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At Palmer Family Law Group PLLC, they believe that divorce doesn’t have to be so hard.

“What we try to do is get people through a divorce in the healthiest way possible so that everyone can move on to the next chapter in their lives, in the best way possible,” says Dana, creator of the Soft Divorce® brand.

“We don’t define success by the other party’s failure.

Instead, our goal is for our client, their children, and even their soon-to-be-ex-spouse, to be as healthy as possible after the divorce.”

A better way to divorce

Dana C. Palmer

It’s a concept that Dana created after focusing his law firm in McKinney on family law in 2011.

“I opened the firm in 2006, practicing a wide variety of cases. I soon realized that family law cases provided me with the biggest opportunity to help people and that’s when I decided to narrow my focus,” Dana says.

Quickly, he says,

he saw that when divorce is approached as a battle, with each spouse trying to extract as much money as possible from the other, then no one ‘wins.’

“I’m the type of person who is always looking for a better way to do something—and when I find that better way, I feel compelled to share it with others,” Dana explains.

“That’s why I’m now sharing the Soft Divorce® program worldwide.”

Soft Divorce® is a concept and framework of the best practices in family law and divorce procedures that aim to keep divorces civil, family-oriented, healthy and as painfree and stress-free as possible. “I believe in Soft Divorce® because it’s better than a ‘hard divorce.’” Dana says. “At the end of the day, former spouses will always be parents together and they need to have the best possible relationship with one another, as well as with their kids. A Soft Divorce® allows for that.”

Happier, healthier results Of course, the firm’s approach doesn’t mean that they’ll simply “lie down” and take whatever the other party’s attorney is offering. “There are times that we have to, and we do, ‘play hard-ball,’” Dana says. “We go into court knowing that we’ve taken the high road, but we’re willing to do whatever it takes to get the healthy result we’re after.”

When prospective clients first hear about the firm’s Soft Divorce brand, Dana says, they’re often relieved to discover that there’s a healthier way to go through the divorce process. “You always see on TV and hear about divorces where people end up hating each other and losing so much,” he says. “We show people a different and better way.”

For more information, please call or visit our website.

contents

December 2013

Vol. 23, Issue 12

cover story 50 A little piece of North Pole in North Texas

50

Brian Kidwell and his wife, Cynthia, take scraps and found objects and transform them into one-of-a-kind Santa Clauses. The original vintage Santa, created years ago by Brian’s father for his family, now serves as a model for the many different Santas the couple makes today.

by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

feature 20 Welcome Home!

Naval Reservist Mike Stubbs was welcomed home in grand style on his first day back to work at Cabela’s. Mike has spent most of the last year in war-torn Afghanistan.

by Simon Valentin

32 The king of holiday designs

Allen resident Brian Bruderer makes spider webs from cotton rope and Christmas trees from LED rope lights that are set to music.

by Deborah Dove

20

special sections 24 kids korner

HO HO Holiday Happenings

by Deborah Dove

40 pet page Virginia

41 calendar 58 people seen

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For a chance to win a $50 dining card

Fighting for Allen’s most precious assets… its families.

T

he Law Office of Natalie Gregg moved from Dallas to Allen in 2009 when the firm’s managing partner brought her own family to this community.

“My husband and I are passionate about providing our children with the best opportunities to learn and to grow,” says Natalie Gregg. Allen stood out as a place where we could build the future of our family while also helping others who shared our values.”

The move turned out to be a perfect fit for both the family and the firm. For the past two years, Natalie has been rated among the top 2.5% of practicing attorneys as a “Rising Star” in Texas Super Lawyers. She has also been recognized by Huffington Post Divorce and Avvo.

“I am grateful for the trust that my clients

place in my firm. As a working mother, I particularly appreciate the challenges faced by families in transition. My goal is not just to represent my clients in court, but to guide them through the complex emotional and financial issues associated with family law.”

Natalie is supported by a team that is exclusively focused on the practice of family law. This team includes fellow attorneys Melissa W. Cason and Matthew R. Davis, as well as paralegals Camille Maxwell and Hope Morgan. All attorneys are licensed to practice law in the State of Texas and not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

“Allen is the home of my family and my firm,” says Natalie. “ I want to help my neighbors who are restructuring their families so that they can preserve their dignity while protecting the future of their children.”

contents departments civic forum 10

Sharing our habitat

by Kathleen Vaught

10

12 14

Christmas Rocks

office administrator Carrie McCormick

advertising sales

Holiday music just right for the season

Kris Jones

Soak up the spirit of the season

18

Journey to the Manger

Allen Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast

19

Christmas through the Decades

The Christmas Journey

Santa’s on his way

library 22

Barbara Peavy

Sue Hardesty

by Jeff Mues

22

publisher/editor

by Jeff Mues

by Kathy Litinas

16

Allen Image

Avoir un Joyeux Noël avec un Cajun Christmas

contributing writers Deborah Dove Melanie Hess Tom Keener Jeff Mues Peggy Helmick-Richardson Simon Valentin Kathleen Vaught

cover photo Larry Fleming

by Tom Keener

23

Syrian Civil War

by Tom Keener

28

education 26

Advocate for Lovejoy Schools

28

What your smartphone says about you…literally

by Melanie Hess

cooking 36

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Soup’s on

by Deborah Dove

Allen Image © 2013 by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. Allen Image is published by Moonlight Graphics and individually mailed free of charge to the residents of the Allen area.

Subscriptions are available to residents outside the delivery area at a rate of $2.50 per issue—$30 per year.

Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to:

Allen Image, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807 or visit our website at www.allenimage. com.

civic forum

Sharing our habitat

by Kathleen Vaught “When living in a city like Allen where we value our green space and nature, it’s important to remember that we will occasionally come across wildlife indigenous to the area,” said Allison Harper, Animal Control Supervisor for the City of Allen. “Our focus at the animal shelter is on stray, domesticated animals, however, with a few simple reminders, it is possible to coexist with area wildlife and keep everyone safe.”

Allen is at the heart of the Blackland Prairie region and, as such, is home to a wide variety of wildlife creatures. Several of the species native to the area have not only adapted to the growth and development but have found ways to thrive. Like all animals, they need three ingredients to survive: food, water and shelter. Removing access to at least two of these—food and shelter—can go a long way in preventing any conflicts between us and them.

One of the most common draws of wildlife to our yards is food. Often it is the food left outside that we don’t think about—bird feeders, pet food

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and leftovers in the trash—that invites most wildlife over for dinner.

“There is the day shift and then there is the night shift,” said Bonnie Bradshaw, president of 9-1-1 Wildlife, a company that solves urban wildlife problems for property owners. “Birds and pets feed during the daylight hours, but their leftovers bring more animals out at night.”

No matter how high a bird feeder is placed in a tree, seeds will spill onto the ground attracting smaller rodents like mice and rats. That leads to larger prey higher on the food chain such as bobcats and coyotes. By removing easy access to food sources, the habitat becomes less suitable and those animals move away.

The other essential need wildlife seek out is a “welcome mat” to build their nest or shelter. Quick examples of easy access for wildlife include tree branches that hang over the roof, loose shingles, rotting or rotten wood and warped siding. By keeping up with simple home maintenance, there will be less temptation for wildlife to move in.

If you do discover a hole and

suspect you have an animal nesting, before making a permanent patch, cover the hole with newspaper. If the newspaper remains intact, there is most likely no creature living there.

However, if the newspaper becomes torn, there is a good chance your home has become their home. Seek a wildlife removal expert before patching the hole and trapping an animal or a litter of babies inside.

“Removal of the food source and den welcome mat is a much more effective way to eliminate unwanted wildlife in your area,” explained Bradshaw. “While trapping and removing specific animals that have nested within your home site may be a temporary solution, if the food source and easy access to quiet, dark nesting areas remain—it is like a vacancy sign just went up. And another animal will move in to take its place.”

For more information on urban wildlife resources, contact the Allen v Animal Shelter at 214.509.4378.

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

Things to remember • Bring in pet food and water dishes each night.

• Limit bird feeders, especially in the backyard.

• Secure all trash by following the City of Allen’s Trash and Recycling Guidelines— place trash in securely tied plastic bags in trash cart and keep the lid closed.

• If you have a pet door, keep any indoor pet food dishes and trash away from the opening.

It is best to lock it at night.

• Eliminate grubs from yards and landscaping.

• If you have a rodent problem, contact a local pest control agency for assistance.

A lle n I m a g e x D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

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Christmas Rocks

by Jeff Mues

The Brian Setzer Orchestra, fronted by three-time Grammy Award-winner Brian Setzer, will return to Allen Event Center on December 15. Bringing his famed 18-piece orchestra to North Texas for the Christmas Rocks 10th Anniversary Tour, Setzer is a unique talent with a career spanning more than 30 years as founder/leader of the Stray Cats, frontman for the Brian Setzer Orchestra and as a solo artist.

Soaring through blistering rockabilly and big band swing with the full force of those signature smoking guitar licks, audiences can expect a raucous performance of re-imagined Christmas classics such as “Jingle Bells” and “The Nutcracker Suite” and original holiday tunes like “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus” and “Dig That Crazy Santa Claus.” Of course, gems from Setzer’s catalogue like “Jump Jive An’ Wail,” “Rock This Town,” (She’s) Sexy +17” and “Stray Cat Strut” usually find their way into set lists as well, ensuring crowds are worked into a full rock frenzy.

With three best-selling holiday albums—Boogie Woogie Christmas, Dig That Crazy Christmas and Christmas Rocks! The Best Of Collection—and an annual Christmas tour that has become the most exciting annual rockin’ Christmas event on the planet, we can count on Brian Setzer delivering Allen’s most rockin’ new holiday tradition as well.

A musician’s musician, Brian Setzer is credited with consistently taking chances with innovative and daring

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musical styles, while single-handedly resurrecting two forgotten genres of music (rockabilly in the ‘80s and swing in the ’90s). If that wasn’t enough, Setzer has redefined Christmas music for a generation seeking a fresh new soundtrack for the holiday season.

The ultra-cool 91.7 KXT has signed on once again to present the show as part of its holiday programming along with additional support from The Dallas Observer and the McKinney-based Guitar Sanctuary. As anyone who attended last year’s Christmas Rocks Tour will attest, including those local tastemakers, it’s a true spectacle and a show that is not-to-be-missed.

As the Los Angeles Times put it, “It’s a wildly eclectic party… featuring a rocked-up compendium of classic cuts from several eras in decades past, plus a sprinkling of Christmas standards tricked out in appropriately swingin’ settings… delivered with a punky verve whose sheer joy is nigh irresistible.”

Surely you can’t turn down an evening whose sheer joy is nigh irresistible, right?

Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.com and at Allen Event Center Box Office. Visit AllenEventCener.com for more information. v Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen Event Center and Allen Parks and Recreation Department.

Holiday music just right for the season

by Kathy Litinas Ring in the holiday season as the Allen Philharmonic presents two very special concert events. On Friday, December 20, join us for Holiday Fantastique at 8 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center located on the campus of Allen High School.

We welcome special guests, the Allen District Honor Choir and soloist Dee Donasco, in a performance of holiday favorites. Enjoy a classic Christmas narration with perennial favorite Carl Johnson and other holiday favorites that include variations on “Jingle Bells,” “White Christmas” and “O Holy Night.” We have even made arrange­ ments to get the “Big Guy” down from the North Pole for a quick last minute visit before his big night.

The Allen District Honor Choir, an auditioned chorus of fifth and sixth grade students, represents every elementary school in the district.

Prepared by Cynthia Nott, Artistic Director of the Children’s Chorus of Greater Dallas, they will perform musical selections, which include Stephen Mager ’s “Kling Glockchen Kling,” “Ding Dong Merrily on High” and “Bring a Torch Jeanette Isabelle.”

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Philippine-born soprano Dee Donasco is rapidly establishing herself as an artist to watch. At age 10, she won the National Music Competitions for Young Artists of the Philippines.

She earned her Performance Diploma and her Master of Music degree at SMU and received her under­ g rad­ uate degrees from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a double bachelor ’s in biology and music performance.

