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December 2016

Vol. 26, Issue 12

features

36 A Guiding Hand

On December 31, Glenda May, ACOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest executive director will leave her post to enjoy retirement. She will leave behind a lasting impression and a long list of accomplishments.

Teaching more than recycling

The Norton Elementary third grade eighth annual recycle saleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;third-graders bring in their gently-used toys, games, books and stuffed animals to be sold to the student body and staff at Norton.

special sections

20 CALENDAR 30 PET PAGE

Flap Jack

KIDS KORNER Christmas Tree Farms

36 30

46 6

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE civic forum

library

Allen Wins Gold Medal Award

Holiday Concert

Traditional Storytelling On Pointe

Dolls Remembered

All Rise!

Miracle on 34th Street

Texas Master Naturalists

29 Classic Holiday Harps and

17 Christmas at the Village

Strings

travel

Allen Masonic Lodge

King of the Nations

Holidays at the Heard

education

The Spirit of Christmas

42 Collin College—Stepping Stone

Journey to the Manger

32 Feliz Navidad from San Antonio

for a World Traveler

28 publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

advertising sales Liz DeBoe

cover photo Larry Fleming

on the cover Norton Elementary third grade students. Story pg. 46.

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42 contributing writers Chelsey Aprill Matt Cobb

Kirk Dickey

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

Deborah Dove

Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to:

Tom Keener

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

Peggy Helmick-Richardson Kathleen Vaught

civic forum

Allen Wins GOLD Medal Award by Matt COBB Allen Parks and Recreation staff held their breath, some crossed their fingers and others were white-knuckled from gripping their seats in anticipation, at the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Conference in early October in St. Louis. The silent anticipation turned to loud cheers and a thunderous applause as the announcer named the Allen Parks and Recreation Department the winner of the 2016 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, one of the highest honors that can be achieved by a parks department. After four-consecutive years of having the honor of being a finalist, 2016 was the first time in Allen Parks and Recreation history to bring home the Gold Medal Award from the NRPA, which is the premiere nonprofit

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organization devoted to advancing public parks, recreation and conservation. Founded in 1965, the Gold Medal Awards program honors communities in the United States that demonstrate excellence in parks and recreation through long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development and agency recognition. Achieving the Gold Medal Award shows that a parks and recreation department operates among the elite in the nation. “NRPA promotes three pillars—conservation, health and wellness, and social equity—as a guide for parks and recreation departments,” said Tim Dentler, director of Allen Parks and Recreation. “We strive to serve Allen based on

the residents’ needs in conjunction with those essential pillars, so it is an honor being named the recipient of the Gold Medal Award by NRPA, reinforcing that we are offering the highest quality services and programs to our community.” Competing against departments nationwide, Gold Medal Award applications are separated into seven classes, with five classes based on population, one class for armed forces recreation and one class for state park systems awarded on odd-numbered years. Allen Parks and Recreation was among three other finalists in their class that competed for grand honors this year. A panel of five park and recreation professionals reviews and judges all application materials. Judges are chosen for their considerable experience and knowledge in parks and recreation on both the local and national levels. Agencies are judged on their ability to address the needs of those they serve through the collective energies of citizens, staff and elected officials. With “program development” being one of the cornerstones of criteria for the Gold Medal Award, Allen Parks and Recreation is dedicated to providing a diverse range of health and wellness, educational and leisure events for all ages, whether it’s fitness classes at Joe Farmer Recreation Center or the complimentary U.S. citizenship course at Allen Senior Recreation Center. And most recently, Allen Parks and Recreation is working to make sure all members of the Allen community know about the programs that are being offered.

LIFE in Allen Many Allen residents are familiar with the Allen Parks and Recreation events guide that comes out three times a year, called STUFF. As the City of Allen has grown and changed over the past years, the STUFF guide started to get dated and didn’t fully communicate everything the Allen Parks and Recreation department has to offer. So, Allen is leaving STUFF behind and moving on with LIFE, a new triannual guide with information about not just programs and events, but also parks, trails and facilities. “LIFE is an acronym for ‘Learning, Interests, Fitness and Events,’ everything we feel like we have to offer,” said Brandy O’Keefe, Marketing Manager for Allen Parks and Recreation. “The new guide is meant to serve as a roadmap for experiencing life in Allen, whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or where the city’s trails are located or even how to reserve a recreation facility for a birthday party.” LIFE provides information about programs, events and classes at all of the Allen Parks and Recreation facilities, including Allen Community Ice Rink, Allen Senior Recreation Center, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, Joe Farmer Recreation Center, The Courses at Watters Creek and The Edge Skate Park and Visitor Center. Similar to

previous guides, LIFE will have three editions per year— Summer, Fall and Winter/Spring. New to this guide is a revamped layout and structure, making it even easier to find programs by facility and age group. A new map in the center of the guide shows where all of the parks, trails and recreation facilities are located in Allen. The guide even includes facts about each of the facilities, such as how many square feet are in the leisure pool at Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium (hint: it’s a lot!) and how many holes comprise The Courses at Watters Creek. “The NRPA Gold Medal Award recognizes how parks departments better the lives of citizens,” O’Keefe said. “We used the same criteria when creating this new guide—to impact every life in Allen.” The Winter/Spring 2017 edition of LIFE is out now and can be found at any Allen Parks and Rec facility or online at AllenParks.org. v Matt Cobb is the senior marketing coordinator for the City of Allen.

Allen Image | December 2016

Traditional Storytelling On Pointe by Kathleen VAUGHT

“You don’t have to know about ballet to enjoy it, all you have to do is look at it.” – Edwin Denby

Everyone loves a good story. And one of the best never utters a single word. The only thing you need is your imagination. Perhaps that’s why The Nutcracker ballet has always been so popular. The magical story of a young girl’s family Christmas party and her fairytale dreams through fantastical lands goes beyond the use of mere words. It’s a story that is best experienced through the sights and sounds only a live performance can provide. “Allen Civic Ballet has been producing The Nutcracker since 1999,” explains Stefanie Best, the ballet’s president and artistic director. “Each year brings a new opportunity to tell this classic story and hopefully ignite a new generation of dancers to

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continue the tradition of this performance-focused art form. Plus, it’s simply a joy to watch.” The Allen Civic Ballet will present the majesty of The Nutcracker Ballet, with live music performed by the Allen Philharmonic, on Saturday, December 17 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 18 at 2 p.m. at the Allen High School Performing Arts Center, 300 Rivercrest Drive. This year’s Nutcracker will again feature Guest Artist Paul Tillman of Ballet Arkansas. Tillman will partner Allen Civic Ballet dancer Emma Pennell, a junior at Allen High School, as the Sugar Plum Fairy. Professional Guest Artist Jonathan Bostick, a returning fan favorite, will reprise his role as the Arabian Prince.

“The study of ballet may not be for everyone,” says Best, “but watching the stories unfold through the artistry of ballet, especially one as well known as The Nutcracker, is definitely a ‘must see.’ We are grateful that Allen has made our Nutcracker a tradition for seventeen years.” Tickets are available online at AllenCivicBallet.org at a cost of $15$30. You can also follow the ballet on Facebook.com/AllenCivicBallet for more information about this production, as well as the numerous other events they participate in throughout the year. v Kathleen Vaught is a volunteer with Allen Civic Ballet.

All Rise! Retiring judge reflects on 24-year career by Chelsey APRILL

When it comes to choosing a profession, Allen Municipal Court Judge Linda Hopper presents a convincing case for following your heart. In her mid-thirties, with a young daughter and a psychology degree, she stumbled upon her true love: the law. “I was working as a paralegal and yearned to learn more,” she recalls. Law school was enticing, but intimidating. “Do you know how old I’ll be when I graduate?” she asked her father. “Do you know how old you’ll be if you don’t?” he replied. She received her law degree from Southern Methodist University in 1981 and landed a job with the Court of Appeals in Fort Worth. At the time, it was a rare career path for a woman. Hopper was the only female briefing attorney in the office; all of the judges were men. When she joined the George Parker law practice in

