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r. Allen Gandy is a respected, boardcertified orthodontist who has been in practice since 2003. He is one of relatively few orthodontists in Texas offering in-office i-CAT 3-D imaging as a routine diagnostic tool for individualized treatment planning. This cutting edge 3-D treatment allows for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. “There’s a significant difference in the amount of information that we obtain from traditional 2-D x-rays compared to this advanced 3-D technology,” explains Dr. Gandy. “3-D imaging helps eliminate guesswork in many orthodontic situations. I can evaluate my patients’ growth and dental development accurately. “

The most advanced technology Dr. Gandy combines his expertise with sophisticated technology to achieve excellent orthodontic results. “We want to present many options to our patients and to provide them with the type of treatment they are looking for,” says Dr. Gandy. “If a patient does not want to be in braces for a long time, we offer treatment modalities that can get us to the finish line faster. If they wish for the braces not to show, we can utilize esthetic toothcolored braces or customized lingual braces, placed on the inside of the teeth (Incognito® System), or Invisalign® treatment. Our goal is to help our patients make an educated decision and to provide them with the best orthodontic treatment possible.”

ALLEN/FAIRVIEW 431 Stacy Road, Suite 109

972.727.3900

The DAMON® Braces system is a state-ofthe-art, clinically proven method of treatment, which uses passive, self-ligating (tie-less) brackets that hold the wire with a sliding mechanism instead of traditional elastic rings. The wires slide freely through the slots with minimum friction, while the shape memory of the wire guides the movement of the teeth without tightening. In addition to the efficient DAMON® Braces system, Gandy Orthdontics offers Invisalign® treatment, Incognito® lingual braces and SURESMILE® system of customized orthodontic wires.

A great family atmosphere “Our offices are not only state-of-the-art, but they’re also warm and caring places to be, for both children and adults,” comments Dr. Gandy. “Our friendly and dedicated team members are great at what they do. We have a fantastic team of professionals taking care of our patients.” The best thing about his job, Dr. Gandy says, is giving his patients a beautiful smile. “It’s very rewarding to see the results of my work. Orthodontics can really change peoples’ lives—from giving them greater confidence in their smile to improving the function of their bite. There are people who come to me and just don’t smile, but afterwards… they just can’t stop smiling.”

contents

January 2014

Vol. 24,, Issue 1

cover story 36 Kassy Levels lives her “Once upon a time”

With enthusiastic support of family and friends, 17-year-old Kassy Levels’ quest to share her music with the world proves to be a reachable goal. One recent and significant turning point for Kassy was winning the Kollaboration Dallas 2013 competition. by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

feature 22 Bowling for Scholarships

Allen High School’s bowlers have won tens of thousands of dollars in scholarship funds, but at its heart, the team isn’t a scholarship machine, it’s there to help students develop themselves as athletes and outstanding citizens. by Simon Valentin

special sections 19 pet page Branson

24 kids korner

Indoor activities for active preschoolers by Deborah Dove

52 calendar

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82 people seen

For a chance to win a $50 dining card

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

he Law Office of Natalie Gregg moved from Dallas to Allen in 2009 when the firm’s managing partner brought her own family to this community. “My husband and I are passionate about providing our children with the best opportunities to learn and to grow,” says Natalie Gregg.” Allen stood out as a place where we could build the future of our family while also helping others who shared our values.” The move turned out to be a perfect fit for both the family and the firm. For the past two years, Natalie has been rated among the top 2.5% of practicing attorneys as a “Rising Star” in Texas Super Lawyers. She has also been recognized by Huffington Post Divorce and Avvo. “I am grateful for the trust that my clients place in my firm. As a working mother, I

particularly appreciate the challenges faced by families in transition. My goal is not just to represent my clients in court, but to guide them through the complex emotional and financial issues associated with family law.” Natalie is supported by a team that is exclusively focused on the practice of family law. This team includes fellow attorneys Melissa W. Cason and Matthew R. Davis, as well as paralegal Hope Morgan. All attorneys are licensed to practice law in the State of Texas and not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. “Allen is the home of my family and my firm,” says Natalie. “ I want to help my neighbors who are restructuring their families so that they can preserve their dignity while protecting the future of their children.”

contents departments civic forum 10

Allen Animal Shelter fosters program by Kathleen Vaught

Sixth Annual Allen ISD Eagle Run

2013 Cliburn Finalist to perform

Carrie McCormick

advertising sales Sue Hardesty

Allen Little Rookies

Kris Jones

Pilot public transit program

contributing writers Heather Darrow

Cowboys and Bullgirls Fired-Up, Focused-Up, Fueled Up

Deborah Dove

ACT’s permanent theatre Elvis in the Sixties

Dr. Alan Gandy

Tom Keener Kathy Litinas Jeff Mues

by Heather Darrow

Dr. Todd Pollock

Honors programs elevate opportunities

library 34

Dr. Maria Flacquer

Trains, highways and automobiles

by Keith A. Taylor

Peggy Helmick-Richardson Jennifer Slingerland Ryan Keith Taylor

by Tom Keener

Simon Valentin

Tynia Thomassie Bluegrass music

Kathleen Vaught

35 The Special Edition Band Laughter

cover photo Larry Fleming

travel 44

Winter in the coastal bend by Deborah Dove

health & fitness 74

Face the facts by Dr. Todd Pollock

Ask the orthodontist by Dr. Alan Gandy

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office administrator

by Kathleen Vaught

Barbara Peavy

by Kathy Litinas

education

publisher/editor

by Jeff Mues

Allen Image

It’s not too late to vaccinate by Dr. Maria Flacquer

True graciousness by Jennifer Slingerland Ryan

Allen Image © 2013 by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. Allen Image is published by Moonlight Graphics and individually mailed free of charge to the residents of the Allen area. Subscriptions are available to residents outside the delivery area at a rate of $2.50 per issue—$30 per year. Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to:

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

civic forum

Allen Animal Shelter fosters a new program by Kathleen Vaught

In writing this article, I remember how fortunate we were when we adopted our family dog, Roxy, after Hurricane Ike. The shelter nicknamed her “Shy Girl” because she was so timid, however, it only took a few weeks at home with us before she blossomed into the fun loving dog we have today. According to Allison Harper, Allen Animal Shelter Supervisor, the home environment and socialization with people is exactly what many of