Her roles at the Meadows Opera Theater include Susanna in Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro, Eurydice in Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld, Aminta in Mozart’s Il Re Pastore and her award winning portrayal of Laurie in Aaron Copland’s The Tender Land. Dee made her Dallas Symphony Orchestra debut as the featured guest artist for the 2011 New Year’s Eve concert and she spent the summer of 2012 as an apprentice artist for Chautauqua Opera. She also appeared with the Texas Camerata, as a guest artist in Turtle Creek Chorale’s Christmas Concerts and as a guest artist for Voices of Change in their season opening concert, October 2013.

The Allen Symphony Chorus will present John Rutter’s “Gloria.”

Written as a concert work, it was commissioned by the Voices of Mel Olson from Omaha, Nebraska. Rutter’s “Gloria” is a favorite work by choruses everywhere, making it a special holiday tradition.

On Saturday, January 4, and

Dee Donasco

Sunday, January 5, 2014, at 7 p.m., the Allen Symphony Chorus, accompanied by members of the Allen Philharmonic, will present Amahl and the Night Visitors at First United Methodist Church located at 601 S. Greenville Avenue in Allen.

Amahl and the Night Visitors is an opera in one act by Gian Carlo Menotti.

It was commissioned by NBC and first performed by the NBC Opera Theatre in 1951, as the debut production of the Hallmark Hall of Fame. It was the first opera specifically composed for television in America.

In the original Program Notes, the composer wrote, “This is an opera for children because it tries to recapture my own childhood. You see, when I was a child I lived in Italy, and in Italy we have no Santa Claus. I suppose that Santa Claus is much too busy with American children to be able to handle Italian children as well. Our gifts were brought to us by the Three Kings instead.”

Since its first performance on Christmas Eve, 1951, Amahl and the Night Visitors has taken its place with A Christmas Carol as a holiday classic.

Performed on every continent and in many languages, it has been seen by more people than any other opera in history. The story tells of the night the Three Kings, following the star to Bethlehem, stopped for shelter at the home of Amahl, a poor, crippled shepherd boy who lives with his widowed mother. Inspired by the Wise Men’s tale of a kingdom “built on love alone,” Amahl offers his own simple gift to the Christ Child. And then a miracle happens…

In this warm and compassionate story, Gian Carlo Menotti has captured the essential spirit of Christmas. At its premiere, The New York Times called Amahl “rare art…tender and exquisite.”

Amahl and the Night Visitors is a feast for the eyes and heart, one people of all ages will want to return to again and again.

For tickets and more information, please visit our website at www. allenphilharmonic.org. v Kathy Litinas is the president of the APSO board of directors.

A lle n I m a g e x D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

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Soak up the spirit of the season

by Jeff Mues In Allen, December offers many unique events and opportunities for soaking up the spirit of the season. As has become popular tradition, area residents will be reminded the holidays are upon us in spectacular fashion on December 6 with the Grand Lighting of the 35-foot Christmas tree at Allen Civic Plaza.

The following day, December 7, the annual Rudolph Run through downtown Allen promises a great time whether you plan to walk, run or just partake as a spectator. Open to all ages and skill levels, reindeer antlers are totally optional!

After the run, should you have any energy left, Joe Farmer Recreation Center offers a unique opportunity to get your holiday shopping done at Joe Farmer Recreation Center’s Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair. There you will find unique crafts and gifts you won’t find anywhere else.

Speaking of things you won’t find anywhere else— take a holiday hayride with Santa or even swim with Santa. Hayrides will depart Joe Farmer Recreation Center on December 13 while Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium hosts Santa on December 20.

There are, of course, great holiday concerts and parties to attend too. The Edge @ Allen Station Park has set their Holiday Bash for December 14 and Allen Senior

Recreation Center hosts a New Year’s Eve brunch mid-day December 31.

Allen Event Center and the Allen Community Ice Rink have several holiday engagements on the calendar as well. On December 15, multiplatinum recording artist and three-time Grammy award winner, Brian Setzer and his 18-piece orchestra will perform Setzer’s signature brand of blistering rockabilly and swing music as well as rocking versions of many of your favorite holiday tunes.

Allen Community Ice Rink has a holiday ice show set for December 8. And the arena closes the year in style with a Pirate and Princess Adventure (December 29 and 30) courtesy of Disney Live and a special New Year’s Eve hockey game. What better way to ring in the new year than with the Allen Americans!

From gingerbread house making (December 4 at Joe Farmer Recreation Center) to cookie decorating (Family Night at Allen Senior Recreation Center on December 10), there are plenty more festive and fun ways to celebrate.

There truly is something for everyone this holiday season in Allen. For more information about these and many other Parks and Recreation holiday happenings, visit the merriest website in Allen, AllenParks.org! v Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen

Event Center and Allen Parks and Recreation Department.

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Snippets Journey to the Manger

Allen Kiwanis

Pancake Breakfast with Santa

For many years, one of the major events kicking off the Christmas holiday season in Allen is the Pancake Breakfast with Santa provided by the Allen Kiwanis Club and Allen High School Key Club. The first weekend in December includes the breakfast as well as the Rudolph 5K run sponsored by the City of Allen and the Allen Rotary Christmas Parade.

This year the Pancake Breakfast with Santa will be held in the First Baptist Church on Cedar Street just north of McDermott. Pancakes, sausage and drinks will be served from 7-11 a.m. on Saturday, December 7.

St. Paul Lutheran Church presents its 23rd annual “Journey to the Manger” live nativity drama December 13 and 14. See a re-creation of a market place as it would have been in Biblical times in the little town of Bethlehem, complete with bakers, weavers, potters, candy makers and other merchants.

A special treat for children is that Santa is available to hear their wishes and they can have their photo taken with him. As usual, Mrs. Claus will also be there.

“With the new photo processing and scenery planned for this year, the Santa photos will be even better,” says Ben Blair, chairman of the event. Music and entertainment will also be provided.

Also witness six live action scenes depicting the major events leading to the birth of Christ. Over 100 members of the church participate in this lively production dressed in costumes from that era. The whole family will enjoy the special effects provided by live camels, donkeys, sheep and other animals.

The drama scenes start every 10 minutes, 7-9 p.m. on Friday, December 13 and 6-9 p.m. on Saturday, December 14. St. Paul is located at 6565 Independence Parkway in Plano, between Spring Creek and Legacy.

This free event is open to the whole community and begins inside the church’s Fellowship Hall, which has been transformed into the Bethlehem village of old.

Visitors step back in time as they experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Middle Eastern marketplace from over 2,000 years ago. They are then guided through the six outdoor scenes and finish up with refreshments inside the church.

The program will be presented rain or shine (outdoor scenes will be moved indoors in case of inclement weather). v

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Advance tickets are available for a donation of $6 adult, $3 child (age 5-9) from any Kiwanis member, or $7 and $4 at the door. All proceeds benefit the many programs of the club, primarily supporting the needs of children in the community For additional information, go to www.allenkiwanis. org or call 214.495.0488. v

Snippets Christmas Through the Decades

The Christmas Journey

Allen Heritage Guild presents “Christmas Through the Decades,” noon-4 p.m. Saturday, December 14, at the Allen Heritage Village, 450 E. St. Mary Drive, at the Allen Christian Church.

Imagine driving down the streets of Bethlehem in the days surrounding Christ’s birth. Look out your window and see baby Jesus lying in a manger. Witness Roman soldiers in their chariots and see the wise men traveling alongside their camels. With a turn of the steering wheel drive past Calvary where Jesus is nailed to the cross.

At 1:30 and 3 p.m, there will be a special reading of ’Twas the Night before Christmas by a local celebrity.

Noon-2 p.m., a quartet of the Notably North Texas Chorus will perform old fashioned classic Christmas carols.

Visitors can also see the beautiful stained glass windows that feature the names of Allen’s early pioneers. Fresh gingerbread and apple cider will be offered and guests can view a 1930’s style tree with decorations and reminisce about the 1960’s style aluminum tree.

From noon until 4 p.m., there will be a special exhibition of Santas, which a local resident and collector has graciously allowed the guild to display.

The Allen Heritage Village is a partner­ship endeavor between the City of Allen Parks and Recreation and the Allen Heritage Guild. For more information, check out the website www.allenheritageguild.org or call Paula Ross at 972.740.8017. v

This might sound like a day-long tour through the Holy Land, but on December 12-15, 6-9 p.m., McKinney’s First Baptist Church on Louisiana Street will allow you to experience the true “Christmas Journey.”

“Christmas Journey” is a fully dramatized production utilizing professional sets for a 15-scene living pageant.

The entire drama can be experienced from your car or open-air trailers provided by the church. A CD will narrate the journey allowing you to have a multi-sensory experience of the biblical accounts of Jesus Christ’s life.

“Many people already set out during the holidays to find Christmas lights and decorations and we are hoping they can easily find our version of Christmas,” Myron Wilson, Worship and Arts Minister said.

For more information visit www.fbcmckinney.com or call us at 972.542.0041. v

Santa’s on his way Free movies are at the Allen Public Library on Tuesdays at 7 p.m., 300 N. Allen Drive, 214.509.4905. Closed December 24; December 31—close at 6 p.m.

December 3—The Santa Clause (1994) starring Tim Allen, Judge Reinhold and Wendy Crewson. When a man inadvertently kills Santa on Christmas Eve, he finds himself magically recruited to take his place.

December 10—The Santa Clause 2 (2002) starring Tim Allen, Elizabeth Mitchell, Judge Reinhold and Wendy Crewson. Scott Calvin has been a humble Santa Claus for nearly ten years, but it might come to an end if he doesn’t find a Mrs. Claus.

December 17—The Polar Express (2004) starring Tom Hanks, Eddie Deezen, Leslie Zemeckis and Nona Gaye. On Christmas Eve, a doubting boy boards a magical train that’s headed to the North Pole and Santa Claus’ home. v A lle n I m a g e x D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

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feature

by Simon Valentin Naval Reservist Mike Stubbs wheeled his car into the Cabela’s parking lot long before the store’s doors opened.

He’d just wolfed down bacon and eggs at a local fast food joint with good friend, co-worker and Cablela’s senior operations manager, Rodney Davidson.

“You could tell he was really, really happy to be back at work,” said Rodney.

Spending most of the year in war-torn Afghanistan as convoy security for Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 15 will do that to you.

As Mike parked, instincts honed from years of hunting in Texas, told him something was up.

Okay, it didn’t take keen observational skills to notice the police squad cars, Allen and Fairview fire trucks, a huge American flag, firefighters, police officers, friends and media crowding the front of the store.

“When he parked next to me, he was shaking his head, it was neat,” said Davidson.

“Deep down, he knew it was for him.”

Hands stuffed in his pocket, Mike ambled across the parking lot, clearly pleased, but uncomfortable. A massive applause greeted him as he walked closer. The first words out of his mouth confirmed what most there already knew about him. “I don’t deserve this.”

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“You absolutely do!” one of the officers told him.

“No, really, I don’t deserve this, you guys do,” he said pointing at all the emergency personnel.

“Did you know it was for you?” someone from the media asked.

Playing it off, Mike shook his head. “We’re always having sales up here, I just figured it was another one.”

This reaction, a touch of pride tempered by a whole lot of “aw shucks” attitude, was nice, but was it real?

“He’s humble, what you see is what you get,” said former co-worker Leann Aubuchon. “He does it because that’s where his heart and soul is, he’s not doing it for the glory. Guys like Stubbs are born warriors, he’s honest and will continue serving his country in the future.”

Serving his country appears to be genetic. “My grandfather was in the Navy, my dad was in the Air Force, my younger brother is in the Navy and I have a cousin who was in the Army and served three tours in Iraq,” Mike said.

Mike was part of the Navy’s Construction Battalion, or SeaBees. They were responsible for rebuilding areas throughout Afghanistan and when they traveled from

one construction site to another, he and his crew provided armed convoy security for the battalion.