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McKinney, she was the only woman lawyer in the firm. “My dad raised us to believe we were no different from boys in ability or skill,” says Hopper. “He expected us to serve the most people we can, in the best way we can.” That mantra also applied at home. Hopper raised her daughter, Lori, as her law career took off. Her son, Austin, arrived a few years later. “I don’t think I ever expected it to be easy, but it was so worthwhile,” says Hopper. “I had challenging days, of course. But there was never a time I thought I wouldn’t handle it.” Hopper moved to Allen in 1984, and later applied to be the city’s first sit-down judge. She was appointed in 1993. “She basically designed the court system from the ground up,” says Mayor Stephen Terrell. With fewer than 24,000 residents, Allen didn’t have a formal courtroom; trials were held in a

makeshift space in the Municipal Annex. “She probably took a pay cut, but she believed in the work.” Armed with exhaustive legal knowledge, Hopper quickly proved her ability to parse difficult cases. “She doesn’t apply the law like a robot. If a situation called for empathy, she showed it,” says former bailiff and retired Allen Police Officer Henry Toliver. That could mean sentencing a struggling single mom to community service, rather than levying a potential fine. “Sometimes [Judge Hopper] would call me up to the bench and I’d have tears in my eyes,” remembers Toliver. “One woman actually hugged me after she got sentenced!” Not every defendant walked out of the courtroom gushing gratitude. But a few felt it in retrospect. Behind the judge’s dais, next to photos of Hopper’s grandchildren, shines a porcelain figurine of a woman seated

on a bench; she wears a flowing gown and cradles a dove. The gift came from a teenage defendant, who later called Hopper “his guardian angel.” “She insisted that the process be fair and equal for everyone,” says former chief prosecutor Whitt Wyatt. “If someone came in and didn’t know the legal procedures, or was clearly out of their element, she would go out of her way to explain it to them.” Her passion for education extended beyond the bench. Judge Hopper helped launch the city’s Teen Court program, where teenage volunteers sentence other juveniles for misdemeanor crimes. “One girl in the program now works as a judge,” recalls another former bailiff and retired Allen Police Sergeant Conrad Averna. “The kids enjoyed it, and [Judge Hopper] loved doing it.” Hopper’s responsibilities weren’t limited to the courtroom. She swore in every Allen police officer and married countless couples— ceremonies she describes as her favorite part of the job. “To be part of those new beginnings—it’s a privilege,” says Hopper. Not every task was so glorious. Hopper says most Allen patrol officers have seen her bleary-eyed and pajama-clad, jolted awake at 3 a.m. by a request to draw a blood sample from a DUI suspect. (Hopper’s cat, Lacy, earned the nickname “Warrant Cat” for pawing each stack of paperwork during the judge’s review.) Colleagues pegged Hopper as one of those people who would never retire. But at 72, she finds herself ready to pass the gavel. “My career in Allen has been an absolute joy,” she says. ”The best 24 years of my life.” Hopper and her husband, Randy, share a passion for travel and the outdoors with their four children and six grandchildren. The couple is building a cabin on Lake Bonham and has charted their first post-retirement excursion: a summer trip through

New England and Nova Scotia. Trading court dockets for boat docks, a new calling awaits. “It’s true that if you do something you love, you don’t work a day in your life,” says Hopper. A public reception will be held in

Judge Hopper’s honor on Wednesday, December 14 at Allen Senior Recreation Center. For details, visit CityofAllen.org/Calendar. v Chelsey Aprill is a marketing specialist for the City of Allen.

Allen Image | December 2016

Texas Master Naturalists Making a difference in our local communities From performing water quality tests in area streams to leading school classes on nature hikes, Texas Master Naturalists are all around us providing community-based nature and conservation efforts throughout Collin County. Eleven years ago, a small group of like-minded people interested in nature and the environment formed the Blackland Prairie Texas Master Naturalist (BPTMN) chapter for Collin County. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agency serve as sponsors for the program. Since its inception, the BPTMN chapter has grown to nearly 150 active members (with more than 350 trained) and provided over 100,000 volunteer hours that are used by Texas Parks and Wildlife to receive funding and grants. Some master naturalists enjoy spending their volunteer hours digging in the dirt and restoring local prairie lands while others get involved as trail guides,

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bird banders, animal caregivers and fossil preservationists. This is just a small sample of volunteer opportunities that are available. The BPTMN chapter provides training yearly to those interested in learning about the Blackland Prairie region and becoming certified master naturalists. Basic training consists of a minimum of 40 hours of instruction comprised of classroom sessions and field trips. Local experts from the natural resource community, as well as university professors, state and federal agency biologists and specialists, serve as instructors. Field trips are led by experts as well as certified Master Naturalists. “Our classes cover all of the ‘ologies’—ecology, ornithology, herpetology, meterology and the like. Our participants range in age from 19 to 80+ and continually learn from each other,” said Deborah Canterbury, BPTMN president. “The training and our monthly meetings provide an

inroad to the entities in Collin County that are focused on conservation and the preservation of our natural resources. Whatever your interest, whatever your skill or talent, there is a place for you to pursue what excites you most in nature.” Registration is now open for the BPTMN Class of 2017. Details and applications are available at www. bptmn.org. Class size is limited and students are accepted based on the order in which completed applications are received. Classes begin February 8, and meet from 6 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday until May 3. Students must complete 12 classes and three field trips, in addition to the minimum eight hours of approved advanced training and 40 hours of chapter-approved volunteer service, to become Certified Master Naturalists. Classes are held at The Heard Museum, 1 Science Place, McKinney, in the Science Center. If you have any questions, send an email to education@bptmn.org. v

Snippets

Christmas at the Village The Allen Heritage Guild will hold an open house, 2-4 p.m., on Sunday, December 11, at the Allen Heritage Village, 450 St. Mary Drive. Guests can tour the newly-restored houses adorned with period Christmas decorations; reminisce about simpler times when the cows had to be milked before the presents were opened; listen to Allen Cub Scout troop 870 sing Christmas carols; and warm up with hot cider and cookies. Allen’s oldest structures will be open for visitation: the Wetsel house (1870-80s)—the only remaining structure in Allen with I-house architecture that can be traced to colonial days; the Lynge house (1920’s-30’s)—built by Oscar and Tommie Lynge after World War One (The late Ed Lynge was born in the house that now carries the family name.); Allen Christian Church—built in 1918, the Allen Christian Church is a centerpiece of the Historic Village and contains beautiful stained glass windows that feature the names of early pioneer families. This is a free event. For more information, visit www.allenheritage.org or call 972.727.2772. v

Allen Masonic Lodge

King of the Nations

On October 23, from 2 to 4 p.m., the Allen Masonic Lodge No. 1435 opened its doors to the general public. Over 600 Masonic Lodges throughout Texas participated in the Masonic Open House.

King of the Nations is a modern concert based on the biblical events of the nativity story with some of the best musicians and performers in the Dallas area with special guests—The Children’s Chorus of Collin County.

The Masons of North America contribute over $2.5 million dollars a day to various charities including Shriners Hospitals for Children, the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, the Masonic Home and Foundation and the Masonic Retirement Home.

Locally, the Allen Masonic Lodge provides four annual scholarships to high school students, conducts activities for local elementary schools such as “Take To Time Read” and “Fantastic Teeth Fan Club,” plus reading to and mentoring students. The Allen Lodge also conducts blood drives, takes part in the Allen Adopt-A-Highway program, and presents two annual awards of merit to a local outstanding educator and to an outstanding contributor to our community. Visit allenlodge1435.org for more information. v

The spark of inspiration was born in Joslin Dsouza, a composer, arranger, songwriter and producer, in the winter of 2008. Joslin studied under the academic curriculum of the Royal School of Music, London. Joslin moved to the United States for higher education and to further his music education at the University of North Texas, Denton. The King of the Nations will take you on a journey through light and darkness, good and evil, triumph and tragedy. Join us December 2 at Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen, in support of Habitat for Humanity; December 16 at LifePoint Church, 4501 Hedgcoxe Road, Plano; and December 22 at Plano Courtyard Theatre, 1509 H Ave, Plano. All show times are 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.nativityconcert.com. v Allen Image | December 2016

Snippets

Holidays at the Heard

The Spirit of Christ mas McKinney Mayor Brian Loughmiller and First Baptist McKinney are excited to present The Spirit of Christmas concert. This musical extravaganza will feature over 100 performers including musicians from McKinney’s award winning high schools and the community in partnership with the music ministry of First Baptist McKinney. Special guest performers include professional musicians Maylee Thomas and Shane Frame. Proceeds from the concert will support The Samaritan Inn, Hope Women’s Center and Community Lifeline Center.

On December 10, 16 and 17, from 6:30-9 p.m., hundreds of families will bundle up and experience Holidays at the Heard, the most unique holiday event in North Texas. Holidays at the Heard brings the beauty of the holiday season into nature. Guests will see lights and holiday décor along a half-mile Heard nature trail. This light display is designed to enhance, rather than overpower, the sanctuary’s natural beauty. Children and the young at heart will enjoy the opportunity to have a photo taken with Father Christmas and Mother Nature. Hot beverages and treats will be available for purchase. Local musicians will delight audiences with live holiday music in the Heard outdoor amphitheater. Tickets at the door are only $9 for adults and seniors; $5 for kids 3-12 (children 2 and under are free). Guests who purchase their tickets online before the event will save $2 per ticket! Tickets are available at heardmuseum.org/ holidays. Holidays at the Heard is sponsored in part by NBC5 and Great Migrations Travel Advisors. v

Join us as we celebrate “The Spirit of Christmas” with two performances on Sunday, December 11, at 3 p.m. or 7 p.m. Tickets are available at FBC McKinney, at Wishful Thinking (downtown McKinney), or online at https://firstmckinney.brushfireapp.com/events/ General admission: $15. Preferred seating: $25. Contact Mary Knox, Event Publicity 214.734.9119 for more details. v

