Frisco Insider - McKinney AI + Worst State

Howdy, Frisco!

Small mercy this week, yesterday's heat actually backed off a little, so if you stepped outside and thought "wait, this is almost pleasant," you weren't imagining it. Take the win while it lasts. This edition's got a nearly billion dollar tech investment headed our way, a World Cup souvenir story so absurd it might be my favorite one all tournament, a not so flattering study about Texas, and a fresh bakery for your croissant needs. Plus a big lineup of events running through the weekend, including the World Cup Finals watch party at The Star.

Let's get into it.

🤖 Governor Abbott Announces Massive AI Tech Investment in North Texas

Texas just landed a nearly billion dollar manufacturing project, and it's setting up shop right in McKinney.

• Taiwanese electronics manufacturer LITEON plans to build an AI power and infrastructure manufacturing facility in McKinney

• The initial phase includes a $307 million capital investment and 500 jobs, backed by a $3.5 million Texas Enterprise Fund grant plus a $100,000 Veteran Created Job Bonus

• LITEON says the full project will bring closer to $919 million in investment and more than 600 jobs

• The facility will design and produce AI power systems and infrastructure components, feeding into the state's booming data center and AI buildout

• McKinney Mayor Bill Cox says the project strengthens the city's advanced manufacturing sector and its pitch to future tech companies

Another one for the "North Texas is quietly becoming a tech manufacturing hub" pile, McKinney's really out here collecting billion dollar neighbors.

Cavalier Donuts & Coffee

Cavalier Donuts & Coffee is a neighborhood spot for fresh donuts, kolaches, breakfast tacos, coffee, and sweet treats made daily. Whether you’re stopping by before work, grabbing something for the kids, or bringing a dozen to share, we’re here with warm service and fresh flavors.

Visit us at 10150 Legacy Dr, Suite 300B in Frisco and make your morning a little better.

Visit our website: Here

🦝 Erling Haaland Brings Stuffed Raccoon From Dallas Western Store Back to Norway

Of all the souvenirs to come out of the World Cup, this is the one nobody saw coming.

• Norwegian striker Erling Haaland was photographed getting off the plane in Oslo carrying a taxidermied raccoon holding a tiny whiskey bottle

• He picked it up at Wild Bill's Western Store in Dallas after Norway's round of 16 win over Ivory Coast, along with cowboy hats, exotic boots, a longhorn belt buckle, and a "Y'all can kiss my Dallas" T-shirt

• Haaland is asking fans to help name the raccoon, with "Cowboy," "Ranger," "TEX," and "R.O.W. (Raccoon On Wheels)" all in the running

• The raccoon, officially named Whiskey Raccoon, promptly sold out on the store's website after Haaland's post

• Store owner Cody Newport says Haaland knew nothing about cowboy hats before the visit and had to be fitted for one on the spot

Norway may have gotten knocked out in the quarterfinals, but Haaland walked away with the real trophy: a taxidermied raccoon and a killer T-shirt. Respect.

📉 Texas Is the Second Worst State to Live in for 2026, Study Says

A new CNBC ranking didn't have kind things to say about the our State's quality of life, even as the state keeps attracting new residents and businesses.

• CNBC ranked all 50 states across 61 measures, including healthcare, crime, childcare, air quality, worker protections, reproductive rights, and inclusiveness

• Texas landed at No. 2 on the worst states list, scoring an F grade with just 78 out of 290 possible quality of life points

• Childcare availability and air quality were cited as the state's only real strengths

• Texas has the nation's highest uninsured rate at 16.7%, and CNBC noted the state finishes dead last in primary care physicians per capita

• Tennessee ranked as the single worst state overall, with Texas, Indiana, Louisiana, and Georgia rounding out the rest of the bottom five; Vermont topped the list as the best state to live in

Rankings like this always spark debate, and there's plenty of nuance in how "quality of life" gets measured, worth reading the methodology yourself if this one surprises you. I obviously disagree with their rankings.

🥐 Paris Baguette Opens a New Café in Northern Suburb

Another bakery has entered the North Texas space, this time in Plano.

• Paris Baguette opened its 27th Texas location and 16th in North Texas at 5500 State Highway 121, Suite 100, in Plano

• The menu includes artisanal breads, pastries, desserts, French inspired baked goods, and coffee drinks

• Local franchisees CJ Singh and Punya Kushalappa also hold executive roles at technology companies and co-own other DFW restaurant ventures

• The chain has more than 4,000 locations worldwide and plans to hit 1,000 across the U.S. and Canada by 2030

At this point North Texas has more international bakery chains than some countries, not that I'm complaining.

Revel Patio Grill

Discover a place where laughter, music, and good company create lasting memories, Revel Patio Grill in Frisco is more than a restaurant, it’s where friends become family and every meal feels like a celebration. Whether you’re cheering on your team, sharing stories over Cajun seafood, or joining a lively karaoke night, Revel is a home for joy and connection. Come for the delicious food, stay for the friendships, and enjoy the moments that truly matter. I post events from Revel all the time, so I can tell you right now it’s the real deal.

Check them out here: http://revelpatiogrill.com/
Address: 9305 Preston Rd, Frisco, TX 75033

🌴 Tropics on the Tracks 2026 | No Cost

Thursday, July 16 – Sunday, July 19 | McCall Plaza, Downtown Plano 📍 998 E 15th Street, Plano

A four day tropical takeover with live music, DJs, a silent disco, fire performers, and happy hour drink specials all weekend. Highlights include a Britney Spears tribute act Thursday, morning yoga Saturday, and a Caribbean Waves Band closing out Saturday night. Food trucks and tropical cocktails throughout.

Details: Here

🎸 Free Concert: Little Skynyrd | No Cost

Friday, July 17 | 8 – 10 PM | HUB 121, McKinney 📍 7570 State Highway 121, McKinney

A Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band brings Southern rock classics like "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird" to HUB 121's stage. Grab dinner from the on-site restaurants beforehand, and expect a concession stand near the stage throughout, just no outside food or drinks.

Details: Here

🎶 Live 90's Concert | No Cost

Saturday, July 18 | 6 – 8 PM | The PGA District 📍 3255 PGA Parkway, Frisco

A full nostalgia trip through Nirvana, Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, and other 90's staples. No tickets required, just bring a lawn blanket and stake your claim near the stage. Leashed dogs welcome, but no outside food, drinks, or lawn chairs.

Details: Here

🏊 Fun Float Night | Ticketed

Saturday, July 18 | 6 – 8 PM | Frisco Water Park

Bring your own float for extra credit at this after hours water park night, complete with a live DJ, snacks, and activities.

• No Cost for Frisco Athletic Center Members and Splash Pass holders

Details: Here (scroll down a bit)

🏆 Summer Saturdays: Finals Weekend | No Cost

Sunday, July 19 | Tostitos Championship Plaza, The Star District

The World Cup Finals land on the big screen right here in Frisco, with the district's usual mix of big screen energy, an interactive mini soccer pitch, and globally themed specials from restaurants and shops throughout. About as close to championship day atmosphere as you'll get without a plane ticket.

Details: Here