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Allen Image INSIDE THIS ISSUE

December 2018

Vol. 28, Issue 12

FEATURES

TINY TRAINS BRING BIG SMILES

Meet the Train Guysâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Roy Durrell, Stan Schwartz, Jack Phelps and Jeff Rettig. They volunteer to work magic on broken down, long forgotten model locomotives and give them to kids who might not otherwise get one.

ALLEN HS SHOOTING CLUB

The sport challenges reaction time, eye-hand coordination, and the ability to keep your mind focused. Coach Jason Anderson, the Outdoors Adventure teacher at Allen High School, created the shooting club about seven years ago.

SPECIAL SECTIONS

20 CALENDAR 32 KIDS KORNER

Setting the Stage for Holiday Fun

PET PAGE

Gilbert

28 46

38 4

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE CIVIC FORUM

LIBRARY

LOOKING BACK

Allen Police Offer Tips for Safer Shopping

Holidays with HarpEssence

A Christmas Story

The Nutcracker

And the winner is…YOU!

Allen Community Band Christmas Concert

A Soulful Christmas

FINANCE

All-Star Jazzy Christmas

Christmas on the Prairie

Allen’s Merry Tuba Christmas

Allen Christian Church is 100

How to Stay Focused in a Volatile Market

EDUCATION 35

Collin College’s Red Room

19 PUBLISHER/EDITOR Barbara Peavy

ADVERTISING SALES Sherri Russell

COVER PHOTO Larry Fleming

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chelsey Aprill Matt Cobb

Jack Rettig, Stan Schwartz, Roy Durrell and Jeff Phelps

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Steven J. Dawson

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

Kirk Dickey

Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to:

Deborah Dove

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.

Tom Keener

ON THE COVER

Natasha Moser Simon Valentin

CIVIC FORUM

Allen Police Offer Tips for Safer Shopping

by Chelsey APRILL

hoppers flock to Allen each holiday season to score deals and make memories at the city’s three major retail centers: Watters Creek, The Village at Allen and Allen Premium Outlets. At each location, Allen Police provide watchful eyes and helpful resources at police substations staffed by members of the Community Relations Unit. Whether you buy gifts in person or shop entirely online, here are the five things police want shoppers to know.

Protect the purse

Whether you carry a Prada satchel or a canvas tote, your purse contains precious cargo. Yet each holiday season, Allen Police

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investigate numerous pursesnatchings caused by shoppers’ carelessness—such as a bag left unattended in the seat of a shopping cart or hooked on the back of a restaurant chair. Wearing the purse strap across your chest and keeping compartments zipped can reduce your chances of being targeted. You can also limit potential damage by cleaning out your purse and wallet before shopping. “Remove all the credit cards, debit cards or personal documents you won’t need, then write down the numbers of any credit cards you bring with you,” says Allen Police Sgt. Jon Felty, who leads the department’s Community Relations Unit. “Keep

that paper at home or take a picture and store it on a locked cell phone so you can reference it easily if your card is stolen.” That’s because purse thieves move fast. “They’ll go immediately to the nearest store and try to max out every card you have,” says Sgt. Felty. “Even if your bank refunds the money, rebuilding your credit can be a huge hassle.”

Secure your vehicle

Car break-ins also spike during the holiday season, with retail parking lots a prime target for thieves. If you plan to make multiple trips in and out of stores, assign an adult to stay with your vehicle or stop

at home between stores to drop off your purchases. If neither of those options is possible, store items completely out of sight. “Some people will throw a blanket over their new big-screen TV and think that counts as ‘hiding,’” says Felty. “But a thief isn’t going to be less curious about that giant box just because there’s a blanket over it.” Shoppers should also remember the easiest deterrent. “You’d be shocked at how many car break-ins we investigate that have zero signs of forced entry,” says Sgt. Felty. “Whether you’re at the mall or in your driveway, please—lock your doors!”

Shop smarter online

Thieves can do major damage without ever laying hands on your wallet, thanks to the increasing popularity of online shopping. “Even major retailers have experienced huge data breaches over the past few years,” says Sgt. Felty. “The less information you give them, the better.” To protect your identity, Sgt. Felty

recommends purchasing pre-loaded gift cards for the amounts you plan to spend. Because they aren’t tied to your bank account, a thief can’t spend more than the amount you loaded or access your personal information using details from your purchase.

Prevent package thieves One of the most common crimes of the holiday season is one of the easiest to avoid. “Leaving a package on your porch—even for a few minutes—is a really bad idea,” says Sgt. Felty. Even if your item is placed out of sight, thieves have been known to trail delivery trucks and swipe packages within moments of drop-off. Instead, Sgt. Felty tells shoppers to opt for a controlled delivery, which forces someone to sign for the package when it arrives. You can also direct packages to be held at a post office or nearby FedEx/UPS location until you pick them up in person. Visit the package delivery company’s website and enter your tracking number to modify your delivery preferences.

Avoid dangerous deals From Craigslist to OfferUp to Facebook Marketplace, online classifieds can be a great place to make or save a buck—if you know how to do it safely. Sgt. Felty recalls a case where an online seller asked to meet in the parking lot of an abandoned gas station—then robbed the person who showed up. “If you get that sixth sense, pay attention to it,” urges Sgt. Felty. One good way to tell whether a seller is honest? “Ask them to meet in the parking lot of the Allen Police Department,” advises Sgt. Felty. “If they have a problem with that, consider it a warning sign.” Allen Police Department’s Community Relations Unit hosts various programs to help educate and empower citizens. To learn more about identity theft protection, selfdefense and other programs, call 214.509.4359. v Chelsey Aprill is the Senior Marketing Specialist for the City of Allen.

Allen Image | December 2018

The Nutcracker Twirling snowflakes. Waltzing flowers. Life sized dolls. These are just a few of the magical scenes from Allen Civic Ballet’s production of the world’s most popular ballet, The Nutcracker, being presented on Saturday, December 15 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 16 at 2 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center at Allen High School, 300 Rivercrest Drive. The Allen Civic Ballet has been making holiday magic for local families for two decades, and they have pulled out all the stops for their 20th Anniversary production—new costumes, new scenery and new choreography. And once again the Allen Philharmonic will provide live musical accompaniment.

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Megan Hustel and Paul Tillman appear, courtesy of Ballet Arkansas, as the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. The recently engaged couple is excited about bringing their pas de deux to the Allen stage for the first time. “When they dance together, it is really something special,” says the Ballet’s Artistic Director, Stefanie Best. “You can see the romance is real for them, not just for their characters.” Special guest artist, Stephanie Rae Williams, from Dance Theatre of Harlem, will dance the role of the Arabian Queen. Ms. Williams, a graduate of Allen High School, will

also be teaching a master class in contemporary ballet to the dancers of the Allen Civic Ballet. “I am thrilled to be returning to my hometown to perform in Allen Civic Ballet’s Nutcracker. Stefanie has such a talented group of dancers, and I am looking forward to being inspired by their magic while I am there.” 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. v

And the winner is…YOU! by Matt COBB Move aside motion picture awards, because the Allen Parks and Recreation (APR) Department is rolling out the red carpet early with extraordinary January membership offers at the City of Allen’s recreation facilities. Everyone can be a winner by accomplishing their New Year's resolutions, whether it's improving fitness or getting connected to the local community, and Allen Parks and Recreation is dedicated to making sure you are named a resolution winner! APR is providing a three-months free (#Three4Free) membership offer at participating recreation facilities for one week at the beginning of the new year followed by 15% off annual memberships for the remainder of January 2019. The purpose of this

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aggressive membership offer is to encourage members to start working on their wellness resolutions right at the start of 2019 with the goal of helping accomplish every resolution. Everyone who signs up for an annual membership at one of the participating recreation facilities from January 2-9 will receive three months of their membership completely free as a part of the #Three4Free membership offer. After the #Three4Free membership offer ends, full-year memberships will be offered at 15% off for the remainder of the month from January 10-31. The City of Allen recreation facilities that are offering the #Three4Free membership are Allen Senior Recreation Center, Don