Journey To The Manger St. Paul Lutheran Church presents its 26th annual “Journey to the Manger” live nativity drama. 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. Also witness six live-action scenes depicting the major events leading to the birth of Christ. Over 100 members of the church and community participate in this lively production, dressed in costumes from that era. The whole family will enjoy the live camels, donkeys, sheep and other animals. The drama scenes start every 10 minutes, 7-9 p.m., on Friday, December 9 and 6-9 p.m., on Saturday, December 10. St. Paul is located at 6565 Independence Parkway in Plano, between Spring Creek and Legacy. This free event is open to the community. Step back in time and experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Middle Eastern marketplace from over 2,000 years ago. Journey through the six outdoor scenes and finish up with refreshments inside the church. The program is presented rain or shine (outdoor scenes will be moved indoors in case of inclement weather). v

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calendar

december

parks and rec events For more information about Parks and Recreation events, visit AllenParks.org. 2

events 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. Hiring Our Heroes Job Fair (For service members, veterans and military spouses) 2 Allen Americans vs Tulsa Oilers 3 Allen Americans vs Tulsa Oilers 7 Allen Americans vs Missouri Mavericks 8 Toys for Tots 9 Christmas Hits LIVE! 2016 10 Dallas Sidekicks vs St. Louis Ambush 14 Allen Americans vs Colorado Eagles 15 K-LOVE Christmas 2016 16 Allen Americans vs Wichita Thunder 17 Dallas Sidekicks vs Baltimore Blast 22 Allen Americans vs Idaho Steelheads 23 Allen Americans vs Idaho Steelheads 30 Dallas Sidekicks vs Soles de Sonora 31 Allen Americans vs Utah Grizzlies 1

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Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Allen Civic Plaza. The grand lighting of its 35-foot Christmas tree, featuring more than 20,000 lights. Expect surprises, live entertainment and even a visit from Santa and his elves. Ages: All ages. Cost: Free.

3 Rudolph Run, Downtown Allen, Main Street. This exciting event begins with a non-competitive, onemile run and concludes with the USATF registered 5K Rudolph Run. Chip timing will be used. There will also be an overall male/female Master’s division for 50+ winners. This is a family-friendly event open to all ages and skill levels. 4

Holidays on Ice Show, Allen Event Center. Join Allen Community Ice Rink to celebrate Holidays on Ice, featuring Allen Academy of Skating and Allen Community Ice Rink Skaters. Bring a non-perishable food item and admission is free.

9 SNAP Dance, Allen Senior Rec Center. SNAP your fingers and shuffle your feet at this Special Needs and Adapted Program! Enjoy music, a fun theme, snacks. This month’s theme is Holiday Party! Register early, fee increases to $15 at 5 p.m. the Wednesday prior. For more information, contact Lisa Potvin at lpotvin@ cityofallen.org or 214.509.4707. Age: 18 years+. Cost: $10. 10 Dive-In Movie, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium. Grab your friends, swimsuit, noodle and towel and join us for a Dive-In Movie. While you and your friends swim and float in the pool, you’ll enjoy a great movie experience! Concessions, noodles and tubes are available for an additional cost. Cost: $5 (3-17 years); $6 (18+ years).

10 Edge Holiday Bash, The Edge Skate Park and Visitor Center. Come out to the skate park for a fun-filled day of scooter, skateboard and BMX competitions as we ring in the holiday break with a bash. Age 8-25 years. Cost: Free. 10 Holiday Arts & Craft Fair, Joe Farmer Rec Center. This will put everyone in the giving spirit with creative crafts and a festive atmosphere. Each space is 10’ x 10’. One table, one chair included. Electricity is limited, but available for an additional fee. Age: 17+ Cost: $65-1 space / $100-2 Spaces. 12 Letters to Santa, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium/Joe Farmer Rec Center. Children can write a letter to Santa and drop it one of his mailboxes located at JFRC or DRN from Nov. 21 through Dec. 12. Letters will be delivered to Santa and he will send a personal letter to your home! Letters must be received by Dec. 12. Age: 1-12 years. Cost: Free. 16 Swim With Santa!, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium. Join Santa for a swim and tell him what you want for Christmas. Santa is available for pictures for those with their own cameras. Parents swim free with each paid child. Children 6 & under must be accompanied by an adult in the water. Age 6-16. Cost: $10. 17 Drop & Shop Holiday Skate, Allen Community Ice Rink. Enjoy on-ice games and activities, including pictures with Santa and more. Donate a nonperishable item and receive free skate rental. All on-ice participants must wear skates. Adult supervision required for children 8 and younger. All ages. Cost: $5 entry/ $3 skate rental.

Holiday Celebration, Joe Farmer Rec Center. Santa is coming to town! We will have a variety of holidaythemed activities, such as cookie decorating, holiday crafts and games. Story time with Santa will be held and a photo opportunity. Age 2-13 years. Cost: $8.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Youth Services The winter/spring story time session starts Monday, January 23. Baby and Me—For pre-walkers w/caregiver, Thur., 10:15 am. Fun Ones & Twos—For 1 & 2 year-olds w/caregiver, Mon., Tue. & Thur., 10:15 am. Together Time—For 3-5 year-olds w/caregiver. Mon., Tue. & Thur., 11:15 am. All By Myself—For 4-5 year-olds without a caregiver. Wed., 11:15 am Pajama Story Time—For 3-5 year-olds & family. Tue. & Thur., 6:30 pm.

Events for familes/children/ tweens For more information about any of the events below, call 214.509.4906. All events are free and no pre-registration is required to attend. 5-15 Winter Reading Club, Attention, children and teens! Earn free prizes this winter by reading 5 books or 5 hours. Pick up your reading log at the library starting Monday, December 5. The last day to pick up prizes is Sunday, January 15, 2017. 5

Art in Action! 4:30-5:30 pm, Children’s Program Room. Ages 7-12. Create your own work of art using fun techniques!

6 Preschool Sock Hop, 10:30-11 am, Children’s Program Room. Ages 2+ with their families. Dance your cares away at our sock hop! 10 Family Story Time, 10:30-11:15 am, Children’s Program Room. All ages. Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes and crafts during this fun story time for the whole family. Each month features a favorite storybook characters or authors! Children under the age of 9 must be accompanied by an adult. 13 Homeschool Nonfiction Club, 1:30-3 pm, Children’s Program Room. Recommended for ages 8-10, all ages welcome. Each month we share a nonfiction story and create a project. After project, families can enjoy some social time. This month we will read Do You Know Dewey by Brian Cleary. 15 Shopkins Party, 4-5 pm, Children’s Program Room. Celebrate your favorite Shopkins characters with us during this come-and-go party with crafts and games. 16 Sensory Play Day, 10:30-11:30 am, Children’s Program Room. Ages 0-3 with adult. Join us for a relaxed morning of stimulating sensory play. 17 Lego Family Fun Day, 10:30-11:30 am, Children’s Program Room. Ages 5+ with an adult. Bring your parents and create amazing structures with Lego blocks at the library! Children under age 9 must be accompanied by an adult. 19 Scarf Decorating, 3-4 pm, Children’s Program Room. Ages 9-12. Make a scarf to decorate for yourself or someone special! All supplies provided. 20 Marshmallow Movies, 10:30-11:45 am, Tuesday, Dec. 20; 10:30-11:45 am, Thursday, Dec. 22, Children’s Program Room. Ages 3+ with an adult. Marshmallow morning movies are back! Join us as for favorite holiday movies and eat tasty snacks. 21 Winter Crafts, 10:30-11:30 am, Children’s Program Room. Ages 3+ with an adult. Bring in the new season with some fun crafts! 21 Brett Roberts’ Christmas Show, 2:30-3:30 pm, Civic Auditorium. Ages 5+ with their families. Jingle the Elf, will talk about his responsibilities in Santa’s workshop. Help build a snowman, decorate a tree,

Allen Image | December 2016

etc. Tickets required and will be distributed on a firstcome, first-served basis on day of show at the Children’s desk 30 minutes before start time. 28 Magic Show by Swiss, 2:30-3:30 pm, Children’s Program Room. Ages 5-8. Juggling, comedy and magic. Tickets are required and will be distributed on a firstcome, first-served basis on day of show at the Children’s desk 30 minutes before start time. 30 Noon Year’s Eve Party, 11:30 am-12:15 pm, Children’s Program Room. All ages. 11:45 and noon. Free tickets required; pick up tickets 30 minutes before at the Children’s Desk.

TEENS 7 Teen Study Night, 4:30-6:30 pm, Wed., Dec. 7; 4:30-6:30 pm, Mon. Dec. 13, Children’s Program Room. For teens, ages 12-18. Bring your homework and study materials, we’ll provide the snacks, for this afterschool teen study session. 8 Teen Anime Evening, 6:30-8 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. Teens, ages 12-18. Join us as we watch anime, eat Japanese snacks and have fun! 20 Delicious Reads for Teens, 2-3:30 pm, Children’s Program Room. Teens, ages 12-18. Get a taste of great teen books while we play book-themed games, watch awesome book trailers, and give away bookish prizes! Snacks will be served.