Roxy

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the shelter animals need to transition from shelter life to a permanent home. Creating a way for strays to be nurtured within a home environment prior to permanent placement is the mission of the shelter ’s new foster program. Harper said, “Being fostered offers a more beneficial environment for animals than being in the shelter. It also gets available pets out into the

community where more people can be aware of the adoption opportunity.” Due to the large number of strays and new litters at the shelter over the last few months, the need for adult volunteers is expanding both at the facility with the day-to-day care of the animals and through implementation of the new foster program. Through the foster program, animals are cared for by a volunteer in their home on a temporary basis. Animals available for foster care may range from kittens needing to be fed until they are able to eat solid foods or to larger dogs in need of play and a backyard run. “Fostering pets from us can definitely be a win-win for both the foster family and the animal,” said Harper. “Helping these strays find forever homes is, of course, beneficial for the animal long-term. And the joy these families receive in the process can be a great experience, too.” If you’re interested in becoming an adult volunteer at the shelter or a foster pet parent, please contact the City of Allen Animal Shelter at 214.509.4378 or animalshelter@ v cityofallen.org. Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen.

Sixth Annual Allen ISD Eagle Run Registration is now open for the 6th Annual Allen ISD Eagle Run, set for Saturday, March 8. The Eagle Run is a 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Run that will take place in and around the new Allen High School Eagle Stadium. This will be the sixth year for the event and the second year for the Eagle Run to utilize the stadium—and this is the only run that is allowed to use the facility. All registered participants will get to experience what the winning Allen Eagle football players do each week as they race to the finish line across the football field. Last year’s Eagle Run attracted more than 3,000 participants and the numbers are expected to grow again for the 2014 event. The run, which benefits student and teacher scholar ships, is sponsored by the Foundation For Allen Schools and the Allen Council of PTAs. “We had tremendously positive feedback from our runners about the course last year,” said Foundation Director Regina Taylor,. “The students— and all the adults—loved the experience of being down on the field at Eagle Stadium. It makes this run unique and extra fun. So if you want to run where the Eagles soar, this is your chance!” Park Place Lexus is the title sponsor for the Allen ISD Eagle Run

and will have cars on display along with registration for prizes. Awards are presented to the top three finishers in each age category; children age 11 and younger receive a participation ribbon. To register, and for more information

t unities and on sponsorship oppor maps of the course, visit www. AllenEagleRun.org or call 972.727.0362. Find out more at www.AISDfoundation. org and www.facebook.com/ AISDfoundation. v

A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

2013 Cliburn finalist to perform by Kathy Litinas

The Allen Philharmonic continues its tradition of providing world-class music and special concert guests as we present A Festival of Russian Composers, on Saturday, January 25, 2014, at 8 p.m. at the Allen Performing Arts Center located on the campus of Allen High School. We welcome FeiFei Dong, finalist from this summer’s Cliburn Foundation Competition, in a performance of Rachmaninoff ’s “Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor.” Praised for her “natural musicality and beauty of tone” (Cincinnati Enquirer) during the 2013 Cliburn Competition, Chinese pianist Fei-Fei Dong landed among the top six finalists and won three years of concert tours in the United States. She has begun to build a reputation for her poetic interpretations, charming audiences with her “passion, piquancy and tenderness” and “winning stage presence.” (Dallas Morning News) The “Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor,” composed by Sergei Rachmaninoff, has the reputation of being one of the most technically challenging piano concertos in the standard classical repertoire. “The night’s (2013 Cliburn Competition) most promising musicmaking came last, when Chinese pianist, Fei-Fei Dong, 22, was soloist in Rachmaninoff’s ‘Piano Concerto No. 3.’ The work’s fiendish difficulties held little terror for the pianist, who managed the cascades of notes with aplomb and occasionally reveled in the wealth of poetic writing.” Donald Rosenberg, The Plain Dealer.

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Born in Shenzhen, Ms. Dong began piano lessons at the age of 5. Ms. Dong gave her first recital at age 10 and made her orchestra debut three years later, performing Rachmaninoff’s “Third Concerto” with the Macau Youth Symphony Orchestra. She moved to New York to study at The Juilliard School, earning her Bachelor of Music under the guidance of Yoheved Kaplinsky, with whom she continues to study in pursuit of her master’s degree. She has appeared with the Aspen Music Festival, Hong Kong, Juilliard, Shanxi and Shenzhen Symphony Orchestras. She has made debuts in Alice Tully Hall, Warsaw Philharmonic Concert Hall and the Louvre Auditorium and has been featured multiple times on New York’s WQXR radio.

Her inaugural season as a Cliburn winner includes debuts with the Corpus Christi and Big Spring Symphony Orchestras with John Giordano and recital appearances across the United States. The Allen Philharmonic is pleased to bring Ms. Dong to the concert stage here in our community. Additional concert selections include Tchaikovsky’s “Cappricio Italien” and Prokofiev’s “Lieutenant Kije Suite.” For tickets and information, please visit our website at www. allenphilharmonic.org or call our office at 972.359.0656. Join us for an exciting concert experience!!! v Kathy Litinas is the president of the APSO board of directors.

Allen’s Little Rookies by Jeff Mues

It’s been said that hockey

is a sport only a Canadian or a Zamboni salesman could love.

We’re skeptical of that claim since it’s proven pretty darn popular here in Allen. With exactly zero Zamboni salesman listed in Allen in the Yellow Pages, we’re quite comfortable saying that the sport has been embraced by more than just Allen’s Canadian ex-pat population. Home to the CHL’s Allen Americans and to hockey programming at Allen Community Ice Rink, Allen Event Center has very much embraced the idea of helping to create a culture of hockey fans and hockey players here in Allen. No offense to our Canadian friends, but who better than (arguably) the greatest American-born hockey player to ever play the game— the legendary Mike Modano—to help us with that cause! Partnering with the Dallas Stars, Allen Community Ice Rink was able to recently bring in

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Mike Modano to help officially launch the Dallas Stars Little Rookie Program. This free youth hockey initiative consists of four 30-minute, Saturday on-ice sessions that provide children, ages four to eight, the opportunity to try the sport. It’s a chance to learn the basics of hockey without parents having to incur the registration fees or equipment costs that can sometimes