Rodenbaugh Natatorium, Joe Farmer Recreation Center and The Edge Skate Park and Visitor Center. “With the start of the new year, APR’s goal is to help everyone accomplish their wellness resolutions,” said Travis Cunniff, Recreation Services Manager for Allen Parks and Recreation. “We encourage everyone to come tour the facilities and help make 2019 the healthiest in Allen yet.” Allen Senior Recreation Center offers a variety of unique programs, classes and trips throughout the year for ages 50 and above. The facility has computers, billiards, table tennis, a library and even a brand-new garden with herbs and vegetables. The fitness room has a variety of cardio machines and weights, and lunches are served at the facility daily. This is a great place to meet friends, get active and discover new hobbies. Swimming is a year-round activity at Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium! With a 7,000-sq. ft. leisure pool with a lazy river, a competition pool with lap lanes and a fitness center, there are plenty of ways to have fun and grow a healthy and active lifestyle. Throughout the year, swimming lessons, fitness classes and unique special events are held at the facility. Also, a membership at Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium includes memberships to the other recreation facilities. From weights to basketball courts and an indoor track, Joe Farmer Recreation Center has the perfect amenities to get active. There are two racquetball and handball courts along with a game room that has table tennis, air hockey and foosball. Throughout the year, camps, fitness classes and special events are offered for all ages. Finally, fans of extreme sports will feel right at home at The Edge Skate Park and Visitor Center. Boasting one of the largest outdoor skate parks in Texas, riders can have fun working on their skateboard, scooter, BMX bike and inline skate

skills. The center also has a media room, game room and a snack bar. Fun programs are offered throughout the year, including STEAM camps during the summer. “When it comes to improving health and fitness,” Cunniff said, "the winner is always you!” To take advantage of this special membership offer, stop by the front

desk at any of Allen’s recreation facilities in January 2019. Payment plans are available for eligible full-year memberships. For more information about the #Three4Free membership offer and the recreation facilities, please visit LifeInAllen.org. v Matt Cobb is the senior marketing coordinator for the City of Allen.

Allen Image | December 2018

Snippets

A Soulful Christmas The Allen Philharmonic is delighted to present a special holiday concert performance featuring the combined voices of the Allen Symphony Chorus and the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church Choir, lead by the ASC Director Rusty King. A Soulful Christmas will be performed on Friday, December 7, at First United Methodist Church of Allen, 601 S. Greenville Avenue at 7 p.m. The concert’s featured work, Gospel Mass by Robert Ray, sets the words from the Catholic Mass to the rhythm and harmony of African-American music. Victor Johnson, Director of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church Choir will conduct. Additional programming includes the Whitney Houston version of Joy to the World, Now, Behold the Lamb, Worship the One, Mary Did You Know and the ever-popular Christmas Carol sing-a-long. Two original compositions by Victor Johnson—Christ Came to Bethlehem and Run to the Manger—will be featured, and the Hallelujah Chorus by Handel will be sung in its traditional form as well as the version from Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration. Tickets can be purchased online at www. allenphilharmonic.org or by calling our office at 972.359.0656. We invite our guests to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Collin County’s Toys for Tots program to help those in need during this holiday season. v

All-Star Jazzy Christmas Join us on Friday, December 7, at 8 p.m., in the Courtroom Theater, 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney, for a one-of-akind Christmas concert. Like no other Christmas shows, this is a true collaboration of DFW’s most talented musicians—maestro Jason Lim and the Odysseus Chamber Orchestra. Joining the Odysseus Chamber Orchestra are Jason Davis, saxophone; Candace Mahogany Miller, vocals; Robin Hackett, vocals; Keyreel Raskolenko, violin; Ben Katzen, cello; and The William Foley Trio. The orchestra will also feature special guest stars Maylee Thomas, Mayor George Fuller, Andy Timmons and the Maylee Thomas Band. Come hear original arrangements of the Christmas songs you know and love performed by the award winning Odysseus Chamber Orchestra and a cast of all star jazz performers from around the world. Tickets are available at tickets.mckinneyperformingarts.org for reserved seating, $22 for adults; $17 for seniors 65 & over; and children/students ages 6-22. v

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Snippets

Christmas on the Prairie Bring your entire family and join the Allen Heritage Guild, 2-4 p.m., Sunday, December 16, at the Allen Heritage Village, 450 E. St. Mary Drive, for old-fashioned festivities. Step back in time to savor the historic buildings decorated in vintage Christmas accessories. The Wetsel and Lynge Houses will be decorated like Christmas in 1890 and 1920, respectively. All buildings and the property will be dressed in holiday decorations matching their historic time period. Drop by the Village to see “Jesus as the Good Shepherd” stained glass window. The Village includes various architectural styles from different eras in Allen’s history. Take a photo of your family adjacent to a period building for your Christmas card! Enjoy gingerbread and cider and create new memories. Sponsored by the Allen Heritage Guild, this is a free event but donations are welcomed. Call 972.740.8017 for more information. v

Allen’s Merry TubaChristmas The Allen Philharmonic welcomes area tuba and euphonium players to join us for the Merry TubaChristmas 2018 Concert in Allen. The performance will take place outdoors on the Village Green at Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm, Sunday, December 16 at 2:30 p.m. Dr. Jeff Baker, Allen Philharmonic Principal Tuba and Assistant Professor of Tuba and Euphonium at Texas A & M Commerce, will conduct. This is the 45th anniversary for TubaChristmas concerts and events, which are presented annually in over 150 cities worldwide. The concert is free of charge, open to the public and presented in conjunction with the Harvey Phillips Foundation. Persons of all ages who play the tuba, sousaphone, euphonium or baritone horn are invited to perform. Registration is noon to 1 p.m., and is followed by a music rehearsal, 1-1:45 p.m. at Blue House Too, 934 Watters Creek Blvd., in Watters Crossing. The music will be from Carols For A Merry TubaChristmas, which is used at all official Merry TubaChristmas concerts. The books may be purchased at registration for $20. The registration fee for participants is $10. Participants should dress in accordance with the prevailing weather conditions. For questions and updated information, contact our office at: office@allenphilharmonic.org or 972.359.0656. Come enjoy the spirit of the season with this annual musical celebration. v

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FOR YOUR HEALTH

Allen Image | December 2018

LIBRARY

The Library presents… by Tom KEENER

Holidays with HarpEssence

Acclaimed harpist Linda Mudd, along with special guest artists, will present an intimate, warm and joyful celebration of traditional Christmas music in a free concert at 7:30 p.m.,

Friday, December 14, at the library. Beautiful runs, soaring glissandos and delicate fingering surround the audience with the gorgeous sounds of four concert grand harps.

HarpEssence is an ensemble that is comprised of four harpists who came together to celebrate their passion for the harp. The group performs all styles of music, often in intricate four-part harmonies. Performing for special events, weddings, churches, libraries and private events, HarpEssence educates the audience on the history of their selections and the instruments in between pieces. Bandleader Linda Mudd is also part of The Selkie Girls, a Celtic band. Joining Linda are Susan Koskelin, Joan McCord and Grace Johnson. Joey Flowers will enchant the audience with the magic of the flute, a perfect complement to the majesty of the harps. No Christmas concert is complete without Jingle Bells, but this version will be performed in a jazzy and festive style. v

A Christmas Story Watch the free presentation of the enduring holiday classic A Christmas Story (1983) at 7 p.m. Tuesday December 18, at the library. Starring Darren McGavin, Melinda Dillon and Peter Billingsley. Ralphie has to convince his parents, teachers and Santa that a Red Ryder BB gun really is the perfect gift for the 1940s. Parents across America flinched as they listened to their kids beg Santa for a Red Ryder BB gun. Find out if Ralphie’s request is granted. Made famous during the Red Ryder film series, this BB gun is still being manufactured. 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.

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Allen Community Band Christmas Concert

Take time to relax before the final rush to the big day. Join the Allen Community Band (ACB) for a free enjoyable concert featuring famous songs of the season at 3 p.m. Sunday, December 16, at the Allen Public Library Civic Auditorium. If Santa is Up on the Housetop, can he really Rock the House? Find out as the Allen Community Jazz Band kicks off the concert with swing arrangements of holiday music as they bring a new perspective to many of the traditional songs. Directed by Craig Logan, ACB takes the stage and begins with Prestissimo. Its rapid, upbeat tempo is one of 197 marches and gallops composed by Karl King and features all sections of the band. For those who desire music of a more classical nature, A Carmen Christmas (yes, that Carmen) will delight. With themes of the famous opera mixed with traditional holiday music, this selection will delight everyone from young to old. And, what is more Christmas than music from The Nutcracker Suite? Under the direction of Chris Xeros, ACB Associate Director and founding conductor of the Richardson Symphony and Allen Philharmonic,

this transcription includes four sections of the famous ballet including Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Waltz of the Flowers. The Thunderer, one of John Phillip

Sousaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous and recognizable marches, brings the ensemble back to the band idiom. The concert concludes with their annual performance of Leroy Andersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sleigh Ride. v

Allen Image | December 2018

CALENDAR

NOVEMBER CITY OF ALLEN

Donner Dash is a .5K long sprint/short walk and is open to all ages and skill levels. The top 3 runners for each gender and age division in the Rudolph Run will receive a medal. Prizes to be awarded to the top overall and Master’s (40+) male and female winners. Cost is $15-$30. For more info call 214.509.4810 or visit AllenSpecialEvents.org.

