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August 2016

Vol. 26, Issue 8

Feature

18 taking charge!

The Charge is a newbie to the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Pro Fastpitch league. Their first year saw them get to the championship. In 2016 they plan on winning it. These All American, all conference record holders are some of the best softball players on the planet. Charge softball is high-energy; high-paced; lots of hits; great pitching. Come see for yourself!

special sections

22 KIDS KORNER

Exploring Art

32 CALENDAR 58 PET PAGE Joey

18 22

58 6

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE civic forum

education

Allen Wins $270,000!

24 Collin College Scores When It

Allen’s Fall sports Leagues

New Technology Leads to Creative Communication

Comes to Sports

cooking 28

Pop for This Summer Treat

library

Health & Fitness

16 Mad Dogs ’70

Summertime Fun

Senior Housing vs. Living at

August Films at the Library

Collin McKinney is 250

Home

17 Marc Benno and Sugar Boy Myers in Concert

56 Focus and Commitment

Let the Tingle Be a Jingle

52 publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

contributing writers Chelsey Aprill Matt Cobb Deborah Dove Dr. Devanshi Gupta

advertising sales Liz DeBoe

on the cover Kylee Lahners—Dallas Charge

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Tom Keener Peggy Helmick-Richardson Dr. Adam Smith Simon Valentin

Allen Image © 2016 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, visit our website at www. allenimage.com or email us at contact@allenimage.com.

civic forum

Allen wins $270,000! by Chelsey APRILL

The City of Allen will receive more than a quarter of a million dollars to fund a highway landscaping project, thanks to the work of Keep Allen Beautiful (KAB) and other community organizations. Allen was honored with the Governor’s Community Achievement Award during the Keep Texas Beautiful (KTB) Conference on June 22. It is one of the most prestigious environmental awards in Texas. This is the second time the City of Allen has received this award, also winning in 2012. KTB affiliates are only eligible to win once every three years. “I was flabbergasted when I got the call,” said Donna Kliewer, waste services manager for the City of Allen. “It’s not easy to do.” The award recognizes multiple organizations within

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the city that contributed to beautification and community improvement, including the Allen Garden Club, Master Gardeners, Students of Service, Boy Scouts, Eagle Scouts and Change the World Allen. It also celebrates the efforts of the city’s Community Development Block Grant program and Live.Love.Allen. “KAB may have written the application and contributed to the effort, but it’s the Allen community—especially all of our volunteers—who really deserve the credit,” said Kliewer. The city plans to combine this year’s $270,000 award with the winnings from 2012 to create a landmark entry point along US 75 near Allen Drive. The Allen Community Development Corporation and Public Art Committee matched funding from the original $270,000 award, giving the city more than $800,000 to spend on the project.

KAB earned additional accolades from Keep Texas Beautiful, including recognition as a Gold Star Affiliate and for Sustained Excellence for consistently earning a 90 or above on their GCAA application each year since they became a KTB affiliate. KAB volunteer Mason Gray Moon earned second place in the Ruthe Jackson Youth Leadership Award. A nomination from KAB also led to a big honor for Finisar, an Allen-based fiber optics company. The company’s sound environmental principles earned the KTB Ebby Halliday and Maurice Acers Business/Industry award in the State/National category. “One of our original Keep Allen Beautiful board members was a Finisar employee,” says Kliewer. “She took what she learned back to Finisar and formed a green team. Since then, they’ve planted fields of wildflowers,

The award recognizes multiple organizations within the city that contributed to beautification and community improvement… started their own farmers market and expanded their recycling program. It’s made a big impact.” Keep Allen Beautiful coordinates ongoing cleanup events, offers field trips and classroom presentations, holds environmentally-themed contests and coordinates the city’s largest cleanup events: Allen Recycles Day and the Great American Cleanup. It also hosts events to celebrate and enhance the Allen community, such as Earthfest and National Planting Day. The Keep Texas Beautiful Awards recognize the best grassroots environ mental programs in the state. v Chelsey Aprill is a marketing specialist for the City of Allen. Allen Image | August 2016

Allen’s Fall Sports Leagues by Matt COBB

Finding time for fitness can often be a struggle, especially when trying to maintain a healthy work-life balance. For those who would like to stay active and social but find that the gym lacks appeal, the Allen Parks and Recreation department offers a fun solution: a diverse variety of adult sports leagues. This fall, as the weather cools off, sports fanatics and those simply looking to be more active can participate in Allen’s indoor and outdoor recreational sports leagues, staying fit while having fun in a team environment. “One goal of Allen’s sports leagues is to promote healthy lifestyles through being active,” said Joey Ramos, athletic supervisor for the Allen Parks and Recreation department. “The sports leagues provide an opportunity to improve fitness while socializing and building relationships.” Allen offers men’s, women’s and co-recreational sports leagues for ages 15 and up with the exception of soccer, which is available to ages 17 and older, Ramos said. All of the league sports have a post-season, which includes playoffs or a singleelimination tournament. Fans of fast-paced outdoor sports can enjoy soccer, softball and flag football this fall. Both 8-on-8 and

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5-on-5 flag football leagues are being offered. Non-traditional sports that are being offered include kickball and ultimate frisbee. “Allen offers a wide variety of sports leagues,” Ramos said. “By including a mix of traditional sports, such as football, with ultimate frisbee, there is pretty much a sport for everyone.” For fans of indoor sports,

volleyball and men’s basketball leagues are available this fall as well, Ramos said. To participate, online registration is available at TeamSideline.com/ Allen, where you can sign up your team. If you don’t have enough members to field a team or if you would like to join a team, a “free agent signup” form is available on the registration website. Registration for outdoor sports

leagues runs from July 5 to August 1, while indoor league registration is August 15 to September 6. Late registration for outdoor leagues is from August 2-8 and indoor leagues is September 7-12. For more information about Allen’s fall sports leagues and ways to stay active, please visit AllenParks.org. v Matt Cobb is the senior marketing coordinator for the City of Allen.

Allen Image | August 2016

New Technology Leads to Creative Communication by Erik WALDBAUER

When KONE cut the ribbon on its new North American headquarters this June, there were two ways to attend the ceremony. Some joined the throng of employees and guests sipping bottled water on the freshlypaved parking lot, shedding suitcoats and sweaters as temperatures soared. Others simply logged on to Facebook and watched the live stream provided by the City of Allen. Allen residents have never had more opportunities to connect with city government. Over the past year, Allen’s Public and Media Relations Office has revolutionized the way its residents access information online, from the launch of city newsroom to the use of Facebook Live. “We’re trying to give residents a front row seat to events that otherwise they’d be unable to attend,” says Chelsey Aprill, marketing specialist for the City of Allen. In addition to KONE’s ribbon cutting, the city has also provided live streams from road opening ceremonies and groundbreakings. Most recently, the city launched a new Twitter campaign dubbed #AllenHashtagAlong, which takes residents on a virtual field trip to Allen facilities. The first installment took place at Allen Public Library, showcasing behind-the-scenes tasks like material processing and special event planning. Aprill says she was inspired by the television show Dirty Jobs and the factory tours on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. “We want to peel back the curtain on the inner-workings of the city,” says Aprill.

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Each #AllenHashtagAlong will be catalogued on a website called Storify, which will assemble the posts in a blog-like format for future readers. Aprill hopes to feature a new #AllenHashtagAlong monthly. For general news and events, residents can take advantage of AllenNews.org. Launched in July 2015, the site features construction alerts, a community calendar and headlines from across city departments. When Allen Public Library experienced air conditioning issues in June, the site was updated continually with cancellations and closures. “If you want to know about something the city is doing, AllenNews.org is the first place you should look,” says Aprill. The Public and Media Relations Office is also using Nextdoor to reach

residents in a more targeted way. The website, considered the “Facebook for neighborhoods,” helps the city reach residents with location-specific alerts about bulk trash days or street repairs. Residents can also communicate directly with the City of Allen using the MyAllen app. Available for both Apple and Android devices, this app gives Allen residents a way to submit questions or concerns directly to the relevant city department. “Because we are working for the citizens of Allen, we want to be as accessible and approachable as possible,” says Aprill. Find city news at AllenNews.org, Facebook.com/CityofAllen or follow @CityofAllenTX on Twitter. v Erik Waldbauer is the public and media relations intern for the City of Allen.

library

The Library presents… by Tom KEENER

Mad Dogs ‘70

Relive the times of bell bottom trousers, headbands, beaded hair and tie-dyes with the Joe Cocker-style band Mad Dogs ’70 at 7:30 p.m., Friday, August 19, at the library. Sponsored by Allen Public Library, the concert is free. Producer and legendary Texas bluesman Mudcat Reames

and Mad Dogs ’70 recreate the big rhythm and blues machine that backed Joe Cocker and played some of the 60s most iconic songs. Remember “The Letter,” “With a Little Help from My Friends” or “Let it Be?” Mudcat lends a strong vocal presence to the choir and has released three CDs with partner Wayne “Gator” Folse as the act Gator and Mudcat. Josh Jaccard assumes the persona of the young Joe Cocker with a spirit that virtually channels Joe into the show. An energetic horn section, background singers, and a five-piece rhythm section push the sound over the top for a memorable evening. Chad Ireland once performed with the New Jerusalem Band, a progressive bluegrass/rock ensemble; the Tami Gunden Band, a Word recording artist on tour; One Way Express, a gospel ensemble; and Roadhouse, an R&B classics band. Other band members include Kylie Gray on vocals, Clay Burr on lead guitar, Gary Rackley on tenor/alto saxophone, Don Myers on vocals, Ken Miller on tenor/alto saxophone, Craig Odom on vocals, Gary Pierce on trumpet, Steven Lowery on keyboard, James Kirk Hampton on keyboard, Bill Brody on bass and John Stevens on bass. v

August Films at the Library All films are free and begin on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the Allen Public Library. Call 214.509.4905 for more information. August 2—The Great Mouse Detective (1986) vocally starring Vincent Price, Alan Young of Mr. Ed fame, and the legendary Basil Rathbone. Basil, the rodent Sherlock Holmes, investigates the kidnapping of a toy-maker and uncovers its link to his arch enemy, Professor Ratigan. August 9—Space Jam (1996) starring Michael Jordan, Bill Murray and Theresa Randle. Michael Jordan agrees to help the Looney Tunes play a basketball game vs. alien slavers to determine their freedom. August 16—Despicable Me (2010) vocallly starring Steve Carell, Jason Segel and Julie Andrews. When a criminal mastermind uses a trio of orphan girls as pawns for a grand scheme, he finds their love is profoundly changing him for the better. August 23—The Karate Kid (1984) starring Ralph Macchio, Elisabeth Shue and Pat Morita. A handyman/martial arts master agrees to teach karate to a bullied boy, and shows him there is more to the martial art than fighting. August 30—The Mighty Ducks (1992) starring Emilio Estevez, Joss Ackland and Heidi Kling. A self-centered lawyer is sentenced to community service coaching a ragtag youth hockey team. v

Library stories needed To celebrate the Allen Public Library’s 50th anniversary, a film documentary is being produced regarding the library’s legacy in our community. If you raised your children in Allen during the 1970s, 80s or 90s, the accounts of how the library impacted their lives are needed. Let us hear from you! The deadline is October 31. Call Tom Keener at 214.509.4911 or email tkeener@cityofallen.org to share your stories.