“I’m excited to be associated with a program like Little Rookies”

serve as a deterrent to getting started with the sport. “I’m excited to be associated with a program like Little Rookies that continues to help grow youth hockey in North Texas,” Modano told the Dallas Morning News after showing up personally to work with the Little Rookies at Allen Event Center. “This program wouldn’t have taken off without the support and hard work of the local area ice rinks which will help facilitate this incredible opportunity for children to learn the basics of hockey without any cost to their families.” Introducing new players to the game is a primary goal of the Allen Community Ice Rink that continued late last year with the International Ice Hockey Federation’s Girls Hockey Weekend and annual Pinktoberfest tournament, which helped raise funds and awareness for breast cancer research. The weekend’s festivities included a competitive tournament for female players which drew teams from as far away as California and a free clinic for females to try hockey at no cost with free skate rental and 45 minutes of instruction included. For those looking to try the sport, Allen Community Ice Rink offers great instructors and lessons throughout the

year in addition to a number of special opportunities such as Try Hockey for Free clinics—the next of which is slated for the seventh annual Hockey Weekend Across America, February 28 through March 1. But why wait until late February to get started? Certainly, if you have a youngster between the ages of 4 and 8, then there is absolutely no reason to wait. The next Little Rookies program gets underway February 1. For the registration link, visit CityOfAllen.

org/ACIR. Spots are limited so we suggest registering as soon as possible! Who knows—your little rookie might even get to skate with the greatest American-born hockey player ever! Perhaps it could lead to a professional hockey career as legendary as Mike Modano’s… And if not, there’s always Zamboni sales! v Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator

with the Allen Event Center and Allen Parks and Recreation Department.

A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

Pilot public transit program makes its way in Allen by Kathleen Vaught

Whether you live or work in Allen, there is now an easier way to get around town. One of Allen City Council’s long-term goals has been to bring public transit options to our city. In 2009, the City of Allen was awarded a three-year federal grant to fund Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) transportation. This grant is designed to assist cities like Allen in providing low-cost transportation for employees from urban areas to get to and from jobs in suburban locations. In November 2013, Allen City Council contracted with Texoma Area Paratransit System (TAPS) to provide a fixed-route system that connects to the Parker Road DART Station in Plano with numerous stops near major employers and retailers around Allen. The routes were planned to enable workers bound for jobs in Allen to commute opposite of the peak flow of morning and evening traffic. There are also connections at designated north

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and south hubs in Allen to provide a convenient express service to and from the Parker Road DART station. A unique feature TAPS buses provide is free WiFi access for riders during their commute. Another great feature about TAPS in Allen is that it is not limited to transporting the workforce—the “playforce” can hop aboard, too! In fact, you can complete the triple crown of shopping in Allen by parking for free at the south parking garage next to Allen Event Center in The Village at Allen, get some shopping done, then take the TAPS bus over to Allen Premium Outlets for more shopping. When you have grabbed all of the bargains you want there, take the TAPS bus down to Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm and continue your shopping spree. Afterwards, walk across the street and pick up the TAPS bus back to your car. Sounds like a great day to us! While the JARC service began in November, you may have seen TAPS

service vehicles around Allen prior to that as they had taken over much of the county’s paratransit service. This service provides a point-to-point, curb-to-curb shared ride to any qualified resident in their sevencounty service area. The three-year grant-funded JARC program, in connection with the paratransit service, provides the ability for the City of Allen to better determine the long-term public transportation needs as well as ways to create connectivity in the region. Learn more about Allen’s public transit routes and schedules at www. TAPSBus.com/Allen-Routes where you can also download the local service map. To schedule a paratransit ride, visit www.TAPSBus.com/Get-aRide or call 800.256.0911 and speak with a rider service representative. v Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen.

Snippets Cowboys and Bullgirls Allen’s own comedy players, members of Like Minded Friends, will be presenting their first coffee house of the New Year with a twist, at the Allen Heritage Guild Center. Their motivation is that laughter is good for people and they like to laugh too. They hatched the idea last spring and began gathering material from word-of-mouth jokes, emails and the Internet. The funniest humor came from the Johnny Carson Show, Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-in and Hollywood Squares. This material was so hilarious, they built a replica of the famous “joke wall” as a platform for recalling some of the best oneliners from the golden age of television. Featured will be some very funny skits involving memorable personalities from the above shows. There will also be some original acts such as LMF’s own quartet—The Four Tremors— who will render some nursing home songs. Showtime is at 7:30 p.m. on January 4. The program will be in two parts, with a musical interlude provided by The Notables. Refreshments, soft drinks and wine will be available all evening. The Allen Heritage Guild Center is at 100 E. Main Street in Allen. v

Fired-Up! Focused-Up! Fueled-Up! Women from around the world will descend on the Hope Center in Plano for the 2nd Annual Powerful Journey Women’s Conference. The event—slated from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on February 1—will feature local and nationally known guest speakers. The upcoming conference’s theme is “Your Time to Flourish,” said founder of the Powerful Journey Organization, Phyllis Jenkins . “Women who attend this conference will be equipped to live in their divine purpose,” Jenkins enthusiastically said. “This conference is not just an event, it’s an experience!” The returning keynote speaker for the women’s conference is entrepreneur and entertainment attorney Marshawn Evans. One of the nation’s leading experts on the art of maximizing potential and life coaching, Evans provides regular commentary for CNN and ESPN. “It is difficult to be a powerful woman if you are not full of power,” Evans said. “I know it sounds pretty simple, but as women we are everything to everybody and we are hardly ever good to ourselves. This conference is a great opportunity for you to fill yourself back up.” Jenkins stated, “At last year’s conference, lives were changed, purpose was awakened and women left powered-up to move to the next level. This year promises the same and much more.” The MCs for the conference are radio personalities Markeeta Campbell (KGGR Radio 1040 am) and Jamila Camp (KHVN Radio 970 am). The conference also features Empowerment Breakout Sessions that are led by phenomenal women who are experts in their field. A scholarship in the name of former Allen resident Madian Chumbley will also be presented. Women interested in applying for the scholarship should contact Jenkins at phyllis@phyllisjenkins.com. Women of all ages are encouraged to attend the conference. To register for the conference or secure a vendor space, visit our website: phyllisjenkins.com or call 214.621.2802. v

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Marshawn Evans and Phyllis Jenkins

pet page

“Branson” Branson is an approximately five-year-old, 12-pound terrier mix that was found as a stray in Rockwall and brought into the CCHS foster program. He is good with cats and other dogs and would be great in a home with kids! He is also housetrained. Branson is such a sweet boy and he is looking for a family to fall in love with.

