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contents

April 2013

Vol. 23, Issue 4

cover story 52 Passing on a passion for science

A teacher with St. Mark’s School of Texas in Dallas for 23 years, John Mead has had many opportunities to learn and then share the knowledge acquired with his students. Whenever possible, he encourages his students to do the same. One way he enjoys passing on his stories in both the classroom and community is through his photographs. by Peggy Helmick Richardson

feature 20 A is for Allen and Art

“A is for Allen” is the first large project in the city’s history to combine the works of an artist, Gordon Huether and a local landscaper, David Baldwin. by Simon Valentin

special sections 24 kids korner

Birthday Parties 2013 by Deborah Dove

42 pet page Shadow

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44 calendar 58 people seen

contents departments

Allen Image publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

civic forum 10

P.R.I.D.E. of Allen by Kathleen Vaught

11 EarthFest 12

Allen Railroad Days Exhibit by Tom Keener

Painting April more than just green by Kathleen Vaught

Kris Jones

contributing writers

ACT closes out the season

Heather Darrow

Cowboys and Bull Girls

“Jazz on Screen” film series

Talking History—The Warren Wagon Train Massacre Latin jazz festival

education 26

Kids teaching kids

Deborah Dove Tom Keener Dawn Bluemel Oldfield Peggy Helmick-Richardson Keith A. Taylor Simon Valentin Kathleen Vaught

cover photo Larry Fleming

by Keith A. Taylor

Sock monkeys, roller skates and Ninetendo by Heather Darrow

outdoor spaces 34

Cool pool trends by Dawn Bluemel Oldfield

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Sue Hardesty

Nicole Bywater

advertising sales

Allen Dance Festival

by Tom Keener

Carrie McCormick

library

office administrator

travel 38

Family Camping by Deborah Dove

Allen Image © 2013 by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. Allen Image is published by Moonlight Graphics and individually mailed free of charge to the residents of the Allen area. Subscriptions are available to residents outside the delivery area at a rate of $2.50 per issue—$30 per year. Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to: Allen Image, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807 or visit our website at www.allenimage. com.

civic forum

P.R.I.D.E of Allen by Kathleen Vaught

People First—Stephanie Spence, Engineering; Respect— Aaron Hardiman, Human Resources; Integrity—Patrick Churchwell, Fire Department; Deliver—Deputy Chief Johnny Thomason, Police Department; Excel—Kathleen Vaught, Public and Media Relations. The City of Allen has an organizational mission to achieve excellence in managing development of the community and in providing city services so that conditions of living and public confidence are continually enhanced. To reinforce service excellence, exemplary employees are selected each year to receive P.R.I.D.E. in Excellence Awards. The P.R.I.D.E. Program represents the core service values for the employees at the City of Allen: People First, Respect, Integrity, Deliver, and Excel. City employees are expected to demon strate the P.R.I.D.E. values in working with both citizens and co-workers. Seven employees received

individual recognition at a recent ceremony. In addition, City Manager Peter Vargas presented a special departmental award for efforts related to the recent renovations leading up to the opening of The Courses at Watters Creek.

Deliver—Deputy Chief Johnny Thomason Excel—Kathleen Vaught Heart of Gold—Mary Ahten Unsung Hero—Kathy Keller-Mielke

City Manager Special Award Forestry and Horticulture Division: Jesse Simmons, Terri Drury, Jim Bob Daniel, Evan Herkert, Wesley Walker, Eddie Fox and Jerry Straka. Facility Services Division: Bobby Trevino, Danny Russow, Roy Cuellar, Nathan Ragsdale, John Bridges, Shayne Cannon, Richard Barrows and Guy Ambrose. v

“A great city is that which has the greatest men and women.” – Walt Whitman

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The following were recently recognized for their achievements with the City of Allen:

P.R.I.D.E. in Excellence Awards People First—Stephanie Spence Respect—Aaron Hardiman Integrity—Patrick Churchwell

Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen.

EarthFest What began five years ago as the brainstorm of a few local conservation leaders has evolved into one of Collin County’s most popular showcases of environmental education. On April 6, thousands of nature lovers will join nonprofit organizations from across Allen and North Texas at the Connemara Meadow Preserve for the fifth annual EarthFest. From its humble beginnings, with a few hundred attendees, the daylong festival of conservation and healthy living today draws thousands of attendees. “It started out as a simple idea to grow a healthy community by inviting the public to participate in a day of healthy living in an outdoor setting,” says Donna Kliewer, waste services manager for the City of Allen, director of Keep Allen Beautiful and one of those behind the creation of the event. “Today it has become an event held in ‘Allen’s wildest place’—the Connemara Meadow Preserve,” Kliewer continues. “It has all the elements that appeal to a wide variety of residents and their children. It also meets our goals of getting people outdoors to explore their surroundings and develop a sense of place.” “There was a lot of discussion about what we could do and Amy Monier (Connemara co-founder) sug gested we do an event,” says Kirk Evans, science teacher and president of the Connemara Conservancy board of directors. “Our goal was to highlight the best of our community involved in environmental and conservation work for the people of Allen. It has grown into a wonderful day of outside activities in a beautiful setting.” EarthFest 2013—A Celebration of Nature, Health and Community— will offer adults and children a chance to learn more about the wonders of nature while enjoying the

great outdoors. The family friendly event will feature nature walks and bird watching; kayaking and canoeing demonstrations; wildlife presentations; and much, much more Prior to the start of festivities, Keep Allen Beautiful will sponsor a community cleanup of Rowlett Creek.

“This is one of my favorite work days,” Kliewer says. “When an educational event is so much fun for both the participants and the presenters, everyone wins!” More information is available at connemaraconservancy.org or by v calling 469.200.4085.

Allen Image x April 2013

Allen Railroad Days Exhibit by Tom Keener

The Allen Heritage Guild presents a free modular train exhibit at the Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main. Over

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100 models of freight, passenger and work trains drawn by diesel engines, representing various southwestern railroads, including Southern Pacific, Rock Island and Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe will be featured. To enhance the experience, the trains meander through scenic vistas, bridges, mesas and towns. Even the Allen train depot—a typical Houston and Texas Central station—is represented in miniature as it appeared in 1942 before it was destroyed. A traveling exhibit of the Dallas Fort Worth O scale model railroad club, this 34-foot long modular display is part of their permanent exhibit located at South Side on Lamar in Dallas. This year the DFW Club will be joined by modular layouts in N Scale by Roy Durrell and Jack Rettig of the Allen Senior Center. O scale trains are built to a ratio of 1:48; for example, a 40-foot boxcar is 12 inches long. HO Scale is approximately half the size of O scale and N is about 30% smaller than HO. Local Allen resident Stan Schwartz, who has been collecting model trains for over 60 years, is an

active Dallas-Fort Worth O Scale Club member and is organizing the Allen exhibit. In 1952, Stan bought his first Model Railroader magazine and continues teaching, collecting and having fun with this pastime. Model train experts will be available during the exhibit for a free model train road show. Free appraisals and identification will be given. In addition, Stan will present a talk on Allen’s railroad history. Visit your closet and attic and bring your trains for a free appraisal or to sell! Also shown will be the Lionel Modular Group’s 8 x 16 setup. Some of their trains are over 50 years old and still operational. Founded over a century ago by Joshua Lionel Cowen, Lionel was a leader in O scale model trains For the youngsters, there will be wooden railways they can operate. Exhibit hours are: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays, April 6 and 20; 1-4 p.m., Sundays, April 7 and 21. For information, call Stan Schwartz at 972.359.8242. Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

North Dallas Plastic Surgery revolutionizes the Tummy Tuck One of the most common plastic surgery procedures, the tummy tuck or abdominoplasty, has not appreciably changed in decades. That is until Dr. Todd Pollock and Dr. Harlan Pollock of North Dallas Plastic Surgery developed the drain-free tummy tuck by adding what they call, “progressive tension sutures.” This technique revolutionizes abdominoplasty by making it safer (nearly eliminating seroma or fluid collections that plague the traditional technique) and more easily tolerated because it eliminates the need for drains (which are uncomfortable and dreaded by patients), allowing for quicker recovery and an excellent cosmetic result. Details of the procedure are available at www.drpollock.com. Dr. Todd Pollock says, “We are very proud of this because it is fundamentally changing a basic plastic surgery operation by making it safer and more comfortable for our patients.” The doctors have over a dozen publications in peerreviewed, major plastic surgery journals and textbooks regarding progressive tension sutures and their use in abdominoplasty as well as other cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Their most recent publication is a review of nearly 600 consecutive patients using the technique, which was published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal in August 2012. Their technique has been widely adapted by surgeons worldwide and draws patients from around Texas and beyond seeking this innovative procedure. Tummy tuck, when combined with breast rejuvenation, also known as a “Mommy Makeover,” has become their signature operation. Along with providing quality medical services, patient education is a priority at North Dallas Plastic Surgery. “We have developed our website to be as informative as possible through our blog and our series of articles that we call ‘Promises and Pitfalls of Cosmetic Surgery,’” Dr. Pollock says.

“We try to educate the public on trends, controversial topics and potential pitfalls in cosmetic surgery. We try to speak honestly and without the typical marketing backdrop. Subjects like before and after pictures, testimonials, proprietary procedures and what to expect in a consultation, among other topics are addressed.” North Dallas Plastic Surgery is a family business where patients are treated like part of the family. With over 50 years of combined experience in plastic surgery, Dr. Harlan Pollock and Dr. Todd Pollock (father and son) are dedicated to helping improve lives through the art and innovation of their specialty. “The practice of plastic surgery is extremely gratifying and I’m pleased when I’m able to make a difference in patients’ lives through surgery,” Dr. Pollock explains. In addition to tummy tucks, the doctors’ expertise extends to cosmetic and reconstructive procedures on all parts of the body. “Whether it’s correcting a deformity, enhancing one’s natural features or repairing a defect from injury or cancer surgery, I am always honored when patients trust me with their care.”

