Prinslow; Jerod Coker, who was ranked third in the class; Thor Lund, who was ranked fourth in the class; Reid Garcia, who was ranked fifth in the class; Grant Hertzog, who was ranked sixth in the class; Justin Montgomery, who was ranked seventh in the class; Jessica Carver, who was ranked eighth in the class; Curtis Christian, who was ranked ninth in the class, and is the son of MHS math teacher Keith Christian, who is leaving MHS for a job in the Lovejoy ISD; and David Cullinan, who was ranked 10th in the class.

Pictured in the photo on the left is Colton Fries who receives his diploma and shakes hands with McKinney ISD Board of Trustee Lynn Sperry during the McKinney Boyd HS graduation. Pictured on the far left is McKinney ISD Superintendent Tom Crowe.
Photo by Brandi Hart/ McKinneyUpdate.com.

Pictured in the photo on the left are some members of the McKinney North HS graduatng class of 2009. Courtesy photo

Teams from across Texas and other states visit McKinney for the PFX Tournament in Craig Ranch

Softball teams from throughout Texas and other states got a taste of McKinney on May 30 and 31 as they participated in the 2009 PFX Softball Tournament. Held at The Ballfields at Craig Ranch, Roundrock based Texas Blaze pitcher Staci Johns throws a ball to a Texas Elite player from Oklahoma on May 31.

Photo by Brandi Hart / McKinneyUpdate.com

S & S Wood Moldings to become first Texas based wood molding manufacturer to be FSC certified

By Sherie Ellington
Director of Marketing for the McKinney Economic Development Corporation

MEF awards $324,425 in scholarships on May 29 to McKinney ISD students

Created at 8:20 p.m. on June 2, 2009

The McKinney Education Foundation awarded a record amount in scholarship money at its annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony on May 29 by giving out a total of $324,425.

“This community has shown its commitment to education by contributing in such a significant way during these economic times,” says MEF Executive Director Melanie Perkins.  “This year, more than ever, scholarships can make the difference for these students to be able to attend college, and we want to thank everyone who made these scholarships possible.” Full article

McKinney ISD Fifth Grade Choral Celebration Concerts set for June 1, 2

The McKinney ISD combined voices of the elementary school fifth grade choirs will be heard tonight, June 1 and on June 2 during the district's Choral Celebration Concerts.

The choirs of Eddins ES, Finch ES, R. Johnson ES, Malvern ES, McGowen ES, Minshew ES, Press ES, Vega ES, Webb ES, Wilmeth ES, and Wolford ES will perform at 7 p.m. on June 1 at the auditorium of McKinney North High School, 2550 Wilmeth Road.

The choirs of Bennett ES, Burks ES, Caldwell ES, Glen Oaks ES, McNeil ES, Slaughter ES, Valley Creek ES, and Walker ES will perform at 7 p.m. on Tues., June 2 in the auditorim of MNHS.

Artists abound in downtown for the Art Walk

Hundreds of artists displayed their art work in downtown McKinney on May 30 for the McKinney Art Walk. Pictured in the photo on the left is McKinney artist Jessica Hogan standing next to her painting "Ray."

The painting is for sale for $3,000 and includes painted vinyl albums that are mounted on three to four boards. Hogan used found objects, such as vinyl records, or albums in her parents' attic and she put them to good use and painted the late singer Ray Charles's face on top of the albums, whose shapes be seen in the background of the painting.

Pictured in the photo on the left is another McKinney based artist Blynda Christian, who owns the Art Institute of McKinney. Christian painted pictures of dogs and other animals and items in front of the Mom and Popcorn Company in downtown on May 30.

Photos by Brandi Hart / McKinneyUpdate.com

Council to discuss operations of city's Development Services Division on June 1

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 8 p.m. on May 31, 2009

City officials and the McKinney City Council will discuss hiring firms to review the operations of the city's Development Services Division and to see how efficient the department is for residents and its customers during a council work session meeting on June 1. Full article

Police arrest robber who brandished a sword at a 7-11 store in McKinney

Created at 10:26 p.m. on May 27, 2009

McKinney police arrested a 22-year-old male who brandished a sword at the 7-11 at 7990 Eldorado Parkway in the early hours of May 27.

Officers with the McKinney Police Department responded to an aggravated robbery at the 7-11 Convenience Store after the store clerk called 911 to report that an unknown Asian male dressed in all black clothing had just entered the store, displayed a sword, and demanded cash and cigarettes from him, said Lt. Scott Brewer. Full article

McKinney Pediatrics breaks ground on new facility

McKinney Pedriatics is celebrating its 25 years of providing medical care to children by opening a new facility on Lake Forest Drive.