Tickets on sale now through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster. com), charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at the Allen Event Center box office. For more information, visit www. alleneventcenter.com.

1-10 Letters To Santa. Children can write a letter to Santa and drop it in one of his mailboxes at Joe Farmer Rec Center or Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, ages 1-12. Letters will be delivered to Santa and he will send a personal letter to your home! Letters must be received by Dec. 10. Free.

Allen Americans vs Wichita Thunder

Allen Community Ice Rink’s “Holidays On Ice”

Allen Americans vs Rapid City Rush

ALLEN EVENT CENTER

15 Dallas Sidekicks vs El Paso Coyotes 19 Allen Americans vs Cincinnati Cyclones 21 Allen Americans vs Cincinnati Cyclones 22 Drop and Shop Holiday Skate (Allen Community Ice Rink) 22 Allen Americans vs Cincinnati Cyclones 26 Dallas Sidekicks vs San Diego Sockers 28-30 Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party! 31 Allen Americans vs Tulsa Oilers

PARKS AND REC EVENTS For more information about Parks and Recreation events, visit AllenParks.org. 1

2018 Rudolph Run and Donner Dash, 7-10 am. The Rudolph Run is a USATF timed 5K run, and the

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Holiday Express, Joe Farmer Rec Center, 6-8 pm, all ages. Come aboard and travel the world! Experience multi-cultural holiday activities, crafts and Santa photo opportunity! Free admission with unwrapped toy. Cost is $5.

14 SNAP Dance, 7-10 pm, ages 18+. SNAP your fingers and shuffle your feet at this Special Needs and Adapted Program at Allen Senior Rec Center! Enjoy music, a fun theme and snacks. This month’s theme is Holiday Party! For more information, contact Ryan Patterson at rmpatterson@cityofallen. org. Cost: $10. 18 Breakfast With Santa, Joe Farmer Rec Center, 7:30-11 am, ages 6 mo.-10 yrs, cost is $10. Have breakfast with Santa. Bring your camera to get a picture of your child on Santa’s lap. Breakfast and Tiny Tots are included for children; parents breakfast is an additional $10. 21 Swim With Santa, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 5:45-7:45 pm, ages 1-12, $10. Join Santa for a swim and tell him what you want for Christmas. He is available for photos for those with their own cameras. Parents swim free with each paid child.

Children 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the water. 22 Drop & Shop Holiday Skate, Allen Community Ice Rink, 1-4 pm, all ages, $5 entry/$3 skate rental. Enjoy on-ice games and activities, including pictures with Santa and more. All on-ice participants must wear skates. Adult supervision required for children 8 years and younger. Donate two non-perishable food items and receive a free skate rental.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS FOR FAMILIES & CHILDREN For more information about events below, call 214.509.4906. All events are free and no pre-registration required. Events are in the Children’s Program Room except where noted. 1

Chinese Story Time, 10:30-11 am & 11-11:30 am. Enjoy a story time primarily in Mandarin Chinese with stories, rhymes and songs. Limited to 100 for each story time. Free ticket required to attend. Free tickets available at the Children’s Desk 30 minutes before each program starts.

4, 11 Marshmallow Movies, 10:30-11:30 am, & 18 recommended for ages 3 &up with caregivers. Enjoy sweet treats, a craft and holiday movies! 4

How To Draw, 4:30-5 pm, ages 5-8. Learn to draw something new each month. All materials provided.

American Girl Party, 4:30-5:30 pm, ages 8-12. Celebrate the holidays with American Girls throughout history! We’ll have crafts and fun activities!

Sensory Play Day, 10:30-11:30 am, ages 0-3 with caregivers. Join us for a relaxed morning of stimulating sensory play stations. Limited to 100.

Winter Wonderland Story Time,10:30-11:30 am, ages 3 & up with caregivers. Enjoy a wintery themed story time followed by a craft.

10 Hour of Code, 4:30-5:30 pm, ages 8-12. Join us for a one-hour coding tutorial using code.org. No experience needed. Limited to 24. A free ticket is required to attend. Free tickets will be available at the Children’s Desk 30 minutes before the program starts. 14 Music and Movement, 10:30-11 am & 11-11:30 am, ages 2 & up with caregivers. Join us as we sing, dance, and make music! Limited to 50. A free ticket is required to attend. Free tickets will be available at the Children’s Desk 30 minutes before each program starts. 15 LEGO Family Fun Day, 10:30-11:30 am, ages 5 & up with families. Use creativity and ingenuity to build structures using LEGO blocks. There’s new building theme each month! 17 Scarf Decorating, 4:30-5:30 pm, ages 8-12. Show off your crafty side and decorate a scarf. All materials provided. Limited to 30. A free ticket is required to attend. Free tickets will be available at the Children’s Desk 30 minutes before the program starts. 20 Christmas Crafts, 4:30-5:30 pm, ages 5-8. Learn how to make festive window clings and Christmas ornaments. 21 Preschool Playdate, 10:30-11:30 am, ages 3-5 with caregivers Enjoy a variety of hands-on activities designed to promote kindergarten-readiness skills. Limited to 80. A free ticket is required to attend. Free tickets will be available at the Children’s Desk 30 minutes before the program starts. 26 Sesame Street Party, 3-4 pm, ages 3 & up with caregivers. Join us for crafts and games featuring your favorite muppet friends! 27 Tween Cake Pops, 3-4 pm, ages 8-12. Show off your decorating skills and make delicious works of art! Limited to 30. A free ticket is required to attend. Free tickets will be available at the Children’s Desk 30 minutes before the program starts. 31 Noon Year’s Eve Party, 11:30 am-12:15 pm, ages 2 & up with caregivers in the Auditorium. Enjoy a special story time with a countdown to noon and a magical balloon drop!

TEENS (AGES 12-18) 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. Ages listed are firm. 8

Games and Grub, 2:30-3:30 pm. Bring your friends for an epic board game battle! From classics like Chess and Checkers to new finds like Sushi Go and Exploding Kittens—games for everyone! Not a board game fan? Try a round of Magic, or participate in a Dungeons & Dragons game! And, there will be food?

10-12 Teen Study Nights, 6:30-8:30 pm. Bring your friends and get ready for finals. We’ll provide snacks, as well as calming crafts, coloring, and therapy dogs for when you need a study break! 13 Anime Evening, 6:30-8 pm, in the Upstairs Program Room. Come enjoy an evening of anime, crafts and snacks! 28 Teen Cake Pops, 3-4 pm. Show off your decorating skills and make delicious works of art! Limited to 30. Free ticket required to attend. Free tickets available at the Children’s Desk 30 minutes before the program starts.

Allen Image | December 2018

ADULTS Adult services programs are held in the 2nd Floor Program Room, free with no registration—ages 18+ unless otherwise indicated. Call 214.509.4905 or 214.509.4913, or check AllenLibrary.org. 5

printed copy. Ages 16+; younger children welcome with an adult

Noontime Pageturners Book Club, Carnegie’s Maid by Marie Benedict, 12-1 pm. We offer a relaxed environment where, you can share the joy of reading. New members always welcome.

11 Let’s Talk Dewey: Free Choice, 7-8 pm. Nonfiction readers! Join us for our choose-your-ownnonfiction book club. We pick the topic, you pick the book. For December, it’s your choice! Read any nonfiction book. Feel free to ask a reference librarian for help. You’re welcome to attend even if you haven’t had a chance to read a book.