Painting April more than just green by Kathleen Vaught

On Saturday, April 27, the City of Allen Community Services Department, Keep Allen Beautiful (KAB) and Community Waste Disposal (CWD) are hosting Allen’s annual Great American Cleanup™ (GAC) where residents are encouraged to clean out unwanted junk or donate household items for reuse or recycling. Last year, of the more than 31 tons of items collected at the Allen GAC, more than 50% were able to be recycled or reused in some way. There were nearly 2,000 volunteers donating over 2,800 hours of their time on cleanup

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and beautification projects around the City’s neighborhoods, creeks, parks, roadways and school campuses resulting in close to 6,000 lbs. of litter being picked up! Volunteers are welcome to sign up online at www. keepallenbeautiful.com or call 214.509.4555 for more information. This year ’s collection event spans two locations in Allen and runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and also includes a very special beautification project to “Paint the Town” fire hydrants. “Paint the Town” involves high school aged students in Allen to paint as many of

the 3,000 fire hydrants as possible for the City of Allen on the morning of the Great American Cleanup. Kids interested in participating can register at www.JustServe.org or email organizers at PainttheTownAllen@ gmail.com. The collection site for donation and general recycling opportunities is located west of US 75 on Bossy Boots Drive. Participants can enter the site from northbound Watters Road, where the recycling and trash collection areas will be located along Bossy Boots Drive. If residents have certain small electronics to recycle, paper shredding or medication to dispose, those items will be collected at the Allen City Hall parking lot, 305 Century Parkway. Remember, for either location, bring your current City of Allen water utility bill and driver ’s license in order to take advantage of this great cleanup, reduce, reuse and recycling opportunity. Volunteers will be on hand to assist with vehicle unloading. This event is for residential customers only. No commercial quantities of recycling, electronics or shredding will be accepted. Donation and re cycling that is at Bossy Boots Drive and North Watters Road:

• Allen Animal Shelter—all types of pet accessories and pet care products • Allen Community Outreach— indoor and outdoor household furnishings • Allen High Noon Lions Club— eyeglasses, eyeglass accessories and cell phones • CWD—yard trimmings and brush and household appliances without Freon (appliances that previously contained Freon will not be accepted without a certificate of removal by a licensed agency). They will also accept clean, empty cardboard boxes. • East Texas Bicycle Club—bicycles, tricycles and biking accessories • Goodwill Industries—household goods, clothing (please remember to wash and bag them), children’s toys and accessories • The Shoe Bank—adult athletic shoes and all children’s shoes (no flip flops) E-cycling, paper shredding and medication disposal that is at Allen City Hall: • Cyclone Aluminum and Steel— computers, computer peripherals and small office machines, printers and ink cartridges, lawn mowers and grills as well as small kitchen appliances (items accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the Cyclone trucks are full). TVs are not accepted. • Secure On-Site Shredding—shred personal documents with binders and clips removed. (Shredding will be accepted on a first-come, firstserved basis until trucks are full) Allen Police Department, in partnership with Texas Health Presbyterian and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, will be on hand from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at two collection sites—Allen City Hall and the Lowery Freshman Center, 601 E. Main Street, as part of the national Take-Back Initiative to collect and safely dispose of potentially dangerous expired, unused and un

wanted prescription drugs, over the counter drugs and vitamins. The service is free and anonymous with no questions asked. The nationwide initiative seeks to prevent increased pill abuse and theft as well as protecting the environment. Medications should never be flushed down drains. Items that will not be accepted at any location include appliances containing Freon, tires, televisions, household chemicals, flammables

(gasoline, kerosene, lamp oil) or paint. If you have items not being accepted on this day or if you are unable to bring items to the event due to a disability, please call 214.509.4551 to request other options for disposal or for pickup assistance. For a complete list of items being collected, please visit www. keepallenbeautiful.com. Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen.

Allen Image x April 2013

Allen Dance Festival The Allen Civic Ballet will host the 14th annual “Allen Dance Festival” on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 7 at 2:30 p.m. at the Allen Civic Auditorium at 300 N. Allen Drive. The program will feature a mix of classical ballet, contemporary ballet and modern. Excerpts from several classical ballets will be included—La Bayadere, Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty among others. Artistic Director Stefanie Best has created four new works for the company’s dancers and apprentices. In addition to regular repertory, the dancers of the Allen Civic Ballet have each selected a variation (solo)

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from a classical ballet to learn. After rehearsing these dances for several months, a panel of professional judges was brought in to critique the dancers and help them improve their technique and per formance quality. Company dancer Moira Maloney said, “at first I

was extremely nervous to be scrutinized by professionals, but I actually learned a lot.” “It’s great to have our dancers getting feedback from professionals,” comments Best. “It gives them a fresh perspective.” Joining the Allen Civic Ballet on stage will be Atlanta Dance Connection, Dancing Minds and Bodies, Fairbank Dance Theatre of San Antonio and Premiere Ballet of Colorado. Tickets are $10 each and will be available at the door only. Cash or check only. For more information, please call 972.727.5959 or visit www.allencivicballet. org. v

Collaborative Law

ery simply, collaborative law is a legal process through which divorcing spouses agree to settle matters privately and outside of the courtroom. The process is for those who want a kinder, gentler approach and who don’t want to rush to the courthouse every time there is a disagreement. Clients get to define the goals and what will benefit their family. Both parties must agree to work together towards the shared goal of minimizing the collateral damage that can sometimes occur in a divorce proceeding. For my clients, I recommend that we bring in outside specialists and other family professionals to ensure the best possible outcome for the entire family. Initially, this process can appear daunting to those who just want a “quick divorce” (something that might sound good in an advertisement, but which is rarely found in the family courts). The thought of being in a room with a group of family professionals and your soon-to-be-exspouse can be overwhelming for some people. I understand. As a certified mediator who has been trained in Interdisciplinary Collaborative Law, I have seen this process many times. However, while this is no guarantee for your unique

situation, in general I have seen that clients who enter a collaborative divorce process: • Spend less money than those who go to trial • Achieve superior outcomes for both parties For those with children, they can significantly improve the co-parenting relationship that they will share after the divorce is finalized. I believe strongly in helping my clients remain mothers and fathers even after their divorce settlements. I want my clients to be able to attend graduations, birthday parties and weddings without conflict when this process is over. Your family can remain intact and your children can be protected in the process of restructuring your family through divorce. As a mother of two children, I work well with working parents and respect the dual role. I have experience with families who have suffered the fallout of addiction, domestic violence and mental health issues. Further, in the private setting of a collaborative process, we can work together to maximize the financial and emotional security of all parties—and especially those of your children. Together with my clients and the other party, we can expand the pie instead of destroying it.

To receive a free 10-minute phone consultation with an attorney, mention this ad when you call the number below.

Snippets ACT closes out their season

Cowboys and Bull Girls Allen Heritage Guild’s Like Minded Friends is presenting a comedy show called “Cowboys and Bull Girls” at 7 p.m., Saturday, April 20, at Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main Street. The program will feature music, mirth and musings—a variety show with a lot of laughs, inspired in part by some of the hilarious comedy shows of early television. The humor is derived from Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In, some from skits by Carol Burnett and Tim Conway, great one-liners from a number of other comedians and more. Some of the entertainment will be “open mic” presentations by selected performers who are members of Like Minded Friends!

Allen’s Community Theatre closes out its 2012-13 season with laughter, fun and life-long besties! The Dixie Swim Club by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, Jamie Wooten spans 33 years in the lives of five Southern women who have been best friends since they were on the same swim team in college and meet up once a year in their favorite beach house to reconnect. The show is directed by Janette Oswald, Column Award Nominee, and will run Friday and Saturday, April 26 and 27, and Friday and Saturday, May 3 and 4.

Like Minded Friends is a group of people who love the arts, including painters, speakers, musicians, writers, sculptors and more. Now in its third year, programs in a coffee house atmosphere with music and entertainment by its members are offered. Like Minded Friends meets every first and third Tuesday of the month at the Heritage Center. Some of the discussions involve planning future activities, but some of the meetings involve just being with interesting people and sharing life’s adventures.

As we watch their lives unfold, an ever-increasing reliance on one another develops through advice and raucous repartee. Together they get through the challenges of men, sex, marriage, parenting, divorce and aging—whatever life flings their way! These friends prove the enduring power of their bond and teamwork to rally around each other—even facing the most difficult of circumstances. This story of five unforgettable Southern women will warm your heart and remind you that some friendships just last forever. The curtain goes up at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, with a bonus matinee on May 4 at 3 p.m. Performances will be at the Allen Christian Church, Allen Heritage Village, 450 St. Mary Drive in Allen. Ticket prices—$15 (general)/$13 (age 65+)/$10 (under 18). To make a reservation or for more information, contact allenscommunitytheatre@ gmail.com or visit www.AllensCommunityTheatre.net. v

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Come for a relaxing evening of fun and camaraderie. Refreshments will be available. Call 214.383.7569 for more information. v

feature

is for

… llen A

and “It’s a thought provoking, interesting piece of art on an uninteresting piece of real estate.” –Shelley, 43 “What do I think about the art? I don’t.” –Steph, 25 “Too cool! It’s a ginormous pointy A...” –Kevin, 5 “It cost how much?!” –Michael, 52

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Art

by Simon Valentin

A is for Allen. Is it a symbol of Allen’s Texas heritage and the city’s ever-present desire to reach loftier heights? Is it a blip on the drive home that doesn’t matter? Or is it simply a ginormous, six-hundred-fiftythousand-dollar, pointy A? It just depends on who’s looking. Whatever your take, the latest addition to Allen’s public art is, for the most part, doing what was intended; provoking discussions and generating emotional responses. On a nuts and bolts level, “A is for Allen” is the first large project in the city’s history to combine the works of an artist, Gordon Huether and a local landscaper, David Baldwin. Gordon Huether’s pieces are installed around the nation. In Texas his work is everywhere from Houston Hobby Airport to the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin and The Bridge Homeless Assistance Center in Dallas. Huether was chosen from dozens of artists by the Allen Public Art Committee who wanted to dress up an increasingly busy thoroughfare. “I realize sculpture on the median isn’t the place to sit down and have an intellectual experience,” Huether says. “I hoped it would cause people to smile, perhaps frown, spur an intellectual question and engage people.” People are engaged. Take a spin through the web and you’ll find scores of critics—why this artist, why this location, why this sculpture and why this cost? In other cities, Huether tapped into their histories to create projects. Here, one of Allen’s biggest historical claims to fame is being the first town in Texas to fall victim to a train robbery. That’s kind of tough to work into a sculpture, unless it is a bit unusual, like a giant revolver greeting motorists along Exchange Parkway, which is possible.