ADULTS Adult services programs are held in the 2nd Floor Program Room unless otherwise indicated. All events are free, and there is no registration unless noted. Please call 214.509.4905 or 214.509.4913. 3 Polymer Clay Ornaments, 2:30 pm. Create colorful holiday ornaments using polymer clay, paint, glitter and more! Ages 16+. 7 Noontime Pageturners—The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey, noon. Bring a lunch and a friend and join us for a lively discussion! We offer a relaxed environment where you can share the joy of reading. 8 Discover a Healthier You—6 Tips to Improve Your Health presented by Traci Ramsey, MS, Professor of Physical Education, Collin College, Preston Ridge Campus, 1 pm, Learn 6 ways to better improve your health through eating and exercise. Ages 16+. 14 DIY@APL—Santa’s Workshop, 10 am. Holidays are right around the corner and we have the perfect way to complete your gift list. This year’s theme: Kitchen Crafts! We’ll use everything except the kitchen sink to create gifts. These gifts are excellent for teachers, coworkers and friends. We’ll listen to holiday music and have door prizes too! Ages 16+. 14 Twisted Threads—A Fiber Craft Circle, 6:30 pm. Do you knit? Crochet? Make spectacular things with thread and yarn? Twisted Threads is a social group for knitters, crocheters, felters, quilters and any other crafters who use thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome! So, bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. Meets monthly on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Ages 16+

CLUBS 2ChangeU Toastmasters, meets every Tuesday, 7 pm, Plano Family YMCA, 3300 McDermott Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.2changeu.org. Allen Area Patriots, meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday each month, 7-8:45 pm, Faith Fellowship Church, 415 West

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Lucas Road, Lucas. Local Tea Party presents speakers, encourages citizens to participate. For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots.com. Allen Garden Club, meets the first Thursday each month, 7 pm, gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. For more info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www. allengardenclub.org. Allen Heritage Guild, meets the first Wednesday each month, 6:30 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. Programs feature guest speakers on topics of historical significance. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www.allenheritageguild.org. ALLen Reads meets the second Monday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr. For more info, www.allenfriends.org. Allen Retired Educators meet the third Monday each month, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. RSVP: Sondra Long, billysondralong@tx.rr.com. Allen Toastmasters’ Club, meets every Monday, 6:30 pm, Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, every Tues, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/$10 non-members 1st visit free. For more info: 972.727.5585. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon, meets fourth Tuesday each month, 11:30 am1 pm. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. American Association of University Women-Plano/ Collin County Branch, meets 2nd Monday each month, 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. Art History Brown Bag Series, meets first Wednesday each month, 12:30-1:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage House, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. For more info: 972.569.6909 or www.heardcraig.org. Bible Study, meets every Thursday, 9:30-11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Reg. req. For more info: katpf@att.nett or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org. Collin County Aggie Moms, meets third Monday each month Sept-May, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, 17360 Coit. For more info: 972.382.3124 or www.collincountymoms. aggienetwork.com. Collin County Archaeology Society, meets second Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney. For more info: archaeology@netzero.net. Collin County Genealogical Society, meets the second Wednesday each month, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com. Collin County Libertarian Party meets every second Wednesday, most often at 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., Allen. For more info: collinlp.org or email collinlp.org@gmail.com. Collin County Master Gardeners tour of Myers Park, meets the first Wednesday each month, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Reservations req. For more info: 972.548.4232 or mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu.

Collin County Republican Men’s Club, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, locations vary. For more info: www.ccrmc.org. Dallas Dog Lovers, events for dogs and owners in the Dallas area. For more info: www.dallasdoglovers.com Department 56 Village Collectors Club second Saturday each month, in the Plano/North Dallas area to share ideas. For more info: www.bigd56ers.com. Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, meets every Monday, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome. For more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per.treven@ ericsson.com. First Nighter African Violet Society, meets third Monday each month, 7-9 pm, Collin Higher Education Center, 3452 Spur 399, McKinney. Promotes interest in African violets and study of growth habits. For more info: 972.398.3478. Friends of the Allen Public Library meets the third Wednesday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr. for more info, www.allenfriends.org Greater Collin County Kennel Club, meets the third Wednesday of each month, 7 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Ctr, 1201 E. Bethany, Allen. For more info: www.greatercollinkc.org. Legacy 4-H Club (Allen & Lucas), meets first and third Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460. Live @ 5 Business After Hours, meets the third Thursday each month, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Lone Star Parliamentary Unit, meets 2nd Monday of each month September thru May 10:30 am, Allen Public Library. Promotes parliamentary education. For more info: 972.727.3090, Mae Shaw, Pres. Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly meetings at Creekwood UMC, second Thursday each month, 261 Country Club Rd, Fairview. Different topic and speakers each month. Free lunch; babysitting available for nominal fee. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/LovejoyPreschool-PTA/. McKinney Amateur Radio Club, meets the second Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Spring Creek Bar B Que 1993 North Central Expressway, McKinney. For more information: 972.814.4190. McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, meets third Tuesday, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. Program: Michelle New and the Boyd Orchestra Ambassadors, a select group of McKinney ISD students who focus on community outreach and service, will present a compilation of holiday music for our enjoyment. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com. McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, meets second Thursday each month, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Hdqts., 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location varies. For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com. Moms in Prayer, join worldwide prayer movement— bringing mothers together and seeing God change children through prayer. For more info: MomsInPrayer.org or Amy Guthrie at amyguthrie@verizon.net.

Allen Image | December 2016

NARFE Chapter 559, meets third Monday of each month at 1:30 pm at the Village of Stonebridge Assisted Living, 3300 S. Stonebridge Drive, McKinney. All current government employees and retirees invited.

Plano Amateur Radio Klub, meets the third Monday each month, 7 pm, FUMC of Plano, 3160 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net.

Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, meets 2nd Tue. each month, Stonebriar Country Club. Holiday luncheon with both a silent and a live auction. All are welcome to join us for this festive holiday event! Tickets are $36 for members and $40 for non-members.. Guests welcome. For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org.

Plano Photography Club, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, W. Plano Presbyterian Church, 2709 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.planophotographyclub.com.

North Dallas Newcomers, meets first Thursday each month, 11 am, various country clubs. For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net. Open Forum, meaningful discussions, meets first Saturday every month, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004.

Plano Republican Women’s Club, meets third Tueday each month, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expy., Plano. For more info: www.planorepublicanwomen.com.

Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, meets every Monday, 7:15 pm, Champions School of Real Estate in the Rangers Room at 3721 Mapleshade Ln, Plano. For more info: Ed Meissner, 469.323.0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www.prestonpersuaders.org. Random Events Dallas, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups in Dallas area. For more info: RandomEventsDallas.com. Reasonable Faith Discussion Group, meets every Tuesday, 11am-12:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Church Rm B1116. For more info: www.RFCCTX.org. Reasonable Faith Collin County Chapter, meets 2nd and 4th Thursday, 6:45-8:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Church Rm B202. For more info: www.RFCCTX.org and email: ReasonableFaithCollinCO@gmail.com Single Side Up, meets the third Saturday each month, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. Low cost childcare. For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@thissideupfamily. org. Singles Mingle 60 +, meets first Monday each month at Delaney’s Irish Pub, 6150 ElDorado Parkway, McKinney. Social forum for men and women singles who are active, enjoy meeting new people and like getting together. Various social activities. For more info: For meeting information on the third Monday of the month at 5:30 pm, call Bill, 214.544.5835. The MOB (Men of Business), meets second Monday each month, 11:30 am-1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen, for networking. $20 mem; $25 non-mems/general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, meets each Wednesday, “Become the Speaker and Leader You Can Be,” 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expwy, Allen. For more info: Bill Peterson, 972.523.9425. United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, meets the first Sunday each month, 2 pm, FUMC, 601 S. Greenville. Book discussion & refreshments. We encourage women of all faiths to participate. For more info: http://www.fumcallen.org. Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping and gardening advice, every Tuesday and Thursday, 9 am-4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney. For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460. Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, meets the fourth Thursday each month, 10 am, Eldorado Country Club, 2604 Country Club, McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas. For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail.com. W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), meets second Thursday each month, 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking and discussion of women’s issues. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

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

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

CRAFTS Allen Quilters’ Guild, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, 1st Presbyterian Church, 605 S Greenville. For more info: www.allenquilters.org. Common Threads of Allen, meets first and third Tuesdays each month, 7 pm, Whole Foods Market Café, Stacy Rd. Share needle-work projects, learn techniques, etc. For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net.

HEALTH Allen AA meets every Monday-Sunday, 601 S. Greenville. Mon.-Fri., 7 pm; Sat., 9 am; Sun., 7:30 pm. For more info: Joe, 214.564.9403 & Tina, 214.566.7561. Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group meets the third Tuesday each month. Offers support and resources for parents of children with autism and other related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ autismparentsupport. Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, meets every

Tues. and Thur., 7 pm, 1st UMC, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. For friends and family of alcoholics. More info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon.alateen.org. American Cancer Society Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appts. If you have a car and have time 9 am-5 pm, you can help. For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711. Baylor Health Care System support groups, medical info and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com. Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family and friends, meets the third Monday of every month, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney. For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984. Cancer Support Ministry, meets third Thursday each month, 7 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241. Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group, meets the second Tuesday each month, 7-9 pm, parlor, 1st UMC, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. For more info: Shirli Salter, sscaroline@aol.com. Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days and locations vary. For more info: www.75013.theheartlinknetwork.com. Take Off Pounds Sensibly, meets every Tuesday, 6:158 pm, Good Shepherd UMC, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org. Texas Health Presbyterian, variety of events. For more info: www.texashealth.org.