Holiday Cookie Exchange, 3-5 pm, 1st Floor Meeting Room. Join APL staff and Food for Thought Market and Café for our annual Holiday Cookie Swap! Please bring three dozen of your favorite cookies to share. Get in the holiday spirit with Wassail, Christmas music, stories and more! Please email your cookie recipe beforehand to fftcafe@ yahoo.com. If you can’t email it in time, please bring a

13 Trivia Night @ Nine Band Brewing Co., 6-8 pm, ages 21+, off site at Nine Band Brewing Co., 9 Prestige Circle, Allen. Team up with your friends to

12 Twisted Threads—A Fiber Craft Circle, 6:308:30 pm. Twisted Threads is a social group for knitters, crocheters, cross stitchers, quilters and any other crafters who use thread or yarn. All skill levels welcome! Ages 18+; no childcare provided.

compete for first place—test your knowledge of beer, literature, history, science and more! Please keep teams to 6 or less. The Library does not provide alcohol.

CLUBS 2ChangeU Toastmasters, meets every Tuesday, 7 pm, Plano Family YMCA, 3300 McDermott Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.2changeu.org. A Place To Go (APT G), meets the third Saturday each month, (Sept-May), 7-9:30 pm, 1st UMC, 601 S. Greenville, Allen. Volunteers, high school age and up are paired with a special needs teen/young adult. Eat, play games and make crafts in a parent’s night out environment. Free. For more info: 214.385.8850 or email specialkids@fumcallen. org. Allen Area Patriots, meets the fourth Thursday each month, 7-8:45 pm, Allen Municipal Building, 301 Century Pkwy., Allen. 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. 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 Drive. 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. American Association of University Women-Plano/ Collin County Branch, meets second 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 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 Ave., McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Reg. req. For more info: katpf@att.net or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org. Collin County Aggie Moms, meets third Monday each month, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, 17360 Coit Rd. 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.

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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.

Friends of the Allen Public Library meets third Wednesday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr. For more info, www.allenfriends.org.

Collin County Libertarian Party meets second Wednesday each month, at 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., Allen. For more info: collinlp.org or email collinlp.org@gmail.com.

Gaslighters Book Review Club meets third Wednesday each month September thru May at Heard Craig House, 205 W. Hunt Street, McKinney, refreshments noon, speaker 1 pm. For more info: LaRue Whatley, 423.585.4983.

Collin County Master Gardeneers tour of Myers Park, meets first Wednesday each month, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Reservations required. For more info: 972.548.4232 or mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu. Collin County Republican Men’s Club, meets 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 meets second Saturday each month in Plano/North Dallas 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. For more info: www.beautifulviolets.com.

Greater Collin County Kennel Club, meets third Wednesday each month, 7:30 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Center, 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. Lone Star Parliamentary Unit, meets second Monday 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, meets second Thursday each month, Creekwood UMC, 261 Country Club, Fairview. Different topic & speakers. Free lunch; babysitting available for nominal fee. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/LovejoyPreschool-PTA/. McKinney Amateur Radio Club, meets second Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Spring Creek Bar B Que 1993 North Central Expressway, McKinney. For more information: 972.814.4190. 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.

McKinney Newcomers’ Club, meets third Tuesday each month, 9:30 am, social; 10 am meeting, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. December program: Singer and entertainer, Larry Johnson-Big Daddy will present a special holiday program. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com. NARFE Chapter 559, meets third Monday each month, 1:30 pm, Village of Stonebridge Assisted Living, 3300 S. Stonebridge Drive, McKinney. All current government employees and retirees invited. Nar-Anon Family Group, meets every Wednesday, 7:308:30 pm, at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. Fellowship for those affected by someone else’s addiction. For more info: Jerry or Carla, 972.837.6558 or pony100k@ icloud.com. Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, meets second Tuesday each month, refreshments 9:30 am, meeting 10 am, Noah’s Event Center, 5280 Towne Square Dr., Plano. November program is The JFK Assassination, An Account from a Former Secret Service Agent, Mike howard. All welcome to join. For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org. North Dallas Newcomers, meets first Thursday each month, 11 am, various country clubs. For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net. Open Forum, meaningful discussions, meets first Saturday each month, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004. Plano Amateur Radio Klub, meets the third Monday each month, 7 pm, FUMC of Plano, 3160 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net.

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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. Plano Republican Women’s Club, meets the third Tuesday each month, 11:30 am, Reflections on Spring Creek, 1901 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano. For more info: www.planorepublicanwomen.com. Prelude Clubhouse, community center for adults living with mental illness meets at Collin Creek Church, 1905 E. Parker Rd, Plano. Open Mon., Tue. & Thu., 10 am-4 pm. For more information, please call 469.301.6639 or www. preludeclubhouse.org. 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 second and fourth 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. Texas Nationalist Movement-Collin County Chapter, meets first Tuesday each month, 6:30 pm at Scotty P’s restaurant in Allen, 109 Central Expy N #501, Allen. If you love Texas and value our independent spirit, come join us! Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, meets every 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 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 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.

ART/MUSIC/THEATRE Allen Folk Music Society, meets third Saturday each month, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Dr. Bring snacks to share. For more info: www.twiceasfar.com/news.

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

CRAFTS Allen Quilters’ Guild, meets the third Thursday each month, 6:30 pm, Blue House Too, Watters Creek. For more info: www.allenquilters.org. Common Threads of Allen, meets the 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 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 Tuesday and Thursday, 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. Cancer Support Ministry, meets second Sunday each month, 4 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. For more info: Jimmy Smith, 972.727.8241. Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Meets monthly. Days & locations vary. For more info: www.75013.theheartlinknetwork.com. National Alliance of Mental Illness (for Collin County) Support Groups meet every Thursday, 6:308 pm at Custer Road UMC in the basement, 6601 Custer Road, Plano. There is one support group for persons with a mental illness and another group further down the hall for friends and/or family. For more info: NAMI Dallas, 214.341.7133. 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 & 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, 103111 N. Central, parking lot of Stacy Furniture.

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.

Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, meets second Monday each month, 6:30 pm, Collin College, Central Park Campus Conference Center, 2200 W. University Dr., McKinney. For more info: www.cchba.org.

Pure Athlete Volleyball Club offers high-performance volleyball skills training and club teams for boys and girls ages 6-18. Free player assessment. For more info: Mischelle Slaton, 214.803.0311 or www. pureathleteclub.org.

Fit and Funky Fit Club, meets every Monday, 7:30 pm, & 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.

Skilled Motorcycle Riders Association promotes motorcycle safety through rider training. Monthly practice courses, social activities, etc. For more info: www.skilledmotorcycleriderassociation.com.

Infinity Personal Fitness Charity Workout, meets every other Saturday at 9 am, 1201 W. McDermott, Suite 106, Allen. Min. donation $5. Proceeds donated to local charities. For more info: email cattaneo.ray@gmail.com.

Stroller Strides Classes. For class information, check out Fairview.fit4mom.com. First class Free. For more info: Fairview.fit4mom.com, email Lolo@fit4mom. 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. Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www. planobicycle.org.

The Experiment Aircraft Association, Chapter 1246, meets first Saturday each month, McKinney National Airport. Everyone interested in aviation is invited. For times and directions: eaa1246.org.

MOM’S CLUBS Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents and care givers of kids age 0-5. Fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch w/friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids, etc. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com.

Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new and expectant moms’ forum, meets third Thursday each month, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330. Collin County Early Childhood PTA, meets second Monday each month, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery res. required. For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. Moms Club, meets the first Friday each month (Sept.May), 10 am-noon, at Grace Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy, Allen. For moms of preschool children. Relax with hot brunch and speaker. Childcare-$3 per child/$6 max. For more info: www.grace-efc.org/womens-ministry/. 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 and more. For more info: momsclubofallentx@gmail.com. MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.com. Moms in Prayer, join prayer movement—bringing mothers together and seeing God change children through prayer. For more info: MomsInPrayer.org or Amy Guthrie at amyguthrie@verizon.net.. 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. For more info: 972.727.8241. MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, meets the first and third Wednesday each month, 9:30-11:30 am, 3405 Custer, #200, Plano. For more info: 214.762.0037.

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Walking by Faith, offers prayer and practical support for mothers of children with special needs. Meets third Wednesday of each month (during the school year), 6 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm B214. Childcare provided with advance reservations. For more info: Stacie Smith, staciesmithslp@gmail.com.