Branson is looking for his forever home He is neutered, microchipped, vaccinated. He did test positive for heartworms, but he has been treated and can resume all regular activities. Once heartworms are treated, they are gone for good, so don’t let this little thing discourage you from meeting this sweet boy— you may be his forever family. To apply for this sweetheart please complete an application at: http:// collincountyhumanesociety.org/ adoption-application.html and his foster mom will get in touch with you. A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

Snippets ACT’s permanent theatre Allen’s Community Theatre has found its permanent home at 1206 E. Main Street, Suite #105 in Allen. After two years of performing in church and city-owned spaces, ACT has signed a 64-month lease on a storefront site. We can now offer the community a permanent theatre space that will enable us to plan our entire season a year in advance and add more shows. We are thrilled to announce our 2013-14 Season: • Allen-Fairview Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting and Open Mic Night, Thursday, January 16 at 5 p.m. • Barefoot in the Park by Neil Simon, directed by Joy Millard. This delightful classic chronicles the opening days of the marriage between Paul and Corie Bratter. He’s a straight-as-anarrow lawyer and she’s a free spirit always looking for the latest thrill. Opposites may attract but can they stay married? Auditions: Sunday night, December 15, 6-9 p.m., and December 16, 7-10 p.m. Performance dates: February 6, 7, 8, 9 (matinee), 13, 14, 15, 16 (matinee), 20, 21, 22 and 23 (matinee) • Moon Over Buffalo by Ken Ludwig, directed by Julie Fackrell Auditions in February. Show opens March 20 and runs three weekends • Into the Woods (Musical) by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, directed by Gena Graham. Auditions in April. Show opens May 22 and runs three weekends • TBA—Children’s Play, directed by Robin Coulonge. Auditions in June. Show opens August 7 and runs three weekends. Contact allenscommunitytheatre@gmail.com for more information or visit them at www. AllensCommunityTheatre.net or www.facebook.com/ Allen’sCommunityTheatre. v

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Elvis in the sixties All films are free and begin on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the Allen Public Library. Call 214.509.4905. January 7—Follow That Dream (1962), starring The King, Arthur O’Connell and Anne Helm. When the Kwimper family car runs out of gas on a new Florida highway and an officious state supervisor tries to run them off, Pop Kwimper digs in his heels and decides to do a little homesteading. January 14—Kid Galahad (1962), starring The King, Charles Bronson and Lola Albright. When he completes his military service, Walter Gulick returns to his birthplace, Cream Valley, New York. Orphaned as an infant and raised elsewhere, he always wanted to return to his birthplace. January 21—It Happened at the World’s Fair (1963), starring The King, Joan O’Brien and Gary Lockwood. Mike and Danny fly a crop duster, but because of Danny’s gambling debts, a local sheriff seizes it. Trying to earn money, they hitchhike to the World’s Fair in Seattle. January 28—Roustabout (1964), starring The King, Barbara Stanwyck and Leif Erickson. Charlie Rogers is a leatherjacketed biker who’s fired from a singing engagement after getting into a fight with a group of college toughs.

Elvis Presley tribute artist Charlie Whitworth will introduce Roustabout with a musical tribute. He enjoys paying tribute to the greatest artist there ever was and keeping his memory alive for future generations. A native of Whitewright, Charlie’s nostalgic and energizing performance has been a popular attraction at numerous venues. v

Bowling for scholarships feature

by Simon Valentin When you pull open the double glass doors at the Allen Bowl, you hear it before you see it, a fifteenpound-ball rumbling down a wooden alley, creating a thunder clap as it crushes pins and sends them flying. Kids from Allen High School’s top rated bowling team are brutalizing the pins in practice today, taking part in training that seems a bit unorthodox. One student cradles the ball, takes a few quick steps, swings and releases with an imperceptible flick of the wrist, the ball rides the gutter’s edge, hooks hard to the left, a crash rattles the lane and nothing is left standing. The young man quietly makes his way off the alley to a huge rubber yoga ball, kneels on it, balances and goes through a dry run of his entire swing, from drawing his arm back to final release. For a minute, it appears his eyes are closed. “It helps him keep the proper form, makes him aware of his throw. If he can do it balancing on an exercise ball, doing it on the alley won’t be an issue,” says Allen High School Head Bowling Coach Joe McCusker. The coach grabs a broomstick, walks halfway down a lane, and plants one end on an arrow pointing at a corresponding pin. “Focus here, hit the stick, don’t look at the pins,” McCusker says to a bowler who’s having a tough time hitting the sweet spot consistently. The student does exactly what she’s told, coach yanks the stick away and the ball shoots by and clears out the pin deck—another strike. Balancing on a yoga ball with closed eyes, narrowing attention to a spot on the alley and making the pins fade away. It all sounds a bit Zen—be the ball, grasshopper. “We use different techniques to help the kids keep focused,” says assistant coach Kevin Prior.

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Those techniques seem to work pretty well. Allen High School’s bowling team—both the boys and girls—finished first in All District competition in 2013 and ranked among the top schools in other state and local contests. Jackson Burke carries a 217 average and adheres to the esoteric training. “It’s hard, it requires consistency, you have to maintain the same speed, hit the same mark on the lane every time, you have to keep everything perfect. It’s ninety percent mental,” he says. Teammate Bailey Mays, also a 217 bowler, says this isn’t just about launching a projectile down the alley at immobile targets. There are subtleties that must be mastered, everything from release techniques to oil patterns. “There are fifty different oil patterns used on alleys to preserve them,” he says. “More oil means the ball doesn’t react much, less oil means the ball gets more traction and reacts more. You play to the pattern.” There are also different kinds of alley surfaces, they can be wood or synthetic. (A wood lane produces more friction so the ball needs more power behind it.) Then there’s the type of ball you use, what material it’s made from, where the core—or weight—is placed inside it. “There’s a lot to this game,” says Assistant Coach Prior. “Including physics—you’re dealing with surface materials, friction, weight placement, speed, energy exertion.” You’re also dealing with preconceived notions. Ask most people about bowling and they picture middle-aged guys in polyester shirts. This misperception has kept kids—especially young women—interested in other things. Sixteen-year-old Darcy Baldwin, a 175 bowler, is part of the growing wave of girls changing the face of the game. “It’s fun, my teammates are great, the competitions are really, really intense and, it’s exciting I could get a scholarship for something I enjoy doing,” she says. Fourteen-year-old teammate Veronica Prior agrees. “I love the environment and everyone in it. I practice everyday for about three hours, my average is 185 and my goal is to get a full ride bowling scholarship.” Yes, you read correctly, they’re working for full ride scholarships to major universities. For bowling. In fact, every year scholarships for young ladies go unused, free tuition no one utilizes because there aren’t enough women in the sport. If that interests you, Allen High School is the place to be. “Allen is one of the powerhouses in the state, they’re continually competitive. They want their kids to develop and bowl in college,” says Brad Hagen, head women’s bowling coach at Sam Houston University. “Bowling has been an NCAA competitive sport for more than a decade and there’s a lot of opportunities for kids to move on to a college athletic career with it,” Coach Hagen says. Once they get there, it’s no cakewalk. “We have

