McKinney Matters

06/10/2026

🗺️ A LANDMARK ON TAP 🍻

At Empower McKinney, we had the privilege of hearing from Keith Lewis and learning the story behind TUPPS Brewery. What started as a passion project has grown into far more than a brewery—it has become one of McKinney’s most beloved gathering places, where neighbors connect, families make memories, and our community comes together.

Keith shared the challenges, risks, and vision that helped transform TUPPS into the destination it is today. It’s a powerful reminder that great communities are built by people willing to invest in something bigger than themselves.

Thank you, Keith, for sharing your journey and for helping create a place that has become such an important part of McKinney’s story. 🍻

06/09/2026

Craig International Unveils $200M Mixed-Use Project at Former Globe Life HQ,

The campus is located on nearly 58 acres at 3700 S. Stonebridge Drive and includes 300,789 square feet of existing office space.

06/02/2026

**HUGS CAFE UPDATE**

A quick update for all the Hugs Café fans out there: the new Hugs Café restaurant and headquarters in McKinney is currently scheduled to open on July 2!

While there will not be a Hugs Café dine-in restaurant open during the month of June, the organization is still busy serving the community and is actively accepting catering orders online. If you have an upcoming meeting, event, or gathering, consider supporting their mission by placing a catering order and helping create meaningful employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Place catering orders below!
https://hugs-cafe-catering.square.site/?blm_aid=10170373

05/31/2026

Today, members of Empower McKinney had the privilege of helping Hugs Café with some of the final tasks as they prepare to transition into their incredible new headquarters in East McKinney.

One moment stood out above all others. Hugs founder Ruth Thompson was there herself, sleeves rolled up, scrubbing and cleaning the space for its next stewards. That’s what servant leadership looks like. Not directing from a distance, but leading by example and doing whatever needs to be done.

For those unfamiliar with Hugs Café, this remarkable nonprofit creates meaningful employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities while serving our community with excellence, dignity, and purpose. Their new headquarters will allow them to expand their mission and impact even more lives.

McKinney is blessed to have organizations like Hugs Café and leaders like Ruth Thompson. We can’t wait to see this next chapter unfold.

05/30/2026

💍✨ Did you know one of McKinney’s most unique small businesses is located right on the grounds of TUPPS Brewery?

Hotel Ugly Metal is a handcrafted jewelry studio where artist Paige Rance creates beautiful sterling silver pieces with a style that’s anything but ordinary. 🔥⚒️ Every piece is made with craftsmanship, creativity, and a passion for turning raw materials into wearable art.

Located in the Small Business Silos at TUPPS, it’s the perfect place to explore while enjoying one of McKinney’s most popular destinations. 🍻🏙️ Supporting local makers never goes out of style!

📍Have you visited Hotel Ugly Metal?

With Jared Tye

05/29/2026

Good news, Stonebridge Ranch residents — the Apex Centre discount is back!

I just got off the phone an employee at the Apex Centre.
Because the Beach Club pool is currently out of service, the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) negotiated a special rate with the Apex Centre. Stonebridge Ranch residents can visit the Apex Centre for just $5 per person, per day. There are no Stonebridge specific discounts for longer passes.
To receive the discount, each family member must present a valid Stonebridge Ranch resident ID card.

A quick note: this page is not affiliated with SRCA, and this graphic is not an official advertisement from either SRCA or the Apex Centre. I simply noticed this information wasn't currently posted on the Apex Centre website and thought it would be helpful to share with neighbors who may be looking for a place to cool off this summer.

Be sure to bring your Stonebridge Ranch ID when you visit!

-Tye

05/20/2026

The program aims to ensure children and teens still have access to nutritious food during the summer.

McKinney ISD is partnering with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s SUN Meals program to provide free breakfast and lunch for children and teens this summer, per a district news release.

05/20/2026

McKinney Roots is an initiative of the Seed Project Foundation that distributes fresh produce to local nonprofits and churches within Collin County.

McKinney Roots officials hosted a groundbreaking ceremony May 15 for the expansion and expect to move to Gray Branch Park later in 2026.

05/18/2026

Now that’s a big spider. 🕷️