MUSEUMS/PRESERVES ALLEN HERITAGE GUILD MUSEUM Open second and fourth Saturdays, 10 am-2 pm, 100 E. Main St., Allen. Permanent and rotating exhibits, DVD programs on Allen history and historic photo collages. For more info: www.allenheritageguild.org.

CONNEMARA MEADOW PRESERVE Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 3-hour walk, monthly alternating first Saturday and first Sunday, 8 am, Oct thru Apr; 7 am, May thru Sept., Alma and Tautm Rd., Allen. Bring binoculars and field guides; wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent; learn habits, calls and characteristics from Gailon and Rodney, Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society. All ages. For more info: www.connemaraconservancy.org.

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

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. Classic 55+ Game Night, first and third Friday each month, 6:30 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship, games. For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com.

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Singles Mingle 60+, meets first Monday each month at Delaney’s Irish Pub, 6150 Eldorado Pkwy, McKinney. Provides a social forum for active men and women singles who 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. Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, meets third Thursday each month, 11:30 am, Sept. thru May, First UMC Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch ($5), fellowship, speakers and entertainers. For more info: jgarling@swbell.net.

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS ALLEN/FAIRVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Visit www.allenfairviewchamber.com for more information. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Eggs & Issues Breakfast meets quarterly at Hilton Garden Inn, 8 am. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce MOB (Men of Business), meets second Monday every other month, 11:30 am-1 pm, Kelly’s at the Village at Allen, for networking. $20 mem; $25 non-mems/general public. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, every Tuesday, 7:30 am, Fairview Town Center, 311 Town Place, Fairview (formerly Wyland’s Ocean Blue restaurant). $1 member/ $5 non-member first visit free. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Luncheon, meets fourth Tuesday, 11:30 am-1 pm, Hilton Garden Inn, Allen. $20 member/$25 guest. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), meets second Thursday every other month, 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking and discussion of women’s issues. $20 member/$25 guest. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Breakfast, meets monthly at Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q, 1790 N. Central Expwy., Allen, 8 am. $15 members/$20 non-members.

Allen High Noon Lions Club, meets second and fourth Thursday each month, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952. Allen Kiwanis Club, meets every Thursday, noon, Bonefish Grill, 190 E Stacy Rd #100. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org. Allen Masonic Lodge No. 1435, meets second Tuesday each month, 7:30 pm at 101 North Allen Drive. Dinner is served at 6:30 pm. For more info: www:allenlodge1435.org. Allen Rotary Club meets every Wednesday, noon, 1st United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville, Allen. For more info: www.allenrotary.org. Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, meets every Wednesday, 7 am, Warm Springs Hospital, 1001 Raintree Cir., Allen. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.allensunriserotary.com.

Assistance League, Greater Collin County Chapter, meets third Wednesday, 10 am at Gleneagles Country Club, Plano. Guests welcome. For more info: algcc.org or call 972.769.2299. Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter, meets third Tuesday each month. For more info:GenBernadoDeGalvez@gmail.com. Fairview Rotary Club, meets second and fourth Thursday each month, Stacy Rd, Fairview. For more info: 214.893.5360. FUMC Legal Aid Clinic meets second Thursday each month, 6-8 pm, First UMC, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Provides legal assistance for civil matters to low income individuals in partnership with Legal Aid of NW Texas. No reservation required. Food & fellowship provided. For more info: kim.klieger@gmail.com or www.lanwt.org. Knights of Columbus, meets third Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville Ave., Allen. For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc. org. Knights of Columbus Council 13044 meets fourth Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, Our Lady of Angels, 1914 Ridgeview Drive, Allen. For more information contact Jason at 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 Armistice Memorial Post 2195, meets second Wednesday each month, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Jack Rettig, 972.529.8504 or www.vfw2195. org. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150,” meets second Monday each month, 1710 N. Church St, McKinney. Post Members, 6:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary at 5:45 pm; Men’s Auxiliary at 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 each month, 10 am, 1710 N. Church St., McKinney. For more info: “Driveway John” 971.822.4483, gmlsp2150@ gmail.com or visit www.vfwpost2150.org. Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, teaches children to serve their community, meets second Saturday each 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.

FINANCE

How to Stay Focused in a Volatile Market by Steven J. DAWSON

Keeping your cool can be hard to do when the market goes on a rollercoaster ride. It’s very useful to have a strategy in place to prepare you, both financially and psychologically, to handle market volatility. Here are ways to help keep from making hasty decisions.

Have a Game Plan Sun Tzu, an ancient Chinese military general, once said, “Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.” He knew that having a plan before you go into battle is crucial to winning. Having predetermined guidelines that recognize the potential for turbulent times can help prevent emotion from dictating your decisions. Accept the fact that the market will have down cycles. Strive to keep your long-term goal in mind. Though everyone would love to earn high returns without taking any risk, in real life, one has to manage risk and return together.

Buffett. Knowing what you don’t know runs contrary to human nature. Most people don’t like admitting their own ignorance—even to themselves. Everyone knows at least one “knowit-all.” If you want to invest well, don’t be a know-it-all.

Stay Diversified Traditional wisdom says don’t put all your eggs in one basket. It helps hedge the potential risk to your financial well-being in case one asset class or instrument goes for a tailspin. Even a diversified portfolio is no guarantee that you won’t suffer loss, of course. But diversification means that just because the S&P 500 might have dropped 10% or 20% doesn’t necessarily mean your overall portfolio is down by the same amount.

Tell Yourself that This Too Shall Pass The financial markets are historically cyclical. Even if you wish

you had sold at what turned out to be a market peak, or regret having sat out a buying opportunity, you may well get another chance at some point. Even if you’re considering changes, a volatile market can be an inopportune time to turn your portfolio inside out. A well thought out asset allocation is still the basis of good investment planning. If you are unsure of where to start or how to chart a path to a more confident financial future, work together with your professional to craft a plan to help you stay on course to reach your goals. v Steven Dawson is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, educator, national speaker and president of Dawson Private Wealth in Allen. Any information provided in this article has been prepared from sources believed to be reliable, but is not guaranteed by Raymond James Financial Services and is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision. Views expressed are the current opinion of the author, but not necessarily those of Raymond James or RJFS, and are subject to change without notice. Asset allocation and diversification do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future results. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful. Investing involves risk. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Any information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation. Dawson Private Wealth is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.

Be Willing to Learn from Your Mistakes Anyone can look good during bull markets—smart investors are produced by the inevitable rough patches. Even the best investors aren’t right all the time. Expert help can prepare you and your portfolio to both weather and take advantage of the market ups and downs. “What counts for most people in investing is not how much they know, but rather how realistically they define what they don’t know,” says Warren Allen Image | December 2018

FEATURE

Tiny Trains Bring Big Smiles by Simon VALENTIN

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t looked like the repair depot at Santa’s workshop. Trains and tracks, cars and couplers lying scattered over three long banquet tables at the Allen Senior Recreation Center. Four figures hunched over trains, tearing them apart, eyeballing pieces not much bigger than an apple seed, more like detectives than Christmas elves, trying to figure out why donated train sets wouldn’t work. One gentleman dropped an itty-bitty screw that bounced off the table and he let loose with a phrase that’d raise eyebrows in church. At the same time, another gave a quick shout of success as the engine he’d been working on trundled slowly down a piece of track. A third sat back taking a breather, telling stories to no one in particular. “You know how I’ve been looking for a new dance partner? I think I may have found her!” he said with a wink.

Above: L to R: Jack Rettig, Stan Schwartz, Roy Durrell and Jeff Phelps.