Dr. Robert Neal opened the practice 25 years ago, and the office is currently located in the two-story yellow house near downtown McKinney. Full article

Main Street presents “Art Walk…Downtown McKinney Is Hopping” on May 30 in downtown

Artists will display their creations in downtown McKinney from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sat., May 30 in the Art Walk.. Downtown McKinney Is Hopping event is set for Sat., May 30 in downtown McKinney.

More than 75 local and regional artists and musicians are expected to showcase their artwork throughout the shopping district. Full article

Westin Hotel developer accuses Councilman Bill Cox, former councilman Thad Helsley of extortion

Developer cites extortion claim under the Racketeer, Influenced, and Corrupt Organizations Act

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyupdate.com editor
Created at 11:23 p.m. on May 26, 2009

McKinney Shores Hotel Partners, a subsidiary of O & S Holdings, Inc., the developer of the Westin Hotel McKinney, is accusing former council member Thad Helsley and current Mayor Pro Tem Bill Cox of extortion in an answer filed to the McKinney Economic Development Corporation's initial petition for suit filed against MSHP.

MSHP filed the answer to the suit on May 22 in the 296th District Court in Collin County, and also named the city of McKinney and the McKinney Community Development Corporation as defendants, in addition to the MEDC. Full article

Homerun Derby to benefit the McKinney Police and Fire depts. at The Ballfields at Craig Ranch

The McKinney Chamber of Commerce's 2008-2009 Leadership McKinney Class will present the McKinney Homerun Derby at The Ballfields at Craig Ranch where employees of the McKinney Police Department will play against employees of the McKinney Fire Department at 5:30 p.m. on Fri., June 5.

The McKinney Marshals collegiate baseball team will play at 7 p.m. after the Homerun Derby at The Ballfields at Craig Ranch. Proceeds from the event will benefit the McKinney Police Department and the McKinney Fire Department. The Ballfields at Craig Ranch are located at 6151 Alma Road.

Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children and are good for admission to both games. They may be purchased in advance at the Chamber office, 1650 Virginia St., Ste. 110 or call 972-542-0163 for more info; at Texans Credit Union, 6840 W. Virginia Pkwy. No. 100, or call 972-348-2900 for more info; or at Valliance Bank, 2251 W. Eldorado Pkwy. No. 200 or call 214-592-7075.

Little Big Town helps McKinney celebrate Memorial Day while helping Habitat for Humanity

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpate.com editor
Created at 11 p.m. on May 27, 2009

Thousands of people gathered in the field south of Dr. Buchanan's Orthodontics in Adriatica on the evening of May 25, Memorial Day to celebrate their freedom and listen to the country band Little Big Town, pictured performing in the photo on the left.

Little Big Town performed in the second Smiles for Habitat concert, which also featured a performance by McKinney based the Maylee Thomas Band, which includes former 2009 mayoral candidate George Fuller. Fuller and the rest of the band invited Mayor elect Brian Loughmiller on the stage and gave him a tambourine to play during a song.

Pictured in the above photo are George Fuller, on far left, and his wife, Maylee Thomas singing in the 2009 Smiles for Habitat concert at Adriatica in McKinney. Photos by Brandi Hart/ McKinneyUpdate.com

Children also got a chance to play in bounce houses and played games, and people enjoyed tethered hot air balloon rides and got a chance to see the surrounding Adriatica commercial and residential development and the thousands of event goers below. All proceeds from food and items sold at the event were given to the North Collin County Habitat for Humanity to benefit a family who is having a home built for them in McKinney.

Hundreds gather at Pecan Grove Cemetery to remember the fallen who protected our freedom

Ridgeview Memorial Park ceremony honors service men and women of McKinney, Collin County

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 10:05 p.m. on May 25, 2009

Pictured in the above photo from left are Congressman Sam Johnson, sitting, veteran and former McKinney Armed Services Board member member Bill Dowdy of McKinney, Harry McKillop, who organizes the annual Pecan Grove Cemetery Memorial Day ceremony, long-time McKinney resident, former McKinney Community Development Corporation board member and businesswoman Gerry Ruschhaupt, sitting in a red jacket, and Mayor Bill Whitfield standing at the podium addressing the crowd at the Pecan Grove Cemetery Memorial Day ceremony.

Organized by veteran Harry McKillop, Congressman and former Prisoner of War Sam Johnson and Congressman Ralph Hall were among many city and county dignitaries who shared a moment of silence when the names of the fallen were read aloud by McKinney Fire Chief Mark Wallace.

An emotional Mayor Bill Whitfield, whose last day in office will be May 31, thanked everyone for attending the ceremony and introduced his friends, Hall and Johnson as he gave a brief history of the men's political history. Members of the McKinney Fire Department's Pipes and Drum band performed "Amazing Grace."