The Shores AA Group, every Monday-Friday, noon, Raceway Prof. Bldg., 200 W. Boyd, Suite C, Allen. Open AA discussion group. All welcome. For more info: 469.854.9593. Weight Watchers, meets every Thursday, 12:15 and 6 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. South entrance, 2nd floor.

HOBBIES SPORTS/FITNESS Allen Classic Cars, meets every Thursday, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Stacy Furniture. Fit and Funky Fit Club, meets every Monday, 7:30 pm, and every Sunday, 7 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net. Infinity Personal Fitness Charity Workout, meets every other Saturday at 9 am, 1201 W. McDermott, Suite 106, Allen. Min. donation $5. All proceeds donated to local charities. For more info: email cattaneo.ray@gmail.com. McKinney Chess on the Square, meets every Wednesday, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org. McKinney Chess Club, every Saturday, 10:30 am1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Free. And every Friday, 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney. Adults 50+(Free). For more info: 972.547.7491.

Allen Image | December 2016

Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www. planobicycle.org. Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, second Tuesday each month, 5024 Custer, Plano, 7 pm., and at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, the last Saturday every month, 8 am. For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www. planopacers.org. Skilled Motorcycle Riders Association promotes motorcycle safety through rider training. Monthly practice courses, social activities, etc. For more info: www.skilledmotorcycleriderassociation.com. Zumba/Cardio Dance Fitness, every Tues., 10:3011:30 am, and every Thurs., 9:30-10:30 am, USA Martial Arts, 505 W. McDermott. 1st class free. For more info: 469.854.6872 or Facebook.com/ TrueBlueDanceCrew.

MOM’S CLUBS Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers of kids age 0-5. Fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch w/friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids, etc. Come play with us. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com. Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new & expectant moms’ forum, meets the 3rd Thurs. each month, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330. Collin County Early Childhood PTA, meets second Monday of every month, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery reservations req. For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. MOMS Club of Allen, for moms and children in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips, business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out & more. For more info: momsclubofallentx@gmail.com. MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stayat-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op, etc. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.com. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), support group for moms with kids 0-5 years, meets every other Friday, 9:3011:45 am, First Baptist Church, Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241. MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday each month, 9:30-11:30 am, 3405 Custer, #200, Plano. For more info: 214.762.0037.

mUSEUMS/preserves

HEARD MUSEUM 2nd Saturday Bird Walk Educational Program, 8 a.m. Learn more about birding! These walks are intended to help beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. 3rd Saturday Nature Talks: Nature Journaling. Learn new ways to experience nature through nature journaling! An intro to journaling techniques thru hands-on activities. Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, meets the second Tuesday each month, 7-9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.bptmn.org or email info@bptmn.org.

Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter, meets third Tuesday each month. For more info:txshawm@sbcglobal.net.

Heard Museum Nature Photography Club, meets the second Saturday every month, 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

Fairview Rotary Club, meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays each month, Stacy Rd, Fairview. For more info: 214.893.5360.

Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society, meets the fourth Tuesday each month, 7 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

SENIORS Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, meets second Tuesday each month, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. For more info: 214.509.4820. Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, meets fourth Monday each month, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402. Classic 55+ Game Night, 1st and 3rd Friday each month, 6:30 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games. For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com. Singles Mingle 60 +, meets first Monday each month at Delaney’s Irish Pub, 6150 ElDorado Parkway, McKinney. This group is to provide a social forum for men and women singles who are active, enjoy meeting new people and like getting together twice a month. We have various social activities throughout the month. For more info: For meeting information on the third Monday of the month at 5:30 pm, call Bill, 214.544.5835.

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

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Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, meets every Wednesday, 7 am, Warm Springs Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle, Allen. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.allensunriserotary.com.

Heard Museum Native Plant Society, meets the first Tuesday each month, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

Connemara Meadow Preserve

Allen Rotary Club meets every Wednesday, noon, First United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville, Allen. For more info: www.allenrotary.org.

Assistance League® of Greater Collin County, meets every third Wednesday at 10 am at Stonebriar County Club, Frisco. Guests welcome. For more info: www.algcc.org or call 972.769.2299.

allen heritage guild museum

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

Allen Lions Club, meets 1st and 3rd Tues. each month, 7 pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen. For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982.

Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, meets second Monday each month, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566 or www.northtexasbeekeepers.org.

Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, meets the third Thursday each month, noon, First UMC Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch, fellowship, speakers and entertainers. For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net.

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

Allen Kiwanis Club, meets every Thursday, noon, Café Del Rio, on 75 just south of McDermott. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org.

Allen High Noon Lions Club, meets the second and fourth Thursday each month, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952.

Knights of Columbus, meets the third Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc. org. Knights of Columbus Council 13044 meets every 4th Thursday, 7:30 pm, Our Lady of Angels, 1914 Ridgeview Drive, Allen. For more information contact Jason Beckett,Jason.beckett.1@ gmail.com, or visit us at https://kofcknights.org/ CouncilSite/?CNO=13044. Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, meets the second Monday each month, 7 pm, Tino’s Too Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, programs, etc. Open to anyone interested. For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150,” meets the second Monday each month, 1710 N. Church St, McKinney. Post Members, 6:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary, 5:45 pm; Men’s Auxiliary, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972.542.9119, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, meets first Saturday every month, 10 am, 1710 N. Church St., McKinney. For more info: “Driveway John” 971.822.4483, gmlsp2150@ gmail.com or visit www.vfwpost2150.org. VFW Post 2195, meets second Wednesday each month, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www. vfw2195.org. Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, teaches children to serve their community, meets the second Saturday every month. For more info: 972.396.8010.

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

MARKET PLACE

Allen Image | December 2016

library

The Library presents…

by Tom KEENER

Holiday Concert

Dolls Remembered

The Allen Community Band and the ACB Jazz Band join to present a program of musical selections of the Christmas season at 3 p.m., Sunday, December 18, at the library. Sponsored by the Allen Public Library, this program is free.

Remember that precious doll Santa gave you? Recall the fashion icon that little brother used as a ball causing its head to pop off? Do you remind him of it in front of his grandchildren? Relive the golden age of dolls, 1920s1960s, with acclaimed doll expert Mary Lee Stallings at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, December 8, at the library. During December, the library gallery’s Case 1 will be adorned with collectible dolls to help celebrate the holidays. Presented by the Richardson Doll Club, library visitors can view a vintage Shirley Temple, European bisque, Barbie and many more!

Under the direction of Keith Peterson, the Allen Community Jazz Band will kick off the concert with jazz and swing arrangements of well-known big band tunes and conclude with selections of holiday music. Stephanie Nguyen will be the featured vocalist on “Santa Baby” and the band will offer their arrangement of “O, Holy Night.” The ACB Jazz Band is comprised of members of the Allen Community Band. Under the leadership of Craig Logan, the Allen Community Band will perform medleys of popular Christmas songs and semi-classical traditional holiday music from around the world. Karl King’s “Trombone King March” will showcase the band’s low brass section; a woodwind ensemble featuring members of the clarinet section will also perform. Additional selections will include Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival,” and the Wind Band setting of the choral masterpiece “Salvation is Created” by Pavel Chesnokov. The concert will conclude with Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride.” v

At her program, Mary Lee will focus on dolls manu factured from 1920-1965, including Madame Alexander, Effanbee, Ideal, Nancy Ann Storybook and Mattel. She explains that the audience will “hear a brief history of the dolls from our past and enjoy the memories of a time when a cherished plaything was influential in our lives.” Mary Lee is an esteemed judge for United Federation of Doll Clubs, member of Richardson Doll Club, founding member of the Dallas Barbie Club, and for over 20 years, owner of Dolls Remembered. v

Miracle on 34th Street Don’t believe in Santa Claus? The holiday classic Miracle on 34th Street (1947) will change your mind. What would you do if you were a department store executive who hired a man to lure in the kiddies before Christmas and he sent them to a competitor? What if he looked like and claimed he was the big guy? Watch this much revered masterpiece of cinema at 7 p.m., Tuesday, December 13, at the library. When the film was released in 1947, The New York Times declared, “Let’s catch its spirit and heartily proclaim that it is the freshest little picture in a long time, and maybe even the best comedy of this year.” Garnering three Oscars, this film became the most popular iconic Hollywood Christmas movie. v

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Classic Holiday Harps and Strings Enjoy a special holiday concert that combines the mystical sound of two harps, two cellos and a viola at 7:30 p.m., Friday, December 16, at the library. This is a free concert. Selections will include a Gregorian chant, traditional, classical and Celtic tunes. Harpist Sharon Towndrow was formerly on the music faculty at Angelo State University; her music degrees are from Texas Tech University and University of Texas at El Paso. Sharon also plays the oboe with the Allen Community Band. Cellist Brian Towndrow is currently the orchestra director at Ranchview High School in the Carrollton Farmers Branch ISD. He holds cello performance degrees from Penn State University and Baylor University. Christine Towndrow is a cellist with a music education degree from Baylor University and additional studies at Penn State University. She has played in various orchestras in the Texas and Pennsylvania areas. Catherine Oustalet is a graduate of Allen High School, where she was harpist and violist in the AHS full orchestra.