“I love this place,” said the fourth. “It keeps me out of the bars. Well, it keeps me out of the bars six days a week anyway.” Meet the Train Guys—Roy, Stan, Jack and Jeff. They volunteer to work magic on broken down, long forgotten model locomotives and give them to kids who might not otherwise get one. Roy Durell is the oldest at 88. Before he started tinkering with broken trains for kids, he worked with McDonald’s, Johnson’s Wax, and Universal Pictures during Hollywood’s Golden Age. His entertainment career included films like The Benny Goodman Story and The Glenn Miller Story. “Jimmy Stewart, who played Glenn Miller, and Steve Allen, who played Benny Goodman, were both great guys,” Roy said. “They treated everyone nicely, when it was time for lunch, it wasn’t filet and fancy food, it was brown beans and cornbread at the commissary with the rest of us.” Sitting across the table listening to a story he might have heard a time or two, Jeff Phelps checked out the wheels on one of the trains he was working on. The back wheels are made of junk metal, front wheels are made of brass because they are the ones that pick up the electric charge and provide juice to the tiny motor. Jeff, 77, is used to working on full size locomotives, he helped restore steam engines and passenger cars

displayed at the Museum of the American Railroad at Fair Park. “One I really enjoyed working on was a 1927 Pullman Sleeping car that had been converted to a rolling test lab for railroad equipment,” he said. He and his brother restored it to the stylish sleeping car that once whisked passengers away on romantic cross-country journeys. “This was saving history,” he said. “You can have pictures, but they’re not as good as the real thing. When you restore, you tell stories about how the locomotive was used. People can see first-hand how the Pullman cars were enjoyed.” Leaning over a piece of track at the far table, Jack Rettig, the young buck at 71, was absorbed with repairing forty-year-old couplers on train cars so they can connect to each other and be pulled around a cleaned up track that had sat unused for decades. Doing detail work makes the retired Southwestern Bell technician and manager happy. His ability to trouble shoot was first honed on the USS Roosevelt, a World War II aircraft carrier that had 4000 sailors on board. Jack was in charge of communications and spent years keeping the crew of the floating city connected to each other and the folks on shore. “I do this for fun,” Jack said. “On average I spend five or six hours a week working on trains. The oldest one was a Japanese brass train from the 1960’s. What a beauty!” Joining in on the restoration fun was 80-year-old Stan Schwartz, or “Stosh” to his buddies back in the Bronx—guys who’d hang out with him at the yards, watching trains come in and switch their cars. “They didn’t allow steam engines into the city because of the smoke they blew; they only allowed electric engines,” he said. “We’d stand out there for hours; it was amazing what they did.” Stan’s love of model trains was born peering at those electric Allen Image | December 2018

behemoths through a rail yard fence, and it’s an excitement he enjoys sharing. “When we put up a train set at a show and let kids run it, they get so excited they shake; they jump up and down,” he said. “These models move. It’s not an app on a screen.” Jack already has a precise plan of action for their next train-show at Larkspur Senior Living Community at Twin Creeks here in Allen. “I’ll put four sets together that kids can play with and they’ll just run the heck out of them,” he said. “They get to control what it does. They’re in awe of playing with them.” Young locomotive buffs will do more than run a train, they’ll get to put their names in a drawing for the chance to win a refurbished train set of their own. “When you see the kids win these sets, its heart warming, you feel like you made the kid’s day,” Jeff said. When they give a kid a complete train set and they open it, they see their train and it brings a look of happiness to their faces. And, that brings even more happiness to the Train Guys. One memory shines brightest—it was a MASH 4077 train that lacked a caboose and needed some love. Jack tracked down a loose caboose; the set was cleaned up and a name was pulled from the entries. “When that kid opened the box. his dad jumped about hip high,” Roy said. “He told his son, ‘That was my

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favorite show when I was your age! Let me look at it!’ and the boy said, ‘No, no!’ The kid wouldn’t even let his dad touch the box. That kind of excitement gives us a lot of joy.” It’s not always easy getting trains

into shape. A few donated sets work, but most need tweaking. When they power them up, and they have no lights and no power— nothing—that’s where the detective work comes in. They start stripping the engines down to nothing but the wheels and search for the glitch that’s turned a toy into a paperweight. Sometimes sets can be salvaged, other times, they’re so far gone and they are only good for spare parts. It sometimes takes three cannibalized trains to make a good one. Believe it or not, that’s part of the joy for the Train Guys. “Making something work that didn’t before we got it, makes us smile,” Roy said. None of this would happen if people weren’t donating trains that were gathering dust. They accept

donations of all sizes and sets, running or not. As for someone who’s hesitant about giving up an unused set, the Train Guys say to think about it this way—if its broken, its not getting better in the attic and a child could really be enjoying it. There are parents who can’t afford to buy their child a train and, boys or girls, it doesn’t matter, the Train Guys will give them one. When the guys turn that last Lilliputian screw on the engine, polish that last piece of track and lay it all carefully in a box, they do one final thing, they send along a little note. “We hope you

enjoy this. The Train Guys.” The train show will be held December 1 and 2, and December 7 and 8, Saturdays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays noon to

3 p.m. at Larkspur Senior Community, 860 Junction Drive, in Allen. The Train Guys repair trains at Allen Senior Recreation Center Tuesdays from 1:30 to 3 p.m. v Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen.

Allen Image | December 2018

KIDS KORNER

Setting the Stage for Holiday Fun by Deborah DOVE These local performances are the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit and make special memories while introducing children to the performing arts.

The Snowy Day and Other Stories by Ezra Jack Keats Dallas Children’s Theater @ Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman, Dallas, www.dct.org, December 8, 2018-January 20, 2019. Tickets/$15-$40. Follow Peter and his friends as they enjoy the excitement of a fresh snowfall, the delight of whistling for the first time, the awe in finding a special treasure and the feelings of a first crush. Packed with humor and fun, this production combines innovative shadow puppetry and live action to showcase Keats’ beautiful appreciation for diversity. An adaptation of Whistle for Willie, Goggles!, A Letter to Amy and the groundbreaking Caldecott Winner, The Snowy Day. This uplifting story collection encourages playfulness and living life to the fullest each day.

Magic Tree House’s Holiday Musical: A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens Venue One: Dallas Children’s Theater @ Rosewood Center, 5938 Skillman, Dallas, www.dct.org, thru December 23. Tickets/$15-$40. Venue Two: Fairview Youth Theater @ 302 Town Place, Fairview, https://northtexasperformingarts.org/, Thursday and Friday, December 13 and 14, 6 pm; Saturday & Sunday, December 15 & 16, noon & 4 pm. Tickets/$10-$12. In this stage adaptation of the popular Magic Tree House chapter book series, Jack and Annie’s tree house whisks them to Victorian London where they learn the importance of charity and kindness through their friendship with legendary author, Charles Dickens, and inspire him to write one of the most beloved holiday stories of all time.

The Nutcracker Ballet The Performing Arts Center at Allen High School, 300 Rivercrest Blvd., Allen, www/allencivicballet.org, December 15 and 16. Tickets are $15, $20, $25, and $30 The Allen Civic Ballet, accompanied by the Allen Philharmonic, presents this family-friendly holiday ballet that follows Clara as she saves her beloved Nutcracker Prince from the evil Mouse Queen and embarks on a journey through the Land of Snow to the Palace of the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Kingdom of the Sweets.

Sesame Street Live Allen Event Center, https://allenevent.centerallen.com/, 200 East Stacy Road, Allen. December 28, 5 pm; December 29 and 30, 11 am and 3 pm. Tickets start at $55. While it’s not a holiday performance, tickets to this magical performance featuring the Sesame Street gang would make a great stocking stuffer. When magician extraordinaire Justin visits the

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neighborhood to put on a magic show, Elmo wants to join in. But there’s one problem—Elmo doesn’t know how to do magic, so he teams up with Justin, Abby and friends to practice his trick while discovering the magical moments in everyday life! Tickets are also available for a Preshow Experience which includes an on-stage tour of the neighborhood, meeting Elmo, Oscar, Cookie Monster or Abby before the show, a photo with a Muppet, meet and greet opportunity with Big Bird, participate in activities to help decorate for the party and other on-site activities.

Scuba Diving Santa SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium, 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, www.visitsealife.com/Grapevine for show dates & times. Cost is included with general admission ticket. Santa takes the stage…er…water in a dive show like no other along with his elf as they take the plunge in a magical dive show amongst the fish, sharks and stingrays in SEA LIFE Grapevine’s 160,000-gallon ocean tank.

Puppet Shows at NorthPark Mall NorthPark Center, Central Expressway and Highway 12, Dallas (level one near Dillard’s), through December 24 on the hour and half hour. Free. Scrooge’s Puppet Theater NorthPark Center’s whimsical Scrooge Puppet Theatre has been a holiday tradition for four decades as Charles Dickens’ famous character recreates the holiday classic through the magic of puppetry. Be sure to catch the final show on Christmas Eve, when Scrooge is finally filled with the holiday spirit. Santa’s Toy Shoppe Puppet Theatre How does Santa get all of those presents to little boys and girls around the world? Santa’s Toy Shoppe Puppet Theatre animates the story of a toymaker and a cast of entertaining characters working to get Santa’s toys completed in time for Christmas Eve delivery.