Serving three separate tours of duty in the Middle East, where some people welcome you with open arms and others with Improvised Explosive Devices has been an eye opener for the young Texan.

“When we were traveling we’d come to these villages that didn’t even have running water, they’d have sewage systems running through the middle of their town,” Mike said. “I was humbled, made me appreciate all the things I have.”

A lot of that traveling was done on newly built roads, which meant quicker movement for both our troops and the insurgents who want to harm them.

Despite the constant threat of insurgent attacks, he and his unit presented as positive an image of the United States as they could.

“When you get out in a village, you’re carrying your weapon, and, yes, there were times we had to kick doors down, but overall we wanted to let them know, look, we’re here to help you. The bad guys, the insurgents are the ones to be afraid of, not us,” he said.

Mike and his battalion always reached out to the kids, attempting to reshape how they saw Americans, and they did that with help from families stateside.

“John’s (a fellow SeaBee) family sent a big old care package of sandals,” he said. “We not only provided security going from Point A to Point B, we were also trying to win the hearts and minds of the Afghani people. We’d stop and talk, give the kids sandals.”

Doing that emotional swing—going from riding in a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle and manning a .50 caliber machine gun, to having breakfast with friends and getting a heroes welcome—had quite an effect on him.

“This brought a tear to my eye, it made me feel good, I wasn’t expecting this at all,” he said. “Cabela’s is a great company to work for, I’ve never seen anything like this in my life. It makes me want to keep doing what I’m doing.”

Mike’s contract with the military ends in 2014, but he’s prepared to sign on that dotted line again and give his country more time—and the homecoming he received solidified that decision.

His girlfriend, Renae Burchfield, acknowledges it’s always a boost to Mike and other servicemen and women when someone says “thanks for all you do.”

“Show your gratitude to those who serve, they never get tired of hearing it.

It’s good to know someone appreciates them and their service. It can mean the world to them,” said Renae.

After all the well wishers left, Mike took his usual mentoring spot behind the gun counter, talking rifle scopes, firearms and hunting spots. He was glad the spotlight had moved on.

“I just want to get back to work as soon as possible, to get back to a normal routine,” he said.

Well, welcome home Mike. We hope things are as normal and quiet as you hoped. You deserve it.

Mike Stubbs and his friends express gratitude to everyone involved for making his homecoming something to remember. v Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen.

A lle n I m a g e x D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

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library

Avoir un Joyeux Noël avec un Cajun Christmas

by Tom Keener

Laissez les bons temps rouler! this Christmas with Lawson Kirby and Jay B and the Zydeco Posse at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 14.

Combining the traditions of Canada, France and the Caribbean, Cajun Christmas music offers a unique and uplifting tradition to set the tempo for your holidays. This free program is sponsored

by Bach to Books and ALLen Reads.

Born and raised in the Louisiana bayous southwest of New Orleans, deep in the heart of Cajun country, Lawson Kirby begins the evening by reciting the Cajun’s “Night before Christmas” Jay B and and playing Cajun carols on the guitar. Lawson has performed for schools, churches and businesses, but his most memorable performance was participating in the pregame show and national anthem for the New Orleans Saints. A former seaplane pilot, Lawson loves sharing tales, like of the time he once fed alligators that circled his seaplane after it landed in the water.

Originating from the Creole and African-American communities in Southwest Louisiana, energetic zydeco is a blend of Creole, hip-hop, soul and reggae music with a blues influence.

Zydeco is dominated by the button

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the Zydeco Posse or piano accordion and a rub-board and commonly referred to as the “party music.”

Born in Duson, Louisiana, Girard “Jay-B” Brown has over 30 years of musical experience. Starting out as a bass guitarist, in 2002 he began playing the accordion. He sought the advice and techniques from his Louisiana t ives like Stanley friends and rela­ “Buckwheat” Dural of Buckwheat Zydeco, Chris Ardoin of Chris Ardoin & the NuStep and others. Jay-B’s perse­verance led him ­­­to perfecting his skills with single row, triple row and piano accordions.

Founded in 2004, Jay-B & the Zydeco Posse has proved a successful band by bringing fun and high energy to each performance. This talented group has been a driving force in introducing zydeco to the North Texas music scene.

Performing at places like Poor David’s Pub, Choctaw Casino, Sneaky Razzoo’s, University of North Texas and the University of Texas at Dallas, they have also been featured on Good Morning Texas and FOX 4 Good Day. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

Syrian Civil War

by Tom Keener

What are the consequences of the Syrian Civil War on the international balance of power? What is the impact of a rebel victory for the United States or what happens if President Bashar Hafez al-Assad wins the Civil War? Dr. Geoffrey Wawro, professor of Military History and Director of the Military History Center at the University of North Texas, will provide insight on these and other questions relating to the Syrian Civil War at 7:30 p.m., December 12, at the Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free.

A popular lecturer on military innovation and international security in Europe, the U.S. and Canada, Dr. Wawro served as host and anchor of popular History Channel programs including Hardcover History, History’s Business, History vs. Hollywood, Hard Target, History in Focus and Global View, and his guests included Jimmy Carter, Henry Kissinger, Robert Rubin, Casper Weinberger, Warren Christopher, Stephen Ambrose, Michael Howard, Robert Dallek, Arthur Schlesinger, Jr. and many other national security policy makers and scholars.

Before joining the University of North Texas, Dr. Wawro was Professor of Strategic Studies at the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. A Fulbright scholar, he speaks five languages. Dr. Wawro is the author of four highly regarded books: Quicksand: America’s Pursuit of Power in the Middle East (Penguin Press,

2010), The FrancoPrussian War: The German Conquest of France, 1870–1871 (Cambridge, 2003), Warfare and Society Dr. Goeffrey Wawro in Europe, 1792-1914 Review, The American Scholar and the (Routledge, 2000) and The AustroEuropean History.

Prussian War: Austria’s War with Please call 214.509.4911 for Prussia and Italy in 1866 (Cambridge, v additional information.

1996). Dr. Wawro has published articles in The Journal of Military Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with History, War in History, The International the Allen Public Library.

History Review, The Naval War College

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HO-HO-HOliday Happenings

By Deborah Dove Hit The Ice

• While away a chilly afternoon taking advantage of Allen Community Ice Rink’s open skate times (a bargain at $8/person with skate rental).

Visit their website for open skate times.

• Take a spin around the 95-foot tall beautifully lit Christmas tree at Dallas Galleria or catch the Galleria’s free ice skating shows every Saturday before Christmas in December starting at 6 pm featuring ice skating champions, Missile Toes (the Galleria’s pyrotechnic iceskating and back flipping Santa Claus), and a host of little fairies, elves, angels and sugar plums.

• Go old school and ice skate beneath the holiday lights for $10 per person at Frisco’s outdoor ice skating rink at the corner of Main and Coleman—open through January 4 (Monday-Thursday 4-10 pm and Friday-Sunday from noon-10 pm).

• See Clara the Sugar Plum Fairy and other favorite Nutcracker characters rendered in stunning hand-carved ice sculptures at ICE! at the Gaylord Texan, accompanied by the original Tchaikovsky score, a thrilling ride down an ice slide, an ice area that transports families to the sights and sounds of New York City, and an ice nativity. Now through January 4.

Prices start at $11.95 for kids and $21.95 for ages 13 and up.

• Attend the free (with a food donation) Holiday on Ice Show at the Allen Event Center on December 8, 4-6 pm, featuring skaters from the Allen Academy of Skating and Allen Community Ice Rink.

See The Lights

• Check out Celebration of Lights at Watters Creek, an interactive holiday light show set to popular holiday songs that includes a large sleigh pulled by whimsical flying reindeer and a 30-foot interactive tree. The three-minute show runs every half hour beginning at 5:30 pm Monday through Saturday through December 31. There are also complimentary carriage and trolley rides, caroling, holiday crafts, Santa, music and fireworks.

• Enjoy 100,0000 holiday lights dancing to the sounds of “A Country Christmas” on the holiday tree in the Grove at the Village of Allen (every 15 minutes, 10 am-9 pm), or the holiday tree by the Macy’s fountain in Village of Fairview, with a light show choreographed to The Nutcracker (every 30 minutes, 5-9 pm nightly).

• Put on the kids’ jammies, pack the hot cocoa and enjoy the holiday light displays in the Deerfield neighborhood in Plano (north side of Legacy between Preston and Coit), Springpark in Garland (Springpark and North Jupiter) or Highland Park in Dallas (between Preston, Mockingbird, Armstrong and the Dallas North Tollway). Individual homes that include spectacular light displays set to music include the Trykoski’s Texas A&M display at 4015 Bryson Drive in Frisco, as well as individual houses at 7805 White Stallion Drive in McKinney, 4665 Quincy Lane in Plano and 1520 Cliff Creek Drive in Allen.

Ride A Train

• The kids will never forget a magical ride aboard the Holiday Express

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Riding Train against the backdrop of over 30,000 lights, decorations and holiday music at 156 Hidden Circle in Richardson. The backyard train, in its 13th year and built and operated by a retired Richardson man, runs 6-10 pm nightly and is free, although donations are accepted. The train also accommodates wheel chairs for children with special needs.

• Hop aboard the decorated Victorian railway North Pole Express at the Grapevine Vintage Railroad where guests enjoy live entertainment and hear a Christmas story on the train ride before returning to the station for a Christmas Show and the arrival of Santa. Cost is $25 per person and includes a picture with Santa.

• Wear your coziest pajamas and board the Texas State Railroad in Palestine, Texas, for a round-trip journey to the North Pole aboard the Polar Express. Kids will read along, meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, a treat and a bell cut from Santa’s sleigh during the approximately one hour trip. Tickets start at $20 for children and $40 for adults and can be purchased at www.texasstaterr.com.

• You can’t ride these trains, but kids will love seeing the extensive toy train exhibit at the Trains at NorthPark, with 1600 feet of track and trains that travel a miniature version of America’s landmarks including Dallas, NYC’s Times Square, the White House and the Grand Canyon. Tickets are $3 for kids and $6 for adults.

Connect with Santa

• Countdown Santa’s launch and track his progress on Christmas Eve atwww.noradsanta.org.

• Get a free personalized video message from Santa. Mom and Dad can answer a few questions at www.portablenorthpole.com and a personalized video message for your child arrives in your e-mail inbox.

• Take a holiday hayride with Santa through Bethany Lakes Park on December 13, complete with a holiday sing-a-long. Cost is $4 under age 12 and $5 over 12. Visit www.allenparks.org to register.

• Take photos with Santa at the Village at Fairview.

Run a Race

Stay active over the holidays by participating in the ultra-family-friendly Rudolph Run, a one-mile fun run and 5K through downtown Allen with appearances by Rudolph and other holiday characters. Dogs on leashes and strollers are welcome during the fun run, which starts at 8:15 am on December 7, immediately followed by the 5K.

Pick Your Own Tree

• Take a hayride through the woods to the tree field at Wintergreen Farm at 2907 FM 121 in Van Alstyne, where you can choose and cut your own Christmas tree. The farm also offers kids activities such as a train ride and playground area.

• Choose and cut your own tree at Kadee Christmas Tree Farm in Greenville (5054 Hwy 69 south), take a hayride, sip complimentary apple cider, visit the petting corral, explore a maze or swing from a tree.

education

Advocate for Lovejoy Schools School Board President Ann Casey and Superintendent Ted Moore

From teaching to volunteering to leading a school board, one woman in the Lovejoy community has made a lasting impact on Texas education.

Lovejoy School Board President Ann Casey has worked with Lovejoy for a long time. After nine years on the board, Casey has filled every position—trustee, secretary and vice president. She now presides as the standing president until 2016.

As spokesperson for the board, Casey is sometimes seen as the face of the school board but maintains the humility of a team member.

“My vote is no different from the other members,” Casey says. “The board operates as a body corporate.

Every vote is equal.”

Although Ann taught high school for most of her early life, she’s spent the last decade as a full-time advocate for Lovejoy Schools. Both of her children were students in Lovejoy Independent School District since her family moved to Fairview in 1997.