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Marc Benno and Sugar Boy Myers in Concert Treat yourself to an unforgettable performance from Grammy Award-winner Marc Benno, who will be accompanied on drums by blues favorite Sugar Boy Myers, at 7:30 p.m., Friday, August 26. Sponsored by the Allen Public Library, the concert is free. Sugar Boy played for the Freddie King band and accompanied a number of iconic legends such as Eric Clapton and Leon Russell. Guitarist, songwriter and keyboardist Marc Benno was performing in Dallas in the 1960s with rock icons Steve Miller, Boz Scaggs, the Eagles and ZZ Top. After moving to L.A., he and Leon Russell recorded a pair of albums as the duo The Asylum Choir. Benno then skyrocketed to fame after

appearing on The Doors’ iconic album L.A. Woman. After two years serving as Lightnin’ Hopkins’ bandleader and lead guitarist, Benno formed Marc Benno and the Nightcrawlers, opening concerts across America. A young guitarist named Stevie Ray Vaughan was one of the Crawlers. In 2009, the CD Crawlin’ was released to rave reviews. In 1985, Benno’s “Rock and Roll Me Again,” recorded by The System for the movie Beverly Hills Cop, won a Grammy for Best Composition for a Motion Picture Soundtrack. The band will also be comprised of Reno King on harmonica, Jackie Don Loe on guitar, Neal Marshall on bass and Bill Smith on keys. v

Collin McKinney is 250 Collin County and its county seat are named for the same person—Collin McKinney, who happens to be celebrating his 250th birthday this year. McKinney was chosen to be one of five delegates from the Red River Colony to the Convention of 1836, that called for Texas to declare its independence from Mexico. He was one of five men appointed to draft the Texas Declaration of Independence, and at 70 years of age, he was the oldest to sign it. By the time of his death in 1861 at the age of 95, Collin McKinney had lived under the flags of seven different nations. Meet Eric Nishimoto, the author of Texas Maker, the heretofore unknown legend of Collin McKinney, and learn about Collin McKinney’s life from the perspective of his wife Elizabeth “Betsy,” at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, August 18, at the library. A writer and graphic artist, Eric Nishimoto has received national and regional journalism, writing and graphic art awards, including the prestigious Mayborn Biography Fellowship. Eric is currently an adjunct professor at the University of North Texas’ Mayborn School of Journalism and serves as Collin County’s public information officer.

Betsy McKinney will be portrayed by Peggy HelmickRichardson. A professional storyteller for over 16 years, she is the 2016 recipient of the Tejas Storytelling Association’s John Henry Faulk Award for significant contributions to storytelling in the Southwest. A feature writer for the Allen Image magazine, she also edited the 2008 Healing Storytelling Alliance journal Diving in the Moon. v

Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library. The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive. Call 214.509.4911 for more information. Allen Image | August 2016

feature

Taking Charge!

ention women’s professional fast-pitch softball to folks and a resounding “meh,” especially from guys, isn’t unusual. The following mental exercise is for them. Imagine you’re at a ballfield, fresh mowed emerald green grass, red dirt and white chalk lines spread out in front of you. Take your spot at home plate and look at the pitcher’s mound. The pony-tailed woman with the turquoise nails holding a grapefruit-sized ball is 43 feet away. You’re in decent physical shape, confident you can handle an underhand pitch from her. It’s almost not fair. As you stand there, good shoulder-width stance, bat

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by Simon VALENTIN ready to unleash its fury, you think, “Softball. Underhand pitch. It all sounds so…girly.” You blink—close your eyes less than a half-second— and open them in time to see a lime-green projectile rocket past you and hit the catcher’s mitt with a pop so loud it sounds like a gunshot. You just got smoked by 70-miles-an-hour worth of girly. But, on the up side, your stance was pretty good. That player who can routinely strike out men and women alike is twenty-three-year-old Lauren Haeger—a world class athlete with a Dallas work address—she’s a pitcher for the Dallas Charge. The Charge is a relative newbie to the women’s National Pro Fastpitch league—this is their second year in

the NPF. Their inaugural year saw them get to the championship games. In 2016, they plan on winning it. “We have some of the best softball players on the planet here,” said Charge General Manager Kevin Shelton. “They play on a field smaller than a baseball field so every play is ‘bang, bang’!” he added. “I love the speed of this game—any imperfection is immediately punished.” Dallas Charge player Ashley Burkhardt dominated softball at Purdue University for four years and said speed is one of the things that make the game so exciting. “It is way faster than baseball,” the twenty-three-year-old said, taking a break from practice. “What’s unique about softball is everybody hustles— when bases are 60 feet apart, not 90, the game is quicker with way more energy. You see so much spirit.” A college recruiter watching from the stands agrees. “This is exciting, you’re not standing around waiting for something to happen,” enthused Cheri Naudin. “This is fast and explosive. Things like slapping (a batter running at the pitch and hitting it) and base running—getting from home plate to first in 2.5 seconds, is so much more electrifying. It’ll get you out of your seat.” Since the game lasts only seven innings as opposed to baseball’s nine, it’s about 45-minutes shorter so there’s no need for a seventh inning stretch. As for the quality of players, with only six professional women’s softball teams in the nation and about 120 spots to fill, the NPF is flooded with prime talent. “Nearly every Charge player was an All American, all conference record holder,” GM Shelton boasts. “We have three of the all-time top home run leaders in NCAA history on our team!” In his quest for the best, this GM didn’t let continental borders stop him. Twenty-six-year-old Chelsea Forkin is from Perth, Australia, and helped win three Australian National Championship titles back home. The

game in Australia is self-funded, and Forkin is a full-time high school teacher when not playing. “Coming here, where it’s a professional sport, where some of the best players in the world do it as a job, get paid, play in front of fans and are respected by the softball community, it’s really quite cool. I’m honored to have the opportunity,” she commented. Softball season in the U.S. is three months long and although the athletes are paid, quite honestly, not many can splurge on a champagne dreams and caviar wishes lifestyle. “Our salary cap is $150,000 for the summer for the entire team. We average 20 players, so do the math, it’s not a lot of money,” Shelton said. “They’re playing because they love this.” “Love” is an understatement. Twenty-five-year-old third baseman Nadia Taylor doesn’t let much get in the way of softball, including interviews. Despite shouts of “Nadia! It’s your turn! Let’s go! Let’s go!” she keeps working.

Softball.

Underhand pitch. It all sounds so… girly.

Lauren Haeger

Allen Image | August 2016

“She doesn’t want to back down for the interview because she’s doing a drill,” Ashley said with a laugh. “I eat, sleep and breathe softball. It’s in my blood. I’m blessed to have a contract,” Nadia said. “Lauren Haeger doesn’t want to be my roommate because she says I talk softball all the time.” The University of Texas grad and God-centered player is certain if people see the Charge, they’ll understand her passion. “I want them to support us like they do the Texas Rangers. I guarantee they’ll walk out softball fans,” she said, keeping an eye on the field. “We don’t make millions, but we play hard.” The great thing is supporting these hard working non-millionaires doesn’t require getting a loan to take your family out. Their home field is McKinney’s Ball Park at Craig Ranch and tickets for most games range from $6 to $20. That means a family of four can enjoy a professional ballgame for less than thirty bucks— the NPF does its best to keep it affordable and family-friendly. After a game, talk to these pro

ball players for a minute and you’ll sense how much they love their fans, especially kids. “We try to get to know the girls (the fans), we’ll stay after the game and sign as many autographs as they want, we’ll take pictures with them,” said Kylee Lahners, a twenty-three-year-old who set all kinds of records at the University of Washington. “I’ve Nadia Taylor been one of those kids shrugged off by a player at a Major League Baseball game and it wasn’t a good feeling.” On this overcast Texas day, a middle-aged dad sits in the stands with his seven-year-old daughter. After a little prodding she talks about why she’s there. “I want to play softball like Kylee,” she said after seeing the

Ashley Burkhardt

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ballplayer crush a ball over the fence. “She has ADD, like me.” The young fan, just diagnosed, was scared about ADD, and when Kylee found out, she made it a point to talk to her. “I hear you’re a softball player,” Kylee said. “That’s awesome! I hear you’ve got ADD too. Guess what? So do I! That makes us cooler, we can think of more things at once…” As Kylee gives the aspiring softballer a pep talk, the girl lifts her chin, stands taller and is beaming when they part ways. “People don’t realize how tough ADD can be. I had trouble in school, wasn’t diagnosed until I was in college,” Kylee said. “Now when I’m on the field I draw an imaginary box in front of me and when the pitcher is ready, I step in that box,” she said. “Boom! I’m locked in for three, four seconds.” And once the play is over? “Then it’s ‘oh, look, the snack bar line is kind of long.’ I’m looking left, looking right, checking out clouds, but in the box, I’m ready when the pitch crosses the plate.” Taking time to share that insight helped ease the mind of one fortunate first grader.