athletic standards, academic standards, university standards. These students are held to tougher standards because they are NCAA Division One athletes.” And you don’t have to wait for high school to put a young bowler on the college track. “Kids as young as five compete at local, state and nationals levels for scholarships,” says International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame’s Chad Murphy. “The money is placed in a fund and they request their earnings when they’re ready for college.” Allen High School’s bowlers have won tens of thousands of dollars in funds, but at its heart, the team isn’t a scholarship machine, it’s there to help students develop themselves as athletes and outstanding citizens. Kim Mays, Bailey’s mother, says she’s seen big changes in the kids. “They learn to handle stress, to deal with the pressures of national tournaments, with the frustration and anger when they’re not doing well and that translates to their day-to-day life,” she says. At a time when a lot of kids would rather be gaming or surfing social websites to experience other people’s lives, Allen High School’s bowling team is out there learning, traveling and winning. Their methods of practice may produce snickers from observers, but a winning record quiets them down and that produces the best Zen feeling of all. v Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen. A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

kids korner

Indoor activities for active preschoolers by Deborah Dove Is your toddler or preschooler bouncing off the walls? It’s tough on energetic little bodies being cooped up inside during the winter. Escape the monotony at one of these indoor venues where kids can get active.

Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium

1010 E. Rivercrest, Allen, 214.509.4770, www.cityofallen.org It might be the dead of winter, but the water is warm (or warm enough) at Allen’s indoor pool featuring a shallow water play structure, lazy river and plenty of room to splash and swim. The pool typically opens for leisure swim at 1 p.m., with varying closing times. Cost is $5/adults, $4/youth three and older, and free for children two and under.

Chuck E. Cheese

204 Central Expwy. N., Allen, 214.396.7825, www.chuckecheese.com Pizza, video games, kiddie rides, tickets, prizes and a giant mouse that sings. Enough said.

Jump Street

2031 W. McDermott, Allen, 469.854.6000, www.gotjump.com This indoor trampoline park has an entire area devoted to kids under eight, with a smaller version of the “big kid” trampoline system, bounce houses and a play area. Admission price, good for all day, is $4/kids 3 and under and $8/ages 4-7 Mon.-Thurs. ($6 per hour Fri.-Sun.).

Metroplex Gymnastics Preschool Open Gym

205 E. Bethany Dr., Allen, 972.727.9095, www.metroplexgymnastics.com Toddlers and preschoolers can practice their gymnastic skills, jump on the trampoline or bounce house, swing on the trapeze over the foam pit (or just jump in it) and play on mats and equipment every Wednesday from 10-noon. Kids ages 3-5 cost $8 plus tax; kids under 3 are $5.

Kid Mania

7252 Chase Oaks Blvd., Plano, 972.517.7800, www.kidmania.com There’s plenty of room to run wild at Kid Mania with over 16,000 square feet of play space, including a two-story playground maze with five slides, bungee walls, a cave, tunnels, zip lines and climbing nets, plus a separate toddler’s only playground for ages three and under. There are also arcade games with prize redemption, a restaurant and a quiet, “adults only” area. Admission is $3/ages 1-2, $6/ages 3-18, and $1/adults over 18. Socks are required for playground play and no outside food is allowed.

Planet Pizza

3000 Custer Rd., Plano, 972.985.7711, www.myplanetpizzaparty.com Enjoy the fun of an amusement park indoors, with rides perfectly sized for little ones. Rides include bumper cars, a pirate ship, a small roller coaster, and a spinning car ride. A flat admission fee of $8.99 plus tax (Mon.-Thurs.) or $10.99 plus tax (weekends and holidays) covers a full day of play, including the rides and a soft play area with tunnels and slides. Soft play only is $4.99. No outside food or beverage is allowed. Visit on Tuesdays and get $2 off your admission.

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Amazing Jakes

831 N. Central Expressway (inside Collin Creek Mall), Plano 972.509. JAKE, www.amazingjakesplano.com This indoor play zone has something for everyone—bumper cars, miniature golf, go-karts, laser tag, a climbing wall and kiddie rides, plus an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. Attractions are individually priced starting at $4, or you can purchase three hours of unlimited attractions for $11.99.

Indoor Safari

6050 Coit Road (@ Spring Creek), Suite 200, Plano, 972.599.1080, www. indoorsafaripark.com This indoor safari-themed play place features robotic animals to ride, a safari train, miniature golf and a play area with a jungle gym, ball pit, slide, trampoline and hands-on play. A bear factory, ceramic painting, and sand art add to the fun. Play packages start at $9.99 (1 train ride, 1 robotic animal ride, and unlimited access to jungle gym, soft play area, and hands-on activity center).

Sci-Tech Discovery Center

8004 North Dallas Parkway, Frisco, 972.546.3050, www. mindstretchingfun.org This hands-on science museum is the perfect size for preschoolers, with a combination of permanent and changing exhibits that include Your Body (including a giant nose that sneezes), nano science, coordination games, a weather station, bubble tables, Lego tracks and a special preschool zone. The museum also hosts story time with stories, songs, and hands-on activities for ages 3-5 on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10:30. January topics include Polar Bears, Mittens, Exploring the Winter Sky, and Forest Friends. Admission is $7 per person age 3 and up.

Legoland Discovery Center

3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway (in Grapevine Mills mall), Grapevine, 972.539.9386, www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com Preschoolers can happily spend an entire day here exploring all things LEGO, including several interactive rides, a 4D movie, a play structure with tunnels and slides, a replica of Dallas built with Legos, and plenty of opportunities to build, whether they’re in the Princess Parlor or building and testing race cars. Purchase tickets in advance online starting at $16.25 per adult and $11.25 per child.