She is pursuing a music degree at Collin College and she has also performed for the Allen Civic Ballet. v

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

Allen Image | December 2016

pet page

“Flap Jack” Hi, I’m Flap Jack, a four-year-old basset hound/ German shepherd mix. These kind people at LHS brought me in from another shelter where I was running out of time! I’m such a sweet boy that I was a staff favorite! My favorite pastime is hanging out with people—I love to snuggle. I am such a smart boy that I have learned some basic commands in a very short time. I am a chilled, loving boy who would do great in an older calm home!

I am not much into playing and I don’t chew or do any of those other annoying things puppies do. I do fine with the resident cat, but these bigger dogs make me a bit nervous! I am up–to-date on my vaccines and I have completed my heartworm treatment and now looking for a home of my own! Will that be you? To apply for Flap Jack, go to legacyhumanesociety.org and fill out an application.

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For Your Health

Allen Image | December 2016

travel

Feliz Navidad from San Antonio

by Deborah DOVE

San Antonio is festive just about any time of year with its Spanish heritage, plethora of restaurants, abundance of things to do and fabulous weather. It’s even more magical during the holiday season.

During December, the Riverwalk is aglow with holiday lights strung from the cypress trees that hang over the paths, and over 6,000 luminarias— warmly glowing candles in sandfilled bags—line the walkways of the river to symbolically mark the “lighting of the way” of the Holy Family. The whole city pulls out all the stops to celebrate the season, marrying traditional holiday festivities with unique cultural influences and a host of celebrations to delight visitors, whether it’s a romantic getaway for two or making holiday memories for the whole family.

The Riverwalk Of course, the highlight of any visit to San Antonio is the Riverwalk, with its picturesque walkways along the river and abundance of

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restaurants and shops. At Christmas time, the Riverwalk is even more magical all lit up for the season. In addition to a festive display of holiday lights and the Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias—the luminaries that light the Riverwalk beginning at dusk every weekend in December through December 18—each night, boats float on the river carrying groups singing Christmas carols for the visitors strolling the walkways or sitting on a restaurant patio. Be sure and take a riverboat ride yourself down the river to see all the sights. Rio San Antonio offers 35-minute river tours as well as river taxi rides to popular restaurants and hotspots. Near the Riverwalk is El Mercado, the largest Mexican market in the United States. For the real flavor of San Antonio and unique

holiday gifts for everyone on your list, grab a trolley and head over to this three-block outdoor plaza where you’ll find shops selling everything from hand-sewn dresses to leather belts and jewelry, restaurants and live street entertainment from mariachi bands to Spanish dancers.

JW Marriott Hill Country While it’s always fun to stay on the Riverwalk (particularly if it’s a romantic getaway for two), the Marriott Hill Country Resort is a great place to stay with the whole family if you want to immerse yourself in the season. Thousands of multi-colored twinkling lights are choreographed to holiday music for a memorable stroll as you walk the outdoor wonderland on the hotel’s grounds, with shows nightly from 6:30-10 p.m.

There are free holiday activities galore for the kids, such as writing a letter to Santa, entering the holiday card contest, or story time with the elves at Santa’s Workshop, as well as making s’mores around the fire pit with roasted marshmallows, graham crackers and peppermint bark chocolate. For an additional cost, kids can also enjoy breakfast with Santa, get tucked in at bedtime by Santa’s elves, make holiday crafts and decorate

cookies, and get their picture taken with Santa. Those brave enough for the Polar Bear Plunge can splash down the waterslide into the chilly pool!

Theme Park Fun The Riverwalk isn’t the only place in San Antonio dressed in holiday finery. Stroll through a “sea” of five million twinkling LED Christmas lights at Sea World’s Christmas Celebration. The wintery,

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watery wonderland features Christmas-themed shows such as Shamu: Christmas Miracles, A Dolphin Christmas and Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas starring the hilarious sea lions; holiday lights; festive foods; Santa Claus and more.

Six Flags also showcases the season with its Holiday in the Park featuring the usual thrilling rides, plus iceless skating, “The Majesty of Christmas” holiday spectacular, and visits with Santa at his castle. At Morgan’s Wonderland, a 25-acre theme park with rides and attractions that are accessible to people of all abilities, “A Wonderland Christmas” will highlight special holiday shows, Santa Claus, a petting zoo, costumed characters, therapy dogs, carolers, storytellers, skating on a simulated ice rink and lots of Christmas decorations and lights. Even the San Antonio Zoo is dressed for the holiday, with the inaugural year of “Zoo Lights Holiday Nights,” where over 300,000 LED lights set to a musical soundscape transform the zoo into an amazing light display. Santa’s Workshop, snow flurries, animal light sculptures, a 20-foot snowman, carousel rides, meet-and-greets with Santa, and roasting s’mores and sipping hot cocoa by the fire rounds out the fun.

Cultural Celebrations San Antonio has always embraced its varied cultural roots, and the holidays allow for the diversity that is

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San Antonio to be expressed in many different, but equally fun, ways. East meets west at the Holiday Magic Festival of Light, the largest Chinese lantern festival ever in Central Texas that takes place through January 8, at Retama Park. The highlight of the festival is beautiful and intricate Asian lanterns crafted by Chinese artisans, along with giant themed displays, Christmas lights, free pictures with Santa, live reindeer, Chinese acrobats, carnival rides, food and shopping. Every weekday at 9 p.m. and weeknights at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., a 37-foot tall Christmas tree lights up from bottom to top, followed by fireworks and a real snow blizzard. San Antonio’s historical and cultural ties to its Mexican heritage translate to special and unique traditions during the holiday season. It is a Mexican tradition to make tamales during the holiday season. It is a San Antonio tradition for families to gather to celebrate this tasty custom as tamaleras offer their best tamale recipes for onlookers to enjoy. On December 3, the Tamales! Holiday Festival at Pearl on the Riverwalk offers tamales from over 40 vendors along with live music. There are also several events on December 10 that ensure the tamalemaking (and eating) tradition continues. Make and flavor your own half-dozen tamales at the La Tamalada workshop at the Witte Museum, or attend La Gran Tamalada, the annual tamale-making community party at the historic Guadalupe Theater, where you get hands on experience making tamales while enjoying San Antonio storytelling and activities for kids. For information on visiting San Antonio, visit www.visitsanantonio. com. For information on the JW Marriott Hill Country, visit http:// www.marriott.com/jw-marriott-hotelsresorts/jw-marriott-san-antonio-hillcountry-resort-and-spa. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

MARKET PLACE

Allen Image | December 2016

feature

A Guiding Hand

On December 31, Glenda May, ACO’s longest-serving executive director will leave her post to enjoy retirement and open a new chapter in her life. She will leave behind a lasting impression and a long list of accomplishments.

hen Glenda May points her finger, people pay attention. Something important is about to happen. Just ask the many staff and volunteers in Allen that have worked under her direction over the past 21 years, and they will tell you that Glenda’s always directing a vital program or event for Allen Community Outreach with a guiding hand and a pointing finger. “We lovingly joke about her pointer finger, usually with a long, red painted fingernail, always telling us where to go, what to do or how to do it. But in truth, we have all followed her lead and direction to take the agency to new heights and increase the services and programs that are so important to the thousands of families that ACO has assisted under Glenda May’s leadership the past two decades,” said 15-year staff member, Marjorie Vaneskahian Burr. “It just wouldn’t be ACO or done to her high standards without that finger pointing us in the right direction.” Allen Community Outreach began in 1985 as an information and referral