McKinney resident James West, who is the Assistant Scout Master of the Boy Scout Troop No. 303 introduced the troop to the crowd and recognized the members' placement of American flags on graves of veterans at Pecan Grove Cemetery. West also mentioned that a former Boy Scout Troop No. 303 member Brian Smith died while serving in the US Army during the Iraq War in 2004. West recognized Smith's parents, Bill and Linda Smith, and Linda Smith, who attended the ceremony, along with Linda Smith's father, Bill Benton, who is a World War II veteran and was born in McKinney.

Pictured in the above photo is McKinney Fire Chief Mark Wallace reading the names of fallen soldiers and airmen who died while serving in the US Armed Service.

During the afternoon on May 25 many people gathered to remember the men who died in battle or during training exercises, or while in service who are buried at Ridgeview Memorial Park, located just outside of McKinney and where hundreds of former McKinney residents are buried.

Vietnam War veteran Ronnie Foster, a member of the McKinney Armed Services Committee that is organizing fund-raising for the Veterans Memorial that will be built in Craig Ranch, read the names and brief bios of the men who died in the line of duty. Full article

Pictured in the photo on the left are McKinney Armed Services board member Ronnie Foster, on left, and Jim Nichols, Commander of the VFW Post 2150. Photos by Brandi Hart / McKinneyUpdate.com

McKinney Girl Scouts help donate more than 3,000 books to Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas

By Melissa Gosling
Contributing writer
Created at 4:35 p.m. on May 25, 2009

McKinney Girl and Brownie Scouts recently helped make children's lives a little bit better in the Dallas area as they worked with a charity to help donate more than 3,000 books to the Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas.
Full article

Pictured on the left are members of Brownie Girl Scout Troops No. 9323 and Troop No. 416 who delivered more than 3,000 books to the patients at Scottish Rite hospital in Dallas on May 16. The Girl Scouts collected the books in community book drives that they helped plan and organize. Submitted photo by Melissa Gosling

P &Z retreat to review and monitor development trends on May 26

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 10:45 p.m. on May 25, 2009

Free, fun and inexpensive events offered this Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day weekend in McKinney features many inexpensive and even free events for people of all ages to enjoy.

The annual Pecan Grove Cemetery Memorial Day ceremony and the free, annual Ridgeview Memorial Park Memorial Day ceremony that will both be held on Mon., May, 25. Full article

Council approves asbestos survey contract in preparation of demolition of former courthouse

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com
Created at 5:15 p.m. on May 24, 2009

The demolition of the six-story former Collin County Courthouse on State Highway 5, or McDonald Street, is slowly becoming a reality as McKinney City Council members approved a contract for an asbestos survey on the building, which will preclude the demolition of the building. Full article

McKinney Green Gardens ready for its grand opening on May 30

Local dignitaries on hand to unveil educational water conservation garden

Created at 6:35 p.m. on May 22, 2009

The city of McKinney and the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Urban Solutions Center at Dallas have worked together for the last year to the grand opening of the McKinney Green Gardens, which will occur on May 30.

A ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. on Sat., May 30, located at Gabe Nesbitt Park , 7001 W. Eldorado Parkway. Full article .

McKinney Christian Academy students get tour of Capitol Hill, meet Congressman Sam Johnson

McKinney Christian Academy students recently visited Capitol Hill on May 14 and got to learn how government works, and met Congressman Sam Johnson of Texas.

Submitted photo by Avery McCall of Sam Johnson's office.

Art education meets Texas history at the Heard-Craig Center for Arts

Studio ArtHouse McKinney is presenting a comprehensive series of classes, camps, and workshops for all ages in the Carriage House of the Heard-Craig Center for the Arts.

Classes will be held in the two storied Carriage House, which is situated just behind the Heard-Craig House. The building has been historically used to house the meetings of a variety of McKinney Clubs, including the Art Club of McKinney, which is the oldest club of its kind in Texas. Full article

Mayor elect Brian Loughmiller, Councilman elect for District 1 Don Day to take oaths of office

Council member elect David Brooks sworn into office before the votes were canvassed by council

Texas Secretary of State officials claim votes must be canvassed before a candidate takes oath of office

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 1:30 p.m. on May 20, 2009
Updated at 6 p.m. on May 20, 2009

At-large McKinney City Council member elect David Brooks will not join Mayor Elect Brian Loughmiller and Council member elect for District 1 Don Day at the council swearing in ceremony at City Hall on June 1. Full article

City pools to open Memorial Day weekend

How to stay safe in pools this summer

Children of all ages and adults can find a place to cool off this Memorial Day weekend as the two outdoor, publically owned city of McKinney pools will open this weekend.