After all, Detroit has the twenty-four-foot long Joe Louis Fist planted in an intersection. But not everyone sees this as a symbol of the legendary boxer’s strength and perseverance. Some view it more as “Welcome to Detroit. Now go home.” A sculpture honoring Texas’ first train robbery might have the same effect. So Huether found another bit of Allen history. “You have a dam there made of Texas limestone built in the mid 1800s, so I started there,” he says. “I wanted something that would say ‘we are a unique community, we are Allen’, so I thought ‘A is for Allen.’” He combined Texas limestone with a red spire and dichroic glass. “I wanted a certain height, so you have red steel that is twenty-two-feet tall,” Huether says. “I wanted to use Texas limestone. I like the way they’re stacked, the stones seem to defy gravity and the dichroic glass changes color as you pass. It’s designed for the motoring experience.” Initially, the sculpture wasn’t part of the planned median improvements, which started as simple landscaping. “I thought it would be great to do a joint project with an artist,” says landscape architect David Baldwin. “I wanted to use the basic forms Gordon did and instead of having one piece of art, extend the art to Greenville Avenue.” So a limestone trail popped up on the Exchange median—54 stones, each between 725 to 1000 pounds each. The single stones are surrounded by cut glass, (some folks see blue, others see purple) meant to hint at the blue in the city’s logo. The red metal is also supposed to make people think of the city symbol. Depending on which direction you travel, the piece either seems to sprout from North Texas soil and end in the A, or it deconstructs as you head east. A caravan of shorter, single stones dot the median because traffic regulations state that nothing taller then eighteen inches can be placed in most areas. Lori Smeby, Parks and Recreation Assistant Director, says the location for this public art was well researched. “Exchange Parkway has become such a busy corridor for us, it’s another way to get to the Villages at Allen and

Fairview, as well as the football stadium, it gets a lot of visibility.” Plenty of folks who don’t live in Allen see the new pieces and Smeby hopes it sends a message. “Allen is an amazing, progressive city and having public art helps show that—it adds to our quality of life,” she says. “I think everyone should want to move here quite frankly!” But some people already living here are questioning the art’s price tag. “A is for Allen”—just the sculpture— was commissioned and created for $250,000. The deconstructed pieces that run to Greenville, along with the landscaping and installation (under Exchange Parkway) of an irrigation system to water the shrubbery and the electrical work to run that system, cost $400,000. Those numbers make some people flinch. A recurring complaint is that the money, which was set aside for public art, could have been spent more wisely. That’s a legitimate opinion, but one that’s too late to have an effect. But more public art is on the horizon and the city is offering residents a chance to voice thoughts in a way that will help shape things. “The public art committee is made up of Allen residents, and they’re very thoughtful in the decisions they make,” Smeby says. “If more Allen residents are interested, we are always looking for people to serve on these panels.” So, here’s a chance to get involved and be more than an armchair art critic. Go for it! Volunteer your time, have a positive effect on your community. If not, the next piece of art might be called C is for Complain. For information on the Public Art Committee, contact Lori Smeby at 214-509-4700 or lsmeby@cityofallen.org. Simon Valentin is a Detroit native whose art expertise is limited to works created by his four-year-old daughter. Allen Image x April 2013

library

The Allen Library presents… by Tom Keener

“Jazz On Screen” film series Free movies are at the Allen Public Library on Tuesdays at 7 p.m., 300 N. Allen Drive. Call 214.509.4905.

Mahalia Jackson April 2—Jazz On A Summer’s Day (1960), starring Louis Armstrong,

Mahalia Jackson, Jack Teagarden, Chuck Berry and many other jazz legends. Set at the famous Newport Jazz Festival in 1958, the film blends images of water and the town with performers and audience and progresses from day to night and from improvisational music to Gospel. This film is included in the National Film Registry. April 9—Calle 54 (2000), starring Arturo O’Farrill, Rolando Guerrero and Joe Gonzales. A film featuring performances of several icons of the Latin jazz music scene, April 16—The Last of the Blue Devils (1979), starring Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Charley Parker, Eddie Durham. During Prohibition, Kansas

City was wide open, and jazz was its music. Late in the 1970s, musicians of the Pendergast era gather at the union hall to play, sing and talk. April 23—Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser. A film about the life of pianist and jazz great Thelonious Monk. Live performances by Monk and his band are featured, and interviews with friends and family about the offbeat genius are included. April 30—Sonny Rollins: Saxophone Colossus (1986). The life and work of jazz saxophonist Theodore Walter “Sonny” Rollins. Clips of Rollins making music alternate with interviews of the subject’s friends, relatives and co-workers. v

Talking History—The Warren Wagon Train Massacre

Professor Frank Mayhew

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Learn about an infamous raid in 1871 that ultimately involved General William Sherman and altered the course of Texas history at 7 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 18, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr., registration required, 2nd floor program room. Professor Frank Mayhew, of Collin College, will discuss the Warren Wagon Train Massacre, which occurred on May 18, 1871, when Kiowa and Comanche warriors attacked a train of 12 wagons delivering supplies to forts in West Texas. Survivors were able to escape to nearby Fort Richardson and told their harrowing tale. Professor Mayhew will discuss the events leading up to the massacre, as well as the long-term impact it had for Texas Indians. Professor Mayhew specializes in nineteenth century American history and was honored as the recipient of the Horizon Award as outstanding advisor for Collin College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa honor society. Call 214.509.4905 for more information. v

Latin Jazz Festival

Turbo charge your musical experience with a Collin College Latin Jazz Ensemble and Havana NRG free concert at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 13, at the Allen Public Library. Collin College Latin Jazz Ensemble combines the grooves of the Caribbean and South America with a touch of jazz to create a sound that is both high energy and entertaining. Their rhythm begs audiences to get up and dance! This year’s band features a flute and two horns, drums, bass, piano and auxiliary percussion. Musical influences for the group come from many Latin jazz sources including Poncho Sanchez, Pink Martini, Celia Cruz, Conrad Herwig and Tito Puente and original material by Kris Berg, the band’s director as well as director of Jazz Studies at Collin. An internationally recognized jazz composer/arranger published by Belwin Jazz, Berg most recently served as a contributing arranger on the Grammy-nominated CD Multiverse, released by NYC Latin drummer Bobby Sanabria. “This group has performed at festivals throughout the Midwest to a great response from sold out crowds.

People love the grooves, like salsa and mambo. It’s a lot of fun,” Berg stated. The youthful Texas group, Havana NRG (New Rhythm Generation), offers up a sizzling platter of timba-influenced salsa. Their creative blends of rhythmic syncopations and intriguing melodies will produce an uplifting aura. Inspired by classic salsa orchestras of the Caribbean’s fabled past, this eightpiece band incorporates contemporary beats. At the helm are Mariela Suarez

on piano, violins and vocals; Ivan Martinez on timbales and vocals; Michael Romero on trumpet and lead vocals; Ramon Rodriguez on bass and vocals; Jeff Fort on saxophone; Georber Nodal on trumpet; Hebert Garcia on congas; and Luis Avila on bongos and minor percussion. Amanda Salinas, WFAA, Channel 8 declares, “This Cuban orchestra pumps out contagious Latin rhythms that salseros and others won’t be able to resist. Havana NRG has made its mark in Texas and is ready to take on the world.” The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive. Call 214.509.4911 for more information. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

Allen Image x April 2013

kids korner

Birthday Parties 2013 By Deborah Dove It’s time for our annual round-up of local places to host an awesome and unique birthday party.

Made of Sugar and Spice—207 N. Kentucky, downtown McKinney, 972.693.6141 You’ll find everything girly, with a variety of themes to please little girls as young as three up to age 11. Most parties include some type of dress up geared to the theme, make-up station (light eye make-up, lip gloss and nail polish), hair up-do, fashion show down a runway, crafts, dancing and karaoke. Themes include Garden Fairy or Princess for ages 3-5; Princess, Barbie Princess, Fancy Nancy, Pinkalicious, Posh Pet or Fancy Nancy Posh Puppy, Diva Rock Star, or Pajama Party for ages 5-7; and Diva Rock Star, Prom, Pajama Party or Spa for ages 8-11. This is a 1-1/2 hour private party, party activities, digital group photo for each guest, theme-decorated table with paper goods including plates, napkins, cups and forks, lemonade, and themed invitations to download and print. Bring your own cake. Most parties run $245-$265 (puppy and spa parties are more) for the birthday girl plus eight guests.

Painting with a Twist—3201 N. Hardin Blvd., Suite 204, McKinney, 972.542.1883 or 4112 Legacy Dr., Frisco, 469.362.6636 Everyone can paint like Monet or Picasso at this painting studio where every guest paints (and keeps) a canvas with their own version of the same painting. Perfect for kids ages seven and up, you choose your painting ahead of time and instructors guide guests as they paint for an hour and a half, then enjoy birthday goodies and opening presents. There are numerous paintings to choose from. Some popular themes include owls, a pink Eiffel Tower, a castle, cupcakes, peace signs, monkeys and more. The kids will enjoy a two-hour party (approximately 1 ½ hours of painting time), all painting supplies (paint, brushes, easels, canvases and aprons), instructor and plastic cups, forks and spoons, plates and napkins. You can decorate as you’d like with balloons, streamers, etc. (and can arrive 45 minutes before the party to decorate), as well as bring in your own cake, beverages and other snacks/food to enjoy during the party. Cost is $25/ person with a ten person minimum or $35/person with an eight person minimum (the painting you choose dictates which price you pay).

Bricks for Kidz—8408 Stacy Road, McKinney, 972.540.6020 If you have a child that loves LEGOs, this is the party for them. With access to tons of colorful LEGO bricks, party guests build to their heart’s content as a party host leads them through games where they build everything from spaceships, cars, bulldozers, towers, and more. There’s even a wrecking ball for demolition. All packages include one hour in the building area with LEGO

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themed games and activities plus 30 minutes for cake and presents, invitations and thank you notes, paper goods, and a take home mini-figure for each guest. Packages can be purchased that include pizza, drinks, and goody bags. Packages begin at $190 for 10 kids, with additional packages priced at $255 or $375 for 15 kids.

Blue Sky Sports Center—950 E. Main St., Allen, 214.644.2070 With ten indoor and outdoor soccer fields, this venue offers plenty of space to run and play, perfect for a group of active birthday guests. Soccer and football parties include a warm-up and coach led instruction, followed by a big birthday soccer or flag football game played by the party guests. They also offer a pirate themed party complete with a treasure hunt, princess dress-up parties, and the ultimate tween or teen party—an overnight party spent playing soccer, whiffle ball, kickball or flag football. All packages include a 45-minute activity, party host/hostess, pizza, popcorn, soda, arcade coins, themed birthday cake, and themed plates, napkins, cups, tablecloth and balloons. Cost varies depending on the package chosen. Packages start at $255 for up to 10 kids.

Gymboree—190 E. Stacy Road, Suite 1605, Allen (Villages at Allen), 972.678.4588 Perfect for first birthdays up to fifth birthdays, Gymboree provides a place for little ones to use their imagination while they play, with activities and music customizable for a variety of themes such as trains, dinosaurs, super heroes, ocean adventure, disco and princess playhouse. Parties include equipment play and activities related to the theme, parachute and bubble time, finger puppets and a parade with musical instruments. You’ll get a 1-1/2 hour private party with a Gymboree teacher, all party supplies (plates, cups, napkins, spoons, balloons, candles), invitations, and take home gift bags for each guest. Cost is $290 (non-member) $260 (member) for up to 20 kids

Rhythms & Fitness—190 E. Stacy Road, Suite 1116, Allen (Village at Allen), 214.769.7842 Get ready to dance! This active party starts with a warm up for the party guests, followed by two to three dances that they learn and perform, as well as games and group relays. Dance themes include hip hop, princess, Bollywood, Zumbatomics, Hula, Camp Rock and more. Don’t forget your video camera. This is a two-hour party with complete facility rental, a certified dance instructor for one hour, pizza, juice, paper products, and set up/clean up. You can arrive 30 minutes prior to the party to decorate with your own decorations. Cost is $285 for up to 10 friends ($10/person for additional guests).

education

Kids teaching kids by Keith A. Taylor Parents face a dilemma whenever they hear “I’m hungry. Can I have a snack?” They would like to give their children something to carry them over until supper but kids don’t seem to like snacks that are good for them. It’s an old problem, but it may have a new solution thanks to an innovative program developed by Medical City Children’s Hospital in conjunction with the Greater Dallas Restaurant Association (GDRA). It’s called “Kids Teaching Kids”, a program to help fight childhood obesity. The idea is to exploit the skills of high school culinary students in the GDRA’s Texas ProStart® program to create nutritious snacks that are fun and tasty. Those recipes, developed by students in the culinary program at Allen High School, are shared with elementary students in the form of a snack cookbook. “We’ve seen childhood obesity increase and an increase in the number of calories children receive from snacks,” said Ryan Eason, outreach program manager at Medical City.