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service for families needing assistance and not knowing where help could be found. Over the past three decades, the agency has expanded its mission and now serves hundreds of Allen area families each month to provide help in crisis situations. Preventing hunger and homelessness is ACO’s motto, but providing essential human and social services to transform lives is the mission. Glenda May became the agency’s second executive director in 1995. At that time, a small office was located on Main Street in downtown Allen and a staff of 3-4 employees provided counseling, used clothing from a small clothes closet, and referred families to other agencies in Collin County. Under Glenda’s vision, a building was purchased on Boyd Drive, across from the Allen Post Office, and the staff and the services offered began to grow. Soon a Volunteer Director was hired after Glenda sought out a small grant to cover the salary, and Meals-On-Wheels for Allen, Lucas and Fairview were being delivered out of the Boyd Drive facility by ACO’s volunteers. The first annual campaign came in July of 1995. “Christmas In July” was Glenda’s design and answer to a struggling income from donations, and raised $17,500 that first year. Soon the community support grew under her direction. That same year, ACO held its first gala fundraising event held at Bill Bates Ranch. The Fall Dinner Dance was an annual event for the agency for years and raised thousands for programs. To meet a two-fold problem of a lack of clothing and housewares for families in need, and to add to the revenue stream, the ACO Upscale Resale Shop was born as a vision that Glenda had imagined. Soon Allen residents were driving to ACO instead of Goodwill to donate their gently used clothes, furniture and household items. Now, 19 years later and several moves and additions to the ACO Resale department, it is more than a million-dollar-a-year business for ACO, providing hundreds of thousands of dollars to fund ACO programs such as rental and utility assistance, GED classes, a topnotch free food pantry, critical programs for school supplies to students, summer food for children and a Christmas gift program that has provided toys to thousands of kids. After a capital campaign, ACO’s current home was established on East Main Street in 2009. Glenda and her board coordinated the funding, the donations of flooring, furniture and even the sheetrock to finish out the building at little cost. With retirement a vision in her not so distant future, ideas were still developing and programs still growing when just three years ago Glenda implemented a program like no other in the county, or perhaps the state. The Transforming Lives Program began with the hiring of a director dedicated to developing a program under Glenda’s Allen Image | December 2016

leadership to assist families on a road from poverty to self-sufficiency. To date, ACO’s Transforming Lives has seen great success as families have graduated out of the program and gone on to gain higher education and better paying jobs without dependency on social services. Perhaps the need to help others came to Glenda many years earlier… as she rode her bicycle through the small town streets of Coolidge, Texas, as a child. She enjoyed checking in on the elderly neighbors and offering her help with small chores or simply a visit to cheer up their day. Glenda went on to serve the public in her career with her relocation work in real estate in Dallas before working with the Plano Symphony in another non-profit capacity. “Everyone knew our mom,” said daughters Kristi and Kimberly. “Her personality and laugh has always lit up the room and brought people together for a cause.” “I thought I had retired from a career when I came to ACO looking for volunteer work,” said Vicki Morris. “Little did I know that 19 years later I would have served on staff as Glenda’s administrative assistant all this time. I’ve seen

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Glenda inspire and motivate her employees, many of us who left ACO for various reasons and have come back to work for her again. She’s more than a supervisor, she’s a mentor and a friend.” Other staff, who have collectively worked for Glenda for more than 60 years, agree that the reason they have been dedicated to ACO has had so much to do with Glenda’s dedication to service and leadership. “When you look back at the history of Allen Community Outreach over the past 20+ years, the one constant has been Glenda May,” said current ACO Board President Chris Schulmeister. “Quite frankly, it is remarkable what she has accomplished. Her commitment to serving families in need in our community has been a blessing to not just the families served, but to our community/city as a whole. Her legacy will continue to guide ACO’s future successes in serving families in our community. I am confident of that.” Indeed, the impact that Glenda May has made on the communities of Allen, Lucas, Fairview and Collin County will not be forgotten. Instead she has paved a path for many families to transform their lives, gain

self-sufficiency and have a caring place to seek assistance in times of crisis. While Glenda may be ready to enjoy her retirement years, her work will continue for many years to come through the mission of Allen Community Outreach. “We can fill a room with a hundred people all clamoring to sing praises for Glenda and the incredible things that she has done for the families of Allen over the past 21 years. I just wish we had 100 Glendas to take her place!” said Burr. A room, however, will indeed be filled with well-wishers to celebrate the 21 years of service that Glenda May has given to Allen Community Outreach on Tuesday, December 6 at the Allen Event Center. The public is invited to the event, from 5-7 p.m., to honor Glenda. A fund has been established in her name to provide scholarships to adults needing education to begin to lift themselves out of poverty. Donations may be made to the Glenda May Family Scholarship Fund in care of Allen Community Outreach online at www.acocares.org. If you plan to attend the event, please RSVP your attendance at ACO’s website, www.acocares.org or email Vicki Morris, vmorris@acocares.org. v

kids korner

Christmas Tree Farms by Deborah DOVE The holidays are all about traditions and creating memories. Going to a Christmas tree farm and choosing and cutting your own tree is not only environmentally responsible, it’s also lots of fun and the perfect way to spend an afternoon making memories. Most farms provide everything you need to cut your own tree, and will shake and wrap it for the ride home. In addition to the thrill of picking your own tree, most farms offer fun family activities such as hayrides, rides, petting zoos and the occasional appearance by the Big Guy himself.

Wintergreen Farm—2907 FM 121, Van Alstyne Celebrate the season at this farm where you can take a hayride out to the tree field to choose and cut your own tree. With a $5 wristband, kids can ride the kiddie train, go through the maze and play the bullhorn ring toss an unlimited amount of times. There’s also a gift shop and a concession stand that sells hamburgers, hotdogs, barbecue sandwiches, chips, popcorn, drinks and water. Tue.-Fri., 2-5 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

4Ceesons Tree Farm—3233 CR 2508, Caddo Mills A no-frills, simple tree farm that’s close by if you just want to go choose and cut your own tree (trees vary in height from five to twelve feet) or buy a pre-cut tree. Tue.-Fri., 2-5 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sun., 1-5 p.m.

KaJiN—3221 CR 2508, Caddo Mills This tree farm offers hayrides, cut your own trees, and a few resident animals such as chickens, dogs and a pig. On December 5 and 6 at 10 a.m., the farm offers “Breakfast with Papa Noel and the KaJiN elves,” a free event for kids with doughnuts and apple cider with the elves and the chance to write a letter to Santa. Mon.-Fri., 4 p.m.-dark; Sat., and Sun., 9 a.m.-dark

Elves Christmas Tree Farm—601 Harvey Lane, Denison This 75-acre choose and cut farm also offers lots of activities for a day outdoors, including a kid-friendly maze, farm zoo, tours, a picnic area, restrooms and free hot apple cider or coffee. The farm also offers pre-cut firs and flocked trees. Mon.-Fri., 3-5 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sun., 1-5 p.m.

Kadee Christmas Tree Farm—5054 Hwy 69 South, Greenville Spend a fun afternoon at this tree farm, where you’ll take a hayride out to the field to choose and cut your own tree, then

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come back and let the kids enjoy a petting corral, several big swings that hang from tall trees, a maze, a hay jump and complimentary hot apple cider. Mon.-Fri., 2-6 p.m.; Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Lone Star Pines—10706 County Road 350, Terrell Take a hayride out to the field to choose and cut the perfect tree from the over 5,000 Virginia pine trees. There are food concessions and a picnic area, but coffee and cider is always free. Santa will be at the farm on the weekends until December 18, so be sure and bring your camera. Sat. and Sun., 9 a.m. until dark through December 18.

McNew Star M—2914 Highway 276 West, Quinlan Choose and cut a tree out in the fields, enjoy a free cup of hot apple cider and take a hay ride, then buy coupons for a wheeled train ride through Wolf Wallow Forest, a sleigh ride, face painting and nature trail games. Coupons are 10 for $10. Fri., 3 p.m.-dark; Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m.-dark.

Yesterland Farm—15410 Interstate 20, Canton Although it’s the farthest, it’s also the biggest and best. In addition to the trees, of course (which you can choose and cut or buy pre-cut), free admission to this farm includes wagon train rides, a farm zoo, rubber duck races, lots of photo props and more. For $15, guests also get unlimited “amazement park” rides (or purchase tickets per ride). Additional activities include a giant slide, Santa’s Runaway Sleigh roller coaster, a rock wall, gemstone mining, a cannon that shoots apples, and a corn maze (additional fees apply). Santa comes to visit on weekends and will always pose for photos. You can also rent a campfire site for $50 (includes two picnic tables and wood) and bring your own fixings for hot dogs and s’mores. Weekdays, 1-5:30 p.m., tree purchases only; weekends, 9 a.m.5:30 p.m., with kid’s activities and food, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. v

education

Collin Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Stepping Stone for a World Traveler

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by Kirk DICKEY

Visiting his family for Thanksgiving last year, Rob Brown got the chance to see his home country through someone else’s eyes. He refers to it as “reverse culture shock.” The Collin College alum was traveling with his then girlfriend and now fiancé. They had taken a family trip to New York before settling back into his family’s home in Frisco. “It was great,” he said, sitting next to his fiancé. “We hit all of the big tourist places while we were there.” The trip was a quick jaunt on a much longer journey for the couple, which had traveled from Manila, Philippines about a week before. Rob, an investment banker working in J.P. Morgan Investments’ Manila office, is no stranger to travel. The job is his most recent post in a career that has taken him through permanent moves to Hong Kong before Manila, but has meant time in JPM offices in India, Luxembourg, Scotland, Ireland, England and Singapore after starting in Dallas 15 years ago. Rob credits his travels with both literally and figuratively expanding his world view as he took advantage of living abroad and took leisurely trips to such places as Africa, Nepal, Japan, Australia, Indonesia and other places around the globe. “I would say that traveling is very important,” he said. “It really opened my eyes. Being raised in Texas, it was almost like living in a bubble. Traveling really gave me the perspective to know what is going on outside of the U.S. There are a lot of different opinions and a lot of different cultures. Traveling really allows you to look at the world differently.” When asked about his travels, he talks about hang gliding above Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, whitewater rafting down the White Nile River in Uganda, trekking to Mt. Everest base cape and ascending up to 18,000 feet to have a perfect view of the world’s tallest mountain,

climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge with a front row view of the Sydney Opera House, and trekking 10-kilometers along an untouched section of the Great Wall of China. When looking back on his experiences, he says, “It’s almost surreal that my first job I had when I was a teenager was milking cows and working on a ranch in a very small town to seeing parts of the world I didn’t even know existed and working with a global bank in a third

world country in Asia. All of this would never have happened if I wasn’t pushed to enroll at Collin College.” Rob’s mother, Nancy Brown, said she thinks Rob is as comfortable in an airport as most people would be at home. She points to an uncle who had traveled extensively as an influence on Rob’s later desire to go abroad. Rob visited him in Alaska shortly after graduating from eighth grade. “I think that may have been the