The city owns the Juanita Maxfield Pool, which is located at 1701 N. McDonald St. in North Park, on the west side of State Highway 5 and north of US 380, and Old Settler's Aquatic Center, 1101 Louisiana St., east of SH 5. Full article.

Donations made to Chestnut Square will double on May 20

McKinney ISD High School Art Show and Competition set for May 22 at MPAC

Goodhues Wood Fired Grill closes in downtown McKinney

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 5:15 p.m. on May 18, 2009

Goodhues Wood Fired Grill, the upscale restaurant in downtown McKinney that has been known for its wine list and fine dining for more than a decade at 204 W. Virginia St, has officially closed its doors according to city officials and Main Street Board of Directors members.

Goodhues officially closed its doors on May 18 without any explanation from the owner, and the building is available for lease, said Sharla Bush, a Main Street Board member and wife of downtown developer George Bush, who owns the building where Goodhues is currently located.

"We're sorry to see Goodhues close. It was McKinney's first upscale restaurant and we all loved going there on New Year's Eve, birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays," Sharla Bush said. Full article

Goodhues customer asks how to get refund for purchased gift certificate

Arts Commission grant applications are currently available

City-funded board gives $200,000 in grants to area arts groups

The McKinney Arts Commission is now accepting applications from arts groups for a portion of the $200,000 in funding they have available. Last year, they received 22 applications from arts groups seeking more than $362,012 in grants during the current funding cycle and funded 19 area groups.

For groups interested in applying for a grant, the timeline, guidelines and application are ready for review and completion by eligible organizations online at the city’s Web site, www.mckinneytexas.org under the Cultural & Recreational Services/Arts Commission section. 

"The number of groups applying increases annually, as does the caliber of applications," said Julie Vargo, McKinney Arts Commission Chair. "Our mission is to provide diversity in the arts offered, which continues to be reflected in the variety of groups funded. I believe McKinney's position as a cultural center in North Texas is growing because of the opportunities the Arts Commission provides."

The impact of the McKinney Arts Commission is economic as well as cultural. Statistics show increased attendance at all events in the past year, with the McKinney Performing Arts Center (MPAC) alone bringing more than 40,000 visitors to downtown McKinney.

"Our data shows that for every dollar the Arts Commission funded in the past year, the city has reaped almost $10 in economic impact," said Vargo. "As more and more people opt to stay in town due to the economy, we expect that number to increase this year."

To be conscious of cost to the groups and the effect on the environment, all applications will be submitted on a CD.  Groups may also obtain the timeline, guidelines and application by picking up at McKinney City Hall, 222 N. Tennessee Street, calling 972-547-7501, or e-mailing mac@mckinneytexas.org.  

Baylor Medical Center at McKinney to open at later date due to delays in infrastructure associated

Baylor officials do not have a project completion date for when the hospital will open

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 3 p.m. on May 18, 2009

The four-story Baylor Medical Center at McKinney will not open in November, 2010 as originally planned as Baylor Health Care System is waiting on the city of McKinney to install infrastructure along the site at the northwest corner of Lake Forest Drive and US 380, said Nikki Mitchell, Director of Media Relations at Baylor Health Care System in Dallas. Full article

Consumer Credit Counseling Service of North Central Texas employee awarded UNT award

The University of North Texas (UNT) recently recognized exemplary employees and members of the community who have impacted the development of the students at UNT.  During the April 30th award ceremony, Deb Taylor, Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS) Director of Education and Marketing, was awarded the Friend of Student Development award.

In nominating Taylor for this award, Paul Goebel, Director of the UNT Student Money Management Center, cited Taylor as being a “resourceful, creative and solution-oriented person who frequently comes up with new and innovative approaches to serving our students and campus community."

Taylor serves beyond the expectations as a leader and friend, and every program we have developed with her has benefited from her analytical abilities and communication skills, Goebel said.

The award was a complete surprise to Taylor, especially in view of the prestigious organizations nominated for the award. The other nominees were a well-known campus collaborator and two established on campus offices. Taylor stated that she was “overwhelmed by this honor."

"It has been my pleasure to work with the Student Money Management Center staff.  There was no doubt from the start that Paul Goebel and Danielle Champagne were completely dedicated to providing students with education and direction for those under financial stress.  The growth and success of the Center shows their dedication to the student.  The Student Money Management Center at UNT is standard for Money Management programs everywhere and one with whom I am proud to partner,” Taylor said.

Medical Center of McKinney to host free women and stroke seminar on Monday, May 18

Medical Center of McKinney will host a free Women and Stroke seminar from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, May 18 in Classrooms 3 and 4, located in the main hospital, 4500 Medical Center Drive.