watching,” she recalled. “Hannah Rogers was the other pitcher on the Florida Gators—she’s tall, she’s blonde, she’s beautiful. I’d come out there after her and I look different than Hannah. People just ripped me apart on Twitter. “It doesn’t bother me, softball’s made me a strong, confident woman, but not everyone is like that,” she continued. That’s the kind of player you’ll see hustling across the ballfield at a Kristen Zaleski Dallas Charge game, someone who loves fans and families as much as “Softball is a lot about character,” they love the game. Someone who sees five-year-NPF-veteran and Charge being a role model as a privilege, not a Assistant Coach Kristen Zaleski pain. Someone your kids can emulate. explained. “It’s about how you carry And, if you’re stuck on only being a yourself on and off field; how your baseball fan, Chelsea, in her cool passion for the game translates to life, Aussie accent, bottom lines it for you. toward anything you love, how you “Baseball is a lot slower game, it’s handle adversity. It makes a difference a little more cruisey,” she said. “But in how you live and treat others.” softball is high-energy; high-paced; Pitcher Lauren Haeger has that lots of hits; great pitching. You’ll see depth of character in spades. some of the best female athletes in the “Pitching is full body work; you world. Come cheer us on!” u use your back, shoulders, biceps, legs, hips; the whole shebang,” she shared. Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen. “But throwing underhand is a more natural movement, I could throw five games in a day.” Ask what she loves about softball and, in her trademark blunt way, the former Florida Gator echoes a theme familiar to the Charge. “It’s better to be surrounded by people with good character, I can mess up a hundred times but…they’re like, ‘Dude, we’re all in this together, it’s okay!’ It’s not about one person.” Lauren shares that same bluntspeak with fans who open up about not believing in themselves. When she can, she shares this story. “I pitched in the Women’s College World Series, televised on ESPN; 2.2 million people were

Softball

is a lot

about character. It’s about how you carry yourself on and off the field… It makes a difference in how you live and how you treat others.

Allen Image | August 2016

kids korner

Exploring Art by Deborah DOVE Too hot outside to play? August is the perfect month for kids to explore the world of art or create their own.

Camps And Classes Printmaking Camp—Blue House, 102 S. Allen Dr. Make prints using a variety of materials including organic materials, ink, and watercolor. Bring a sack lunch. Visit http://allenartsalliance.org/ events/art-classes/ to register. August 4 and 5, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., cost is $75, for ages 8 to 14. Days in the Park with Georgia O’Keeffe—Blue House, 102 S. Allen Dr. Come and explore watercolors and science: Make flowers, paintings, and a kite. Create, too, with papier mache and make a bowl and little creatures. Bring a sack lunch. Visit http://allenartsalliance.org/events/ art-classes/ to register. August 8, 9 and 10, from 10 a.m. to 1p.m., cost: $120, for ages 6 to 12. Allen Parks and Recreation It’s not too late sign up for camp. August offerings include digital photography, adventures in art and more. Check out the Recreation Guide at http://www.cityofallen.org/1005/Programs-Events for more information. Pinot’s Palette—124 Prairie Road (Village at Fairview), 214.980.5955 End-of-Summer Little Brushes Camp runs August 1-5 and August 8-12, for ages 6-12, with the option of attending the whole week or for just one painting session. Week-long, half-day camps are $200 and include 5 days of painting. Individual day camps are $50/day, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., and will offer one two-hour painting session and a specialty art class. Regular Little Brushes two-hour painting class will be offered each day for $30 (2 sessions—morning session for ages 6-8, from 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. and afternoon session for ages 9-12 from 12:30-2:30 p.m.) Visit www.PinotsPalette.com/Allen/classes for more information. Walls of Clay—211 N. Kentucky St., McKinney There are two more summer workshops available that combine pottery painting and glazing or glass fusion—Watermelon Wish on the 5th and Woodland Wonder on the 12th, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., for ages 7 and older, cost is $50 plus tax. Visit www.wallsofclaymckinney.com. Color Me Mine Weekly summer workshops are designed to enhance each child’s under standing and appreciation of art, and each session focuses on a different theme. Children work with a different medium each day and include clay, ceramic painting, canvas painting, plus a craft. August sessions include Disney Magic (August 1-5) and Color Me Groovy (August 8-12). Monday-Friday, 12:30-3:30 p.m., ages 6 to 13, cost is $45/daily or $180/ weekly session. Visit www.colormemine.com for more information.

Museums Dallas Museum of Art—1717 North Harwood (downtown Dallas) 214.922.1200 Explore the DMA’s collection of over 23,000 works of art from all

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cultures and time periods spanning 5,000 years of human creativity. The DMA makes exploring art easy and fun, with Art to Go family totes which contain a variety of activities that encourage families to write, talk, play and make, and can be used anywhere in the museum. There are even storytime bags specifically designed for younger kids ages 2-5. Does your kid like the ocean, cats, dogs or mysteries? Pick up a gallery guide designed just for their interests and explore specific works of art from the collection with Arturo, the DMA’s mascot! General admission is FREE. Special exhibit admission is $16/adults, $12/students and free for kids 11 and under. Amon Carter Museum—3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth The museum’s free permanent collection features paintings, photography, sculpture, and works on paper by leading artists working in the United States and its North American territories in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, with a focus on the Wild West. Stop by the information desk to check out a free activity bag to use in the galleries to interact with four different artworks in the museum’s collection. Nasher Sculpture Center The Nasher Sculpture Center is home to one of the finest collections of modern and contemporary sculpture in the world and an urban oasis in the heart of the downtown Dallas Arts District. The museum also hosts Target First Saturdays, with free admission and fun family programming on the first Saturday of every month, with a “big idea” and an art project that complements it. Cost is $10/adults, $5/students, children 12 and under are free.

Websites Make your own interactive online kaleidoscope at http://www. zefrank.com/byokal/kal2.html Create your own Jackson Pollock masterpiece at http://jacksonpollock. org/ Imitate Picasso’s work at http://www.picassohead.com/create.html

Apps How to Make Origami—Free Step-by-step instruction and 3D animation to learn how to make over 80 traditional origami patterns, including a crane, dinosaur, flower, jumping frog and more. Foldify Zoo is similar, but geared for younger kids. Drawing Pad—$1.99 Drawing Pad works like magic with simple but sufficient tools, an enormous array of coloring books, and different mediums such as chalk and crayons. Disney Creativity Studio—Free Kids can learn to draw Disney characters, master the art of sketching, drawing and even painting. Works best with a stylus. Coosi Box—Free This creative art app allows children to use their imaginations to create fun pictures that are turned into interesting animations. v

education

Collin College Scores When It Comes to Sports by Kirk DICKEY

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The thumps of the basketball and squeaks of sneakers on polished wood mix with shouts of instruction and encouragement as sophomore guard Taylor Jackson brings the ball up the court. It’s early December and the Collin College Lady Cougars are warming up for a run that will claim back-to-back North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference championships. A quick scan of the court reveals a gap under the basket and Jackson goes for it, darting into the paint past a couple of defenders and elevating for the bucket. Two points. A smile of satisfaction flashes on her face, but not for long. Even with a big lead over visiting Murray State, Jackson and the rest of the Lady Cougars know they have more work to do. Of all the things that Collin College is known for, athletics may be one of its most underappreciated aspects— at least locally. However, one only has to look at the college’s athletic record to appreciate its accomplishments. The Lady Cougars finished their 2015-16 season with a school record 26 wins and ranked 12th in the nation by National Junior College Athletic Association. Jackson earned All-Conference Most Valuable Player and was selected as an NJCAA All-American Honorable Mention, making her the second All-American for the team in two

years. Lady Cougars Coach Jeff Allen was a finalist for the Women’s Basketball Coaching Association Junior College Coach of the Year. The men’s basketball program has won four conference championships and has been ranked in the Top 20 nationally 12 times, including a No. 2 ranking in 2003-04. The team has featured six AllAmericans and six Academic AllAmericans. Cougar Basketball Coach Jim Sigona has taken home four NTJCAC Coach of the Year awards. The college’s tennis program has produced more than 70 NJCAA AllAmericans and has tallied nine national tennis titles (five men’s titles; four women’s titles). This year’s men’s and women’s programs finished in the top 10 nationally, in addition to having all-conference and all-academic selections. Coach Marty Berryman has earned nine Coach of the Year titles in divisions I and II athletics and been inducted to the NJCAA men’s and women’s tennis halls of fame. And Collin College has hosted the NJCAA Men’s Tennis Nationals for 15 years in a row.

“I think our athletics program is one of our college’s best-kept secrets,” said Dr. Sherry Schumann, senior vice president for academic, workforce and enrollment services and Collin College’s athletic director since 2011. “There are so many athletic programs in the area, between the high schools and the colleges, that it can be a little tough to get recognition. Nationally, though, we are very well recognized for all of our programs.” Collin College is a recruiting hotbed for colleges and universities around the country. Division I universities from California, Utah, Virginia, Colorado and a dozen other states have signed athletes from Cougar athletic programs. Jackson has accepted a full scholarship to Stephen F. Austin and plans to pursue a physical therapy degree while playing as a Ladyjack. She believes Collin College has helped her develop as both an athlete and as a student. “Our coaches reinforced that our grades were the most important thing, coming before even basketball,” Jackson said. “We had study sessions and tutorials. Those things really helped me prepare to go on to a university.” Taylor said she had heard Collin was a good school and it didn’t hurt that it was close to her family home in Frisco. She said that having the opportunity to play competitive basketball at a school near her family helped ease her transition into college. Other athletes make a big move just to come to Collin. Current rosters list home states like Nevada, Missouri and New York—a testament to the college’s reputation and reach. The college’s tennis teams have student athletes from Ecuador, Columbia, Australia and South Africa. “They are coming here for the quality of the program and for the quality of our academics because they can get a strong foundation here which allows them to succeed,” Dr. Schumann said. Allen Image | August 2016

The programs do more than help student athletes get an education, though. They also provide a social function for the college, allowing students to come together and root

for their teams as a communal activity. The college is looking to foster that environment further with intramural sports, creating an even more well-rounded college experience. The college has created a new director of intramural activity position to oversee its implementation and students will soon be polled to determine which sports they would like offered. “I think most people think of intramural sports as the same old football and basketball, but there are a number of activities available,” said Dr. Albert Tezeno, vice president of student and enrollment services. “We want to know what the students are looking for and we will use the resources we have available at each campus to provide those opportunities.” Dr. Tezeno will step into the athletic director position in the fall and will oversee the director of intramural activities. He said that offering intramural activities will provide a richer communal experience for students who might otherwise come to the campuses for classes only. “Since we are mainly commuter campuses, I think that intramurals will be a great service to our students and will get them more engaged in student activities,” Dr. Tezeno said. “I think that engagement is the key.” A well-rounded college experience for all students is the goal and Collin College athletics and intramural sports are driving for it. When they reach it, there will no doubt be smiles of satisfaction. Don’t expect them to last too long, though. There is always more work to do and Collin is set to do it. v Kirk Dickey is a public relations writer for Collin College. Tennis photos by Nick Young, Collin College photographer. Basketball photo by Kirk Dickey.