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start, because he had someone close to him encouraging him to see the world,” Nancy said. “By the time he took the job in Hong Kong, he was ready to travel. It was high on his priority list.” Speaking to Nancy, it is clear she is proud of his success and the opportunities it has brought him. That path to success wasn’t a sure thing, though, according to Rob. He said he didn’t have much of a plan when he started taking classes at Collin College. He just wanted to get his basic courses out of the way and pursue a college degree because that was what was expected of him. Collin

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College gave him a way to acclimate to higher education before diving into a four-year university, which he said he didn’t feel ready for at the time. It was a Collin class, though, which Rob credits as a turning point in his life. “For me, the class that kind of defined my career and the direction I took in life was an intro to economics class,” he said. “I took that my second year at Collin and that propelled me to move into business and ultimately into the financial market. “I knew once I started taking finance classes that I wanted to move in that direction and being around the

instructors definitely influenced me. There was a lot of positivity and a lot of knowledge from those individuals who helped me move forward.” With a better idea of what he wanted to do in life, Rob said he was more confident as he transferred to Texas Tech to finish out his college career. He graduated from Texas Tech in 2001 with a double major in general business and finance. After graduation, he landed a job with J.P. Morgan as an entry level fund accountant serving clients in Asia. In 2008, he was able to move the work he was managing to Hong Kong and he has been abroad ever since. While declining to get too technical, Rob said what he likes most about the job is the challenge of providing consistently useful investment information to international clients on a daily basis. “I think it is important for me to be stationed in the Philippines because of the Asian market,” Rob said. “There is a lot of business, especially from an investor’s standpoint, that is going on outside of the U.S. (Investors) are looking for people with that type of expertise or technical knowledge who can take what they have done in the U.S. and take it to the Asian market.” And much like any investment advice Rob gives, he has some tips for finding the right college. “I think they would be foolish if they didn’t consider going to Collin,” Rob said. “I think there are so many opportunities here that give people the leverage to move forward. The instructors here are really second to none. If they are looking at feasible tuition costs, I think there are a lot of advantages they can look at here.” Visit www.collin.edu to learn more about Collin College. v Kirk Dickey is a public relations writer for Collin College. Photos by Nick Young, Collin College photographer.

MARKET PLACE

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feature

Teaching More Than Recyling

by Deborah DOVE

THE

weekend before Halloween, the halls of Norton Elementary looked less like an elementary school and more like a tag sale, as the third grade prepared to host their eighth annual recycle sale. Originally the brain child of Norton AIM teacher Karen Szeryk, who was a third grade teacher at the time, the sale was (and still is) designed to be a service project, with the purpose of making money to adopt disadvantaged kids for the holidays and make their Christmas wishes come true.

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Along the way, the kids learn about math, counting money, applying for and working at a job, community, donating and time management. In the process, the sale has become something the entire school looks forward to supporting. “Everyone at Norton knows about the sale,” says third grade teacher Nancy Swan. The team of three teachers—Nancy Swan, Stephanie Harris and Morgan Jones—begin preparing for the sale early in the school year, notifying parents about it at curriculum night in September. Letters are sent home to

parents. Then several weeks before the sale, the thirdgraders (and occasionally parents and staff members) start bringing in their gently used toys, games, books and stuffed animals that will be sold to the student body and staff at Norton at the sale that typically occurs in the fall. “Our moms and dads were overjoyed,” says thirdgrader Lizzy Halliburton about cleaning out closets and toy boxes for items to donate. Third-grader Rafe Graham concurs. “We cleared out the house. It feels better to donate it than to throw it away.” This year, with only three classes (there have always been four in previous years), the third grade teachers were concerned they wouldn’t have enough “inventory,” but they needn’t have worried. “Our school supports us so well,” says Jones. By sale day, they had more donations than ever. Then they began the process of preparing for the sale. The kids sorted the items, priced them, made signs to hang up around school advertising the sale, and even made an iMovie “commercial” promoting the sale that was shown on morning announcements. Each student had to fill out a job application stating the top three jobs they wanted for the sale and why they’d be good at each. “They take it very seriously,” says Stephanie Harris. The teachers reviewed the applications, and every child was then assigned a job. There are managers who oversee everything and fill in when someone needs to use the restroom; security workers who make sure everyone has a bag; sales clerks who are assigned a “department” such as stuffed animals, boys’ toys, girls’ toys, games and puzzles, etc.; greeters; ticket sales; cashiers; and baggers. Lizzy Halliburton was a sales clerk in charge of stuffed animals. “I helped kids get what they wanted and persuaded them,” she says.

Xavier Zuniga was in charge of the ticket drawing. “It’s for the big stuff,” he says. “You can buy five tickets for a dollar.” Nothing at the sale is priced over $5, so the bigticket items donated become part of a ticket drawing. The more tickets you buy, the more chances you get to win those typically highly coveted items, which this year included a basketball hoop, a scooter, a bungee chair, a drum set and a “humongous” stuffed bear, according to the kids.

L to R:Nancy Swan, Morgan Jones and Stephanie Harris

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“That bear was very popular,” says Jones with a laugh. “The bag (of tickets) was very full.” Out of earshot of their teacher, the kids tell me that Mrs. Jones “really wanted the drum set,” and spent $20 to put all her tickets in the bag to win it. The ticket sales are very popular, particularly with the older grades, and Harris estimates they earned approximately $200-$300 from ticket sales alone. On the day of the sale, the other grade levels come by to shop in thirty minute intervals, and parents—about four or five per class—help, typically by handling the money. “Counting out the change used to be a big part of it,” says Jones, who teaches math. District changes dictate the kids can’t handle the money now, so the cashiers add up the sales, write it on a “ticket” (a post-it note) and hand it to a parent who handles the cash. At the end of this year’s sale, the Norton third graders had made a whopping $2,454.64. They also got a taste of what it’s like to have a job. “It helped you to understand what it would be like to have a real job,” says Aarnav Bansal, who was a cashier and a manager. “It was fun and kind of stressful.” Xavier Zuniga concurs. “It was

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very fun, but we were really tired at the end of the day.” “It felt like a lot of responsibility,” adds Kathryn Chapman. While it’s exciting enough for the kids to run the sale, perhaps the most rewarding part comes after the sale is over. The kids will be taking the money they earned and buying holiday gifts for children at My Friends House, a Plano-based nonprofit that provides emergency shelter and transitional residential services to at-risk children and young adults who

are in need due to abuse, neglect or homelessness. Norton has partnered with My Friend’s House for the entire school year, collecting different items each month that they need, so helping them at the holidays is an extension of this partnership. On December 9, the entire third grade from Norton will go to Walmart where they’ll be placed in a group of four to five kids headed up by one parent volunteer and given a budget and a wish list made by a child at My Friend’s House. They’ll then shop for

and buy presents for that child. Since schools are tax-exempt, their money goes a little further as well, allowing the kids to buy a little more. “We always warn the manager,” says Jones with a laugh. The third graders at Norton are extremely excited about helping other kids. “They don’t have a place to live or anyone to buy them presents,” explains Lizzy Halliburton earnestly. “You know how happy we are on Christmas morning. We want them to feel that same happiness.” “It’s going to feel warm inside (to go shopping),” adds Kathryn Chapman with a smile. Norton’s Recycle Sale seems to have a funny way of bringing out the best in the kids—both the ones running the sale and the ones shopping. According to the third graders, many of the kindergarteners don’t have money, but they still don’t leave empty-handed. “Even if you just have a little money, we’ll give you a free book,” says Allison Beach. “And the sixth grade was really nice and just donated money.” Some kids have trouble parting with their things, even when they’ve outgrown them. “There’s always one or two who on the day of the sale have second thoughts,” says Jones. This year, one student wrote her a note saying she’d really like her two bears back and was crying because she missed them. Her mother wrote Mrs. Jones a note as well, saying her daughter would buy back her bears for five dollars. In Mrs. Swan’s class, when a student was sad about giving up a special stuffed animal, her older brother bought it back for her. The much anticipated event also

motivates good behavior. “It you get in trouble, you’re out like fire,” warns Xavier. Most importantly, Norton’s annual recycle sale is a tradition that

incorporates the greatest lesson we can hope to instill in our children. “It feels good to give,” says Lizzy. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

Allen Image | December 2016