“We knew we wanted a house with tall trees and some property,” Casey comments. “But, ultimately, we moved out here for the schools.”

At the time, Lovejoy ISD was only an elementary school that fed into Allen’s

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secondary school program. Like many smaller districts, it excelled because more attention was given to classrooms and students weren’t swept into the inevitable crowds of bigger districts.

In 2003, fans of the district started joining together and questioning the possibility of starting a secondary school program. Community members were gathering in living rooms and coffee shops discussing how something like this could even be done. Casey was one of the few “PTA moms” that thought this idea could be a reality.

“We were really happy with our elementary schools and our timing was fortuitous,” Casey states. “People were joining together and saying this is doable. Then, it snowballed into an election and it was getting done.“ After the idea became a reality and Lovejoy ISD had signed on for a secondary program, Casey was invited to help launch the Foundation for Lovejoy Schools, a nonprofit that raises money for Lovejoy.

Organizations similar to this one speckle the country with groups interested in furthering education and The Foundation for Lovejoy Schools provides supplemental grants to teachers for classroom use.

“Early on, we decided we wanted to send money into classrooms,” Casey says. “The goal was to provide teachers with the necessary money to do the projects that you dream of and can only happen if you have funding.”

As the first secretary of the foundation, she helped establish bylaws and plans for disbursement of funds. These laws are still in place and guide the organization today.

“Because of the foundation, I think teachers know that the broader community is supporting what they do,” Casey said. This continues to be the aim of the foundation, said current foundation president, Vicki Deerman.

Last year the organization granted $275,000 for Lovejoy ISD. In recent years, the foundation has picked up the slack that comes with decreased state funding. They fundraise in a variety of ways, including Denim and Diamonds, an annual banquet that benefits the foundation. Each year they choose an honorary chair based on the person’s service to the community. This year, they will honor Casey for her hard work as president and founding director of the foundation. Schools statewide have needed to change the

way they operate because they are simply receiving less and less money from the state. Many of them are finding success in foundations similar to the one at Lovejoy.

Casey believes that the budget cuts are temporary and sees these foundations as a way to get through while money is tight.

“I’m an optimist and I think, I hope that the pendulum will swing back,” Casey says. “I think people from our state are going to go back to the polls and say, of all the things that government does, education is fundamental to us being a democracy and having informed voters.”

It’s only natural for someone with this viewpoint to make her way onto the school board, but Casey didn’t expect to go into that line of work.

However, after spending time in the foundation and regularly attending school board meetings, she received a push from community members to run when a seat became available.

Ann, Cameron, David and Reo Casey.

Casey looks back today and can see how her experience with both organizations has helped her better serve the community.

“The groups are complementary,” Casey affirms. “I see them as different strands of the same cord. We are working together for the betterment of our district in conjunction with the administration. Their functions are a little bit different but their goals are the same.”

From the beginning, Lovejoy has

found ways to excel despite the obstacles many smaller districts face.

“When we were having community meetings in the beginning, there were some people who just said, ‘it will be so new and so small that we just don’t think you can do it. It won’t be successful,’” Casey relates.

She looks back today with satis­ faction, because she can see that in the face of the unknown, they took a step and created something she can be v proud of today.

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What your smartphone says about you… literally

by Melanie Hess

A neighborhood coffee shop’s sign may declare “Wi-Fi is free,” but in a matter of minutes “free” could cost you your email and social media accounts, credit card number, banking passwords, health records and other personal information. Those who’ve fallen victim to identity theft as a result of the exponentially growing mobile-device market would likely argue conve­nience comes with more than a monetary price.

Steve Willis, Collin College cybersecurity faculty, explained security today requires much more complexity than it did before the Internet revolution.

“Back then, no one thought about security because everyone had to go to the computer in order to use it,” Willis said. “Data was confined to a few thousand tightly supervised main­ f rame computers worldwide.

Now, it’s diffused across hundreds

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of millions of devices that are essentially minicomputers.”

Research by the International Data Corporation supports Willis’ claim, as it estimates U.S. residents will own 222.4 million smartphones by 2017, with 79 percent of current users keeping their device in arms reach for all but two hours of their waking day.

College students Heather Bursik and Jacque Bussey say they fall within that 79 percent, constantly using their smartphones and mobile devices to surf the Web, watch TV, text, Skype or listen to music.

Wireless Hotspots

According to a 2013 Pew Research study, 63 percent of smartphone owners use the Internet on their phone, with 34 percent of those people claiming a cellphone functions as their primary Internet pathway.

With an ever-growing amount

of data points, protecting sensitive information is vital. Unfortunately, as Willis notes, a limited portion of the general population fully under­ stands the dangers presented by mobile technology.

“Rule of thumb, any security system that relies on millions of people to do the right thing is not a security system,” Willis said.

He explains that companies like Starbucks have no incentive to secure their wireless connections when their goal is access for all.

“When you go into Starbucks and wirelessly connect, you’re potentially downloading every virus known to man, and a few that aren’t, onto your mobile device,” Willis said.

As an individual takes that corrupted mobile device and syncs it to their company computer, the security threat becomes even greater, especially for people who hold

positions at companies like one of the major defense contractors with offices in the Dallas-Forth Worth Metroplex.

“As a known employee, you walk through the front door of the building and are walking past 90 percent of their IT security,” Willis said. “You go to your desk, sit down, sync the device to your desktop calendar and have now infected the network from the inside.”

For the majority of U.S. residents who don’t work directly with the government, compromised cyber­ security still wreaks havoc.

device via a secure home connection is not too much different from a desktop computer.

To prevent phishing, banks pull questions and images from completely different systems. If the image or phrases do not match the ones a user chose when setting up the account, the user will know the website is fake.

Teenagers

Taking solace in the fact that companies keeping record of financial

information tend to have more secure systems, Willis does warn against one population who may not even realize they are compromising someone else’s private information—teenagers.

“Think about it. How many teenagers do you see running around with mobile devices? Do you think they’re thinking about security? No,” Willis said. “They want to connect to whatever they want to do, whether or not it is secure.”

Those same teenagers go home

Apps

Willis describes a mortgage calculator application one might download when purchasing a home. It asks the user to enter information about their income, debt, savings, taxes, interest rate and down payment.

In the end, the app produces a number and does what was promised.

“However, it’s also dropped a key logger—a program that records every keystroke you make on your device— so when you log into your bank or your brokerage company, that will go directly to the person who owns the key logger on your machine,” Willis said. “If they have that personal information, they can change your credit card passwords, empty out your accounts, sell your stocks and take all your money.”

One way Willis suggests similar apps can be avoided is through a complete review of the app’s information before downloading. He encourages users to confirm the app is from a reputable company and location.

Phishing

Like a traditional desktop com­ puter, phishing scams, fake websites that impersonate a company or organization with the goal of gaining passwords or login information, can occur on mobile devices.

Willis never recommends con­ necting to a public Wi-Fi hotspot for banking transactions.

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and sync up to a family computer where their parents may keep personal or work-related banking, healthcare or legal information.

Willis suggests the following tips for keeping mobile devices safe: • Don’t hook up to public networks, and if you do, don’t transmit any private information • Always have anti-malware turned on and scan for viruses regularly • Keep your operating system patches updated “The bad guys know unpatched systems are vulnerable,” Willis said.

“If you don’t patch them right away, you might as well put a sign on your back that says ‘kick me.’”

Reaction from the Next Generation

Bursik and Bussey expressed conflicting opinions and responses about the lack of security related to mobile devices.

Bursik, who studies business marketing, believes it is the owner’s responsibility to protect their device.

“If anything I’d blame the user,” Bursik said. “It’s the user’s fault for

not being careful. I avoid connecting to public wireless, and most apps are free. If someone’s not taking care of their phone, that’s their fault.”

She concedes she believes individuals who simply don’t know about the security risks aren’t as at fault, but feels most people are at some level aware and just don’t take the threat seriously.

As a former identity theft victim, Bursik said she takes extra steps to make sure her devices are secure.

“I have anti-virus on my computers, and on my phone I have this app called Lookout,” Bursik said.

“If my phone ever gets stolen, I can go onto their site, and it will take a picture of whoever has my phone without their knowledge and email it to me.

Then it will GPS my phone and start signaling like a police siren.”

She knows it works because it’s also become a means for finding her lost phone at home.

Bussey, a civil engineering student, admits that although he feels a bit nervous transferring funds via a wireless hotspot, like many smart­ phone owners, it is something he has done before. After listening to Willis’ expertise, Bussey said he certainly has a lot to think about.

“I think given this, people should definitely utilize their own secure connections if they’re going to do something personal,” Bussey said.

“They should only use the other places only for watching videos or anything not too personal.”

Differing from Bursik, Bussey believes network providers should exhibit more responsibility for the protection of users and be more upfront about risks, not merely noting them in fine print.

“Regardless, it’s all kind of scary,” Bussey said. “I’ll definitely think twice before I download apps or connect to free Wi-Fi.” v Melanie Hess is a public relations associate at Collin College.

Photo: Nick Young, Collin College.

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feature

By Deborah Dove

Allen resident Brian Bruderer’s career path is as intricate as the huge spider webs that he makes by hand from cotton rope that range in size from 20 to 50 feet. A software designer engineer who has worked for companies such as Tandy, Micrografx and Sabre, Bruderer made his first spider web as a Halloween decoration for his own house about nine years ago. A neighbor asked for one, so he made a few more, which he sold to friends and on eBay. “They kept auctioning for more and more money,” says Bruderer of the spider webs he listed on eBay.

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Realizing he was onto something, he worked throughout the following year to build an inventory and watched his sales increase by 150% over the next three to four years. He currently employs several part time employees, including his daughter-in-law’s father, Eduardo Ayala, to make the webs. The webs have grown so popular that last year the non-profit company in charge of decorating the White House for the holidays purchased one for the White House. Bruderer’s webs have also appeared on MTV, the Key Club nightclub in Hollywood, and most recently at a celebrity Halloween party, and have been purchased for commercial use outside the U.S. in Japan and Mexico.

Unlike spider webs typically sold at retail stores that consist of eight to ten outside points, Bruderer’s webs are based upon the design of a real spider’s web.

“If you look at a spider web, they run from three strings or outside points, cross and then spiral,” explains Bruderer on how he designs his webs.

“I do the same thing. I start with three frame points (which are used to anchor the web to buildings or houses), then cross the ropes and make the spiral.”

Today, his webs are sold through his website as well as on eBay and Etsy, and include webs that glow under black lights. This past year, Bruderer introduced lighted spider

webs made from Cosmic Color Pixel lights (available from Light-O-Rama) zip-tied to a 16-foot rope spider web which light up to the Halloween tunes “This is Halloween” and “Ghostbusters.” Although the lights for the web must be purchased separately, Bruderer sells webs marked with where to put the lights, as well as the sequences that can be used to set the lighted webs to music.

Introducing lighted webs with Halloween light sequences was the natural next step for Brian Bruderer, since he has been writing lighting software and sequences for Christmas tree light displays for the past three years. His first attempt was the Legacy Superstar, a Christmas tree he made of LED rope lights set to music at his own house. The next summer, Light-ORama, the company that sells the lights and controls, came out with a new product called Cosmic Color Ribbons, which are flexible, weatherproof strips of 150 super bright RGB (red, green, blue) LEDs. At first, Brian wasn’t interested in the new lights.

“I shrugged it off,” he says. “They were expensive and there was no software for them. Then a light bulb went off and I realized I could write the software!”

In his spare time (typically between midnight and 2 a.m. since he was working full time), Brian started writing software which could be used to design and build light sequences for the Cosmic Color Ribbons.

With the emotional and financial support of his wife Vickie, Brian quit his job so he could write software and sequences and make spider webs full time. Ultimately, Light-O-Rama bought the rights to the software Bruderer wrote and sells it to use with their lights. Brian now spends a large chunk of his time writing sequences—the light sequences set to certain songs—which are sold through his website and Light-O-Rama. He currently offers numerous holiday classics such as Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “Wizards in Winter” and “Carol of the Bells,” plus two (“Galloping Jingle Bells” and “Rock Ye Merry Gentleman”) that Bruderer and his daughter conceived of and produced themselves with the help of a relative who writes music for video games.