Other Holiday Happenings The Dallas Symphony Orchestra presents a holiday performance on December 12, at 7 pm. Throughout the season, visit the Twelve Days of Christmas Clock, a 28-foot music box; visits and story time with Santa; and the Trains at NorthPark, the most elaborate miniature toy trains exhibit in Texas, featuring trains rolling across 1,800 feet of track on a journey across America (tickets are $7/adults and $4/ children). v

EDUCATION

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Collin College’s Red Room A Trial by Fire for Student Chefs by Kirk DICKEY

A burst of sound erupts from the kitchen as its double doors swing open. Pots clang. Students call out to each other asking for ingredients from the prep staff. An instructor yells, “Where’s the chicken? Where’s the rice? What’s the portion size on that pork belly?” and, just like that, you can smell the pork belly, marinated in a mix of ginger, lemongrass and soy sauce for two days, being seared to perfection just behind the closing doors. On this side of the doors, Karn Saetan puts the finishing touches on the dining area, moving from table to table, checking the place settings which, today, feature napkins folded to look like suit jackets surrounding a menu card. The card completes the allusion to a dinner jacket with an illustration of a bowtie the colors of beach, ocean and sky. A nearby serving area is dressed with a grass table skirt and Polynesian music plays softly in the background. “That was a request by the chefs,” Saetan says. “They wanted a beach resort theme.” Welcome to The Red Room, a dining experience like no other in Collin County. A working educational lab for Collin College’s culinary students, The Red Room opens its doors to the public once a week throughout the spring semester,

allowing that week’s executive chef and dining room manager to share what they have learned. The room is dressed each week to complement the menu designed by the soon-to-be culinary program graduates. This week’s island-inspired menu reflects the heritage of its two executive chefs, Mikaela Athieno and Jo Ann Crye, but in prior weeks, the room has been outfitted for high-end barbecue, Cajun faire, Italian and a

wide selection of other foods. Athieno and Crye are running the show. As the executive chefs, they designed the menu, determined its costs, requisitioned all of the ingredients and then executed a production schedule by station in preparation for their big day. “(The class) is pretty detailed,” Crye, who will go on after graduation to extern at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, says. “It is like a real-life

Left: The Red Room at Collin College provides culinary students with experience in every aspect of a working restaurant.

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experience and it is applicable to what is out there in the industry.” That is, after all, the ultimate purpose of the class. While many culinary students have some restaurant experience, The Red Room and its associated curricula serve as a kind of trial by fire capstone course. The students must deliver when real customers are waiting for an exceptional experience. Athieno and Crye have already taken turns as dining room managers at this point in the semester, serving the role that Saetan is playing for them, as well as acting as servers for other chefs. From preparing the main course to entering customer orders to bussing tables, the class of 16 students rotates duties each week. Going through different front of the house and back of the house roles gives them at least some understanding of what every employee does. “It is important for them to see the communication needed between the front and the back of the house,” associate professor Abby Christian says. “They learn about the functions of fine dining. They learn about casual dining and the history of dining, where it originated, why they

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set the table the way they do, what all the silverware is for—things they might not be exposed to if they are solely working in the kitchen.” They also learn about things like point of sale systems, how to program the system if the menu changes and the benefits of the reports in determining a restaurant’s needs— product mix, the popularity of certain items and labor costs—things which most culinary students don’t have much experience with. Just before the first guests arrive, the lights dim and then come back up. You can hear the rain outside. A late spring storm is pounding the Frisco Campus and a power surge caused by a nearby lightning strike causes everyone to stop for just a moment. Then everything swings back into gear. The dining room staff discusses whether there will be any cancellations due to the storm. This week’s reservation list was full, with about 40 people planning to have lunch in The Red Room, but the foul weather will ultimately keep a few people away. That is a shame, because the students look forward to hearing the reactions from guests. The wait staff,

culinary students themselves, relay the feedback to the kitchen. Today, it has been almost entirely positive. “It’s nice that we have (The Red Room) open to the public, so the students can showcase their abilities in front of their friends and family,” Christian says. Back in the kitchen, the students are busy at work. Athieno is dropping a fresh batch of beignets, while others oversee chicken adobo ala fricassee and one works on Halo-Halo, a Filipino fruit sundae served in a coconut shell, this week’s featured dessert. Chef Tom Severs, who has been with The Red Room since the class began in 2010 and will retire after the spring 2018 semester, observes and encourages the students. “(The Red Room) has gotten bigger and better as we go,” Severs says. “Every year, these students are coming here with higher expectations and we are doing better and better.” As for the role this experience plays in the students’ education, Severs says that their culinary courses at Collin College have prepared them for the class. The Red Room and its combined curricula just bring those skills together and drive home the need for attention to detail. “Attention to detail, in our business, is what will make or break any operation,” he says. “They have to be looking, watching, tasting constantly. They can’t just sit back and assume everything is wonderful.” Those are wise words from someone who knows the business. Still, judging from the pleased expressions on the guests as they leave, “wonderful” might be just what they are thinking. For more information about The Red Room, visit www.collin.edu/ community/redroom. The next series of dining dates begins in February. v Kirk Dickey is a marketing and communications coordinator for Collin College. Photos by Nick Young, Collin College photographer.

MARKET PLACE

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YOUTH SEEN

Allen HS Shooting Club

he whisper of a young woman didn’t look like much competition standing on the skeet field cradling a 12-gauge shotgun nearly as big as she was. At about five-feet-tall, with a dimple-framed smile, hazel eyes and raven hair, it was easy for her competitors to believe rumors that she was a cheerleader who’d been in a feature film—she was nothing to worry about. Grinning at her teammates, she stepped into the first station on the field, nestled the shotgun stock into her shoulder, kept the barrel pointed skyward and called out “Pull!” An orange clay disc not much bigger than an English muffin flew out from a tower behind her at 40 miles an hour. And, faster than you can read this sentence, she got it in her sites, squeezed the trigger, hit it dead center and turned the orange clay pigeon into a puff of smoke. Meet Morgan Scott, co-captain last season of Allen High School’s championship Shooting Club. Currently a college freshman, she successfully juggled classes, cheerleading for Allen High School, as well winning state and national titles for the Shooting Club. “When I’m on the range, it’s home. It’s a comforting, serene place for me,” she said. Here’s a quick lesson on the sport that brings Morgan serenity. The goal is simple enough—hit the flying bright orange round target. It can be done a number of ways. Sporting clays will imitate hunting situations. Trap shooting involves the clays flying away from you. Skeet shooting is what we’ll focus on here.

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by Simon VALENTIN

Imagine a half circle and spaced evenly around the inside of that half circle are seven concrete squares or stations you move around, left to right. At opposite ends are a high house on one side, a low house on the other, each throwing a target out when you call “pull.” The sport challenges reaction time, eye-hand coordination, and the ability to keep your mind focused. Coach Jason Anderson, the Outdoors Adventure teacher at Allen High School, created the team about seven years ago. “The first thing we do is teach firearm safety,” Coach Anderson said. “Some of these kids have never held a firearm so everyone spends hour after hour after hour in safety classes before going near a range.” Lessons are drilled into kids’ heads. Always treat a firearm as if it were loaded. Never load until you’re ready to shoot. Don’t put your finger on the trigger until you’re ready to shoot. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Shooting Club leader Thomas Keele, a junior at Allen High School, takes those lessons to heart. “The amount of precautions in place makes it one of the safest sports around,” he said. “There are always parents with us.” Teammate Meredith McCarty, a sophomore, is more than comfortable on the range. “If someone were to be unsafe, a ‘cease fire’ can be called by anyone and adults would deal with what was happening.” Morgan has an interesting take on the Shooting Club. “This is a safer sport than cheerleading, hands down,” said the former competitive cheerleader. “I was a flyer, the one thrown in the air. I’ve gotten concussions. In cheer you’re constantly getting hurt.” she said. “I’ve never been injured

shooting, I don’t know anyone who has been.” With safety in mind, firearms aren’t allowed near campus and can only be brought to off-campus events by parents who Coach Anderson says also received “Preaching and Teaching” about safety. “This isn’t a sport where kids are dropped off and picked up hours later. This requires family involvement,” he said. “The kids learn to pay attention, and to respect the firearm and the adults and coaches working with them. We help create responsible adults. We shape leaders,” he continued. The club provides an experience some students wouldn’t have otherwise. “One of our biggest triumphs is taking kids who can’t be part of

another athletic team and see them try something new. We watch their confidence build and see them grow socially. It’s amazing,” said Assistant Coach Richard Scott, Morgan’s father. “It becomes a family.” Unlike other sports, it’s not limited to teens with testosterone coursing through their veins. Of the 50 kids involved, from sixth grade through twelfth, about half are young women. “It’s not about your gender, your size or your strength, its about practice and mastering the mental aspect of the sport,” said Meredith. “It’s about succeeding together.” Coach Scott’s son, Warren, was one of the first students to join the club when it started. An introvert by nature, Scott saw him change. “It was a big opportunity. He made friends, found a place he was comfortable and got to experience new things— traveling, competing, being part of a team,” he commented. It’s also a big commitment, requiring a solid monetary investment and lots of windshield time since the team practices an hour away from school.