The seminar, featuring board certified neurosurgeon, Claudia McDonald, MD, will provide women with information on risk factors, symptoms and treatment of strokes. While stroke is more common in men than in women, more than half of all stroke deaths occur in women. At all ages, more women than men die of stroke.

A stroke occurs when a clot or broken vessel interrupts blood flow to the brain, preventing it from receiving the oxygen and nutrients it needs. The result is injury to the brain cells.

To read the entire article click on the "News Briefs" link above, below the main page banner, or click here .

Ready to ride

Valley Creek Elementary School students learn bike safety

Valley Creek Elementary School students got the chance to ride mountain bikes along the school's playground and adjacent soccer fields just west of the school on May 15. Pictured from front to back are third grade students Mason Currin, Logan Hutto and Bryan Neimann who are in Anita Miller's class at Valley Creek Elementary School in McKinney.

Photo by Brandi Hart / McKinneyUpdate.com

Spring cleaning hits McKinney in annual Clean Up

City leaders, residents celebrate Arbor Day

McKinney residents braved the rainy weather on May 16 to help clean up neighborhoods east of US 75 for the city's annual Rebuilding Neighborhoods and Clean Up Day. Pictured in the photo on the left are Chris and Amber K. Caceres of McKinney and Steven Solis, their little brother in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program, who enjoyed a free lunch at Old Settler's Park in McKinney after they volunteered to clean up the neighborhoods.

Pictured in the photo on left are Hal Cranor, Executive Director of the city's Public Works Department, City Arborist Emily Braht, City Council member for District 3 Travis Ussery, and outgoing Council member for District 1 Gilda Garza. Garza's last council meeting will be on May 19.

Submitted photo by Michael Quint of the city of McKinney's Planning Department.

The winner of the city's Arbor Day T-shirt design contest were Paige Peterson, who won the grand prize, and who will be a fifth grade students at Glen Oaks Elementary School next school year. The students received the honorable mention statues are Kaylee Newstrom of Wilmeth Elementary School, Aidan Aarts of Glen Oaks ES, Braeden Redlin of Webb Elementary School, Cindy Cruz of Malvern Elementary School, Emily Wing of Wolford ES, Alex James of Eddins ES, and Katy Kidd of Valley Creek ES.

Pictured above are some of the Arbor Day T-shirt contest winners. Submitted photo by Brian Wing, Emily Wing's father.

Texas Trash-Off, Rebuilding Neighborhoods Clean Up and Arbor Day celebration set for May 16

The city of McKinney is combining two events in May for a cleaner, greener city. Texas Trash-off, Rebuilding Neighborhoods Clean-up and Arbor Day will coincide on Sat., May 16. Full article

News around town

Cutter Aviation considers moving facility to McKinney, Valliance Bank almost complete

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor

McKinney aviation news

Cutter Aviation, which is the fixed based operator for the Collin County Regional Airport in McKinney, is considering relocating its maintenance facility from the Dallas Executive Airport to the CCRA, said Airport Director Ken Wiegand. The CCRA still has an 80 percent chance of securing Honda Jet to be housed at the CDRA for Honda Jet to build a sales center at the McKinney airport, Wiegand said.

"We're excited because that's one of the very light jets that's able to get off the ground. It's not certified yet because of the Federal Aviation Administration and we anticipate that Honda Jet will get its certification sometime in 2010," Wiegand said.

Development news

The multistory Valliance Bank building located at northwest corner of Lake Forest Drive and State Highway 121 is expected to be completed and open for businesses possibly sometime in June, said John Dugan, Senior Vice President of Valliance Bank, which is a new bank in Texas that is based in McKinney.

Pictured on the left is a rendering of the IESI MRF building that is being constructed on the IESI property south of the Collin County Regional Airport. Full article .

Main Street gets new fund-raising effort through Friends of McKinney Main Street project

The McKinney Main Street Program is kicking off a way for lovers of downtown McKinney to show their support for downtown businesses, events and history that makes up the diverse area just west of State Highway 5 to Church Street, near the city square. Full article

McKinney's sales tax receipts remain steady for the month of April, according to MEDC officials

McKinney's sales tax receipts remain steady amid the national economic downtown in April are fared better than other Collin County cities such as Plano and Frisco. McKinney had a less than 1 percent decrease in its sales tax receipts in April, said David Pitstick, President and CEO of the McKinney Economic Development Corporation. Plano's and Frisco's sales tax receipts reflected a 7.87 percent decrease in April, Pitstick said.