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Monika Pitka and Joey Manno “Three or four snacks a day actually equal a full meal. So, we were looking for a way to encourage healthy snacking while expanding the scope of the Texas ProStart program. The Kids Teaching Kids program was a perfect fit.” ProStart is a nationwide, two-year high school program that unites the classroom and industry to develop

talent for the restaurant and food service industry. “The health of children depends on the nutritional value of their meals,” Eason stated. “Many of our children today are overfed, but undernourished, which has led to the obesity epidemic we see today.” A variety of factors can contribute to excess weight gain. “Large portion

sizes and unhealthy choices are often to blame,” Eason stressed. “Although snacks are an important part of a child’s diet, multiple studies have shown there is an increased consumption of highcalorie, low-nutrient foods for snacks.” The program offers Allen High School students a chance to expand their food knowledge in a challenging way. “I like the program because it helps the students develop their thinking skills,” said Jordan Swim, the culinary arts teacher at AHS. The requirements of the program say that the snacks have to be easily made from ingredients normally on hand in a family pantry. They have to include either a fruit or vegetable as a component. And they must be easy to prepare without using potentially dangerous utensils such as knifes, or burn hazards such as ovens and stoves. “We’re showing kids down to kindergarten age how to make snacks, so they have to be easy to prepare and the kids have to be safe,” he said. Besides developing a recipe book, the culinary students visit elementary campuses and community events to demonstrate the recipes and promote the program. “It’s a lot of fun,” said Davina Farias, a second-year culinary student and senior at AHS. “It’s very easy to entertain them and they seem interested in learning how to make things they can do at home.” Junior Monika Pitka agreed with Farias about working with elementary students. “It’s a lot of fun, but it can get a little crazy,” she shared. “The kids really enjoy making the snacks. We have fun telling them what to do. There are always a lot of smiles.” Culinary students brainstorm with each other to come up with ideas for snacks—sometimes with surprising results. “I think our most popular snacks are the “Cucumber sammies,” Farias said. “You wouldn’t think little kids would like cucumbers and a lot of them didn’t want to try them.” Cucumber sammies were the idea of junior Joey Manno—ingredients,

besides the cucumbers, are cream cheese, dill and turkey. “The ingredients are not things kids usually like to eat,” Manno said, “Once you get them to try it though, they find out they like it. Then they are more willing to try other things.” There’s more to getting a snack in the recipe book than storming a new idea. “Of brain course, the recipes have to pass the taste test,” Swim said. “However, they also have to pass a nutrition and calorie test. A dietician reviews every recipe before it goes in.” The 2012-2013 school year Davina Farias was the second time Allen “Photography students take photos of students participated in the program. the snack preparation sessions,” Eason The school probably will try to publish stated. “Graphic design students plan a snack book every other year. Swim the layout of the book.” likes juniors to work on the recipes Medical City Children’s Hospital with the seniors acting as advisors. pays publication costs and school Work on the snack book extends PTAs distribute the books to students. beyond the culinary students.

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“The National Institute of Health has said that childhood snacking trends indicate about 27 percent of the calories in a child’s diet come from salty snacks, candies, desserts and sweetened beverages,” Eason said. “The goal of this program is to in trod uce school-aged children to healthier snacks and to help increase consumption of a variety of fruits and vegetables,” he continued. “We also want our future chefs to feel em powered to use healthy and nutritious ingredients when preparing food.” Empowerment may extend beyond using healthy ingredients, at least according to one culinary student. “When you teach kids the snack recipes, they listen to you and treat you with respect,” Farias enthused. “It makes you feel like a grown-up.” For more recipes and information about “Kids Teaching Kids,” visit www.kids-teaching-kids.com. v Keith Taylor is a public relations specialist for Allen ISD.

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Cucumber Sammies

Coral Reef

By Joey Manno

By Monika Pitka, Chanelle Jacobson

What you will need: Butter knife, cutting board, plate and measuring cups

Ingredients: 6 slices cucumber 3 tsps cream cheese, low fat 5 sprigs dill (chopped by a parent) 1 slice turkey (deli thin) Cut turkey slice into three strips. Spread 1 tsp. cream cheese on cucumber. Sprinkle ¼ tsp of dill on cream cheese. Fold one strip of turkey in half, place on cream cheese and dill. Top with another cucumber slice. Nutrition facts: Calories, 57; total fat, 3g; saturated fat, 2g; sugar, 1g; fiber, 0g.

and Kayla Baker What you will need: Measuring spoons, bowl, plate

Ingredients 2 Tbs. hummus 3 (4”) celery strips 12 Goldfish crackers 4 Tbs. bell pepper, diced (by parent) Mix hummus and bell peppers in bowl. Put 1/3 of hummus mixture on each celery strip. Place Goldfish crackers on top of each celery stick. Nutrition facts: Calories, 94; total fat, 4g; saturated fat, 0g; sugar, 3g; fiber, 2 g.

ining in

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llen

Sock monkeys, roller skates and Nintendo Collin College Students Help Preserve the Past by Heather Darrow

Katie Devine

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Local passersby typically ignore the ever-present historical marker about the notorious train robber Sam Bass, but it caught Katie Divine’s eye as she drove to class. However, she could never have imagined that this static testament to days long gone would foreshadow her dynamic future. For Divine, history was always something she enjoyed from afar in a book. One class irrevocably altered her perspective and gave her the opportunity to become an integral member of a team striving for historical preservation. Divine took U.S. History from Professor Brett Adams, which included a servicelearning component. She and more than 40 other students had the option to volunteer for the Heritage Association of Frisco’s museum exhibit “Toys, Toys, Toys” or Shawnee Trail Day, which celebrates the trail now known as Preston Road. Divine researched dollhouses, sock monkeys, roller skates and Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. If you ask Divine about the Raggedy Ann dolls she won’t spend a lot of time giving you dates or detached details. Instead, she will tell you the story about a cartoonist and his daughter who found her mother’s old rag doll and how it became her playmate when she was ill. She will explain how her father included the doll in his cartoons and how he celebrated this young life after her death. “I’d never given much thought to these toys before. You wouldn’t expect the doll to become famous. The cartoonist wrote Raggedy Ann and Andy books. That’s how they became so big in American culture.” Divine learned that doll houses were initially created for adults and sock monkeys had their origin in the fact that the company

producing the socks tried to differentiate itself from a competitor by adding red heels, which eventually became the sock monkey’s lips. “I had to find advertisements for these toys. It was perfect because the sock monkey is in a Kia commercial, which shows how it is still relevant today. Roller skates had a lot of failed attempts. Some were not functional or fun because they couldn’t go fast, and the potential of crashing was high,” she said with a smirk. “In one of the debuts, a person who invented skates was performing on a violin while rolling and he lost control and smashed into a mirror. Those skates were not popular,” she said, laughing. In addition to researching and providing information and advertise ments for the exhibit, Divine wrote a reflection paper and reviews on scholarly articles on Sam Bass and the early Texas settlers. “I tried to write my best paper ever for the museum because it was going up on a placard. “The act of preserving history is what we were learning to do in history class. The art of being a part of your community and actually preserving history is the point of history.” The volunteer-based Heritage Association of Frisco came to Collin College looking for a partnership and Adams volunteered to be a member of the board of directors. Today, he is the vice president of the board of directors. “Every third grade class in Frisco ISD comes to the museum. Most people in Frisco aren’t from Frisco, so the service learning is a good way to raise the profile of the college in the community. It also provides an opportunity for the students to learn about the museum,” said Adams. According to Adams, the Heritage Association of Frisco recently received the Community Partner Award from the Preston Ridge Campus. Susanne Kerley, board member of the Heritage Association of Frisco, says approximately 1,500 people saw the “Toys, Toys, Toys” exhibit.

“The value of the time given by a volunteer in Texas according to Independent Sector is $21.79 an hour. More than 40 students gave not only time that helped the museum volunteers, but also a monetary equivalent of more than $4,000,” Kerley said. “The service-learning made this exhibit possible. I was overwhelmed by the number of students that wanted to participate. The partnership with the college has brought a new dynamic,” she added.

Kerley was impressed with Divine’s research, the work of another student who created QR codes for the exhibit as well as student Chris Phillips’ effort to locate and purchase an original Atari 9600 and Nintendo NES. The functional game exhibit is so popular with children and adults that it is still standing. Student Amir Harandi helped Phillips with the research and storyboards for the project. It was important to Phillips that everything

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Chris Phillips

was as close to the time period as possible, so he found an old television on eBay in Grand Prairie and hired three young men to help him move the heavy console. He also received a donation of three old televisions from Best Buy. One is currently being used in the cotton exhibit. “It was a labor of love. I grew up in the 70s. Video games fundamentally changed the childhood experience. Children went from playing outdoors to sedentary and indoors. Other than the PC, it was one of the biggest changes we have seen since children worked in factories. It impacted my life a lot. With Nintendo, my brother and I didn’t leave the house for three weeks.” Phillips said he initially planned to attend Collin College for one semester and transfer to a university; however, this plan changed once he took his first classes in the fall of 2012. “The professors are of such high caliber at Collin College, so I decided to take every possible undergraduate course and attend a university once I am at the point where hours will no longer transfer.” It had been nearly 20 years since Phillips, who owns a computer company, had stepped into a classroom, but he was ready to pursue his dream of becoming a counselor. He never imagined the impetus behind his longterm goals would dovetail into his first classroom experience. “I want to do something more fulfilling. I love my job, but I wanted to give back a little. Professor Adams’ class was my first class. He is the quin tessential history professor. He is smart, interesting and loves history as much as I do. Service learning is a genius idea. This is why I came back to school. I want to do something for the community.” For more information about Collin College, visit Collin.edu; about the Heritage Association of Frisco, visit v http://www.friscoheritage.org/. Heather Darrow is a public information writer for Collin College. Photos: Nick Young, Collin College.