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POP cooking

Soaring temperatures. Bare feet. The sound of the ice cream truck and that first sticky, sweet, cold taste of a Bomb Pop. Ice pops, or popsicles, are a staple of childhood summer memories, and nothing beats the dog days of August like something frozen. But you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy a popsicle. Made with yogurt, fresh fruit, and even coffee, popsicles are also a savvy choice for adults looking for a sweet treat. And because they’re typically made with juice or yogurt and sometimes pureed fruit, popsicles are a pretty healthy choice for a low-fat snack or dessert. Popsicles are even starting to become trendy. There’s an entire store devoted to popsicles on Greenville Avenue called Steel City Pops that boasts unique flavors such as champagne white tea, honeydew,

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lavender lemonade, chai latte and avocado. A few years ago, I ran across some popsicle molds and bought them, thinking I’d occasionally use them with my kids to freeze juice for a healthy, refreshing snack. Instead, we looked around for a few popsicle recipes and were astounded to find so many—Pinterest boards with hundreds of recipes in every flavor imaginable. We picked a few that sounded good and started testing them out. The result was a summerlong buffet of icy creations. Popsicles are even super easy for my nine-year-old—who loves to make anything in the kitchen—to make herself. If you don’t have popsicle molds, small plastic cups work just as well. The biggest complaint when

for this

Summer Treat by Deborah DOVE

making popsicles is that they’re too “icy.” You can avoid this—and the subsequent ice crystals that form—by cutting down on the freezing time by refrigerating the popsicles until they’re very cold before placing them in the freezer. If you’re serving an adults-only crowd, you can add some alcohol to just about any juice or juice combination for a grown up cold treat (after all, who wouldn’t love a frozen margarita on a stick?). Just keep in mind that since alcohol won’t freeze solid, don’t put too much in the mixture. On average, 3/4 of a cup of alcohol per 24-30 ice pops is just the right amount. Almost any cocktail can be turned into a popsicle. Just pour it into the mold and call it a poptail! Following are some of the recipes we’ve tried or that are on our list.

Fudge Pops

1 (3.9 oz.) package instant chocolate pudding mix 1/2 c. sugar 3 c. milk 1 c. whipped topping In a mixing bowl, combine pudding mix, sugar and milk. Fold in whipped topping. Pour into small plastic cups or popsicle molds and freeze. (If using cups, insert popsicle sticks when set).

Strawberry Lemonade Ice Pops 1 (12 oz.) can frozen lemonade concentrate (you can also use strawberry lemonade or pink lemonade) 1 (16 oz.) package sliced frozen strawberries (or 2 cups fresh) 3 c. cold water In a large pitcher, stir together lemonade and water. Place strawberries into a blender and puree until smooth. Pour in some lemonade if necessary to facilitate blending. Stir strawberry puree into the lemonade. Pour into molds and freeze until firm, about 4 hours.

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Fruit & Yogurt Ice Pops 2 c. fresh blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and sliced bananas, mixed 2 c. plain or vanilla yogurt 1/4 c. white sugar 8 small paper cups 8 popsicle sticks Place the fruit, yogurt and sugar in a blender. Cover and blend until fruit is desired consistency. Fill cups 3/4 full. Cover the top of each cup with a strip of aluminum foil. Poke a popsicle stick through the center of each piece of foil. Place the cups in the freezer for at least 5 hours. To serve, remove foil and peel off paper cups.

Whipped Pineapple Pops 2 (20-oz.) cans naturally sweetened crushed pineapple Juice of one lime 1-1/2 c. cream, almond milk or coconut milk (full fat) Place pineapple and lime juice in a high power blender. Blend until smooth and frothy. Add cream/milk. Pour mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until hardened.

Frappuccino on a Stick Mix an equal amount of strong iced coffee and vanilla flavored almond milk and add sugar to taste. Add a drop of vanilla extract. Pour mixture into popsicle molds and put in refrigerator before freezing. Freeze for 5 hours.

Thin Mint Popsicles 1 c. low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt 1-1/2 c. milk 1 tsp. vanilla extract 3/4 tsp. mint or peppermint extract 2 Tbs. sugar 1/2 c. mini chocolate chips Green food coloring (optional) 1/4 c. chocolate magic shell (optional) 6 Popsicle molds In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, yogurt, vanilla and peppermint extract. Add green coloring. Whisk into the mixture until it’s evenly mixed in. Pour mixture into popsicle mold. Sprinkle tops of the pops with the mini chocolate chips, some will settle through while the pops freeze. Place the pops in the freezer for about 5 hours or longer to freeze solid. When they are ready to serve, run the base of the molds under hot water briefly and wiggle the pops out of the mold. Dip or drizzle popsicle with chocolate magic shell. Serve. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

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MARKET PLACE

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calendar

august 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. 6 Texas Twister Taekwondo Tournament* *Tickets at the door.

Parks and Recreation For more info about Parks and Recreation events, visit AllenParks.org. 8-13 Missoula Children’s Theater, Allen Public Library Auditorium. This camp provides kids of all ages the chance to put on a theater production from start to finish. Missoula Children’s Theater will present Peter and Wendy. All registrants will receive a part and rehearsal times will vary. Learn more at AllenParks.org. Age: Entering 1st-12th Grade. Cost: $75. 12 SNAP Dance (Sports Theme), Recreation Hall. SNAP your fingers and

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shuffle your feet at this Special Needs and Adapted Program! Enjoy music, a fun theme and snacks. This month’s theme is Sports! Register early, fee increases to $15 at 5 pm the Wednesday prior to each dance. Age: 18 years+. Cost: $10. For information, contact Lisa Potvin at lpotvin@cityofallen.org or 214.509.4707. 13 Back to School Bash, Allen Community Ice Rink. Come join the ACIR for their Back to School Bash. Join the fun on the ice for various games and activities. All on-ice participants must wear skates. Bring a school supply donation and receive a free skate rental. Learn more at AllenParks.org. Cost: $5 entry, $3 skate rental.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Youth Services Fall story times will resume Monday, September 12. For more information about events below, call 214.509.4906. All events are free and no preregistration is required to attend. Tickets are handed out 30 minutes before the program. 1 Family Movie: The Peanuts Movie, 2:30 p.m., Civic Auditorium. For ages 5 and up. Tickets handed out 30 minutes before the show at the Children’s Desk.

Rated G. Run time is approximately 93 minutes. 11 Teen Anime Evening, 6:30-8 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. For ages 12-18. Join us as we watch anime, eat Japanese snacks and have fun!

ADULTS Adult services programs are held in the 2nd Floor Program Room unless otherwise indicated. All events are free, and there is no registration unless noted. Please call 214.509.4905 or 214.509.4913. 6 Learn to Knit, 2:30 pm. Learn the basics of knitting. Start a small project and learn how to cast on, how to bind off, and the knit stitch. Supplies are limited. For best selection, please bring a pair of bamboo needles (size 13 or larger) and a skein of Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick yarn. (The yarn can usually be found at any craft store.) Ages 12 to adult. 7 Crafternoon, 2 pm. Come join us and recreate some of our favorite crafts from this year! All supplies will be provided. 9 Get Organized with Bullet Journals! 10:15 am. Get ready for a new school year with a bullet journal—a fast, clean and creative, pretty way to combine a

journal, calendar and planner and organize your life! Everyone will create a journal and all supplies will be provided. Ages 12 to adult 10 Twisted Threads—A Fiber Craft Circle, 6:30 pm. Do you knit? Or crochet? If so, Twisted Threads is for you! Twisted Threads is a social group for knitters, crocheters, felters, quilters and any other crafters who use thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome! So, bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. Twisted Threads meets monthly on the 2nd Wednesday of the month! 11 Trivia Night @ Nine Band Brewing Co., 6 pm, off site at Nine Band Brewing Co., 9 Prestige Circle, Allen. Team up with your friends to compete for first place at Allen’s own brewery—test your knowledge of beer, literature, history, science and more! The tap room has draft beer for purchase; the library will not be providing alcohol. Age 21+. 16 Let’s Talk Dewey: Planes, Trains and Automobiles, 7 pm. Nonfiction readers! Join us for our choose-your-ownnonfiction book club. We pick the topic—you pick the book! For August, read any book about transportation (planes, trains or cars), most of which can be found in the adult nonfiction section under 385-388, 629.13 or 629.2. (Ask a reference librarian for help!) You’re welcome to join the discussion even if you haven’t had a chance to read a book. 17 DIY@APL—Spa Day, 10 am. Come rejuvenate with relaxing spa crafts. We will be making sugar body scrub, bath salts and more. All supplies provided. 17 Ladies Night Out Book Club, 7 pm. Come join us in a discussion of The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes. 18 The Letter As Art, 6:30 pm. Dr. Dallie B. Clark, Professor of Humanities/ Lebrecht Endowed Chair 2015-2017/ Collin College, Susan West, Art Teacher, Wylie High School. Our presenters will inspire you to reconnect with the art of letter-writing. You will get to create your own illuminated alphabet letter on a piece of quality stationery and also learn how to develop and write a meaningful, artistic handwritten letter using the stationery at a later time. All supplies will be provided; no experience necessary. Ages 16 to adult.

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24 Discover Your Ancestors with Family Search, 7 pm. Presented by Richard Crookston. Family Search is the world’s largest free genealogy organization with over 5 billion searchable records. Learn how to use this web-based resource to find your ancestors, discover your family history and connect generations.