He also sells the stars and globes at the top of the light trees as a kit since so many people kept asking for them.

Because the light ribbons to make the trees are expensive ($250 for each ribbon with a typical tree consisting of twelve ribbons), Brian’s market definitely fits a defined niche. He says the typical customer is retired with extra time and money. For the holiday lights enthusiast, Bruderer’s website includes specific instructions on how to construct trees with both the Cosmic Color Ribbons (CCR trees) and Cosmic Color Pixels (CCP), which make a 3D round tree instead of a flat tree, as well as how to purchase the lights, software and sequences.

This holiday season, Brian Bruderer’s sequences will appear on the first episode of ABC’s new reality show The

Great Christmas Light Fight on December 9. Families compete on each episode of the show to decorate their homes to the extreme for Christmas. Brian doesn’t know which of the three sequences that he wrote (for the contestant behind Larsen’s Lights in Illinois) will appear in the show, but he’s betting “Carol of the Bells” will make an appearance.

Bruderer couldn’t be more thrilled at the path his career has taken, particularly the opportunity he now has to merge his analytical side with his artistic side. Typically, programmers are more methodical and sequence writers are more artistic.

“I’m unique in that I can do both,” Bruderer says. “My mother was an artist. Until now, I never had a chance to express my artistic side. And I never thought I’d get into the computerized side of things.”

What’s next for the software engineer turned holiday engineer? He’d love to produce more original songs and has already purchased the necessary software for his daughter, who has a background in music. He’d also love to build a spider web that spans several buildings, like the one featured in the Spiderman movie, or fill the seven-foot hole in the Chase Tower in downtown Dallas with an enormous web. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

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cooking

Zucchini Soup

Soup’s on

by Deborah Dove Snuggling up with a warm bowl of homemade soup on a chilly winter ’s evening is one of life’s simple pleasures. Soups are also the perfect dinnertime solution for the busy holiday season. Most soup recipes can be prepared in a slow cooker or made in advance so they’re ready when you are, and make enough for several meals (most soups are even better the second day). Plus you can’t beat soup for a low calorie, one-dish, healthy meal, which is especially appre­ciated during the month most of us overindulge at holiday parties.

In fact, studies show that people who have soup before a meal or party consume twenty percent fewer

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calories. Chicken soup has even been proven to help fight cold and flu symptoms by acting as an antiinflammatory and relieving con­ gestion by speeding up the movement of mucus.

Although you may be tempted to open a can of Campbell’s, home-made soup is easy to make and much lower in sodium. Soup is also easy to make in large batches and freeze for those evenings when you don’t have time to cook. Freeze soup flat in heavy-duty zip-lock bags to make the most of freezer space, or freeze in muffin tins and then move to zip-lock bags so you can easily defrost and heat up single servings.

My oldest daughter in particular is a soup connoisseur and she and I both look forward to soup weather.

One of her absolute favorites is so simple it doesn’t even have an official name or recipe—I make it with a couple of cans of chicken broth, cooked chicken (canned or rotisserie works fine), a can or two of Cannellini beans and some cumin, and then I occasionally add whatever vegetables I have on hand and top individual servings with shredded cheese and tortilla chips. Over the years I have accumulated a repertoire of “go to” soup recipes that my family loves, from hearty stews to simple, healthy vegetable based soups. Enjoy.

Zucchini Soup

1/2 c. diced onion 2 stalks celery, diced 1 Tbs. olive oil 6 zucchini, washed and cut into 1/4” slices 3 c. low sodium chicken broth 2 (16 oz.) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 1 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper Sauté onion and celery in olive oil in a large saucepan over medium high heat until tender. Add zucchini and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer 10 minutes or until zucchini is tender.

Remove from heat and let stand about 20 minutes.

Process soup in two batches in a blender or food processor until smooth. Return to saucepan and cook over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes.

2 c. milk, divided 1/4 c. reduced fat sour cream 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (or purchased real bacon bits) 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese Green onion, thinly sliced Pierce potatoes with a fork and microwave on high until tender. Cut in half and let them cool slightly.

Heat oil in a saucepan over

medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté 3 minutes or until translucent.

Add broth.

Combine flour and 1/2 cup milk and add to saucepan, followed by the additional 1-1/2 cups of milk. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Cook one minute. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream, salt and pepper. Remove and discard potato skins. Coarsely mash potatoes into soup.

Top individual servings with bacon, cheese and green onions.

Tuscan Beef Stew

1 can condensed tomato soup 1 can condensed beef broth 1/2 c. red wine 1 tsp. Italian seasoning 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1 can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs 2 c. carrots, chopped 1 c. sliced mushrooms (optional) 2 lbs. stew meat 2 cans white kidney beans, undrained Combine all ingredients except white kidney beans and mushrooms (optional) in a slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 8-9 hours. Add beans and mushrooms. Cook on high heat for an additional 10 minutes.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1-1/2 lbs. red, Yukon gold or russet potatoes 2 tsp. olive oil 1/2 c. chopped onion 1-1/4 c. chicken broth 3 Tbs. flour A lle n I m a g e x D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

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bay leaf and cheese rind to slow cooker.

Stir until combined; cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until vegetables are tender.

Remove cheese rind and discard.

Thirty minutes before serving, melt butter over low heat in a medium saucepan.

Whisk flour into the melted butter to create a roux. Whisk mixture for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.

Whisk in one cup of soup from your slow cooker until smooth.

Whisk in an additional cup of soup from the slow cooker. When smooth, add mixture back to the slow cooker.

Add Parmesan cheese, whipping cream and season with salt and pepper.

Let cook for 30 more minutes. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Healthy Three Bean Turkey Chili

Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Soup Serve with grilled cheese or French bread and a salad for a delicious dinner.

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Tbs. olive oil c. diced celery c. diced carrots c. diced onions (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes, undrained tsp. dried oregano tsp. dried thyme Tbs. dried basil c. chicken broth

1 bay leaf Parmesan cheese rind (optional) 4 Tbs. butter 1/2 c. flour 1 c. Parmesan cheese 2 c. heavy whipping cream Salt and pepper, to taste Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add oil, celery, carrots and onions; cook 5-6 minutes, or until golden. Add to slow cooker.

(Alternatively, you can omit the oil and just add the raw vegetables to the slow cooker with the tomatoes, chicken broth and herbs). Add tomatoes, oregano, basil, thyme, chicken broth,

Healthy Three-Bean Turkey Chili

(can also be made vegan without turkey) 20 oz. ground turkey breast 1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes 1 (16 oz.) can tomato sauce 1 (4.5 oz.) can chopped green chilies 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, undrained 1 (15 oz.) can red chili beans, undrained 1 (15 oz.) can cannellini beans, undrained 2 Tbs. chili powder Brown turkey in skillet over medium-high heat until golden. Drain fat and transfer to a slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients and mix together well. Cook on high for 6-8 hours. Serve over Fritos or on its own, topped with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and green onions. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

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pet page

“Virginia”

Virginia was surrendered to a shelter outside of Dallas covered in filth. A call quickly went out for help and a CCHS foster stepped up for the little girl!

Virginia is doing great in a home with two personal dogs, five other foster dogs and two cats. She is both house and crate trained.

Virginia is ready for her new home. Is it with you?

She is a sweetheart and you will easily fall in love with her. She is definitely all pup and has a lot of energy so she needs to go to a home that has the time and patience to teach her to be the best doggie she can be. She will also benefit from puppy training classes.

Virginia was born last April, which makes her about seven months old. She weighs approximately 40 pounds now and will probably weigh about 70 when she is full grown.

She has been spayed, is up to date on vaccines, has been microchipped, dewormed and is on heartworm prevention.

To apply for this adorable gal, please complete an application at: http:// collincountyhumanesociety.org/adoptionapplication.html.

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calendar DECEMBER

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Christmas Tree Lighting. Join the City of Allen for the grand lighting of its 35-foot Christmas tree featuring more than 20,000 lights shining upon Allen Civic Center. Expect surprises, live entertainment and even a visit from Santa and his elves. All ages are welcome.

For more information, visit www.cityofallen.org.

Holiday Spectacular with the Allen High School Tallenettes, 5 pm, Fri. (Marketplace and Santa appearance), 7 pm, Sat. (Holiday performance), Allen ISD Performing Arts Center, 300 Rivercrest Blvd. Festivities include the Tallenette holiday show, letters to Santa, cookies & cocoa with Santa and a holiday marketplace featuring a variety of wares, crafts and services. For additional information visit AllenISD.org/PAC or call 469.319.6390.

A Christmas Carol, thru the 8th. McKinney Performing Arts Center, 111 N. Tennessee St., 7:30 pm Fri. & Sat., 2:30 pm Sun. This classic holiday tradition tells a powerful story of greed and redemption. On Christmas Eve, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge must first face his dead partner Jacob Marley and then the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Go to www.mckinneyrep.org for more details.

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“Tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy,” 11 am, 1 & 3 pm, Allen Conservatory of Dance, 602 E. Main Street, Suite E. Guests are welcomed into the Snow Queen’s Kingdom and are served tea, lemonade and treats while characters from the Nutcracker ballet visit each table. Mother Ginger tells the story of the Nutcracker with the help of the characters, after which guests may take pictures with the cast, or get autographs on anything from toe shoes to Christmas ornaments. Visit www. allencivicballet.org for tickets or more details.

Plano Civic Chorus presents “Rejoice,” 8 pm, St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 5801 W. Plano Pkwy., Plano. Join us for a sacred Christmas celebration featuring Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Hodie (This Day),” a magnificent cantata that draws from sacred and secular texts in telling the Christmas story. And if you love sacred carols, you’ll love them even more in our grand-scale arrangements with orchestra! In the spirit of the holiday season, please bring a toiletry item, new or gently used children’s books or new school supplies for the Seven Loaves Food Pantry and Community Center. For more information contact 972.606.5220 or www.planocivicchorus.org.

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McKinney Rotary Club’s 14th Annual Christmas Parade of Lights, 6:30 pm, downtown McKinney. Come out and see all of the beautifully decorated and lighted floats as we kick off the festive Christmas season. Go to www. mckinneyparadeoflights.com for more information.

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The Allen Civic Ballet presents its 15-yearanniversary production of the Nutcracker Ballet, Sat. 7 pm, Sun. 2 pm, Allen ISD Performing Arts Center, 300 Rivercrest Blvd. Follow Clara as she saves the life of her Nutcracker Prince and is transported through the Snow Queen’s forest to the Kingdom of the Sweets, where she is placed upon the throne by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Live musical accompaniment provided by the Allen Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra. Visit www.allencivicballet.org for information and tickets.

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Rudolph Run, 8:15 am start time, 100 E. Main, Allen. This exciting annual tradition starts with a one mile fun run and concludes with the USATF registered Rudolph Run. Open to all ages and skill levels.

Reindeer antlers are totally optional! For information, please visit www.allenparks.org.

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Allen Rotary Christmas Parade, 2 pm. The parade route begins at Cedar and St. Mary Drive and proceeds south to Main Street. It will head west on Main Street to Allen Drive and then north on Allen Drive to the traffic circle at St. Mary Drive. A grand prize will be awarded along with “best of” awards in eleven different categories.The Grand Marshall for the parade will be Mayor Terrell, past mayors of Allen and City Council.

Visit www.cityofallen.org for parade details.

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DECEMBER 5

Frisco Roughriders Foundation honors Chosen Child Adoption Services, 7 pm, Dr Pepper Ballpark, Frisco. Heavy hors’d oeuvres, beer, wine and beverages will be served. The CCAS Board will share about the lives of birth mothers and adoptive families who have benefited.

For more info: chosenchildtx@gmail.com.

Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast with Santa, 7-11 am, First Baptist Church, Cedar Street north of McDermott.