Mall Play Areas

Enjoy the carousel ($1.50/ride) and free soft play area at Stonebriar; a train ride, bungee jump/trampolines (must be 20 pounds to jump), and free soft play area featuring a sculpted foam car, ambulance and bridge at Collin Creek Mall; the free jungle themed foam play area at the Galleria; or the Bugs Bunny meets Plano Medical Center themed free play area at the Shops of Willow Bend.

education

Trains, highways and automobiles Collin graduates take simulation to a new level by Heather Darrow

Imagine having the ability to enable a person to envision what something will be like in the future. What if you could also resurrect items that are no longer in existence in a 3D format? Nick Tringali and Michael Butler have the skills to do this and much more. The only question they have is can you tell whether something is real or created by a Collin College communication design graduate?

Tunneling a New Future

Nick Tringali

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Tringali is a 3D visualization specialist at HNTB, a civil engineering company where he creates roads, cars, trees, bridges and tunnels. “It needs to look good and render fast. In my job we get the exact plans, but we can take creative liberties because we are not actually building it. Getting a 2D plan and creating a good 3D representation is rewarding. It’s like creating a piece of art. You start with a blank canvas and can use schematics to create something that more people can understand. We show what something will look like. It is great to do something I really enjoy and get paid for it,” Tringali said. In his spare time, Tringali creates 3D images of objects such as a brass, Italian lamppost and a monocycle, a now extinct motor

cycle with an engine inside its only wheel. A fan of video games and technology, Tringali didn’t realize he wanted to be an artist until college. He earned an associate degree from Collin College in December 2012. “The Collin program put it all together. We created 600 hand-drawn animations in one class. The industry changed from hand drawings to digital drawings, and it was interesting to experience that progression. I like the fact that Collin has small classes. The professors will teach the topics, and then you have time to ask questions and get feedback,” he added. As a Collin student and president of the Collin Student Animators Workshop, Tringali had the oppor tunity to attend SIGGRAPH (Special Interest Group on GRAPHics and Interactive Techniques), an annual computer graphics (CG) conference. He was surprised to discover that CG industry professionals create every thing from marching band to airport architectural simulations. “I don’t know of another college in the area that sends students to SIGGRAPH. That kind of support is rewarding. You see things you’ve never seen anywhere else, and you meet thousands of people that all do what you do. It is inspirational. When I came back I felt like I needed to draw things constantly,” he said. When Tringali first started taking classes at Collin he thought the only jobs in this industry were in games and film. It wasn’t long before he discovered a varied array of job opportunities awaited him in fields ranging from civil engineering to train simulation. “There are so many different job opportunities in this industry,” he said.

helps create simulations for engineers who drive trains. Butler found a job right out of college. He earned an associate degree from Collin College in May of 2013. Two of his most recent classes were in Zbrush software and game art with assistant professor Shawn Spetch, whose portfolio includes numerous XBOX, PlayStation and Wii games, including Call of Duty Ghosts, Ghostbusters: The Video Game and KinectTM Star WarsTM.

“I finished my degree in May, and started my job on July 15. I didn’t even have my resumé ready. I met Philip Atha, who was working where I work now, at a networking event. He asked what I do, and I whipped out my tablet and showed him my work from the college including what I learned in assistant professor Spetch’s class. They wanted an environmental artist, which was perfect for me. The hiring was so fast—that meeting was my only interview,” Butler said.

Right Place, Right Time Michael Butler is a graphic designer at Train Dynamic System Division of New York Air Brake. He A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

Michael Butler Butler says to really excel in this field you have to be diligent, a characteristic he developed at Collin.

“Collin offers great professors. I took modeling classes from Professor Tom Ottinger and learned rigging

from Professor Marshall Pittman. They know just about everything in the industry, have great contacts and they help you build up your networking skills,” he said. While Tringali takes creative license in his work, Butler ensures his measurements are precise. “When the engineer is driving the train he has to know exactly where to park, and the signals have to work. The simulation has to be functional like the real-world environment. We have a cool train simulation room, and it is amazing to have the opportunity to train engineers. Instead of taking up track, they are behind the simulation that we created. We are helping the train companies create more revenue and keeping people safe simultaneously.” Butler never imagined he would have the opportunity to drive trains at work, nor did he dream that the CG field extends far beyond the scope of any railroad tracks on the planet. He and Tringali aspire to live in a world in which the unreal seems real. “If you are considering the CG field, don’t look at games and entertainment as the only choices. There are plenty of companies that are hiring. You can work on commercials or on projects for the medical field or even for the Army and train soldiers. There are so many different avenues for CG artists. There are more and more devices, like tablets, and applications that use simulations. I was surprised to learn that car commercials are usually CG full models and environments. After I saw a recent commercial, I was amazed. It looked so real,” Butler said, proffering the highest compliment he could offer a colleague in his field. For more information about communication design, visit www. c o l l i n . e d u / a c a d e m i c s / p ro g r a m s / v CommDesign_agdt.html. Heather Darrow is a public information writer for Collin College.

Photos, Nick Young, Collin College.

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Honors programs elevate opportunities for AHS students by Keith A. Taylor

While sports programs and other popular programs have been receiving more attention, Allen High School has been quietly building a successful honors program that gives an edge to students competing for top college slots. “Our AP and IB classes always have been a top priority,” said Lindsay O’Neal, the advanced academics coordinator at AHS. “Now, we are seeing an even greater interest in the advanced classes and participation rates are on the way up.” AP, which stands for advanced placement, and IB, which stands for International Baccalaureate are both pro grams intended to challenge advanced students in anticipation of college. Those participation rates are not just good for the students, though. The high school enjoys an enhanced reputation for its academics and parents can see a financial reward. “Parents can get a break on tuition from colleges that accept AP and IB classes as college-level credit,” O’Neal said. So why does the high school have two honors tracks? O’Neal said it comes down to offering more choices for students regarding their long-term educational goals. “IB is a two-year program while AP is a selection of advanced classes,” O’Neal said. “Colleges generally look at the programs in the same way. However, AP tends to attract students who like structure in classes while IB students tend to be the ones who constantly question structure.”