CLUBS 2ChangeU Toastmasters, meets every Tuesday, 7 pm, Plano Family YMCA, 3300 McDermott Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.2changeu.org. Allen Area Patriots, meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday each month, 7-8:45 pm, Failth Fellowship Church, 415 West Lucas Road, Lucas. Local Tea Party presents speakers, encourages citizens to participate. For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots.com. Allen Garden Club, meets the first Thursday each month, 7 pm, gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. For more info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www.allengardenclub.org. Allen Heritage Guild, meets the first Wednesday every month, 6:30 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. Programs feature guest speakers on topics of historical significance. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www. allenheritageguild.org. Allen Retired Educators meet the third Monday each month, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. RSVP: Sondra Long, billysondralong@tx.rr.com. Allen Toastmasters’ Club, meets every Monday, 6:30 pm, Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, every Tuesday, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/$10 non-members 1st visit free. For more info: 972.727.5585. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon, meets fourth Tuesday each month, 11:30 am-1 pm. $20member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. American Association of University Women-Plano/Collin County Branch, meets second Monday each month, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior Living Center, 6401

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Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with assoc. or bachelors degree interested in helping women. For more info: Carol, 972.862.3460. Art History Brown Bag Series, meets first Wednesday each month, 12:30-1:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage House, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. For more info: 972.569.6909 or www. heardcraig.org. Bible Study, meets every Thursday, 9:3011:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Reg. required. For more info: katpf@att.nett or mckinneyallen. cbsclass.org. Collin County Aggie Moms, meets the third Monday each month Sept-May, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, 17360 Coit. For more info: 972.382.3124 or www. collincountymoms.aggienetwork.com. Collin County Archaeology Society, meets second Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney. For more info: archaeology@netzero.net. Collin County Genealogical Society, meets the second Wednesday each month, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com. Collin County Libertarian Party meets every second Wednesday, most often at 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., Allen. For more info: collinlp.org or email collinlp.org@ gmail.com. Collin County Master Gardeners tour of Myers Park, meets the first Wednesday each month, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Reservations req. For more info: 972.548.4232 or mgcollin@ag. tamu.edu. Collin County Republican Men’s Club, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, locations vary. For more info: www.ccrmc.org. Dallas Dog Lovers, events for dogs and owners in the Dallas area. For more info: www.dallasdoglovers.com Department 56 Village Collectors Club second Saturday every month, in the Plano/ North Dallas area to share ideas. For more info: www.bigd56ers.com. Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, meets every Monday, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome. For more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per. treven@ericsson.com.

First Nighter African Violet Society, meets third Monday each month, 7 pm, Stacy Road Pet Hospital, 451 Stacy Road, Fairview. Promotes interest in African violets and study of growth habits. For more info: 972.398.3478. Greater Collin County Kennel Club, meets the second Wednesday of each month, 7 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Ctr, 1201 E. Bethany, Allen. For more info: www.greatercollinkc.org. Legacy 4-H Club (Allen & Lucas), meets first and third Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460.

NARFE Chapter 559, meets third Monday of each month at 1:30 pm at the Village of Stonebridge Assisted Living, 3300 S. Stonebridge Drive, McKinney. All current government employees and retirees invited. Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, meets the second Tuesday each month, 9:30 am, SMU in Plano, 5236 Tennyson Pkwy., Plano. Guests welcome. For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org. North Dallas Newcomers, meets first Thursday each month, 11 am, various country clubs. For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net.

Open Forum, meaningful discussions, meets first Saturday every month, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004. Plano Amateur Radio Klub, meets the third Monday each month, 7 pm, FUMC of Plano, 3160 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net. Plano Photography Club, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, W. Plano Presbyterian Church, 2709 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.planophotographyclub.com.

Live @ 5 Business After Hours, meets the third Thursday each month, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Lone Star Parliamentary Unit, meets 2nd Monday of each month September thru May 10:30 am, Allen Public Library. Promotes parliamentary education. For more info: 972.727.3090, Mae Shaw, President. Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly meetings at Creekwood UMC, second Thursday of each month, 261 Country Club Rd, Fairview. Different topic & speakers each month. Lunch provided free; babysitting available for nominal fee. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/ Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA/. McKinney Amateur Radio Club, meets the second Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Spring Creek Bar B Que 1993 North Central Expressway, McKinney. For more information: 972.814.4190. McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, meets third Tuesday each month, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com. McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, meets second Thursday each month, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Hdqts., 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location varies. For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com. Moms in Prayer, join worldwide prayer movement—bringing mothers together and seeing God change children through prayer. For more info: MomsInPrayer.org or Amy Guthrie at amyguthrie@verizon.net.

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Plano Republican Women’s Club, meets 3rd Tuesday each month, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expy., Plano. For more info: www.planorepublicanwomen.com. Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, meets every Monday, 7:15 pm, Champions School of Real Estate in the Rangers Room at 3721 Mapleshade Ln, Plano. For more info: Ed Meissner, 469.323.0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www. prestonpersuaders.org. Random Events Dallas, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups in Dallas area. For more info: RandomEventsDallas.com. Reasonable Faith Discussion Group, meets every Tuesday, 11am-12:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Church Rm B1116. For more info: www.RFCCTX.org. Reasonable Faith Collin County Chapter, meets 2nd and 4th Thursday, 6:45-8:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Church Rm B202. For more info: www.RFCCTX.org and email: ReasonableFaithCollinCO@gmail.com Single Side Up, meets the third Saturday each month, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. Low cost childcare. For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@ thissideupfamily.org.

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Singles Mingle 60 +, meets first Monday of each month at Delaney’s Irish Pub located at 6150 ElDorado Parkway, McKinney. This group is to provide a social forum for men and women singles who are active, enjoy meeting new people and like getting together twice a month. We have various social activities throughout the month. For more info: For meeting information on the third Monday of the month at 5:30 pm, call Bill, 214.544.5835. The MOB (Men of Business), meets second Monday each month, 11:30 am-1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen, for networking. $20 mem; $25 non-mems/general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, meets every Wednesday, “Become the Speaker and Leader You Can Be,” 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expy, Allen. For more info: Bill Peterson, 972.523.9425. United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, meets the first Sunday each month, 2 pm, FUMC, 601 S. Greenville. Join us for book discussion & refreshments. We encourage women of all faiths to participate. For more info: http://www.fumcallen.org. Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping & gardening advice, every Tuesday

and Thursday, 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. Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, meets the fourth Thursday each month, 10 am, Eldorado Country Club, 2604 Country Club, McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas. For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail.com. W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), meets second Thursday each month, 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking and discussion of women’s issues. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

ART/MUSIC/THEATRE Allen Folk Music Society, meets third Saturday every month, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Dr. Bring snacks to share. For more info: www.twiceasfar.com. Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, every Monday, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC. For more info: Henry@ WealthManagementGroupLLC.com

Sweet Adelines, NoteAbly North Texas Chorus meets Monday at 7 pm starting June 6. New director, Richard Light! Visit us at Blue House Too, Watters Creek, 934 Market St., across from DSW Shoes. Guests always welcome. Women of Allen and surrounding area invited. For more info: nntchorus@hotmail.com or www. nntchorus.org.

CRAFTS Allen Quilters’ Guild, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, 1st Presbyterian Church, 605 S Greenville. For more info: www.allenquilters.org.

Cancer Support Ministry, meets third Thursday each month, 7 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly, meets every Tuesday, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd UMC, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org.

Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group, meets the second Tuesday each month, 7-9 pm, parlor, 1st UMC, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. For more info: Shirli Salter, sscaroline@aol.com.

Texas Health Presbyterian, variety of events. For more info: www.texashealth.org.

Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days & locations vary. For more info: www.75013.theheartlinknetwork. com.

The Shores AA Group, every MondayFriday, noon, Raceway Prof. Bldg., 200 W. Boyd, Suite C, Allen. Open AA discussion group. Everyone welcome. For more info: 469.854.9593.

Common Threads of Allen, meets the first and third Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Whole Foods Market Café, Stacy Rd. Share needlework projects, learn techniques, make friends. For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net.

HEALTH Allen AA meets every Monday-Sunday, 601 S. Greenville. Mon.-Fri., 7 pm; Sat., 9 am; Sun., 7:30 pm. For more info: Joe, 214.564.9403 & Tina, 214.566.7561. Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group meets the third Tuesday each month, support & resources for parents of children with autism & related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ autismparentsupport. Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, meets every Tuesday and Thursday, 7 pm, 1st UMC, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. For friends & family of alcoholics. For more info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon. alateen.org. American Cancer Society Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appts. If you have a car and have time 9 am-5 pm, you can help. For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711. Baylor Health Care System support groups, medical info and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com. Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family and friends, meets the third Monday of every month, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney. For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984. Allen Image | August 2016

Weight Watchers, meets every Thursday, 12:15 and 6 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. South entrance, 2nd floor.

HOBBIES SPORTS/FITNESS Allen Classic Cars, meets every Thursday, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Stacy Furniture. Fit and Funky Fit Club, meets every Monday, 7:30 pm, and every Sunday, 7 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net. Infinity Personal Fitness Charity Workout, meets every other Saturday at 9 am, 1201 W. McDermott, Suite 106, Allen. Min. donation $5. All proceeds donated to local charities. For more info: email cattaneo.ray@gmail.com. McKinney Chess on the Square, meets every Wednesday, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess. org. McKinney Chess Club, every Saturday, 10:30 am-1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Free. And every Friday, 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney. Adults 50+(Free). For more info: 972.547.7491. Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www.planobicycle.org. Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, second Tuesday each month, 5024 Custer, Plano, 7 pm., and at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, the last Saturday every month, 8 am. For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www.planopacers.org. Skilled Motorcycle Riders Association promotes motorcycle safety through rider training. Monthly practice courses, social activities, etc. For more info: www. skilledmotorcycleriderassociation.com. Zumba/Cardio Dance Fitness, every Tues., 10:30-11:30 am, and every Thurs., 9:3010:30 am, USA Martial Arts, 505 W. McDermott. 1st class free. For more info: 469.854.6872 or Facebook.com/ TrueBlueDanceCrew.