"McKinney is not as dependent upon retail as many other communities. We are fortunate that our local economy is more diverse and balanced relative to other communities. There is a closer proportion between industrial, office, service, and retail in McKinney," Pitstick said.

Young Professionals showcasing leadership skills at lunch on May 14

The McKinney Chamber of Commerce's Young Professionals group is giving young professionals in the area a chance to learn leadership skills during a leadership lunch series that will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chamber office, 1650 W. Virginia St., Ste. 110. Carolyn Corbin, President of the Center for the 21st Century, will be the guest speaker. The fee is $10 for McKinney YP members and $20 for non-McKinney YP members.

To make a reservation contact Sharon Montgomery at 972-542-0163 or smontgomery@mckinneychamber.com. For more information about the McKinney YP group contact Lisa Ferrell at 972-542-0163 or lferrell@mckinneychamber.com .

McKinney celebrates National Tourism Week and showcases its many sites and treasures

McKinney isn't being left off the map when it comes to National Tourism Week as the McKinney Convention Visitors Bureau staff members are ensuring that people both near and far know about the many sites, sounds and history the county seat of McKinney has to offer.

Pictured from left to right are MCVB Executive Director Diann Bayes, Mayor Pro Tem Bill Cox, MCVB Board member and Myers Park and Event Center Director Linda Dixon, and MCVB Board member John Rattan standing outside of the MCVB office as Cox read a proclamation about National Tourism Week on May 12. Submitted photo. Full article

Former mayoral candidate George Fuller congratulates Loughmiller, takes on bloggers

Dear Editor,

First, I want to thank everyone out there that supported me and or my opponent.  This race generated more interest and ultimate voters than any previous race in our city.  My goal from the beginning was to engage the residents of our city in our government and create more accountability of our government to the residents.

 To read the rest of the letter, and others, click on the "Letters to the editor" link to the left, or here .

Loughmiller elected mayor, Brooks wins at-large seat and Day wins District 1 seat on council

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 12:45 a.m. on May 10, 2009

Brian Loughmiller will once again have a seat on the McKinney City Council as he was elected as the mayor of McKinney as he received 3,915 votes, or 60.53 percent of the total votes cast in the May 9 election. George Fuller received 2,553 votes, which is 39.47 percent of the total votes cast. Full article

4,014 people vote early in the McKinney city election

As the polls closed on May 5, 4014 people have cast their ballot in the McKinney mayoral and city council election. Election Day voting will be held from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at each precinct in McKinney and people will have to vote in their voting precincts. For more information about where your precinct is located, visit the city's Web site www.mckinneytexas.org . To learn more about each candidate read the following articles on McKinneyUpdate.com:

Dixie Longate brings old fashioned Tupperware party to MPAC on May 10

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor

Dixie Longate, the best-selling Tupperware salesperson in the US and Canada, brings the off-Broadway comedy to end the MPAC Spring season. On Saturday, May 9, Hogg’s BBQ will set up outside the MPAC for a special pre-show dinner. Twenty percent of the proceeds will be donated to MPAC.

Dixie's stop in McKinney is her last stop of her current tour. Dixie said on May 5 that her Tupperware party will feature games, raffles and prizes, and involves audience participation, Dixie said.

"If you go to a good old fashion Tupperware party they always do raffles and games. We also get people to sit on the couches from the audience. Life is too short. You got to get up and play sometimes," Dixie said. Full article

NTMWD proposes wastewater line near Heard Museum property

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor

The North Texas Municipal Water District is planning to build a 30 inch PVC sewer line from Custer Road east, through McKinney that may be built along the Heard Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary property, in far southeast east McKinney.

The NTMWD wants to install the sewer line to provide additional capacity to the upper East Fork interceptor system that carries wastewater flow from the communities of Frisco, McKinney, Allen and Plano, Hickey said. The sewer line is known as the Indian Creek Preston Road Subsystem Force Main Phase II project, and it will connect to the NTWMD's Wilson Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant near Lucas.Full article

Chamber members raise money at 12th Annual Golf Tourney

Members of the McKinney Chamber of Commerce recently gathered at the Stonebridge Ranch Golf Course in McKinney to play a few rounds of golf to help raise money for the chamber.

Pictured in photo on left are Jeff Reinhard, on left, of Craig International's Business Development Division, and Todd Harbour, General Managing Director of the TPC Craig Ranch. Photo by Brandi Hart / McKinneyUpdate.com

McKinney Boyd HS to present 'Arsenic and Old Lace' on May 7

The McKinney Boyd High School Broadway Broncos will present the two act comedy, Arsenic and Old Lace in their own Black Box Theater at 7 p.m. from May 7 to May 9.