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For MarketPlace Your Health

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outdoor spaces

Pool by Cutting Edge Pool & Patio

Cool pool trends There is nothing more refreshing on a hot Texas summer day than a cold beverage and a dip in a cool swimming pool. Many homeowners look forward to the benefits of a backyard swimming pool. There is no better way to chill out with family and friends than enjoying the hours of fun and relaxation a pool and spa can provide. Whether you are looking to update a decades old pool and spa, or long to take a dip at your convenience (no more waiting for an invitation from the neighbors!) and are considering enhancing your life by building one, there are many new design trends and innovative products at your service. Here are some ideas from local professionals to help you have the coolest summer ever! Even though it’s April, it’s not too late to realize your dream and have a pool built before we hit the triple digits. Keep in mind, a standard pool takes 3-6 weeks to build (weather permitting). An elaborate design with over-the-

top custom features will take longer, so plan accordingly. Don’t call a pool service professional mid-June and expect it to be done in time for a 4th of July pool party! Do some research before you begin your pool project. Consider your needs. How big is your yard? What will the pool be used for? If you want a pool for exercise, you’ll need a long one. If the main purpose is to entertain, you’ll want a deck and shade area. Knowing the answers to those questions is crucial before you begin. Most importantly, work with a reputable builder. They will help you create a design that will best work for you. Chris Michaels, owner of Poolscape Architecture says, “Ten to fifteen years ago, home swimming pools were basically a hole in the ground with steps, and a shallow and deep end. Today’s pools have more of a resort feel, incorporating many different features to meet and enrich the needs of today’s busy families. Bigger, deeper pools are

H2O: two parts heart and one part obsession.

– Author unknown

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by Dawn Bluemel Oldfield

a trend, but wading areas, swim-up bars and tanning shelves allow swimmers to enjoy the shallow ends of the pool in a new way. Outdoor kitchens and living areas with big screen TV’s just make the swimming pool the centerpiece for outdoor living. People are staying home and using their backyards as their retreat.” Glenn Miller, owner of Cutting Edge Pools concurs, “People are incorporating the elements of earth, water, fire and air in their pool designs. Fountains, waterfalls and other water features add the soothing sound and sight of moving water. Fire elements like fire bowls, torches or fireplaces introduce warmth, excitement and visual Pool by PoolscapeArchitecture interest to the poolscape. Rock and technology, lighting can be so much more brilliant and stone elements such as grottos and stone slides are a big exciting! There are so many options available, from simple trend, and are a great way to integrate the pool and white to color-changing light shows. You can synchronize landscaping.” the lighting between the pool, spa and landscape, adding Glenn adds, “There are so many more options available hours of enjoyment to your outdoor space.” when it comes to pool lighting. With the advances of LED

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using or storing strong chemicals, they eliminate the red eyes, “green hair” and dry skin associated with traditional chlorine pools. Salt pools are also much more economical to operate. Up-front it may be a bit more expensive, but it pays itself off quickly as maintenance costs are so much less.” Going green is no longer considered a trend, but a way of life for Texans. Pool owners now can find more energy-efficient ways to Pool by Cutting Edge Pool & Patio circulate, heat and cool (yes, cool!) their pools. “New variable speed pumps can cut Both Chris and Glenn agree that among the biggest energy use up to 90%, saving approximately $1500+ innovations and trends in home pools are saltwater pools annually in utility costs,” says Chris. and technological advances that make pools more energyGlenn interjects, “You’ll not only pay off the upgrade efficient and easier to maintain. Chris shares, “Once you’ve in the first year, the new variable speed pumps are quieter, swam in a saltwater pool you may never want to swim in a too! Another trend out there now that is really cool is a regular one again! A salt pool is by far the best thing you heat pump/chiller. The average summer pool temperature can do. Not only are they healthier because you’re not

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in Texas is 92 degrees, but with this energy efficient unit you can set the thermostat to a comfortable 82 degrees and it will stay that way all year long.” Worry about water conservation? With our everlooming drought situation it is an important issue all Collin County residents must address. And, while there is no question that pools and spas use lots of water, a recent study (Maddaus & Mayer, 2001), showed that the same size area taken up by irrigated turf uses more water than a swimming pool does. You don’t need a lot of square footage to have a nice pool or spa. It doesn’t matter if you have an acre or more, or a home situated on a zero lot line. With a little creativity and engineering anyone can have a lush retreat. Chris concludes, “A pool and spa creates the perfect centerpiece for outdoor living. Add an

Pool by PoolscapeArchitecture

outdoor kitchen and living area and you have ‘entertainment central’, a place you’ll enjoy with family and friends for years to come!” Dawn Bluemel Oldfield is a freelance writer.

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travel

Family camping By Deborah Dove

April in Texas means the bluebonnets are in bloom and the weather is perfect for spending time outdoors. For many Texans, it’s the time of year when they dig out the sleeping bags, dust off the tent and start planning a weekend camping trip to one of the many great state parks in Texas. Whether you are already a fan of sleeping under the stars or your idea of roughing it is a night at the Gaylord, check out these reader favorites. There’s no better way to slow down and really connect with each other and the great outdoors than camping.

Jellystone Parks

Scenic overlook at Garner State Park

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Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts are a franchise network of campgrounds around the United States and Canada focused on providing great family vacations. The parks all offer organized activities with on-site recreation directors, great amenities such as swimming pools, miniature golf, jumping pillows, playgrounds and wagon rides (although not all of the parks have the same amenities), theme weekends, a variety of accommodations from RV hookups to tent sites to cabins, as well as a camp store, laundry facilities, pavilions and clean bathrooms. For added fun, Yogi Bear and other characters make regular visits to the campgrounds. Texas has five Jellystone Parks, most within easy driving distance of Allen. Jellystone Park at Whispering Pines is located on 47 acres in the rolling hills of the East Texas Piney Woods just north of Tyler, and offers shady tent/RV sites plus 18 cabins. Within the park are two salt-water swimming pools (one for adults and one for families), a fishing pond, basketball and volleyball courts, ping-pong tables, hiking trails, mini-golf, wagon rides and a playground. In April, there are four fun-themed weekends: Blast from the Past (April 5-6) with music, dancing, hulahooping and a sock hop; Yogi Bear Western Weekend (April 12-13) with a best dressed cowboy/cowgirl contest, “Hey” ride, horseshoe tournament and western dance; Yogi Bear Tribal Time (April 19-20) with tee-pee building, face painting and headdress making; and “Game On” Bear Weekend (April 26-27) with a family obstacle course, sand volleyball, washer and horseshoe tournaments. In nearby Burleson, North Texas Jellystone Park at Rustic Creek Ranch combines camping with loads of family fun. In addition to a catch and release pond, pedal carts, activities such as fire truck rides, scavenger hunts, inflatables, wagon rides and swimming, the Pirates Cove Water Play Park is located right next to the park. The pirate-themed water park has seven water slides, an indoor four-story play structure, arcade, Frog Hopper ride, laser tag and mini bowling. Like most Jellystone Parks, Rustic Creek Ranch also offers themed

as well as one in the Houston area), visit www.campjellystone.com.

Garner State Park

Jellystone Park at Rustic Creek Ranch weekends throughout the spring and summer. There are accommodation options for everyone, with tent and RV sites, luxury cottages, and RV rentals.

For more information on these parks, or other Jellystone Parks (there are two located in the Hill Country west of the Austin/San Antonio area

When I recently surveyed my camping friends and acquaintances about their favorite place to camp, Garner State Park came up time and again. Located in Uvalde County about 75 miles west of San Antonio, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot to love about what is arguably the most popular state park in Texas. The Frio River (or Rio Frio as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commonly referred to because of its cool temperatures) flows through the park and offers clear, emerald green water for swimming, floating down the river on inner tubes and shooting the mild rapids. Garner State Park Concessions, located inside the park, offers tube rentals as well as a shuttle service that will take you up river, allowing you to float back down to your campsite. They also rent paddleboats and kayaks for tooling around on the river from

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Accommodations & Special Events

Jellystone Park Whispering Pines main attraction is the sinkhole itself—a mid-March through Labor Day vertical cavern with an opening weekend and run a small miniature measuring approximately 40x60 feet, golf course inside the park. and a vertical drop to the main cavern Children swing out on ropes of about 140 feet. Nearby Kickapoo hanging from gnarly rooted Cypress Cavern State Park features 20 known trees that line the river before dropping caves, with wild cave tours offered into the cold water, and every night in every other Saturday by reservation. the summer families gather at the Just up the road from Garner State Pavilion dance floor for two-stepping Park, the Frio Bat Flight Tour gives and line dancing under the stars to visitors an up-close view of 10-12 music from the juke-box, a Garner million Mexican free-tail bats (the State Park tradition that dates back to second largest bat population in the the 1940s. world) as they ascend into the evening Hiking is another major draw with sky at Frio Cave before sunset. Tours lots of great hiking trails and cliffs to are $12/person. Call 888.502.9387 for conquer, including the fairly rugged more information. hike to the top of “Old Baldy” that provides incredible views. There are several caves along the hiking trails to explore, including “Crystal Cave” and “Ice Box Cave,” as well as geo-caching. Garner State Park is located close to several other Hill Country attractions, including the Lost Maples State Natural Area, which is notable for its large, isolated stand of uncommon Bigtooth Maples and good hiking, plus the Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural Area, whose Garner State Park

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Campsites run $15-$26 per night, plus daily entrance fees of $5 to $7 per adult over age 12. Reserve your site in advance by calling camp 830.232.6132, as this popular park often fills to capacity. About a mile from the park, Frio River Cabins offers houses and cabins, all with river frontage on the Frio River, as well as tube, kayak and canoe rentals. On May 10 and May 17, Garner State Park hosts a Texas Outdoor Family special two-night event with geo-caching on state park trails, kayaking the Rio Frio, fishing, fire building and outdoor cooking tips and the famous Garner Dance. Entry fees, basic camping equipment and fishing gear is included in the cost of $85 per family (for up to six people), but you must bring your own food, plates, sleeping bags and personal items. Call 512.389.8903 to register, or for more information. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

For MarketPlace Your Health

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pet page

“Shadow”

Shadow is a lovable 6-year-old male black lab that weighs approximately 90 pounds. He loves to swim, get petted, swim, play fetch, take naps and did I mention play fetch? He was found as a stray and taken to the animal shelter. He is currently in a foster home until he finds a home of his own.

Shadow is looking for a home with lots of love! Shadow is a sweet boy that is very well mannered, eager to please and follows most basic commands. He gets along great with dogs, cats and people of all ages. He is cratetrained and housebroken and can be trusted in the house.