“Its worth taking on the challenge,” said Thomas. “At first the target seems superfast and when you miss, you over think it. “Unlike other opponents, the 25 clays that you have a chance to break, generally follow the same path, he adds. “You have to remember, you get another chance, so you become methodical and tell yourself ‘I know where it’s going, I’ll smoke the next one!’” Meredith says that the sport is about persistence and about beating her last score. “I’m competing against myself,” she says. Coach Scott has seen that same development in his kids and gets misty when he talks about the effect the club has had. Warren became more outgoing—a leader who started a shooting club at his college. As for Morgan? “I’ve seen her confidence increase, her focus sharpen and her positive attitude grow. I couldn’t be prouder,” exclaimed the coach. Actually he probably will be. Morgan was in a movie—about skeet shooting, and may be called back for more filming. Not every student who joins the Shooting Club goes from skeet field to silver screen, but its pretty much guaranteed those who join will be glad they became a part of this family. v Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen. Allen Image | December 2018

LOOKING BACK

Allen Christian Church is 100 by Tom KEENER

The Allen Christian Church building celebrates its centennial year this year. It has glowed like a beacon in the night to Allen residents since 1918. Once an important anchor for Allen’s downtown area, it is now a centerpiece in the new historic village. The current structure is a superb example of prairie style architecture and is one of the last in Allen and Collin County. Members of this Christian Church were among the earliest Anglo immigrants to Collin County and were initially led by Collin McKinney, namesake for the city of McKinney and Collin County. Bush family ancestors had studied with Alexander Campbell, founder of the Christian denomination later to be called Disciples of Christ. Church records indicate that the Allen Christian Church was organized in 1880. It purchased two lots from

the H&TC Railway only four years after the town was originally platted by railway surveyor, Theodore Kosse. J. Ben Faulkner served as the first minister. In 1918, this building was completed, replacing the original structure. The dedication was held on the second Sunday of April 1918. The late Louise Angel Kishi recalled that services in the early period were held on alternative Sundays and the minister would take the Interurban from Ft. Worth’s Brite Divinity School on a Saturday, spend the night with a church family, deliver the sermon on Sunday, enjoy lunch with the host family and return to Ft. Worth that afternoon. High school graduations were frequently held in the church because they had ceiling fans. Beautiful stained-glass windows are exquisite features of this church

and are among the prettiest in North Texas. Viewing them recalls images of European cathedrals. In addition, some windows contain the family names of Allen’s early pioneers—John and Mary Liter Brown, John William Brown and son, Thomas and Parthenia Ereckson, Mrs. Leslie Walker Bush, James and Nettie Bush and Sterling and Janie Bush. A mystery lies in the “Good Shepherd” window where Jesus has six toes. It is believed that artist who created the window had six toes or had a brother with six toes and he modeled it after himself or his brother. The Corinth Presbyterian Church in nearby Parker also has a Jesus as a “Good Shepherd” with six toes. Former Pastor Mona Bailey indicated their legend is consistent with that of Allen’s Christian Church—the artist created Jesus with six toes to honor his own six-toed brother. The name of the windows’ artist is unknown at this time, but he is believed to be an English immigrant who worked in glass factory in Dallas. There is a twelve-toed Moses in a church in England. Perhaps there is a connection? These hallowed windows are superb examples of fine art from a period before Allen was to emerge into an urban environment. The Allen Heritage Guild now uses the church for weddings, civic groups, funerals, recitals and other functions that benefit the public. Tell me your story, 214.509.4911. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

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MARKET PLACE

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STYLE

Holiday Shopping

Style

by Natasha MOSER

This December, spend time treating yourself to some shopping therapy. Whether shopping for yourself or loved ones, spending an afternoon perusing the shops to make thoughtful purchases can help ease the Christmas rush. We photographed in Downtown Plano which has several unique local boutiques. Local downtown shops around the DFW area are a great way to find a one-of-a-kind gifts this holiday season while also supporting local merchants.

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Karey is getting ready for her shopping outing with a coffee from XO Coffee Company in Downtown Plano. She is wearing a short-sleeved, scoop neck ivory sweater by Pol with Flying Monkey rawhemmed hi/low ankle jeans. This sweater is so soft and cozy you will never want to take it off. With the scoop neckline, it is perfect for showing off a stunning necklace. The look is complimented by a taupe, cream and mustard multi-tassel necklace, large, gold hoop earrings, stackable bracelets by Ermish, blush, braided strap purse by Street Level and modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own taupe leather ankle boots.

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Everyone has a pair of tall boots in their wardrobe. Why not pair them with a button-down shirt for a change? Our model, Karey, paired her own tall, brown leather boots with a creamcolored button-down with a ruffle that is a cotton/linen blend from Listicle. Skinny jeans with an ankle zip by Kan Can, the blushcolored purse with braided strap from Street Level and the modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own belt complete the look.

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Go from holiday shopping to a holiday party with this look. A burgundy, paisley top with flared sleeves by Entro dresses up the flared jeans by Angry Rabbit Denim. Finish the look with a gold and blush beaded necklace from Bel Joy, a gold clutch by Kenzie, large gold hoop earrings and more stackable bracelets by Ermish. Karey is wearing bracelets in gold, white, blush and tan.

Thank you to Griffin and Grace at 960 West Parker Road, #224 in Plano for providing the looks for our model. Model: Karey Hamby from Trophy Club. Thank you to XO Coffee Company at 1023 East 15th in Downtown Plano for the perfect location for our photo shoot. v Natasha Moser is a writer and stylist. Photos: Amber Starling Photography at amberstarling.com.

Allen Image | December 2018

PET PAGE

“Gilbert” Gilbert is a 70-pound, nine-year-old Labrador retriever looking for his retirement home. After being a loyal family member for nine years, he was left by his family at a vet where he was not a patient. We rescued him from an area shelter were he was in jeopardy of euthanasia. Gilbert may be nine, but he is young at heart, full of personality and quite the awesome boy! I mean, what senior still dives in from the deep end of the pool? He loves kids and people of all shapes and sizes. He is heartworm negative, neutered, current on all of his vaccinations and all ready for a forever home to call his own. He is housebroken and can be trusted to have free roam of the house. If you are interested in meeting with, or adopting, sweet Gilbert, please complete an adoption application online at http:// legacyhumanesociety.org/adoptfoster/ adoption-application/ and someone will reach out to you within 48 hours.

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Chase is a fouryear-old Catahoula mix weighing 57 pounds. He is a sweet-natured cuddler who likes walks and car rides. He is smart, friendly, outgoing and loves making new friends! He’s active and energetic and enjoys playing with toys. In his previous home, he got along great with children and other dogs. If you’re looking for a fun-loving dog to join your family, he’s the one for you! Chase has been neutered, microchipped and has received all ageappropriate vaccinations. Come meet him today! #145009

“Chase”

Lauren is a oneyear-old, domestic shorthair mix, who is a loving, playful girl that adores people! She likes petting, playing with toys and spending time with people. She’s talkative, and loves when you talk to her. If you’re looking for a fun-loving cat to make you smile, she’s the one for you. Lauren has been spayed, tested negative for FIV/FeLV, microchipped and has received all age-appropriate vaccinations. Come meet her today! #162832

“Lauren”

Chase and Lauren are waiting for you at the SPCA of Texas’ Russell H. Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney at 8411 Stacy Road. Call 214.742.SPCA (7722) or visit today. v