A matinee performance will also be held at 2 p.m. on May 9. Every ticket is $5 and includes a free slice of pie. All patrons should come early as seating is limited. McKinney Boyd HS is located at 600 North Lake Forest Drive.

Pictured in the photo on left is the McKinney Boyd HS Broadway Broncos cast of "Arsenic and Old Lace." Submitted photo by McKinney Boyd's Assistant Theater Director Colin Wells.

McKinney based Sanchez and Associates receives SMU's Engineering Co-op Employer Award

McKinney based engineering and planning firm Sanchez and Associates, LLC was honored  with the Lyle School of Engineering Co-op Employer Award on April 27 in a ceremony held at the Hughes Trigg Ballroom at Southern Methodist University. 

Sanchez and Associates was recognized for its partnership with SMU, commitment to hiring co-op students, and providing enriching work experiences.  Sanchez and Associates has repeatedly and enthusiastically attempted to source students from SMU, as well as provide students the opportunity to learn and grow in the engineering field, said Levi Wild, Supervising Manager of Sanchez and Associates' Co-op Program. Wild accepted the award on behalf of Sanchez and Associates.

McKinney Chamber PAC publishes questionnaire and is not endorsing city candidates this year

The McKinney Chamber of Commerce’s Political Action Committee members recently published a questionnaire from the McKinney mayoral and City Council candidates on it's Web site. Visit www.mckinneychamber.com and click on the Advocacy Link.

The PAC's goal is to identify and support candidates for public office who understand and appreciate the effect that public policy can have on the health of our business community, as well as to inform Chamber members about the candidates. 

In keeping with that goal, the Chamber PAC has solicited from all candidates running in the City Council and Mayoral elections responses to issues that we believe are essential to creating and maintaining an atmosphere that encourages local businesses to expand and new businesses to locate to the area. Many of the candidates have responded through questionnaires, participation in the Chamber’s Good Morning McKinney Roundtable Discussion and a PAC interview.

Based upon the present development of the candidate evaluation process, the Chamber Board has chosen not to endorse any candidates this election cycle, according to the release. The Chamber Board is encouraging the public to review the candidates’ completed questionnaires that are available online.

City of McKinney honored with regional planning award for its ongoing Town Center Study initiative

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 11:45 p.m. on May 5, 2009

The city of McKinney's Town Center Study that took feedback from people living east of US 75 to capture what they want their town center, or downtown and surrounding areas to look like in future decades has caught the eyes of regional planning leaders. Full article

Council approves apartments near Craig Ranch that are shy of meeting architectural standards

Samaritan Inn honored with proclamation for 25th anniversary

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 11:45 p.m. on May 5, 2009

A three story apartment complex will be built in Craig Ranch after the rezoning of the 19.68 acres where the complex will be built was approved by the City Council on May 5.

Pictured in the photo on the left are employees of The Samaritan Inn who were honored with a proclamation from City Council member for District 2 Geralyn Kever, pictured on far right, who gave the proclamation to The Samaritan Inn Executive Director Lynne Sipiora, pictured second from right. Full article

Collin County has three confirmed cases of swine flu

As of late Tuesday, May 5 there were three confirmed cases of swine flu in Collin County and four probably cases.

Speed limit of McKinney residential streets will not be reduced to 25 mph

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 8 p.m. on May 5, 2009

The speed limit of all McKinney residential streets will remain at 30 miles per hour as a majority of City Council members said at the May 4 council workshop meeting that they wanted to keep the speed limit the same and not reduce it to 25 mph. Full article .

Pictured in above photo from left are Mayor Bill Whitfield, Mayor Pro Tem Bill Cox, Council member at-large Pete Huff, standing and holding a microphone, pictured seated is City Manager Frank Ragan, and pictured on far right is Council member for District 2 Geralyn Kever. Photo by Brandi Hart/ McKinneyUpdate.com

McKinney based Chaplain Rickey Hargrave acknowledges nurses for National Nurses Day

By Rickey Hargrave, Medical Center of McKinney Chaplain
Created at 1:15 p.m. on May 5, 2009

As long as there have been illness and injuries there have been people who would step up and take care of those afflicted. From Jael, to the good samaritan, to the modern day nurses we have examples of people who offered help.

You can read the entire column by clicking on the opinion link for the Opinion page above, near the McKinneyUpdate.com banner, or by clicking here.

3,612 people have voted early as of May 4 in the city of McKinney election

By Brandi Hart

McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 12:20 p.m. on May 5, 2009

Since early voting began on April 27 through May 4, 3,162 people had voted early in the May 9 election

There are 62,686 registered voters in the McKinney city limits, said Patty Seals, Deputy Elections Administrator with the Collin County Elections Office.