He has been vetted—he is heartworm negative, neutered, brought current on all vaccinations, microchipped and on heartworm preventive. All he needs now is a forever home with lots of love. Can he find it with you? If so, please complete an application online at http://www.collincountyhumanesociety. org/adoption-application.html and his foster family will be in contact with you. v 4 2 w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

B U S I N E S S

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C A R D S 43

calendar APRIL

The Boy Scout Garage Sale, 7 am-2 pm, Suncreek United Methodist Church parking lot, 1517 W. McDermott Drive, Allen. We need donations and will accept just about anything including furniture, household decor, kitchenware, electronics, toys, lawn equipment, clothing etc. Donors in Allen/Frisco/McKinney area can call for pick up at their home. Tax receipts will be provided upon request. To make donations contact Kim Symes at 214.335.6570 or jkszsymes@prodigy.net.

10th Annual Collin County Master Gardener Association Plant Sale, 9 am3 pm, Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center pavillion, 17360 Coit Road, Dallas. Select from old favorites, new varieties, and hard to find plants, including drought tolerant perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs, and EarthKind roses. Purchase these proven performers by cash or check only. Bringing your own cart or wagon is encouraged Visit www.ccmgatx.org or call the Collin County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office at 972.548.4219 or 972.548.4232. Lovejoy Preschool PTA Spring Party, 1 pm, Blackland Prairie Raptor Center. There will be a family picnic, Preschool Raptor Program, nature walk, hands-on activities and crafts. To RSVP visit www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/ Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA/ or send us an email at lovejoypreschoolpta@gmail.com. “Cowboys and Bull Girls” presented by the Allen Heritage Guild, 7 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main Street. This variety show will feature music, mirth and musings inspired by the comedy shows of early television. For more information, call 214.383.7569.

EarthFest, 10 am-2 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve, Allen. The family friendly event will feature hands on environmental actvities for the entire family, nature walks and bird watching, kayaking and canoeing demonstrations, wildlife presentations and more. For more information connemaraconservancy.org. or 469.200.4085.

Allen’s Community Theatre presents “The Dixie Swim Club,“ Fridays and Saturdays thru May 4th, 8 pm with a bonus matinee at 3 pm on May 4, Allen Christian Church, 450 St. Mary Dr., Allen. The show spans 33 years in the lives of five Southern women who have been best friends since they were on the same swim team in college. For ticket prices and further details, visit www.allenscommunitytheatre.net.

Allen Dance Festival hosted by the Allen Civic Ballet, thru the 7th, 7 pm, Sat. & 2:30 pm, Sun., Allen Civic Auditorium, 300 N. Allen Dr. Program will feature a mix of classical and contemporary ballet and modern. Visit www. allencivicballet.org or call 972.727.5959 for details.

Assistance League of Greater Collin County Spring Luncheon, 11:30 am, Heritage Ranch Golf & Country Club, Fairview. The speaker will be Margaret Palmer, an inspiring jewelry designer, who generously supports charitable organizations in the area through her jewelry designs—http:// margaretpalmerjewelry.com/about.

Arts in Bloom 2013, 10 am-10 pm, Downtown McKinney. McKinney Main Street invites you to experience art created by local and regional artists in all forms. This all day event is a perfect opportunity to enjoy art, music, food and much, much more. For further information, visit www.downtownmckinney. com or call McKinney Main Street at 972.547.2660.

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Great American Cleanup, 8 am-1 pm, various locations. Residents are encouraged to clean out unwanted junk or household items for reuse or recycling. There will also be document shredding and safe disposal for prescription and over-the-counter drugs. For details, visit www.keepallenbeautiful.com.

CITY OF ALLEN Allen Event Center Tickets on sale now through Ticketmaster (www. ticketmaster.com), charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at the Allen Event Center Box Office. For more information, visit www.alleneventcenter.com. 12 Legacy Fighting Championship 19 13 Texas Revolution Football vs Cedar Rapid Titans 20 Texas Revolution Football vs. Nebraska Danger

Parks and Recreation Events 6&20 Saturday Night Rec and Roll, Joe Farmer Rec Center. Fun and safe social program for students grades 3-6. Games, dancing with music by a DJ, dodge ball, pool, table tennis, theme nights and contests with prize giveaways. Supervision provided & concessions available. Party Packs $12—$5 concession credit for only $4 (20% savings). ID card (one-time $5 fee) required and must be purchased at JFRC anytime before 5:30 pm on the day of the event. 12 SNAP Dance, (50’s Sock Hop), 7-10 pm, Recreation Hall. Special Needs Adapted Program! Dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and photo. For information or to get on the email distribution list, email tharben@cityofallen.org or call 214.509.4707. 13 Community Garage Sale at Joe Farmer Recreation Center. Join us for a community-wide garage sale. Browsing is free so come down to purchase that perfect find at a bargain price! Make some extra money selling the items you were thinking of throwing away when cleaning out your garage, storage shed or house. City of Allen Parks & Recreation Program Expo, 1-3 pm, The Edge Visitor Center. 27 Dive In Movie, 6:30 pm, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium. Grab your swim suit and towel and join us for the DiveIn Movie. Lounge around the pool and enjoy one of the latest and greatest movies on our 25 foot screen! Concessions available. Noodles and tubes can be rented. For more info: 972.912.1097 or www.AllenParks.org.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Children Storytime Schedule April 25 will be the last day of our Spring Storytimes. Regular storytime programs will resume in June. Baby and Me—For pre-walkers with an adult. Tues. & Thurs., 10:15 am. Fun Ones—For 1-year-olds with an adult, Mon. & Wed., 10 am, Tues., 6:30 pm. Together Time—For 2 & 3 year-olds with an adult, Tues. & Thurs., 11:15 am. All by Myself—For 4 & 5 year-olds, Wed., 11:30 am. Family Storytime—For 2-6 year-olds & family, Mon., 11:15 am, Thurs., 7 pm. 3 between the Lines, 4-5 pm. Grades 4-6 Book Club. 6 Read to Rover, 10:30-11:30 am. Please check our website for more information. 13 Crafternoon, 2:30-4 pm. Recommended for ages 3+. Caregivers must stay with kids under age 9. 17 Tween Poetry Month Celebration, 4-5 pm. Ages 9-12. 22 Tween Earth Day Program, 4-5 pm. Ages 9-12. 29 Made By Me, 4-5 pm. Ages 9-12.

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Noontime Pageturners Book Club, noon, State Of Wonder by Ann Patchett, Adult Program Room. Bring lunch and a friend and join a discussion! Discover a Healthier You—Walking With Weights, noon. Reg. required. Adults 18+, 2nd Floor Adult Program Room. Walk Fit, with Ashley McGinnis, City of Allen Fitness Specialist. Use very light weights and resistance training to enhance your walking workout. (Walk-ins welcome as space permits.). 2nd Tuesday Chess Night, 7-8:30 pm., 2nd Floor Program Room. Age 16 to adult. Open chess play for all skill levels in a fun, noncompetitive setting. Free. No reg. required. Newcomers welcome. Chess boards & pieces provided. For more info: Rebecca @ 214.509.4913.

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10 Twisted Threads Fiber Craft Circle, 6:30 pm., 2nd floor program room. A social group for knitters, crocheters, felters, quilters and any other type of craft done with thread or yarn. All skill levels. Bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. 11 Backyard Farming in the City—You Can Do It! 7 p.m., 2nd Floor Program Room. Come learn about Jacob’s Reward Farm, a working homestead tucked away in nearby Parker, where shepherd Cindy Telisak raises chickens for eggs, and sheep and alpacas for their fiber. Reservations required; walk-ins are welcome as space permits. 16 Mom’s Night Out Bookclub, 7 pm, Adult Program Room. Moms come and join in a discussion of Some Kind Of Fairy Tale by Graham Joyce. Reg. required. For more info: 214.509.4905.

Watters Creek 13 Concert by the Creek, Cover Down, 7-10 pm. 20 Lucky Ducks Kids Club, 2-4 pm. Celebrate Earth Day and get up close to nature with a live exhibit from The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary along with face painting, games, crafts and more. Concert by the Creek, Moving Colors, 7-10 pm. 18 Mom’s Night Out, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm. Watters Creek will be partnering with Dallas Mom’s Blog to host the annual Mom’s Night Out event! They will bring 200 women together for a night of fun with food, drinks, pampering, LOTS of giveaways. For more information, please visit www.dallasmomsblog.com. 27 Concert by the Creek, Southern Chrome, 7-10 pm.

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Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 8-11 am, Allen. Bring your binoculars and field guides if you have them and learn what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, both with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. All ages are welcome. We recommend wearing long pants, closedtoed shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent.

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13 Astronomy Walk, 9-11 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join Clyde Camp for an Astronomy walk. Meet at the Suncreek Park circular parking lot at 9 pm sharp and walk to the meadow the back way. For more info: www.connemaraconservancy.org. 28 Open House, 1 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join us to wander (and wonder) at the meadow hiking the trails, watching the flora and fauna. Enter at Wooded Gate on East side of Alma, south of Bethany.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS City of Allen offers a variety of affordable recreational classes and programs. Register at Joe Farmer Rec Center, 214.509.4750 or Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 214.509.4770. For more info: www.allenparks.org. Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents and caregivers of preschoolers. A new calendar each month with fun activities for all. Activities—play groups, park days, lunch with friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids, and other events. Come play with us. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com. Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days & locations vary. For more info: http://75002.TheHeartLinkNetwork.com. MOMS Club of Allen, New group for moms and children who live in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips and local business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more. For more info: http://momsclubofallentx.weekly.com or momsclubofallentx@gmail.com Baylor Health Care System offers support groups, medical information and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com. MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-athome moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op, etc. Monthly bus. meeting. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.com.

Divorce Care, 13-week courses—biblical teaching for recovering from divorce. For more info: Kim Tedford: 214.544.8050 ext. 109, ktedford@ creekwoodumc.org or www.creekwoodumc.org. Urban Explorers, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups throughout Dallas area. Something for everyone! For more info: www.meetup.com/getoutandabout. Texas Health Presbyterian, a variety of events. For more info: www.texashealth.org. Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www. planobicycle.org. American Cancer Society, Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appointments. If you have a car and can spare time 9-5, you can help. For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711. Support Group? Wanted: Anyone interested in starting a support group for Trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder?) For more info: Megan at trichhelpallen@gmail.com. Kids Helping Kids, bring new or gently-used toys to Kids Pediatric Dentistry, donate to kids in the area. Receive chance to win prize. For more info: 972.727.0011 or www.kidspediatricdentistry. com. Every Monday-Friday The Shores AA Group, noon, Raceway Profesional Building, 200 W. Boyd, Suite C (Adjacent to Dayrise Recovery), Allen. Open AA discussion group. Everyone welcome. For more info: 469.854.9593. Every Monday Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome For more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per.treven@ ericsson.com.

Allen Toastmastersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club, 6:30 pm, Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100. Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC. For more info: Henry@WealthManagementGroupLLC.com Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany, Ste. 208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net. Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, 7:15 pm, Custer Road United Methodist Church, Rm B2, 6601 Custer Rd, Plano. For more info: Ed Meissner, 469-323-0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www.prestonpersuaders.org. Every Monday, Thursday & Saturday Allen AA meets, 601 S. Greenville. For more info: 972-359-7383. Second Monday Collin County Early Childhood PTA, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery res. req. For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566 or www.northtexasbeekeepers. org. American Association of University Women-Plano/ Collin County Branch, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior Living Center, 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with assoc. or bachelors degree interested in helping women. For more info: Carol, 972.862.3460 or www.aauwplanocollin. org.