Pancakes, sausage and drinks. Photo with Santa. Advance tickets—$6 adult & $3 child (age 5-9) from any Kiwanis member; or $7& $4 at the door. All proceeds benefit programs of the club.

For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org or call 214.495.0488.

Allen Heritage Guild presents “Christmas Through the Decades,” noon-4 pm, Allen Heritage Village, 450 E. St. Mary Drive. Special reading by a local celebrity of the holiday classic, Twas the Night before Christmas, a quartet of the Notably North Texas Chorus performing classic Christmas carols and special exhibition of Santas. View a 1930’s style tree and decorations.

For more info: www.allenheritageguild.org or call Paula Ross at 972.740.8017.

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12-15 The Christmas Journey, 6-9 pm (Thurs/Fri/Sat), 6-8:30 pm (Sunday), First Baptist Church McKinney, 1615 W. Louisiana. 15-scene, drive-thru Christmas Journey. 650 cast members, live donkeys, camels, sheep, horses.

Drive thru and receive a CD—English and Spanish—that narrates the story from Bible scripture. Free.

For more info: 972-542-0041 or firstmckinney.com/christmasjourney.

13 Allen Early Childhood PTA Open House, 9:30-11am, Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 821 S. Greenville in Allen. Presentations by The Heard Natural Science Museum and by Music Together teacher Laura Ruediger. Light snack and fun kid activities. Support for parents and socialization for ages 0-5. Play groups, field trips, educational programs and more. RSVP at http:// www.meetup.com/Allen-EarlyChildhood-PTA-Prospective-Members/ For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com.

13-14St. Paul Lutheran Church presents 23rd annual “Journey to the Manger” live nativity drama, 7-9 pm, Friday and 6-9 pm, Saturday, 6565 Independence Parkway in Plano.

Re-creation of a market place as in Biblical times in Bethlehem—bakers, weavers, potters, candy makers and

other merchants. Also witness six live action scenes depicting the major events leading to the birth of Christ.

Drama scenes start every 10 minutes.

For more info: www.stpaulplano.org.

15 The Brian Setzer Orchestra Christmas Rocks! Extravaganza. The Brian Setzer Orchestra, fronted by three-time Grammy Award-winner Brian Setzer, brings his famed 18-piece orchestra to North Texas for the Christmas Rocks 10th Anniversary Tour. Setzer is a unique talent with a career spanning more than 30 years as founder/leader of the Stray Cats, frontman for the Brian Setzer Orchestra and as a solo artist.

For more info: www.alleneventcenter.com.

20 Allen Philharmonic‘s Holiday Fantastique, 8 pm, Allen High School Performing Arts Center. Ring in the holiday season with our special guests, the Allen District Honor Choir and soloist Dee Donasco, in a performance of holiday favorites. Enjoy our classic Christmas narration with perennial favorite Carl Johnson and other holiday favorites that include ”Jingle Bells,“ ”White Christmas“ and ”O Holy Night.” The “Big Guy” will be down from the North Pole for a quick last minute visit before his big night.

For more info: www.allenphilharmonic.org.

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.

1 Disney On Ice celebrates 100 years of magic with a lavish ice show featuring more than 60 of Disney’s most captivating characters.

Everyone’s favorite sweethearts, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, will lead the adventure as they share memories with Disney friends including Goofy, Donald Duck, the beloved Disney Princesses, Buzz Lightyear, Woody and many more!

6 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Rapid City Rush 7 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Rapid City Rush 12 Fox 4’s Toys for Tots Drive. Fox 4 will broadcast live from Allen Event Center to support the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program during newscasts from 5-6:30 pm and 9-10:30 pm. Stop by and donate an unwrapped toy and receive a great goody bag while supplies last!

13 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Missouri Mavericks 14 Dallas Sidekicks Soccer vs. Saltillo Ranco Seco Alumni Game and pictures with Santa.

15 The Brian Setzer Orchestra Christmas Rocks!

Extravaganza.

20 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Brampton Beast 21 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Brampton Beast 27 Dallas Sidekicks Soccer vs. Tulsa Revolution ($2 hot dogs, sodas and beers!)

28 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Tulsa Oilers 29-30 Disney Junior Live On Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure. This never-before-seen live show

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featues your favorite characters from Disney Junior’s hit series, Sofia the First and Jake and the Never Land Pirates. Filled with new music, amazing effects, thrilling action and endless surprises, your whole family will sing, shout, and soar into the action.

Allen Americans Hockey vs. Wichita Thunder

Parks and Recreation Events

Gingerbread House Making, 6:30-8:30 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Center. Show off your creative side by building a gingerbread house for the holidays. Participants compete against other families for the “Most Creative” and “Most Edible” awards.

Christmas Tree Lighting.

Rudolph Run. Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair, Joe Farmer Rec Center. This event brings the family together and puts them in the holiday spirit with creative crafts and a festive atmosphere.

Interested vendors contact Steve Nagy at 214.509.4754. 10’ x 10’ booth space is $50; two spaces, $80. One table and two chairs included.

Electricity is limited (additional $10 fee).

Holidays on Ice Show. Holidays on Ice features skaters from the Allen Academy of Skating and Allen Community Ice Rink. Bring a non-perishable food item and admission is FREE. Call Allen Community Ice Rink for more info at 972.912.1097.

Family Night at Allen Senior Recreation Center. A fun evening filled with holiday crafts, the making of handmade cards for veterans, cookie decorating and a special visit from Santa. Enjoy an Italian spaghetti dinner, salad, baked bread, dessert and beverage and festive music from “Singers Company” with a

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little karaoke mixed in! Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and children ages 5-12 and free for children under the age of 4.

Holiday Hayride with Santa, Joe Farmer Recreation Center. This 45-minute hayride will make its way through Bethany Lakes Park and continue on through a festively decorated neighborhood. Enjoy singalongs bright, festive lights on this merry holiday hayride.

SNAP Dance, 7-10 pm, Recreation Hall. Special needs adapted program! Dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and photo. Email tharben@cityofallen.org or call 214.509.4707.

The Edge @ Allen Station Holiday Bash.

Come out to the skate park for a fun-filled day of BMX, skateboard and in-line competitions.

This is a free event that will include action sport vendors from around the area.

Swim with Santa, 6-8:45 pm, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium. Santa will be available for photos and Christmas requests. Parents swim free with paid participant. Children under seven must be accompanied by an adult in the water.

Drop & Shop Holiday Skate. Various on-ice games and activities for everyone including pictures with Santa, chance drawing for a FREE Learn to Skate semester and much more.

Come dressed in both green and red or donate a non-perishable item and receive free skate rental. All on-ice participants must wear skates.

New Year’s Eve Brunch. Celebrate in style at the Allen Senior Recreation Center with an allinclusive delicious and festive brunch catered

by Allen Event Center’s Chef John Orshonsky.

At noon, experience the New Year’s traditions with sparkling cider toasts, Auld Lang Syne and black eye peas. Pre-register by 12/18.

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ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Children’s Programs

Winter Reading Club, Thru Jan. 12, ages 0-18.

Children 0-12: Check out some “Dino-Mite Reads” during our winter reading club! Read 5 books and return your reading log by January 12 and get a free book! Teens: Read 3 titles for a free book and a chance to win cool gift cards!

7 My Little Pony Party Extravaganza!, 2-3 pm, 2nd floor program room (for tweens and teens ages 9+). Do you love My Little Pony? Come to the library for an afternoon of creating your own pony, trivia, prizes, and more! Feel free to wear all your My Little Pony gear!

2-3 pm, children’s program room (ages 5-8).

My Little Pony fans, join Twilight Sparkle for some fun, games, and crafts. All attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite pony.

2, 9, 16, 23 Marshmallow Movie Mondays, 4:30-6 pm, children’s program room. Watch a free holiday movie. Children are encouraged to bring their favorite family members or friends to share the experience.

13 Doctor Who, 4:30-5:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. Celebrate your favorite Time Lord with us! Ages 12-18.

20 Sensory Play Day, 10:30-11:30 am, children’s program room. Join us for a relaxed morning of stimulating sensory play stations for children 0-3. Play is one of the key early literacy practices to promote reading readiness.

An Anime Afternoon, 4:30-5:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. Join us every 3rd Friday of the month for an hour of anime, Japanese candy, and more! The anime shown at this program is usually rated 13+ or lower. Ages 12-18.

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Adults

Noontime Pageturners, noon, 2nd floor program room. Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan. Bring a lunch and a friend and join us for a lively discussion!

Free. No registration.

Window Stars program, 6:30-8:30 pm, Adult Program Room. Teens and adults only. Reg. required. Treat yourself to a relaxing holiday break. Learn to fold and glue beautiful window decorations! Register through allenlibrary.org’s Interactive Calendar or call 214.509.4905.

Twisted Threads Fiber Craft Circle, 6:308:30 pm, 2nd floor Adult Program Room. A social group for crocheters, knitters, felters, quilters and any type of craft done with thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome!

Bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other fiber crafters.

Discover a Healthier You—T’ai Chi, 12 pm, 2nd floor program room, reg. required. T’ai Chi is known for harmonizing the body, mind and spirit. Promotes relaxation and reduces stress to help you sleep better, become calm and gain inner peace. Join us for a sample class and learn basic T’ai Chi moves. Comfortable clothes and shoes recommended. Instructor: Carole Booth, Lu T’ai Chi Players, Allen Chapter, 18+.

Mom’s Night Out Book Club, A Grown-Up Kind of Pretty by Joshilyn Jackson, 7 pm, 2nd floor adult program room. Register online or call 214-509-4900. Moms, come out and join the company of other moms at this book club!

Non-moms are also welcome!

Connemara Conservancy

Connemara Meadow Preserve Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 8-11 am, Allen. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them; learn

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what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. All ages welcome. We recommend wearing long pants, closed-toed shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Astronomy Walk, 9-11 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join Clyde Camp for an Astronomy walk. Meet at the Suncreek Park circular parking lot, 9 pm sharp, and walk to the meadow the back way.

For more info: www.connemaraconservancy.org.

Open House, 1 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join us to wander (and wonder) at the meadow hiking the trails, watching flora and fauna. Enter at Wooded Gate on East side of Alma, south of Bethany.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

City of Allen offers a variety of affordable recreational classes and programs. Register at Joe Farmer Rec Center, 214.509.4750 or Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 214.509.4770.

For more info: www.allenparks.org.

Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers of preschoolers. Each month has fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch with friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids and other events. Come play with us.

For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@ aecpta.com.

MOMS Club of Allen, group for moms and children who live in Allen, Fairview and Lucas.

Monthly playgroups, kid field trips and business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more.

For more info: http://momsclubofallentx.weekly.com or 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.

Kids Helping Kids, bring new or gently-used toys to Kids Pediatric Dentistry, donate to kids in the area. Receive chance to win prize.

For more info: 972.727.0011 or www. kidspediatricdentistry.com.

Divorce Care, 13-week courses—biblical teaching for recovering from divorce.

For more info: Kim Tedford: 214.544.8050 ext. 109, ktedford@creekwoodumc.org or www. creekwoodumc.org.

American Cancer Society, Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appointments. If you have a car and can spare time 9-5, you can help.

For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711.

Baylor Health Care System offers support groups, medical information and events.

For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com.

Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings— days & locations vary.

For more info: www.75013.theheartlinknetwork. com.

Texas Health Presbyterian, a variety of events.

For more info: www.texashealth.org.

Urban Explorers, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups throughout Dallas area.

Something for everyone!

For more info: www.meetup.com/getoutandabout.

Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters.

For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www.planobicycle.org.

Every Monday-Friday

The Shores AA Group, noon, Raceway Profesional Building, 200 W. Boyd, Suite C (Adjacent to Dayrise Recovery), Allen. Open AA discussion group. Everyone welcome.

For more info: 469.854.9593.

Every Monday-Sunday

Allen AA meets, 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.

Every Monday

Allen Toastmasters’ Club, 6:30 pm, Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome.

For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100.

Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC. For more info: Henry@ WealthManagementGroupLLC.com

Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, 7:15 pm, Custer Road United Methodist Church, Rm B2, 6601 Custer Rd, Plano.

For more info: Ed Meissner, 469-323-0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www. prestonpersuaders.org.

Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome For more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per. treven@ericsson.com.

Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free.

For more info: fitandfunky@att.net.

Second Monday

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

For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm.

Various locations and service projects monthly.

For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org.

Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney.

For more info: 972.562.5566 or www. northtexasbeekeepers.org.

Collin County Early Childhood PTA, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery reservations req.

For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634.

Veterans of Foreign Wars “Lone Star Post 2150”, 1710 N. Church Street, 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.

American Association of University WomenPlano/Collin County Branch, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior Living Center, 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with assoc. or bachelors degree interested in helping women.

For more info: Carol, 972.862.3460 or www. aauwplanocollin.org.

Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, 7 pm, Tino’s Too Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, school programs, etc. Open to anyone interested.

For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982.

Third Monday

Collin County Aggie Moms, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, Coit between Bush Tollway & Campbell.

For more info: 972.382.3124 or www. collincountymoms.aggienetwork.com

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Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome.

For more info: www.K5PRK.net.

Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family & friends, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney.

For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984.

Allen Retired Educators, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview.

For more info: or RSVP: Jerri Caldronia@ jlcaldronia@suddenlink.net.

Fourth Monday

Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be a member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402.

Plano Photography Club, 7 pm, Grace Presbyterian Church, 4300 W. Park Blvd., Plano. Visitors welcome.

For more info: www.planophotographyclub.com.

Every Tuesday

Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/ $7 non-mem. 1st visit free.

For more info: 972.727.5585.

2ChangeU Toastmasters, 7-8:45 pm, Custer Rd. United Methodist Church, Rm B5, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome.

For more info: www.2changeu.org.

Toastmasters Creative Expressions, 11:15 am12:30 pm. Raytheon, McKinney. Guests welcome.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas.

For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org.

Every Tuesday & Thursday

Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 7 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. Offers strength and hope to friends & family of alcoholics.

For more info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon. alateen.org.

Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping & gardening advice, 9 am-4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney.

For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460.

First Tuesday

Heard Museum Native Plant Society, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney.

For more info: 972.562.5566.

First and Third Tuesday

Legacy 4-H Club (Allen and Lucas), 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas.

For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460.

Common Threads of Allen, 7 pm, Whole Foods Market Café, Stacy Rd., Fairview. Share needlework projects, learn new techniques, make friends.

For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net.

Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen.

For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982.

Second Tuesday

Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville.

For more info: 214.509.4820.

Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, 9:30 am refreshments, 10 am program, SMU Plano

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Campus, 5228 Tennyson Pkwy., Plano. Guests are welcome!

For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org.

Allen Democrats, 6:30 pm, Reel Thing Catfish Cafe, 600 E. Main St., Allen.

For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214.893.3643.

Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, 7-9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome.

For more info: www.bptmn.org or email info@ bptmn.org.

Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group of Collin County, 7-9 pm, parlor, 1st UMC, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen.

For more info: Shirli Salter, sscaroline@aol.com.

Collin County Archaeology Society, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney.

For more info: archaeology@netzero.net.

Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, 5024 Custer, in Plano, 7 pm.

For more info: www.planopacers.org.

Third Tuesday

McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, welcomes new residents, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. We will be serenaded with holiday tunes by our own McKinney Community Band Flute Choir.

For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com.

Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group provides support & resources for parents of children with autism & related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ autismparentsupport.

Plano Republican Women’s Club, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expy., Plano.

For more info: www.planorepublicanwomen.com.

Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter meets Aug.-May. For more info:txshawm@sbcglobal.net.

Fourth Tuesday

Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon, 11:30 am-1 pm. $20 member/$25 guest.

For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society meets at 7 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney.

For more info: 972.562.5566.

Porcelain Art Guild of North Texas, 9:30 am, Carriage House, 306 N. Church St., McKinney.

Open to anyone, beginner to expert For more info: Gayle Harry 214.509.0787.

Every Wednesday

Allen Rotary Club, noon, Courtyard by Marriot, 210 East Stacy Rd. For more info: www.allenrotary.org.

Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, “Become the Speaker and Leader you can be”, 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expy,Allen.

For more info: Daniel Dodd, 972.571.7527.

Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, 7 am, Twin Creeks Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle.

For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.asrotary.org.

McKinney Chess on the Square, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center.

Open play & lessons. Promotes creativity, imagination & strategic thinking.

For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org.

First Wednesday

Allen Heritage Guild, 6:30 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main.

For more info: 972.740.8017 or www. allenheritageguild.org.

Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:30-1:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage Hosue, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer.

Bring lunch.

For more info: 972.569.6909 or www.headcraig.org.

Collin County Master Gardeners Assoc. guided tour of Myers Park, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Res. requested.

For more info: 972.548.4232 or go to mgcollin@ ag.tamu.edu.

First and Third Wednesday

MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, 9:30-11:30, 3405 Custer, Ste. 200, Plano.

For more info: 214-762-0037 or www.mopsofhope. com.

Second Wednesday

Collin County Genealogical Society, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano.

For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com.

VFW Post 2195, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen.

For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www.vfw2195.org.

Every Thursday

Allen Kiwanis Club, Noon, Hilton Garden Inn on 75 just North of Bethany. Visitors welcome.

For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org.

Allen Classic Cars, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Chipotle & Stacy Furn.

Sweet Adelines, NoteAbly North Texas Chorus, 7 pm, Grace Evangelical Free Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy, Allen. Women of Allen & surrounding area invited.

For more info: nntsing4fun@yahoo.com.

Bible Study, 9:30–11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Registration required.

For more info: katpf@att.nett or mckinneyallen. cbsclass.org.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness of Collin County), Recovery support for adults living with mental illness. Led by trained individuals. Free, 6:30-8:30 pm, Custer Road UMC, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano.

For more info: 214.509.0085 or www.namicco.org.

Weight Watchers, 12:15 and 6 pm, First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Enter at the south entrance, second floor.

Speak Up! Frisco Toastmasters Club, 7-7:30 pm social, 7:30-8:30 meeting. U of D-Frisco campus, Frisco Chamber, 6843 W. Main St. For more info: http://speakupfrisco.freetoasthost.ws.

First Thursday W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking & discussion of women’s issues. Fun & informative meeting for women in Allen & surrounding areas. $20 member/$25 guest.

For more info: www.allenchamber.com

North Dallas Newcomers, 11 am., Brookhaven Country Club. Social time followed by a luncheon. Like to keep up with seasonal fashion?

For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net.

Allen Garden Club, meets 7 pm, monthly gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main Street.

For more info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www.allengardenclub.org.

Second Thursday

Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly general meetings at Creekwood UUMC, 261 Country Club Road, Fairview. Different topic and guest

speakers each month. Lunch provided free and babysitting available for nominal fee.

For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/ Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA/.

Osteoporosis Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, Com. Education Rm-Medical Office Bldg. 2.

For more info: 972.747.6036.

Legal Aid Clinic, 6 pm, First United Methodist Church.

For more info: www.lanwt.org or 1.888.529.5277.

McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Headquarters, 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location sometimes varies.

For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans. com.

PSA:NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness] of Collin County, 7:30 pm, Custer Road UM Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano.

Enter at the SE end, room B2. Peer support group, B6, and Family support group, B1, meet from 6:30-7:20.

For more info: www.namicco.org.

Second and Fourth Thursday

Allen High Noon Lions Club, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952.

Allen Area Patriots, 7-8:45 pm, Failth Fellowship Church, 415 West Lucas Road, Lucas. Local Tea Party presents speakers, enlightening and motivating citizens to participate in the political process.

For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots.com.

Third Thursday

Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, noon, First United Methodist Church Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch,fellowship, speakers & entertainers.

For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net.

Knights of Columbus, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen.

For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www. stjudekofc.org.

Cancer Support Ministry, 7 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101.

For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241.

Collin County Republican Men’s Club, 7 pm, locations vary.

For more info: www.ccrmc.org.

Live @ 5 Business After Hours, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free.

For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Breast Cancer Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, 1105 Central Expwy. N., Community Education RoomMed.Office Bldg. 2.

For more info: 972.747.6036.

Allen Quilters’ Guild, 6:30 pm, First Presbyterian Church, 605 S Greenville.

For more info: www.allenquilters.org.

Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new & expectant moms’ forum, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney.

For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330.

Fourth Thursday

Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, 10 am, Heard-Craig Hall Gallery, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas.

For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail.com.

Every Other Thursday

North Texas Referral Group, 11:45 am, Friday’s (121 & Preston).

For more info: www.ntrg.info.

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Every Friday

Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Members free/Nonmember Allen resident $3.

For more info: 214.509.4820.

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

For more info: 972.547.7491.

Every Other Friday

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), non-denominational support group for moms with kids birth to 5 years, 9:30-11:45 am, First Baptist Church in Allen. Childcare provided.

For more info: 972.727.8241.

First & Third Friday

Classic 55+ Game Night, 6:30 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games. Open to the community, no res. required.

For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com.

Every Saturday

McKinney Chess Club, 10:30 am- 1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Any age. Free.

For more info: 972.547.7491.

First Saturday

Open Forum, meaningful discussions, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney.

For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004.

VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, 10 am, 1710 N. Church Street, McKinney.

For more info: “Driveway John” 971-822-4483, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org.

Second Saturday

Department 56 Village Collectors Club meets in the Plano/North Dallas area to share ideas.

For more info: www.bigd56ers.com.

Heard Museum Nature Photography Club meeting. 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, One Nature Place, McKinney.

For more info: 972.562.5566.

Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, service organization to teach children to serve their community.

For more info: 972.396.8010.

Third Saturday

Single Side Up, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. No charge to attend. Low cost child care is available.

For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@thissideupfamily.org.

Allen Folk Music Society, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Drive, Allen. Musicians aged 15-100. Bring snacks to share.

For more info: www.twiceasfar.com.

Fourth Saturday

American Sewing Guild, 10 am-noon, Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Rd (at Parker), in Plano.

For more info: Jane Johnson, 972.841.6854 or www.planoasg.org.

Last Saturday

Plano Pacers run at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, 8 am.

For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www.planopacers.org.

Every Sunday

Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out live to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free.

For more info: fitandfunky@att.net.

First Sunday

United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, 2 pm, First Methodist Church of Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Church Parlor. Join us for book discussion and refreshments. Book selections are determined at the January meeting. We do encourage women of all faiths to participate.

For more info: cynannrobinson@gmail.com.

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

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For Your Health

For Your Health

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cover story

Al Kidwell, Brian’s father

Does an occasional disbelief creep into your psyche, leaving you to question Santa’s magical powers?

Or are you a full-blown skeptic who challenges the very existence of St. Nick?

It’s here that bits and pieces, scraps and found objects are magically transformed Have you dared to inquire as to how into one-of-a-kind Santa Clauses, from the anyone could deliver toys to all boys and svelte and regal Victorian-aged St. Nicholas to the rotund “jolly old elf” of Clement girls in the world in just one night?

Moore’s Night Before Christmas. Each of the pieces exudes a Then come with us on a tour of Brian and Kidwell’s holiday master­ charm to leave you longing for candy canes, Cynthia Kidwell’s Toymaker workshop where eggnog, hot spiced cider and pen and paper all doubts will be charmed (or whirled…or to make out your wish list.

Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, spun…or schussed…or flapped) away.

Brian and his family moved to North Texas in the 1960s and then to McKinney in 1973, where he started ninth grade. He has lived in McKinney ever since, excluding a brief period in Colorado where he worked as a self-proclaimed “ski bum.”

Friends in high school, Brian and Cynthia didn’t date until after graduation and while Brian was in Colorado. After he returned to McKinney to assist his artist father, Al, with an exciting job opportunity, the couple grew closer and were soon wed. Brian opted to stay in McKinney because of Cynthia.