Last chance to attend a mayoral and council candidate forum is May 4

The last chance for McKinney residents to hear why the mayoral and city council candidates will be at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 4 at the McKinney Performing Arts Center, 111 N. Tennessee St.

The forum will be held after the regular bi-monthly council workshop meeting that will begin at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, 222 N. Tennessee St. All council meetings are open to the public, even candidates, and for more information call the city at 972-547-7500 or visit the city's Web site www.mckinneytexas.org

McKinney At-Large Council candidates rake in $12,411 in campaign contributions as of April 9

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 12:30 a.m. on May 4, 2009

The three McKinney City Council at-large candidates have raked in a combined total of more than $12,411 in campaign contributions as of April 9 and David Brooks has spent the most money in the May 9 election race with $24,000 reported in expenditures per his campaign finance report filed April 9 with the city. Full article

County confirms one case of swine flu, three more cases still being determined

By Rodney Williams
McKinneyUpdate.com Contributing Reporter
Created at 11:20 p.m. on May 1, 2009

As new reports of H1N1 influenza (swine flu) outbreaks continue to spread across our computer and TV screens, the reality is that Collin County has not been hit hard. Only one confirmed case has been reported by Collin County Health Care Services, while only 28 cases have been reported across Texas. Full article

HEA company to showcase functionality of renewable energy products on May 1 and May 2

Created at 4:25 p.m. on April 27, 2009

McKinney Summer Musicals selects cast for 'The King and I', which will hit the stage in July

Created at 10:05 a.m. on April 30, 2009

More than 120 singers, dancers, and actors of all ages turned out for McKinney Summer Musicals’ open auditions for “The King & I” on April 13 and 14. Full article

City Council at-large candidates answer what they will do if elected and what would they change?

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 10 a.m. on April 29, 2009

The following are questions that were posed to each at-large council candidate. David Brooks and Curtis Rath responded by the deadline and Gilda Garza's answers will be published at a later time as her answers were not received by the initial deadline. Full article

Brooks says he's qualified to be a candidate as he meets residency requirements

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 11:45 p.m. on April 27, 2009

Brooks and his wife own a townhome in McKinney in The Symphony townhome development just west of the Adriatica commercial and residential development. Full article

Boyd HS resource officer placed on administrative leave due to misconduct allegations with a student

Police also arrest 17-year-old Boyd student in late March for distribution of Ecstasy drug and marijuana on campus, student may be tried as an adult

Created at 8:15 p.m. on April 27, 2009

A McKinney Boyd High School resource officer was placed on administrative leave on April 20 pending an investigation about alleged misconduct with a 17-year-old student at Boyd HS, McKinney police officials said. Full article

Council discusses projects abandoned by contractors, various road projects

Replacement runway is still on schedule to open in winter of 2012 McKinney StarCenter slated to be completed in September

By Brandi Hart
McKinneyUpdate.com editor
Created at 7:25 p.m. on April 27, 2009

The removal of sediment at Eldorado Lake, located in the Eldorado subdivision just west of US 75 and south of Virginia Street, and at a lake located in northwest McKinney has been put on hold as the contractor working on the removal has abandoned the job site.

City Attorney Mark Houser told the McKinney City Council in a special council workshop meeting held April 27 that the contractor walked off the project due to finances. Full article

Early voting begins April 27 for McKinney mayoral, council race

Created at 8 p.m. on April 26, 2009

Voters will get the chance to make their voices heard on who they want to represent them as the McKinney mayor and in the McKinney City Council at-large and District 1 council seats beginning April 27 as early voting begins for the May 9 election.

The following candidates will be on the ballot: George Fuller and Brian Loughmiller are running for mayor; Don Day, Maurice Malvern, Alonzo Tutson, and Randall Wilder are running for District 1; and David Brooks, Gilda Garza and Curtis Rath are running for the at-large council seat.

To learn more about each candidate read the following articles on McKinneyUpdate.com:

Voting will be held 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mon., April 27 through Wed., April 29 and Fri., May 1 and Sat., May 2, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thurs., April 30, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Mon., May through Tues., May 5. Election Day voting will be held 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 9.

Thousands raise funds for cancer research at McKinney Relay for Life

Tears of joy, relief and sadness flowed on April 24 from people young and old during the annual McKinney Relay for Life cancer research fund-raising event held at The Ballfields of Craig Ranch.

Thousands of people poured into the ballfields to sponsor people who walked around the track of the ballfields to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Cancer survivors walked the Survivors Lap at before 9 p.m. and those who lost their battles with cancer were also honored and remembered in a candle light luminary ceremony. Teams comprised of student groups, church groups, families and community organizations from McKinney and neighboring cities attended the event.

To view more McKinney Relay for Life photos, click here .