The MOB (Men of Business), 11:30 am-1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen for male bonding and networking over lunch. $20 chamber members; $25 non-members/ general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, 7 pm, Tinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Too Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, school programs, etc. Open to anyone interested. For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982. McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm, Community Lifeline Center, 1601 W. University Drive, McKinney. Various locations and service projects monthly. For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org. Third Monday Collin County Aggie Moms, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, Coit between Bush Tollway & Campbell. For more info: 972.382.3124 or www.collincountymoms. aggienetwork.com Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net. Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family & friends, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney. For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984. Allen Retired Educators, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. For more info: or RSVP: Jerri Caldronia@ jlcaldronia@ suddenlink.net. Fourth Monday Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be a member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402. Legacy 4-H Club (Allen and Lucas), 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460. Texas Democratic Women of Collin County meets at 6:45 pm, Collin College, Frisco campus, Rm F148. For more info: www.tdwcc.org or Barb Walters, 214.477.5183.

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Plano Photography Club, 7 pm, Grace Presbyterian Church, 4300 W. Park Blvd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.planophotographyclub.com. Every Tuesday Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/ $7 non-mem. 1st visit free. For more info: 972.727.5585. Toastmasters Creative Expressions, 11:15 am- 12:30 pm. Raytheon, McKinney. Guests welcome. 2ChangeU Toastmasters, 7-8:45 pm, Custer Rd. United Methodist Church, Rm B5, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.2changeu.org. Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 7 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. Offers strength and hope to friends & family of alcoholics. For more info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon.alateen.org. Every Tuesday & Thursday Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping & gardening advice, 9 am-4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney. For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460. First Tuesday Heard Museum Native Plant Society, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. First and Third Tuesday Common Threads of Allen, 7 pm, A Real Bookstore, 113 Praire Rd., Village at Fairview. Share needlework projects, learn new techniques, make friends. For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net.

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Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Twin Creeks Golf Club, 501 Twin Creeks Drive. For more info: kevin_carlson@sbcglobal.net. Second Tuesday Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, 5024 Custer, in Plano, 7 pm. For more info: www.planopacers.org. Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, 7 to 9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.bptmn.org or email info@bptmn.org. Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. For more info: 214.509.4820. Allen Democrats, 6:30 pm, Reel Thing Catfish Cafe, 600 E. Main St., Allen. For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214.893.3643. Collin County Archaeology Society, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney. For more info: archaeology@netzero.net. Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group of Collin County, 7-9 pm, parlor, First United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. For more info: Shirli Salter, sscaroline@aol.com. Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, 9:30 am refreshments, 10 am program, 5228 Tennyson Parkway, Plano. Culinary instructor and TV personality Molly Fowler, the Dining Diva, will teach how to entertain with ease and be a guest at your own party. Guests are welcome! For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org. Third Tuesday McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, welcomes new residents, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. 20th Anniversary. Speaker Mimi Dupont, member and past pres. of Newcomers. A complimentary luncheon for all members. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com.

Plano Republican Women’s Club, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expwy., Plano. For more info: www.planorepublicanwomen.com. Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group provides support & resources for parents of children with autism & related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/ group/autismparentsupport. Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter meets Aug.-May. For more info:txshawm@sbcglobal.net. Fourth Tuesday Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon and speaker, 11:30 am-1 pm. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society meets at 7 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Porcelain Art Guild of North Texas, 9:30 am, Carriage House, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Open to anyone, beginner to expert For more info: Gayle Harry 214.509.0787. Every Wednesday Allen Rotary Club, Noon, Courtyard by Marriot, 210 East Stacy Rd. For more info: www.allenrotary.org. Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, “Become the Speaker and Leader you can be”, 7 pm, Market Street, 985 W. Bethany Drive, Allen. For more info: Marlene Byndon, 816.456.6803. Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, 7 am, Twin Creeks Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.asrotary.org. McKinney Chess on the Square, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. Promotes creativity, imagination and strategic thinking. For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org.

First Wednesday Allen Heritage Guild, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main St, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www.allenheritageguild.org. Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:30-1:30 pm, HeardCraig Carriage Hosue, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. For more info: 972.569.6909 or www.headcraig.org. Collin County Master Gardeners Assoc. guided tour of Myers Park, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Res. requested. For more info: 972.548.4232 or go to mgcollin@ag.tamu. edu. First and Third Wednesday MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, 9:3011:30, 3405 Custer, Ste. 200, Plano. For more info: 214-762-0037 or www.mopsofhope.com. Second Wednesday Collin County Genealogical Society, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com. VFW Post 2195, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www. vfw2195.org. Every Thursday Sweet Adelines, NoteAbly North Texas Chorus, 7 pm, Grace Evangelical Free Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy, Allen. Women of Allen & surrounding area invited. For more info: nntsing4fun@yahoo.com. Allen Kiwanis Club, Noon, Twin Creeks Clubhouse, 501 Twin Creeks Blvd. Visitors welcome. For more info: Sandy McNair, 214.548.5483 or www. allenkiwanis.org. Allen Classic Cars, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Chipotle and Stacy Furniture.

Community Bible Study, 9:30–11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Registration required. For more info: katpf@att.nett or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org. Weight Watchers, 12:15 and 6 pm, First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Enter at the south entrance, second floor. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness of Collin County), Recovery support group for adults living with mental illness. Led by trained individuals. Free, 6:308:30 pm, Custer Road UMC, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. For more info: 214.509.0085 or www.namicco.org. Speak Up! Frisco Toastmasters Club, 7-7:30 pm social, 7:30-8:30 meeting. U of D-Frisco campus, Frisco Chamber, 6843 W. Main St. For more info: http://speakupfrisco.freetoasthost.ws. First Thursday W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking & discussion of women’s issues. Fun & informative meeting for women in Allen & surrounding areas. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenchamber.com North Dallas Newcomers, 11 am., Prestonwood Country Club. Dave Tanner will perform a program entitled “Texas Attitude.” We love to have new members join the many fun activities that this group offers. Guests are welcome. For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net. Allen Garden Club, meets 7 pm, monthly gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main Street. For more info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www. allengardenclub.org. Second Thursday McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Headquarters, 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location sometimes varies. For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com.

Osteoporosis Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, Community Education Rm-Medical Office Bldg. 2. For more info: 972.747.6036. PSA:NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness] of Collin County, 7:30 pm, Custer Road UM Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano. Enter at the SE end, room B2. Peer support group, B6, and Family support group, B1, meet from 6:30-7:20. For more info: www.namicco.org. Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly gen. meetings at Creekwood United Methodist Church, 261 Country Club Road, Fairview. Different topic and guest speakers each month. Lunch provided free and babysitting available for nominal fee. A list of speakers is available on website. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/LovejoyPreschool-PTA/. Legal Aid Clinic, 6 pm, First United Methodist Church. For more info: www.lanwt.org or 1.888.529.5277. Second and Fourth Thursday Allen Area Patriots, 7-8:45 pm, Failth Fellowship Church, 415 West Lucas Road, Lucas. Local Tea Party presents speakers, enlightening and motivating citizens to participate in the political process. For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots.com. Allen High Noon Lions Club, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Tony Pritchard, 214.293.1598. Third Thursday Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, noon, First United Methodist Church Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch and fellowship. Speakers and entertainers. For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net. Knights of Columbus, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc. org.

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Live @ 5 Business After Hours, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Cancer Support Ministry, 7 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241. Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new & expectant moms’ forum, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330. Collin County Republican Men’s Club, 7 pm, locations vary. For more info: www.ccrmc.org. Allen Quilters’ Guild, 6:30 pm, First Presbyterian Church, 605 S. Greenville. For more info: www.allenquilters.org. Breast Cancer Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, 1105 Central Expwy. N., Community Education Room-Med.Office Bldg. 2. For more info: 972.747.6036. Fourth Thursday Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, 10 am, HeardCraig Hall Gallery, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas. Meet new people. For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail.com. Every Other Thursday North Texas Referral Group, 11:45 am, Friday’s (121 & Preston by the mall). For more info: www.ntrg.info. Every Friday Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Members free/Non-member Allen resident $3. For more info: 214.509.4820.

McKinney Chess Club, 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney.Adults 50+(Free). For more info: 972.547.7491.

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Every Other Friday MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), non-denominational support group for moms with kids birth to 5 years, 9:3011:45 am, First Baptist Church in Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241. First & Third Friday Classic 55+ Game Night, 6:30 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games. Open to the community, no res. required. For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@ hotmail.com. Every Saturday McKinney Chess Club, 10:30 am-1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Any age. Free. For more info: 972.547.7491. Second Saturday Heard Museum Nature Photography Club meeting. 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Department 56 Village Collectors Club meets in the Plano/North Dallas area to share ideas. For more info: www.bigd56ers.com. Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, service organization to teach children to serve their local community. For more info: 972.396.8010. Third Saturday Single Side Up, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. There is no charge to attend. Low cost child care is available. For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@ thissideupfamily.org. Allen Folk Music Society, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Drive, Allen. Musicians aged 15-100. Bring snacks to share. For more info: www.twiceasfar.com.

Fourth Saturday American Sewing Guild, 10 am-noon, Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Rd (at Parker), in Plano. For more info: Jane Johnson, 972.841.6854 or www.planoasg. org. Last Saturday Plano Pacers run at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, 8 am. For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www. planopacers.org. Every Sunday Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out live to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net. First Sunday United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, 2 pm, First Methodist Church of Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Church Parlor. Join us for book discussion and refreshments. Book selections are determined at the January meeting. We do encourage women of all faiths to participate. For more info: cynannrobinson@gmail.com.

Please keep us informed of any local activities or events of general interest to our readers by fax to the Allen Image at 972.396.0807 or email to contact@ allenimage.com.

For Your Health

Allen Image x April 2013

cover story A teacher with St. Mark’s School of Texas in Dallas for 23 years, John has had many opportunities to learn and then share the knowledge acquired with his students. Whenever possible, he encourages his students to do the same. One way he enjoys passing on his stories in both the classroom and community is through his photographs. This past February, some of John’s nature photos were on display at the Allen Public Library. He also discussed the challenges of photographing birds as part of the ALLen Reads panel discussion “It’s For the Birds.” John, who describes his photo graphy as a form of storytelling, graciously agreed to share some of his stories, both verbal and visual, of how he came to love teaching science to young teens. Born in New York City and raised in the Gramercy Park neighborhood of Manhattan, one of John’s early memories was of being a neighbor of the actress Margaret Hamilton—better known as the Wizard of Oz’s Wicked Witch of the West. “As kids, we would never walk on the same side of the street as her building because we just knew the flying monkeys would get us,” he laughs. The youngest of three children to parents from South Carolina, John proudly points out that his father was a family doctor who made house calls until he retired. He fondly recalls tagging along on many of the patient visits. The family settled in Manhattan after his father completed his residency at New York’s renowned Bellevue Hospital. One of John’s treasured childhood pastimes was poring through the family copy of the Life Nature Library book, Early Man. He credits this book for his lifelong fascination with paleoanthropology. He attended Duke University in North Carolina, earning his bachelor of arts in biology, followed by a master of arts in teaching. “I spent an entire year shadowing a teacher in a local school and taught half a load—three different classes,” he recalls. “I learned through trial by fire, but every day I had my mentor there.”