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MOM’S CLUBS Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers of kids age 0-5. Fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch w/friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids, etc. Come play with us. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@ aecpta.com. Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new & expectant moms’ forum, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330. Collin County Early Childhood PTA, meets second Monday of every month, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery res. req. For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. MOMS Club of Allen, for moms and children in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips, business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out & more. For more info: momsclubofallentx@gmail.com. MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op, etc. Monthly bus. meeting. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.com. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), support group for moms with kids 0-5 years, meets every other Friday, 9:30-11:45 am, First Baptist Church, Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241. MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, meets the first and third Wednesday of every month, 9:30-11:30, 3405 Custer, #200, Plano. For more info: 214.762.0037.

mUSEUMS/preserves allen heritage guild museum

Open 2nd & 4th Saturdays, 10 am-2 pm, 100 E. Main Street, Allen. Permanent and rotating exhibits, historic photo collages and DVD programs on Allen history. For more info: www.allenheritageguild.org.

Connemara Meadow Preserve Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, monthly alternating first Saturday and the first Sunday, 8-10 am, Allen. Bring binoculars and field guides; learn habits, calls and characteristics from Gailon and Rodney, Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society. All ages. For more info: www.connemaraconservancy.org.

HEARD MUSEUM 2nd Saturday Bird Walk Educational Program, 8 a.m. Learn more about birding! These walks are intended to help beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. 3rd Saturday Nature Talks: Nature Journaling. Learn new ways to experience nature through nature journaling! An intro to journaling techniques through hands-on activities. Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, meets the second Tuesday each month, 7-9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.bptmn.org or email info@bptmn. org. Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, meets second Monday each month, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566 or www. northtexasbeekeepers.org. Heard Museum Native Plant Society, meets the first Tuesday each month, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Heard Museum Nature Photography Club, meets the second Saturday every month, 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society, meets the fourth Tuesday each month, 7 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

SENIORS Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, meets second Tuesday each month, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. For more info: 214.509.4820. Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, meets fourth Monday each month, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402. Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, meets every Friday, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Members free/Non-members, Allen residents $3. For more info: 214.509.4820. Classic 55+ Game Night, first and third Friday each month, 6:30 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship & games. For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com. Allen Image | August 2016

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS Allen High Noon Lions Club, meets the second and fourth Thursday each month, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952. Allen Kiwanis Club, meets every Thursday, noon, Café Del Rio, on 75 just south of McDermott. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org.

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Allen Lions Club, meets the first and third Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen. For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982. Allen Rotary Club meets every Wednesday, noon, First United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville, Allen. For more info: www.allenrotary.org. Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, meets every Wednesday, 7 am, Warm Springs Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle, Allen. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www. allensunriserotary.com/ Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter, meets third Tuesday each month. For more info:txshawm@sbcglobal.net. Fairview Rotary Club, meets second and fourth Thursdays of every month, 11:45 am, Texas Land and Cattle, 131 E. Stacy Road, Fairview. For more info: 214.893.5360. Knights of Columbus, meets the third Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc.org. Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, meets the second Monday each month, 7 pm, Tino’s Too

Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, programs, etc. Open to anyone interested. For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150,” meets the second Monday each month, 1710 N. Church St, McKinney. Post Members, 6:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary, 5:45 pm; Men’s Auxiliary, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972.542.9119, gmlsp2150@ gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, meets first Saturday every month, 10 am, 1710 N. Church St., McKinney. For more info: “Driveway John” 971.822.4483, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit www. vfwpost2150.org. VFW Post 2195, meets second Wednesday each month, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www.vfw2195.org. Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, teaches children to serve their community, meets the second Saturday every month. For more info: 972.396.8010.

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

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For Your Health

Allen Image | August 2016

Allen Pediatric Dentistry Jessie Hunter, DDS • Karen Coe, DDS 201 North Alma Drive, Suite 100 • Allen • 972.727.0737 • www.allenkidsdentist.com Our doctors are board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. They are experts in the growth and development of the oral structures of infants, children and adolescents and are specially trained in behavior management and sedation techniques for apprehensive or special needs patients. Allen Pediatric Dentistry is proud to serve the children and families of Allen, Plano, Frisco and the surrounding areas. Our dentists are committed to providing a kid-friendly atmosphere that makes all of our patients feel welcome and excited about visiting the dentist! Making sure your children visit the dentist consistently is important to ensure they have a happy and healthy smile for their entire lives. Our dental services for kids encompass everything necessary from regular cleanings and preventative care to restorations and emergency care. We specialize in sedation dentistry so our dental team is always available to tend to your child’s unique needs. Dr. Jessie Hunter was raised in Oklahoma, did her undergraduate studies at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater and received her dental degree from the University of Oklahoma Dental School. Jessie earned her Pediatric Certificate from Louisiana State University. She currently lives in Frisco with her husband, Brandon, and their children. Dr. Karen Coe is the newest addition to our team. Dr. Coe completed her Pediatric Dental residency program in Massachusetts with the Lutheran Medical Center of New York. She currently lives in McKinney with her husband, Josh, and their new baby girl, Kamila. “Our office is committed to making every visit a fun and positive, yet educational, visit for the children.” The office provides its young patients plenty of fun with a video arcade for their enjoyment before and after their appointment. The doctors and staff provide the highest quality of dentistry through continuing education on new procedures, products and equipment.

Brookwood Family Practice and Pediatrics 865 Junction Drive • Allen • 214.547.8300 • brookwoodfp.com Practicing in Allen since 2005, family physician Adam Smith, MD, and pediatrician Kimberly Smith, MD, recently joined their practices to provide the best care for the entire family. Married for 17 years and with two children of their own, our physicians understand the importance of long-term relationships and continuity of care. Whether it is for an annual checkup or the sniffles, we hope to provide convenient care with a down-home feel. We are proud of our newly constructed medical office located just south of Exchange between Watters and Highway 75 at 865 Junction Drive. Our medical family includes family nurse practitioners Sabrina Dorris, NP-C and Nicole Broderu, NP-C. Call us today for an appointment at 214.547.8300, or feel free to stop by and check out our office.

Master’s Hand Dental 935 W. Exchange Pkwy., Suite 300 • Allen • 972.905.9091 • www.mastershanddental.com Your Smile. Our Passion. The entire team at Master’s Hand Dental is excited about the latest high-tech developments to make your dental treatment a high-comfort, low-stress experience. Our practice features general dentistry, oral sedation, cosmetic dentistry, whitening, orthodontics, non-surgical periodontal treatment and so much more. With our popular oral sedation dentistry, you can complete your entire dental treatment while you sleep and wake up with a new smile! We pride ourselves in individual service with state-of-the-art equipment and sterilization techniques. Dr. Koons and our caring, knowledgeable staff provide you with a comfortable and warm atmosphere. We would be delighted to welcome you to our office as our new patient! Call today.

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North Texas Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Dr. Charles Slack 1105 Central Expwy. N., Suite 370 • Allen • 214.495.6464 • www.drslack.net

Dr. Slack believes in the importance of the doctorpatient relationship. It goes without saying that the foundation of a successful relationship requires face-to face, two-way communication. Dr. Slack sets aside quality time to meet personally with his patients during their initial consultation, listening to what they anticipate a particular procedure will accomplish for them, as well as having an open, honest discussion about the potential risks and trade-offs of the procedure they are considering. How else can a patient make an informed decision about whether or not a particular procedure is right for them? Dr. Slack is known for his integrity and sensitivity towards his patients’ needs and concerns. He provides care in a manner that is reassuring and professional, which lays the groundwork for a strong, trusting doctor-patient relationship. Dr. Slack has been practicing in the Allen/McKinney area since 2001. He completed his General Surgery training at Parkland Hospital and his Plastic Surgery training at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington D.C. Following his Plastic Surgery residency he was accepted into the Georgetown fellowship for Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery of the Breast. He is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dallas Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Texas Medical Association. He was honored to be voted by his peers as one of Collin County’s “Top Doctors” in D Magazine 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2015. His office provides a full range of invasive and non-invasive cosmetic procedures including: • Tummy Tuck • Breast Lift • Breast Reduction • Liposuction • Brow Lift • Body Contouring • Botox • Sculptra

• Breast Augmentation • Breast Reconstruction • Mommy Makeover • Eyelid Rejuvenation • Face and Neck Lift • Arm and Thigh Lift • Juvederm, Restylane • Venus Viva Skin Resurfacing

For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Slack, please visit his website at www.drslack.net or call 214.495.6464. Saturday appointments are available on a limited basis.

Allen Image | August 2016

Craig Ranch OB-GYN 7900 Henneman Way, Suite 100 • McKinney • 214.544.6600 • www.craigranchobgyn.com Conveniently located off of the Sam Rayburn Tollway between Alma and Custer, Craig Ranch OB-GYN provides OB-GYN services to the north Collin County area including Frisco, Plano, Allen and McKinney. We offer complete obstetrical care with management of both high-risk and low-risk pregnancies and perform deliveries at several of the local hospitals including Medical Center of McKinney, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Allen and Baylor Medical Center at McKinney. We also offer midwife services with Laura Gardner, CNM and Robin Everson, CNM. We also accept Medicaid. We are one of the leaders in all of Texas for in-office procedures such as endometrial ablation and Essure for permanent sterilization. For the convenience of our patients, we have also added in-office mammograms, making us the first and only OB-GYN group in the area to do this. Please call for a consultation.

Creekview Orthodontics 1780 W. McDermott Drive, Suite 100 • Allen • 214.547.0001 At Creekview Orthodontics, Dr. Jay Ghosh, Dr. Trent Lofgren and their team strongly believe in preventive care with a conservative treatment philosophy. In addition to practice experience, both doctors have taught orthodontics at the university level—Dr. Ghosh full-time for many years. While creating beautiful smiles is their goal for each patient, the most satisfying part of orthodontics is the relationships created with patients and their families. Orthodontics provides beautiful smiles that improve self-esteem while contributing to overall health. Other benefits include better function, ease of cleaning and greater longevity of teeth. Since newer materials—like tooth-colored “invisible” braces and special alloyed wires—have made treatment more cosmetically appealing and comfortable and have shortened treatment time, more adults are accepting orthodontic treatment as well.