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Lindsay O’Neal AP students can select from a variety of advanced classes for intensive studies starting in their freshman year. IB classes are organized achieving an IB diploma and are available only to juniors and seniors. However, students may take IB classes without attempting the two-year program. Below are brief histories and the philosophies behind AP and IB:

Advanced Placement After World War II, the Ford Foundation funded a pilot program in high schools and colleges in response to the post-war need for viable educational programs. That pilot eventually grew into today’s AP program.

The College Board assumed manage ment of the program in 1955 and continues to manage the curriculum, testing and training for all AP students. Every May, the College Board and its partnering high schools administer more than one million AP xxams to students worldwide. “At Allen High School, we administered more than 2,400 exams to around 1,460 students in May of 2012,” O’Neal said. Additionally, more than 1,675 students participated in AP classes, doubling the number of AP students in 2009. The College Board works with both high school and college officials to ensure that the AP program offers a

curriculum that aligns with high school standards while maintaining a high academic level appropriate for its member colleges and universities. Each AP exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the maximum score. Depending on the university’s guide lines, a student may receive college credit based upon his or her score. “We believe that all students should have access to challenging curriculum and should challenge themselves in their academic endeavors,” O’Neal said. “We strongly encourage our students to take AP courses and their corresponding AP exams.” For AHS junior Elizabeth Frank, her AP courses are helping prepare her for college while expanding her educational experience. “The AP teachers really challenge us to think in new ways and test new ideas,” she stated. “The discipline required to succeed in AP courses, I think, gives me an advantage when I’m selecting which college to attend.”

International Baccalaureate The International Baccalaureate program is a comprehensive two-year curriculum, leading to examinations for high school juniors and seniors. The general objectives of the IB are to provide students with a balanced education, to facilitate geographic and cultural mobility and to promote international understanding through a shared academic experience.

The IB program came to Allen ISD when Dr. Maroba Zoeller was hired from Garland ISD in 1996 to be a principal at AHS. While teaching at Garland High School, Dr. Zoeller started an IB program—the sixth in the state—to attract more students to an older facility. Dr. Zoeller said her experience with IB was instrumental to her being hired into Allen ISD. The superintendent at the time, Dr. Barbara Erwin, wanted to start an IB program

Dr. Maroba Zoeller A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

program,” he said. “We get together to review our classes and homework. It really helps because the coursework is extremely challenging. Our teachers also are willing to help us whenever we need it.” Students who wish to pursue some of the IB coursework without qualifying for an IB diploma can enroll in courses and earn a Certificate of Completion by taking the IB end-of-year examination for that course. In 2012, 24 of the 26 candidates earned IB diplomas from Allen High School. Although IB enrollment is down from two years ago, O’Neal said the school is aggressively pursuing new candidates and the unprece- dented success in 2012 is making placement easier.

Benefits of AP and IB

Christian Contreras in Allen and Dr. Zoeller had the experience to make it successful. She started working on the program shortly after joining the district and spent the next year and a half building the foundation through teacher training and accreditation. Dr. Zoeller credited the district’s Board of Trustees in starting the program that welcomed its first pre-IB students in the spring of 1999. “The board was instrumental in establishing the program here,” she said. “They had the strategic vision to provide the funding and resources to make IB successful for Allen students.” Both Dr. Zoeller and O’Neal said IB provides students with a unique educational opportunity. “IB is internationally recognized as an outstanding program,” Dr. Zoeller said. “It was established so that diplomats could be assured that their children were able to access a common curriculum with a high level

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of rigor. Everyone in education understands the significance of achieving an IB diploma.” “In the more than 25 years since its founding, the IB diploma has become a mark of academic integrity and intellectual promise,” O’Neal said. “The student who satisfies the demands of the IB diploma program demonstrates a strong commitment to learning and the discipline necessary for success in a competitive world.” Diploma candidates enroll in six IB courses during the junior and senior year of high school. Three high-level courses require two years of study with exams in May of the student’s senior year. Three standard-level courses require one year of study with May exams in either the junior or senior year depending on when the course is taken. AHS senior Christian Contreras said the IB diploma work is hard, but he receives a variety of support. “We have study groups in the IB

Whether a student chooses AP courses or IB courses, they both pro vide significant benefits. Students have the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school. Students earning a qualifying score on an IB or AP exam may earn college credit depending on school policy. College admissions officers and scholarship committees understand the rigor of the IB and AP coursework and s ideration to the give special con applications of Diploma Candidates. All IB teachers complete training that is conducted by International Baccalaureate. All AP teachers complete training conducted by College Board or Laying the Foundations. Students who receive the IB diploma automatically receive the DAP. AP students who score a 3 or better on AP exams earn an advanced measure for the DAP. Additionally, legislation makes it mandatory for all Texas colleges and universities to grant a minimum of 24 credit hours for all IB diploma holders who scored at least a 4 for each of their subjects. v Keith Taylor is a public relations specialist for Allen ISD.

Allen Dentistry has been a part of the community since 2000. Dr. Justin Nylander began leading the practice in 2012 and provides efficient and comforting family-oriented dental care. “At Allen Dentistry effective communication is our standard,” Dr. Nylander explains. “There are no hidden fees or tricks. Whether we are answering questions about topics such as treatment or insurance, we strive to communicate about what’s important to you.”

Quality dental work & service Dr. Nylander practices a full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry with expertise ranging from root canal and dental crowns to porcelain veneers, and bridges. He can correct a wide variety of so-called permanent cosmetic dental problems, and can redesign a person’s smile. The office treats both adults and children, making it convenient for families. They also offer same-day emergency services, Zoom whitening and sedation dentistry to allow for a more comfortable and complete treatment experience. “I enjoy dentistry because it allows me to perform a task for someone that is very quality driven,” Dr. Nylander says. “It’s especially rewarding to come to work each day and interact with our patients as we assist them with their various needs.” Many patients have been with the office since it opened. Dental hygienist Rima Makki, R.D.H., B.S, has also been with the practice since it began and says that these patients have now become more like extended family. Dental assistant Nancy Saucedo, R.D.A., joined the staff in 2010 while office manager Debbie Surgenor joined this year.