“If I had followed the family line, I should have been a doctor,” John admits. “I would have been the fifth generation.” It was his medical career experience that led to his change of heart. “As a high school student I spent time in an operating room at what was then called New York Hospital. Every morning in the summer I put on my scrubs and helped out with anesthesia. I loved a part of it—the science of it really got me excited. But I realized the medical part wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. It was a noble profession but it didn’t fit my personality at all.” With a desire to share his love of science, teaching was John’s obvious career choice. So after earning his master ’s degree in 1990 he began exploring teaching possibilities across the United States. A telephone call from a St. Mark’s recruiting director and alumni of both The Hotchkiss School and Duke University, caught John’s attention. “He asked if I would come to the National Association of Independent Schools conference in Washington, D.C., to meet St. Mark’s headmaster.” The interview went so well that a week later John was asked to come to Dallas for a longer interview. John admits that it was St. Mark’s offer that pushed his decision to come to Dallas. “Their offer was head and shoulders above everyone else,” he states. Being given the freedom to create his own curriculum with some oversight was an added bonus. “I want kids to be excited about science,” he exclaims. “You’re never going to teach kids in middle school every factoid about science, but we want them to be interested in science and be thinkers rather than memorizers.” Married to wife Robyn on New Year’s Eve of 1998, they settled into their Allen home shortly after that. The assistant director at Tutoring 101 in Allen, Robyn spends much of her spare time with Allen’s Community Theatre. Daughter Katie, who recently married, is now working on her masters degree in American Studies at George Washington University and

her book, The Trickster in Ginsberg: A Critical Reading is scheduled for release this summer. Son John Michael is currently a student at Collin College. Today, John credits many of the earlier St. Mark’s science teachers as his inspiration. “Arthur Douglas was a British gentleman who worked here for 55 years and was in charge of the greenhouse,” he points out. “I’ve always said that if I had one-tenth of his innate knowledge I would have a successful life. He knew any bird and any butterfly and was a naturalist in the true sense of the word.” Teaching environmental science and fifth grade general science in his early years, he later worked as the assistant head of the middle school, teaching only two or three sections of science. “I did that for six years, but really wanted to get back to the classroom,” he asserts. In 2007, he was awarded the Eugene McDermott Master Teaching Chair in Science, which provided him that opportunity. “This allows us to be paid as ad ministrators but not have all the admini strative responsibilities,” he explains. “It gives us the freedom to be our best selves.” Today John teaches sixth grade life science and freshman biology. John credits his love of teaching as the drive for him to become a better photographer. ”I was surrounded by people who had photography as a hobby,” he recalls. “My dad always had his Nikon. He wasn’t an accomplished photographer but always took good photos. And I had an uncle who traveled a lot and he brought back his travel photos. I loved those, and they gave me the idea that this was storytelling.” Although John got his first SLR camera when he was in high school, he had few opportunities to work with it. It was a two-week student trip to Belize following his first year at St. Mark’s that inspired him to dust off his equipment. “I had heard about this program where teachers would take students to Belize to work on saving the rain forest. I made a proposal and it was accepted. We took 20 seventh and eighth graders and spent a week Allen Image x April 2013

in the rain forest and a week at a coral reef doing a research project.” Soon, he began tagging along on other student trips. “We have a third grade teacher who leads third, fourth and fifth graders to Yellowstone in Wyoming for about a week-and-a-half in the summer,” John continues. “I started going on those trips as the medical advisor because I have training as a wilderness first responder, but I also became the trip photographer.” The next year he joined in the St.

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Mark’s freshman wilderness adventure at the Pecos Wilderness in north central New Mexico. “It’s an awesome right of passage,” John emphasizes, noting that he has now participated in it for 21 years. “For our boys, they all have this common bond and they all have to spend 24-hours by themselves.” John’s next great leap in photography came when he was invited to speak at a 2006 educators conference in South Africa. “As a biology teacher, it would be

the ultimate sin for me to go to South Africa and not do a safari, so I arranged to go on two while I was there,” he recalls. “One at a private game reserve outside Kruger National Park and the other in Botswana.” When the opportunity to return to South Africa the following summer as part of an exchange program between St. Mark’s and a boys school in Johannesburg, John scheduled another safari. He also booked a shark diving expedition, followed by a boating trip near Cape Town to watch migrating southern right whales. Despite the multiple risks involved in safaris and sharking diving, it was the whale watching tour that proved most dangerous. “The sea was calm but there were big swells,” he recalls. “I was up in the air when a crest caught us and when the boat came up to meet my feet, I wasn’t ready. There went my spine.” Following an x-ray and CAT scan it was determined that John had fractured his L1 vertebra, dangerously close to the point of needing surgery. The trick was to get him home safely, without further damage. “I had to fly from Cape Town to London to JFK to Dallas, and they had to build me what I called an Imperial Storm Trooper vest, like in Star Wars, except that it had no arms,” he grimaces. Back home, John’s injury created another furor when he had an adverse reaction to the medication he was prescribed. Off the medication, John was forced to wear the hard vest through the Christmas holidays. Rolling his eyes at the memory, he sighs, “I finally got to play golf again the first week in January.” And he got another story to tell. During this period of immobility, John took advantage of the down time to classify and arrange his photos, leaving him longing for another chance to go out and take pictures. His next once-in-a-lifetime ad venture came in the summer of 2009. In New Zealand, where he was invited to present at another conference, it was the dead of winter. He confesses that while here he went out on another whalewatching expedition. “These were

sperm whales—and it was a much bigger boat!” he explains with a grin. He also coordinated an outing with a local landscape photographer to explore the South Island of New Zealand. It was during one of their treks that John admits to experiencing one of the scariest moments of his life. For one of their adventures they rented a helicopter to shoot pictures of the Southern Alps at the end of the day. “In this area of New Zealand, you go from sea level to about 13,000 feet in the span of three to four miles,” John recalls. “It is one of the most dramatic elevation gains on earth.” “You wouldn’t dream of shooting decent photos out of a window!’ he continues. “The only way we could deal with that problem was to take the doors off the helicopter. I was in the back passenger seat, belted in with a harness, but I’m also the first one to admit that I’m afraid of heights.” Recalling temperatures at the higher elevation being minus 28 degrees Fahrenheit, he points out, “There is not a whole lot of changing

camera settings in that environment. And when my memory card filled up and had to be changed, I was scared that it would fly out the door. I was terrified most of the time I was up there, but I was so glad I did it. I got to see things in such a different way.” The following day the two men returned to visit some of the large glacial areas of these mountains, allowing him to take remarkable shots including some from inside a glacier, looking upward through a “window”

in the ice. Not one to pass up a teaching moment, John enthuses, “I love the way the ice absorbs all the reddish wavelengths of light. That’s why the big thick sheets of ice look so blue.” During that same trip, John experienced the largest earthquake recorded that year. Registering an estimated 8.9 at its epicenter located off the coast of New Zealand. He adds that it was particularly unsettling because the town of Napier, New Zealand, where they had attended the

John inside a glacier in New Zealand. Allen Image x April 2013

Jack Hanna with John at the Center for Birds of Prey. conference just a few days before, had been completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1931. Despite those moments of sheer fright, returning home with breath taking photos and awesome stories made it all worthwhile. While on a trip a few years ago to a favorite family vacation spot of his childhood in South Carolina, John discovered The Center for Birds of Prey. Capturing images of the birds

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there, particularly the raptors, drew him into another photographic passion. The largest raptor center on the east coast, John has returned for the last five summers. When the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center in Lucas recently opened, John tapped it as another favorite photography locale. His latest wildlife resource find is the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge in Grayson County. When he has a yearning to relive

his African photo safari days, John now visits Pug-Mark Park near McKinney, a “retirement” home for big cats once involved in the entertainment industry. John notes that currently this facility is home to two photogenic Bengal tigers and an African lion. Today, John not only uses his photography as a teaching tool in the classroom, but has had photos selected for juried gallery displays. Recently, John expanded his

photographic experiences through capturing images of Civil War re-enactors. Not satisfied with the modern-looking photographs depicting events of 150 years ago, he began experimenting with digital “aging” of these pictures to make them appear more like the tintype photos in vogue during the Civil War. “The difference between someone who takes pictures and a photographer is imagining the picture before it is taken,” John explains. “Now I ask, ‘What story do I want to tell and how can I make it appeal to someone else?’” Another way John taps his photography skills for the classroom is through video microscopy, which he shares on You Tube. “I’ve filmed a lot of stuff under a microscope to use as teaching tools,” he notes. Schools as far away as Ireland have included some of his video microscopy in their teacher resources. “My most watched video, that is working its way up to almost one-half million views, is of an amoeba eating,” John notes. John never hesitates to grab opportunities to have knowledgeable experts share their own stories in his classrooms. Coming to St. Mark’s via the school’s Visiting Scholars program, paleoanthropologist Richard Leaky, his daughter paleontologist Louise Leaky and Jane Goodall—the famed primatologist best known for her work with chimpanzees—have all made presentations to John’s students. Recently John contacted paleo anthropologist and archeologist, Lee Berger, famed for his discovery of the approximately 2-million-year-old hominid Australopithecus sediba. A message to Lee requesting that he occasionally answer e-mailed questions from his students led to an actual visit from the famed scientist as well as a joint event with the Perot Museum. With Lee’s book In the Footsteps of Eve being required reading for John’s students, the paleoanthropologist has also agreed to keep in contact with the St. Mark’s students so he can answer questions that arise. John notes that his students will also provide feedback for Lee’s new children’s book The Skull

in the Rock: How a Scientist, a Boy, and Google Earth Opened a New Window on Human Origins. “Scientists need to be able to explain things in real ways,” John emphasizes. “We need to get kids out exploring, thinking and getting inspired.” With all the incredible places John has visited and photographed, does he have one location he dreams of visiting? “If money was no object, I’ve always wanted to go to Antarctica,” he nods. “There is a ton of cool stuff to photograph

there.” Then pondering another moment, he adds, “And then I would love to go to the Arctic to shoot polar bears and the brown bears in Alaska.” These choices would take him from pole to pole, providing him a world of photos and stories in between. The photographs from John’s many adventures can be viewed at bluelionphotos.com v Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.

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