Luxe Medical Spa/Dr. Sherryl Shipes 1328 W. McDermott, Suite 222 • Allen • 580.579.7406 • www.luxemedicalspa.com Luxe Med Spa specializes in providing clients with expert consultation and care for optimal results— in a safe, hygienic and relaxing environment. The spa offers Botox, dermal fillers and medical facial aesthetics including: Xeomin, the Juvederm series, Kybella (double chin treatment), Belotero Balance, Restylane, SculpSure noninvasive laser lipolysis, Pelleve and Pellefirm radio frequency skin tightening, EvoForte hair removal and skin pigment treatments. Since the early 2000s, Dr. Shipes has been a leading physician and advocate in the category of age-reversing aesthetics. Dr. Sherryl is trained as a cosmetic surgeon and accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons. She is uniquely qualified as an American Board of Family Medicine Board Certified Medical Doctor and as a Master Aesthetician with the American Academy of Facial Esthetics to perform expert restorative techniques that are appropriate and proportional.

Allen Dental Center, PC 300 West Boyd • Allen • 972.727.3941 • www.allendentist.com Allen Dental Center is a family and cosmetic dental practice that offers state-of-the-art dental services. Patients enjoy receiving regular check-ups with as much quality and care as crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, root canals or cosmetic dentistry services. Whether it is a smile makeover or restorative work, we offer sedation dentistry for those apprehensive about dental treatment. Bringing over 65 years of combined experience to Allen, Dr. Jeff Williams, Dr. Steve Williams and Dr. Brad Wyatt provide a special brand of quality care. “The people who come to see me are more than just patients,” says Dr. Jeff Williams. “For me, practicing dentistry has always been about connecting with the patient,” adds Dr. Steve Williams. Allen Dental Center strives to consistently provide a superior level of treatment and comfort with state-of-the-art dental products and services at affordable prices. Call for an appointment today and see how Allen Dental Center is helping to make Allen more beautiful, one smile at a time.

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Ross J. Miller, DDS, PA 915B W. Exchange Pkwy., Suite 200 • Allen 972.727.1200 • www.2thboy.com

Delivering reasonable, rational dentistry to the northern suburbs for 27 years, Ross Miller has found his niche: patients who are swayed not by gimmicks or coupons, but by a desire for an honest assessment of their dental needs. Let’s face it, most dentists have the tools to communicate with a patient using intraoral cameras and digital xrays, but not all dentists take the time to use these tools effectively. Dr. Miller and his staff pride themselves on listening to patients and not rushing them through a process designed to extract as much cash as possible. If treatment is required, we approach the problem with a combination of technology, compassion and conservatism. Taking time and moving slowly in the immediate patient environment keeps us from being the fastest operators in town, but makes for a much less stressful experience for all. Cerec CAD/CAM restorations can be fabricated on site, cutting down time and visits, and TV monitors in every room help to pass the time during treatment. Dr. Miller is a lifelong resident of the Dallas area. Having grown up in Richardson, he graduated from JJ Pearce High School, Texas A&M University and Baylor College of Dentistry. He opened his practice in Plano in 1989 and moved it to Allen in 2007. Please visit our website at www.2thboy.com to learn more. Also check us out on FB!

Allen Chiropractic/Dr. Jane Perry 1506 N. Greenville Ave, Suite 260 • Allen • 972.727.1106 • drjaneperry.com Looking to optimize your health? Chiropractic is an effective alternative to drugs or surgery and is a proactive approach to achieving high levels of wellness. The activator method of adjusting the spine is the most conservative and successful way to treat musculo-skeletal issues and more. Chiropractic also has a beneficial effect on the nervous system allowing the body to function better and heal faster. The key to this is choosing an experienced chiropractor. Allen Chiropractic’s methods are state-of-the-art techniques that allow for gentle, pain free adjusting. Dr. Perry’s 30 years of serving the community gives her keen insight into many issues. She is Advanced Proficiency Rated in Activator Methods and Certified in Impulse IQ chiropractic instrument adjusting. Using these unique methods allow her to target areas of the spine to treat underlying causes of pain. Dr. Perry invites you to come in and give chiropractic a try.

J. Todd Carruthers, MD 1220 N. Alma Drive • Allen • 972.852.1534 • www.allenfp.com Dr. Todd Carruthers is a native Texan, but was raised in his parents’ home state of Iowa. After graduating from high school, he returned to Dallas and attended Southern Methodist University where he graduated cum laude in 1991 with a B.A. in psychology and a minor in biology. He returned to Iowa for his medical education at the University of Iowa College of Medicine, graduating with an M.D. in 1995. Dr. Carruthers completed his residency in Family Practice at the Quad-Cities Genesis Family Practice Residency program in Davenport, Iowa. During his final year of residency, he served as Chief Resident. Upon completion of his residency in 1998, Dr. Carruthers moved back to the Dallas area and practiced in Richardson and Plano before relocating to Allen and establishing his own private practice.

Allen Image | August 2016

Allen Family Dental 1420 W. Exchange Pkwy., Suite 170 • Allen • 469.342.6644 • www.allenfamilydentist.com At Allen Family Dental, our top priority is providing high-quality, professional, and friendly dental care for you and your family. Our focus is to create a comfortable dental experience for everyone, which begins with our warm, welcoming office atmosphere and continues with our patient-centered approach to providing treatment. Dr Torrens-Parker and Dr Lina Lizardi have over 30 years of combined experience. Many patients come to our office with previous negative experiences and the dentists and staff are committed to spending the extra time helping patients feel comfortable and understand their treatment options. Whether you are due for your 6 month cleaning or long overdue, call us to schedule your next visit.

Orangetheory Fitness 945 W. Stacy Road • Allen • 972.521.3700 • orangetheoryfitness.com Orangetheory Fitness’ one hour, total body workout will have you excited, motivated and breaking through those workout plateaus like no other fitness program you have ever experienced. Orangetheory Fitness has been featured in The New York Times as the effective new workout that has its participants burning up to 900 calories in a single 60-minute class. Backed by the science of postexercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), our heart-rate-monitored training is designed to keep members in their target zones, stimulate metabolism and increase energy for up to 36 hours after your workout! Orangetheory focuses on three main components during a workout. Treadmill training, rowing and weight block exercises that are switched up, sped up, or lengthened to keep your body guessing and evolving throughout the whole workout. Get all the benefits of a personal trainer in an energetic group setting.

Spine Team Texas Allen / Richardson / Rockwall • 972.772.9600 • Alliance / Bedford / Southlake • 817.442.9300 • SpineTeamTexas.com Spine Team Texas specializes in the treatment of back and neck problems. Through its in-depth knowledge and team approach, Spine Team Texas is dedicated to treating patients conservatively through education, physical therapy, non-surgical treatments and minimally invasive spine surgery. The philosophy of Spine Team Texas is to treat with an emphasis on non-surgical treatment whenever possible and consider surgical intervention as a last resort when non-surgical measures have failed to provide long-term relief. This philosophy is supported in the fact that only 8-10% of Spine Team Texas new patients receive surgical intervention; that means most patients are treated successfully through non-surgical options. The team consists of physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, specializing in non-surgical spine care; spine surgeons trained in minimally invasive techniques; spine pain anesthesiologists focused on chronic pain; spine-focused physical therapists and on-site registered nurses.

Maryam Mojdehi-Barnes, DDS, MS 604 S. Watters Road • Suite 150 • Allen • 972.390.1100 • www.AllenOrthodontist.com Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes and her team have been specializing in creating healthy and beautiful smiles for patients of all ages since 1999. They provide their patients and their families with the highest quality of orthodontic treatment in a friendly and professional environment. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes uses the latest technologies and involves other specialists, as needed, to customize unique treatment plans that address each patient’s specific needs. They focus on patient education and personalized care while emphasizing comprehensive, preventative and interceptive therapy. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes received her bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Texas A&M University with summa cum laude honors. She was the valedictorian of her dental class at Baylor College of Dentistry and went on to complete her orthodontic residency and master’s degree at the world- renowned program of Baylor with top honors. She is also certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes is active in her community and numerous national and local organizations.

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North Dallas Plastic Surgery/Dr. Todd Pollock 1105 Central Expwy. N., Suite 2310 • Allen • 8305 Walnut Hill Ln., Suite 210 • Dallas 214.363.2575 • www.drpollock.com

North Dallas Plastic Surgery provides a full range of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery to the North Texas area. Our offices are conveniently located in both Dallas and Allen. Cosmetic procedures include facial rejuvenation (facelift, browlift, eyelid surgery), breast surgery (breast augmentation, lifts and reduction) and body contouring (liposuction, tummy tuck, thigh and arm lifts). Dr. Todd Pollock is nationally recognized for the development of the Drain-free Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). North Dallas Plastic Surgery offers a variety of surgical and non-surgical procedures to treat changes related to facial aging. Our approach is individualized and it employs current techniques to minimize incisions and downtime. Our medical treatments include Botox, Restylane, Radiasse and Juvederm; all of which are administered by a physician. Dr. Pollock is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. All consultations include a comprehensive evaluation and face-to-face discussion with the surgeon. Our educational website, www.drpollock. com, reflects our professional, caring and ethical philosophy—“Beauty begins with knowledge.”

Bethany Heights Dental 1208 E. Bethany Drive, Suite 7 • Allen • 972.390.8500 • www.bethanyheights.com Dr. Carla Spann earned her Dental degree from the Texas A & M College of Dentistry in Dallas. Before attending dental school, she graduated from Duke University in 1992 with a Bachelor in Electrical Engineering. She has completed numerous continuing education courses and incorporates all aspects of patients’ oral health, nutrition and medical systemic conditions in her practice philosophy. With a compassionate and conservative approach to dentistry, she believes that patient education is paramount to success in resolving and preventing oral health issues. She is particularly skilled in helping fearful patients relax during their dental care and is certified to provide sedation for these patients when necessary. She is a long time Allen resident. Her children attend Lucas Christian Academy and the family worships at One Community Church in Plano.

Vision Source Fairview 1546 E. Stacy Road, Suite100 • Allen • 214.383.5400 • www.visionsource-fairview.com Vision Source! Fairview provides advanced eye healthcare with personal attention from caring doctors. We also provide advanced technology like the digital Optomap imaging system to see the inside of your eye. Dr. Carey Patrick and Dr. Lauren Windham are Board Certified Therapeutic Optometrists and Optometric Glaucoma Specialists. Along with comprehensive eye exams, they care for eye infections, injuries, allergies, cornea dystrophies, dry eye syndrome, cataracts, diabetic eye disease and macular degeneration. We offer special programs like CRT—Corneal Refractive Therapy—that reshapes the eyes, without surgery, to see without daytime glasses or contacts. Enjoy specific services for sports vision, custom contact lens designs and pediatric health and vision development evaluations. Vision Source! offers a variety of glasses, sunwear and quality contact lenses at prices to fit every family’s budget.