“I have deep family roots in Collin County and those are important to me,” she states. Her great-great-grandparents settled in Blue Ridge, a great-grandfather worked at the flour mill in McKinney and her grandfather had a hardwood floor business in McKinney. “When I was a little girl, I used to come with him to the lumber yard,” Cynthia recalls.

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Cynthia’s workspace

ORLY Market

Brian’s workspace

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This is the same lumber yard on East Louisiana Street in McKinney the Kidwells purchased 25 years ago and converted into their production shop named Old Red Lumber Yard, or ORLY for short.

Divided into distinct production areas, the workshop displays their tools of the trade along with an array of vintage fabrics and furs, wooden forms, fantastical faces, buttons and trims, metal machine parts, and antique children’s books and toys.

And visitors may find themselves face-to-face with a magical flying contraption being maneuvered by an equally fairytale-like pilot dangling from the rafters.

“I grew up in this kind of environment; we have my father ’s work everywhere, and it’s an integral part of everything we do,” Brian notes with pride. “My dad’s workshop looked like this one, the only difference here is that you can see the floor. If he needed something, he would take a box and dump it on the floor, kick through it, and then move on to the next box. By the end of the week he was kicking a path to get to his table.”

A respected artist, illustrator and sculptor, Al Kidwell passed away 12 years ago. “He was an incredible talent,” Brian points out. “He went to the Corcoran in Washington, D.C., on a scholarship—a very prestigious award, and he has work in the Smithsonian and Metropolitan [Museum of Art].

Any medium he chose to work in he was successful with.”

Brian concludes with a grin.

“Organization was not his strong suit, but he was such a creative soul and my mother was a true saint.”

Although he initially worked as a painter and illustrator, Brian’s father loved working with imaginative kinetic pieces steered by characters with a distinct Al Kidwell touch.

Dallas gallery owner Hayden Calhoun gave him the nudge needed to begin making and selling his moveable art.

“Hayden Calhoun came to my dad’s studio to see his paintings and said, ‘Your paintings are great, but that wooden thing on the wall, that’s different. Give me 20 of those and I’ll give you a show.’”

The promised event proved more successful than any of them could have dreamed. “He sold out in four hours!” the second-generation artist grins.

Gesturing to one of his father’s creations hanging from the ceiling, Brian shares, “I found this one in a pile in my parents’ garden. When I went out to help clean up the estate when my father passed away, I found it lying there. So I resurrected it and now it’s one of my favorite pieces.”

The son had so much respect for his father’s work that when the elder Kidwell was offered a job in the late 1970s providing in-house design for Gadgets, a chain of restaurants owned

by Warner Brothers, Brian agreed to move back to McKinney to assist him.

His primary assignment was hunting down recycled materials his father would use for his pieces or com­ plementary decor.

These treks allowed him to rum­ mage through barns and warehouses, foundries, musical repair businesses and estate sales across the U.S., a job he relished.

Describing himself as an “original American Picker,” many of Brian’s early and happy memories are of the family vacations and weekends devoted to “junking” with his father. “It’s the thrill of the hunt—the fun part of the business!” he explains. “To dig through those places people haven’t been in for years.

“I remember as a little kid going to the Dallas landfill to look for an antique calliope my dad heard had been hauled there. It was an old circus piece and probably a museum item!” he recalls sadly. “We drove around for hours and never did find it.” After all these years, “the one that got away” still weighs heavy on this salvager’s soul.

“We were doing our kind of art work—flying machines and crazy contraptions and things like that on a big scale,” Brian recalls of his early career working with his father. “The pieces we made for Warner Brothers were huge—like they would have a 20-foot wingspan or be a life-sized character in a rowboat.”

Cynthia adds, “Brian and I spent some of our dates in his dad’s workshop helping him with projects, so I was kind of an apprentice to Al without knowing

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it. And once we were married there wasn’t any doubt what I’d be doing.”

Because the work with Gadgets was proving so successful, Brian convinced his new wife to quit her job and join them and shortly after that, Warner Brothers decided to close the entire chain of restaurants.

“We were left holding the bag and in full swing, with 20 new stores

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planned and a full warehouse that Warner Brothers owned,” Brian explains. “It was a huge inventory of restaurant-type décor like old signs and taxidermy and great stuff like you see in Fridays, along with equipment like compressors and saws.”

A request by his former employer to quickly dispose of these supplies left Brian in a quandary. He knew how to

purchase these materials, but not how to sell them in a timely fashion. Taking the advice of a friend, Brian offered Warner Brothers 10 cents on the dollar for the warehouse full of supplies— $20,000. When they accepted his proposed price, Brian rushed to the bank for a loan. With the inventory as collateral, he had a check the same day.

With only 30 days to pay back the loan, Brian and Cynthia decided to host a giant sale, letting former suppliers know about what they were offering at discount prices. “We paid back the note within 10 days,” Brian grins, “and still had a huge inventory of décor, signs and other old stuff. We made far more money in a short period of time than I would have made in years of working with the company.”

Now with a financial pad, Brian and Cynthia decided to start their company, Toymaker, and create smaller versions of the kinetic creations they helped Al make for Gadgets. ”I wouldn’t be doing this if my wife and I weren’t doing this together and we’ve worked hand-in-hand for 30 years,” Brian emphasizes. “She does a lot of the finish work and I do the construction, so it’s our two talents blended together.”

Initially, Brian and Cynthia were primarily making flying machines and other whimsical moving pieces inspired by such fantasy literature as Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and Around the World in 80 Days.

Brian relied on the skills he honed searching for the materials to decorate the Gadgets restaurants to find the unique objects to incorporate into their own creations.

“Our first few shows at market in Dallas had moderate success, enough to keep the two of us busy with an employee or two. Then we had an invitation to show our work in Atlanta,” he reminisces. “We wrote a quarter of a million dollars at our first show there in five days and all of a sudden, we had a tiger by the tail! We had to come up with the employees and source the raw materials.”

Some of their pieces eventually found their way to a Washington, D.C., gallery where, in the late 1980s, they caught the attention of a curator at the

Smithsonian Institute who promptly gave Brian a call.

“I blew him off because I honestly thought it was a buddy pulling my leg!” Brian grimaces. “I had to backpedal and apologize.” And it was a good thing the misconception was recognized, because soon after, the Kidwells had 12 of their flying con­ traptions hung in the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum as part of the homage to the pre-flight inventors and dreamers who preceded the Wright Brothers.

Brian notes that a similar situation also led to a contract with Disney. “One of the head designers for Disney was sitting in traffic in Orlando and looked over into a store window and there was one of our big trains. We ended up doing a lot of work for them, all retail.”

Eventually, the Kidwells concluded that production demands, along with legal and insurance requirements, were far more prohibitive than the benefits of working with the prestigious company allowed.

Other Toymaker pieces have been

created for the Barnum & Bailey Circus Museum in Sarasota, Florida; the Thomas Edison Institute in Dearborn, Michigan; the racing Andretti family who ordered an old-time roadster dubbed Ignition Impossible; a wedding gift for Bill Gates; and 20 Easy Sliders— skiing Santas which the emperor of Japan gave out as gifts. Of the latter, Brian laughs that the last minute order required the 20 Santas be sent to Japan via overnight shipping that ended up costing more than the art works.

Another unique opportunity came the Kidwells’ way when an executive with Fox Broadcasting commissioned them to create a remote-controlled Santa with a video camera for the national network to use throughout the holidays. “It was a Santa in a hotrod, jazzed-up sleigh with, at the time, the smallest camera we could get, which was about the size of a loaf of bread,” Brian explains. “Santa would roll through different settings and was used as an introduction for news articles or a Fox show.”

To meet all their burgeoning

orders, the Kidwells’ business had grown to a staff of 15 employees and demand for their creations left them feeling overwhelmed and understaffed.

“We were shipping 30-40 pieces a week all over the world,” Brian recalls. “My wife and I did all the initial design work and quality control, but we did very little of the fabrication ourselves.”

Shaking his head, Brian continues, “It was not what we had planned on.

Suddenly we had become bookkeepers and counselors. It was hectic and stressful keeping up with production, quality control and employees.”

So when the downturn in the economy spelled disaster for many small businesses, the Kidwells saw it as an opportunity to downsize to one long-time employee, Vencia “Maria” Chavez, and return to what they loved about their business—the creativity.

One significant change for the Toymaker was the growing demand for Santas—now the majority of pieces created by the Kidwells. Brian estimates that today, 80 percent of their business is Christmas and

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Halloween oriented. The original vintage Santa, created years ago by Al for his family, now serves as a model for the many different Santas the couple makes today.

As always, sturdy construction and recycling quality vintage materials are of primary consideration. Pulling down a curly lamb-lined jacket from a rack packed tightly with old fleecelined coats and velvet cloaks, Brian points out, “Santa’s beards are mostly made out of these recycled hippie vests and jackets from the 60s and 70s.”

He then holds out an ornately decorated, floor-length, deep blue velvet robe, a ceremonial garment once worn by members of the fraternal Odd Fellows and reads aloud the label inside: Ward Stilson, New London, Military and Society Goods. Placing the robe, back on the rack, he affirms, “So that’s 120 years old.”

Brian emphasizes, “These are what make our pieces unique. They have an apparent age so they look like Santas that were made 100 years ago because we use 100-year-old material.

“As long as they are taken care of, they are going to be around for a long time,” Brian asserts. “We build them to be enjoyed for generations.”

Today, the Kidwells rely on a number of different resources to secure the materials they need, including

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on-line stores and pickers who shop for them at sales around the U.S. Ever the wheeler-dealer, Brian main­­ tains a vigilant outlook for materials to give their creations a little something extra. One remarkable ac­­ quisition was the overstuffed store­room of a local furrier going out of business— all for $2,500! The first thing Brian did was pull 100 mink stoles from the supply and sell them for $25 apiece to pay himself back, leaving a more than ample supply for his Toymaker pro­ ductions. “It was an incredible resource of fur and we still have fur from that purchase 20 years ago,” he declares.

He adds that this remarkable coup did have one sad footnote. “One of the coats was a $100,000 Russian sable so I decided to find a buyer for it. I put it in my office and when I came back from market, I found that one of my employees had cut it up. I just died!

And we had some very expensive Santas that we could never sell for what they were worth.”

For information on ordering one of the Kidwells’ creations, contact them via email: bckidwell84@gmail. com or phone: 972.542.8774. For a schedule of their ORLY Market Days, “Like” the Old Red Lumber Yard on Facebook.

Five years ago, the couple came up with a way to supplement their income, make use of wasted space and tap into Brian’s love of antique sales.

After cleaning out the long-unused lumber bins on the east side of the Old Red Lumber Yard, they leased the spaces to small antique dealers.

“We had nine units and rented them in short order,” Brian notes.

“They decided they wanted to have a sale or two and these took off!”

He soon recognized that a monthly sale could be a win-win-win situation— for his business, his renters and folks like himself who live for the thrill of the hunt. Soon, other small antique dealers rented space on the property just for the two-day event and the sale began to grow.

Now dubbed the Old Red Lumber Yard Junk Market, the Friday and Saturday sale quickly morphed into an event of unexpected proportions. After a Facebook page was created to remind shoppers of monthly sale dates, it grew to almost 10,800 “Likes.”

Today, the street in front of the ORLY is closed during Market Day and McKinney police officers are brought in to handle the traffic created by the buyers coming to see the wares of between 30 and 40 vendors. Many of their regular shoppers are antique dealers that come from as far away as Arkansas, Oklahoma and Louisiana.

Brian now visualizes adding local produce vendors, music and food trucks in the near future.

The Kidwells have two children— Zach, who works in the trade sales industry, and Callie, a nursing student at TCU. After working together over 30 years, Cynthia iterates what both she and Brian emphasize often. “We are best friends and enjoy being together and collaborating together.

Plus, we love being able to create and see something from start to finish— making something with our hands.”

Convinced now that Santa is real?

Then don’t forget to leave him a plate of cookies and glass of milk. Even if he does swoop into your home via helicopter or hot rod, he will always take time for a snack. v Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.

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