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health & fitness

Summertime Fun Dr. Adam R. SMITH

The hot Texas sun beats down on Allen once again. School is out and parents and children are freed from the burdens of school. Everyone wants to have a great time and enjoy the great outdoors. Blessed with many trails, Allen offers an opportunity for young and old to get exercise and interact with others. The last thing on most peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mind is how to stay safe while trying to have fun. Adults and kids alike do not want to wear a thermal blanket atop their head while out having fun. However, helmets save lives and reduce the risk of serious injury. Whether riding a bike, skateboard or ATV, helmet usage is of utmost importance. The most serious injuries from these outdoor activities are from head injury. Depending on the study, helmet use among bicyclists has been shown to reduce injury risk by 40-85%. Two percent of all motor vehicle accidents involve bicyclists. As adults, we tend to think children are the ones getting hurt. However, 84% of bicycle deaths are to persons 20 years old or older. In regards to ATV use, helmets have been shown to reduce risk of fatality by 42%. Parents need to set a good example and wear helmets along with their kids to show the importance of safety. A child who rides with companions wearing helmets, or adults in general, is more likely to wear a helmet himself or herself.

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Boys ages 10 to 14 years are almost three times less likely to wear a helmet than boys ages 5 to 9 years. Males of all ages have higher rates of death and injury due to bikes, and the bike-related fatality rate for 15-19-year-olds is almost six times higher for boys than girls. So for all the dads out there, set a great example for your sons and get that helmet on. Helmets should be of appropriate size and fit snugly to the head. They should be made a part of the fun and children should be involved in the selection process. The helmet should move less than an inch in any direction when fitted properly. It should sit level on the head and cover most of the forehead area. You should barely be able to fit a finger between the straps and chin. Straps can loosen over time, so they should be checked frequently. They should be worn even on the shortest of trips as most accidents happen close to the home.

Be extra careful with children playing in driveways, especially on alley streets. Fences make good neighbors, but also lead to significant blind spots for drivers going by. Skateboards take off quickly downhill and can lead to an emergency in a heartbeat.

So everyone do your best to enjoy the great outdoors and the many trails Allen has to offer. Drink plenty of fluids and put that sunscreen on. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to wear those helmets! v Adam Smith, M.D. is a physician at Brookwood Family Practice and Pediatrics in Allen.

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Senior Housing vs. Living at Home Independent living, assisted living and memory careâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;these are choices available to seniors that are looking for living options.

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An independent living community provides a more relaxed living situation that offers services and benefits beyond what a regular apartment complex would. Residents are also able to be around other seniors and caring staff pretty consistently. Some services, such as housekeeping and dining services, are offered. However, if residents still want to cook their own meals, this is also an option. Services can be adjusted based on each residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preferences. Housing can range from a studio apartment to a small cottage. In assisted living, residents receive a little more care and assistance, such as medication management, but they are still able to be mostly independent. Assisted living communities also offer the housekeeping services that independent living communities do, along with some additional options

depending on the level of care needed by the resident. There are different levels of care and prices change accordingly. The level of care given to a resident can change over time as the resident needs more attention. Assisted living is ideal for the senior who needs some extra attention, but can mostly still take care of him or herself. Memory care housing is specifically designed for seniors who have been diagnosed with a form of dementia. In memory care housing, seniors are able to receive the supervision they need in order to prevent injuries and maintain appropriate health levels. Residents of memory care receive constant attention, but are still able to feel independent. Activities are chosen based on the benefits they can provide to those with dementia. The goal is to keep memory care residents safe and active. No matter which type of housing

a senior resides in, one important benefit that comes from senior housing is the amount of socialization possible in a senior living community. Too many times, seniors end up living alone. Their kids move out, spouses pass away, and suddenly the senior spends too much time alone and at home. This can get lonely for seniors and that loneliness can affect their health in multiple ways. Living in a senior community means being able to interact daily with other seniors who are very likely interested in similar topics and activities. Socializing can lead to reduced stress levels, better spirits and better recovery during times of illness. In fact, seniors who are socially active are less likely to develop Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or another form of dementia. Even if a senior can live independently, being in a community can provide huge benefits. Each of these types of communities offers a variety of activities in which

the residents can participate. All options also provide meal services. Eating with others can benefit seniors who are no longer eating enough because it encourages them to eat more healthfully. Seniors still have the opportunity to receive visits from loved ones no matter which type of community they are a part of. v Article courtesy of Texas Star Assisted Living and Memory Care.

Allen Image | August 2016

Let the Tingle Be a Jingle by Dr. Devanshi GUPTA

More than 100 types of peripheral neuropathy have been identified and affect sensory, motor or autonomic nerves.

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If it feels like your foot has gone to sleep and won’t wake up, it may be a wake-up call. That tingling, burning and loss of sensation in the feet and hands—the kind that doesn’t go away—is called peripheral neuropathy (PN). About 20 million Americans suffer from PN. Think of the brain as the primary center for regulation of bodily activities that is in continuity with the spinal cord, which is a “cable” of nerves that transmits electrical information to and from the brain—to and from the body. Peripheral nerves are the “wires” outside the brain and spinal cord. Like a short circuit, damage to peripheral nerves can interrupt the signal between the rest of the body and brain. It is common in people with diabetes. Other causes of PN include alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies (particularly B vitamins), infections and viral illnesses such as shingles and HIV, autoimmune diseases such as lupus, and kidney, liver or thyroid disease. PN can also result from other problems such as traumatic injuries, exposure to toxins and as a side effect of certain medications used to fight cancer. In diabetics, neuropathy is caused by a combination of factors including high blood glucose and its

Wake up or wake-up call? affects on the nerves. This is a common cause of disability in diabetics because of pain, and it is a leading risk factor for foot ulceration and amputation. Symptoms can present suddenly or they may come on slowly over time. Ascending paralysis, which starts in the lower extremities and works its way up the body, can eventually affect breathing, swallowing, hearing and vision. The key is to diagnose the disease as soon as possible, which provides better treatment options and slows down the progression of the neuropathy. Treatments range from pain relievers, anti-seizure medications and antidepressants to immunity modulating drugs. If an underlying condition is the source of neuropathy, physicians can work with patients to manage the disease and possibly reverse the neuropathy. This is not a diagnosis without a treatment—but a diagnosis with a lot to offer for significant improvement for patients. Most importantly, don’t wait. If you’re experiencing numbness, tingling or weakness suggestive of a neuropathy, contact your physician. v Devanshi Gupta, MBBS, M.D. is a neurologist at North Texas Neurology and Neuropathy in Allen.

The Many Faces of Neuropathy More than 100 types of peripheral neuropathy have been identified and affect sensory, motor or autonomic nerves. General symptoms include: • Sensory—numbness and tingling in feet or hands, burning pain, sharp and electric-like pain, extreme sensitivity to touch, feeling like you’re wearing gloves and stockings when you’re not. • Motor—muscle weakness or paralysis, painful cramps and uncontrolled muscle twitching that can be seen under the skin, muscle loss. This may be accompanied with bone degeneration, changes in skin, hair and nails. • Autonomic—inability to sweat normally (which leads to heat intolerance), loss of bladder control, inability to control muscles that contract blood vessels or regulate blood pressure (dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting), gastrointestinal symptoms and difficulty in swallowing.

Allen Image | August 2016

Focus and Commitment “A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” – Lao Tzu

We spend a lot of time explaining the importance of knowing your body if you want to transform it. But what are the big picture questions that help us cultivate the skill to focus and reach our goals? What are the major changes to your life required by this commitment? How do we use small scale habits to reach large scale goals? Try the following to map your road to success:

Develop a system to train your ability to concentrate We need to practice focus. Most people won’t do it, but those who do often produce at superhuman levels compared to their peers.

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Be more concrete and aware Can you describe your current cognitive ”calisthenics” routine just like you describe your exercise routines?

Protect your occasions to focus It’s rare when long blocks of time rarely stumble into our schedule. You have to fight for your time to focus on your transformation. How do we do this? Here are a few ideas… • Leave five hours per week protected on your calendar. Each session should be at least 90 minutes long.

• Show respect for your attention. Wield your attention like a wellhoned tool. If you are serious about your goals, then be serious about how you treat your attention. • Quit a few of the things in your life. It could be anything from social media to electronics at night, or even relationships. The details really don’t matter. The intention does. • Make one non-trivial change in your life. Prove to yourself that you can make your attention a priority over superficialities. Once you act on these commitments, you free up two of our scarcest resources—time and energy. How do we act on these commitments? Every situation is different. Not every strategy is appropriate for the same person. All we can do is cultivate curiosity and focus, then discover which ones are best for our situation.

You will experience more success, discover more meaning, and experience a less cluttered mind. It is important to your success that you track your progress and hold yourself accountable, too. Knowing this information will empower you with a new way of thinking about your problems. And, this is something that may go against your instincts or biases… Those unwilling to embrace this attitude live under a veil of guessing.

They rely on rationalization instead of intention; excuses over accountability; pointing fingers at circumstances instead of thumbs at themselves; or they’re just not paying attention. Either way they’re stuck and need to move. Track your progress to unveil new opportunities and transform yourself in a meaningful way. v Article courtesy of Orangetheory Fitness of Allen.

For example, one way to improve focus is to avoid “to-do lists” and “schedule time” instead. For some, this approach might work well. For others, it might be completely unworkable. But, if you commit to the three general ideas listed earlier and find ways to act on them, you will thrive. Allen Image | August 2016

pet page

“Joey” Joey is a very sweet 7-year-old, 12-pound boy who is a little timid at first with new people, but he quickly warms up. He is a very quiet little guy who loves to sit on your lap. Before Joey was brought into the LHS program, he was abused and kicked by his former owner. Despite his terrible past, he’s still a very loving and sweet dog who likes older kids. He is crate and potty trained, heartworm negative, current on all of vaccines and is microchipped.

Joey is looking for a family with older kids and is ready to find his forever family. Would that be you? To meet this cutie, please complete an online application at http://legacyhumanesociety.org/ adoptfoster/adoption-application/ and his foster family will contact you. v

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