Setting down roots Dr. Nylander has been around dentistry all of his life as his dad was a dentist in the United States military. Having grown up in a military family, he has had the opportunity to live in various locations outside the U.S. including Panama, Germany and Argentina, as well as many states across the country. The staff shares Dr. Nylander’s multicultural background. Rima is originally from Lebanon and speaks three languages. Nancy is from Mexico, and both she and Dr. Nylander speak Spanish. Dr. Nylander attended dental school at the Arizona School of Dentistry and afterward practiced dentistry in Salt Lake City, Utah for many years before moving to Texas. Today, he and his wife Megan are happy to call Allen home. They participate in various sporting events and festivals throughout the year and are particularly fond of the Allen USA fireworks display at Celebration Park. The couple recently welcomed their first child, a son, into their family and love being parents. Allen Dentistry is located at 551 W. McDermott Dr. in Allen. For more information or to make an appointment, call 972.359.9950 or visit allendentistry.com.

library

The Allen Public Library presents… by Tom Keener

Tynia Thomassie

Bluegrass music

Take an exciting journey through the Cajun bayous with Tynia Thomassie, author of Feliciana Feydra LeRoux, at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, January 25, at the Allen Public Library. Sponsored by ALLen Reads, this program is free. The daughter of a Mexican mother and Irish father, this children’s author was raised on the west bank of the city of New Orleans. This environment provided Tynia a rich Cajun culture and contributed to the breadth and colorful language of her writings. Her other books include: Feliciana Meets d’Loup Garou, Cajun Through and Through and Mimi’s Tutu. Majoring in theater, she is currently a teacher at West Orange High School, New Jersey, where she was named 2011 Teacher of the Year in Essex County. Tynia notes, “I steer my students towards the complexity of literature—not ‘the answer’ or a flat black and white reduction like ‘man versus society,’ ‘man versus man.’ What good are generalizations such as these?” An empowering book for children, Feliciana Feydra LeRoux tells of a girl denied the privilege of accompanying the men on an expedition to hunt alligators because she is female. Undeterred, Feliciana sneaks away and follows the men but first encounters a creature with “two red eyes, froze-fix in the light. The alligator!” Before the men arrive, Feliciana develops a strategy to successfully confront the alligator without help from the men. When the author was asked to explain her careful coordination of suspense with humor, Tynia observes, “I think that humor is great release from suspense. Suspense is like a pivot point between extreme uncertainty and heightened awareness—and when you’re in this acute state of tension, then laughter is the big ‘Phew!’ It’s relief, and it’s a confirmation that you made it—you got through the trial. I don’t know why I always couple laughter with trouble. It’s just the way I see the world. It’s the paradox of being a human being. You cry, you laugh. You worry, you laugh. You suffer, you laugh. I enjoy writing right at that seam.” Books will be available for purchase and signing. v

Lighten up the dark winter nights and treat yourself to an evening of foot-stomping bluegrass and heartfelt ballads from Appalachia. Dollars Taxes performs at the Allen Public Library’s auditorium 7:30 p.m., Friday, January 17. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free.

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Describing themselves as “hillbilly chamber music,” this Dallas-based bluegrass band features mandolin, guitar, fiddle, bass, banjo vocals, dobro, kazoo and even spoons. A Dallas native, bandleader Bill Johnston plays mandolin, guitar, bird whistle and vocals. A former history teacher, boat builder and selfdescribed “carny,” he now performs full time. On guitar and vocals, Mississippi native George Cloy specializes in bluegrass, old time blues and Irish music. Classically trained in violin, Linda Ray pursued careers in real estate and as a stockbroker on Wall Street. After retirement, she played with the New Philharmonic Orchestra of Irving. Linda discovered the joy of old time string band music and other fiddle styles. She also sings and will occasionally lead on the kazoo. Formerly with Freakwater, Wilco, Uncle Tupelo and The Gourds, professionally-trained musician Max Johnston plays fiddle, banjo, dobro and guitar. From Dallas, Texas, to Lexington, Kentucky, Max has travelled extensively entertaining audiences at multiple venues. An internist and teacher at Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, bassist James Wagner (Dr. Jim) shares the art of healing with music when he plays with Dollars Taxes. Specializing in American roots music, Dollars Taxes has played at numerous local venues, including Poor David’s, Uncle Calvin’s, All Good Café, The Arboretum, art galleries, weddings, churches and more. v

The Special Edition Band The Special Edition Band combines talent with an extensive repertoire to offer an unforgettable music experience. Performing a unique blend of jazz, pop-dance, hip hop, funk and rock, and featuring amazing vocalists, a full rhythm section and a spectacular horn-section, this group performs at 7:30 p.m., Friday, January 24, at the Allen Public Library. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free. A former professor of Jazz at the University of North Texas, lead bassist/jazz artist/producer John Adams has backed and/or recorded for a wide array of artists including vocalists Mel Torme, Rosemary Clooney, Phil Driscoll and Wayne Watson, to jazz artists such as Woody Herman, Randy Brecker, Joe McBride, Bobby Lyle, Carl Fontana, Chet Baker, Dave Liebman and others. Adams is also active as a producer, arranger, composer, music contractor and workshop clinician. Adams’ jazz CD projects have received airplay on over 160 radio stations nationwide. The Thumbs Up CD (’09) is a state-of-the-art studio production with a fresh contemporary sound, exciting originals and unique arrangements of some

Laughter Comedian and author Darryl Littleton speaks at the Allen Public Library at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, January 16. The author of Black Comedians on Black Comedy: How African Americans Taught Us to Laugh and co-author of Comediennes: Laugh Be a Lady, Littleton will discuss the black comedians who paved the way for icons like Bill Cosby, Whoopi Goldberg, Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy. Beginning his comedy career writing sketches for The Tom Joyner Morning Show on CBS Radio, Littleton soon

surprising classics. The Trios (’06) and sequel Trios Two (‘13) projects feature five different trio instrumentations/ combinations The Special Edition Band has performed at multiple venues, including for Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Arboretum, City Place, The Mansion on Turtle Creek, Hotel St. Germain, The Park City Club of Dallas, festivals, concert series and special events, and most recently, Tailgaters in Addison to celebrate the New Year.

The Special Edition Band delivers the highest quality and most stylistic versatility with an extreme attention to original performance. v became a regular at the world famous Comedy Store and adopted the stage name “D’Militant” for his slicing and incisive social and political commentary. In addition to guest-starring on Robert Townsend’s WB sitcom The Parent Hood, Littleton has also appeared on The Apollo Comedy Hour, Uptown Comedy Club, HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, Comedy Central’s Make Me Laugh, Byron Allen’s Comic’s Unleashed and ABC’s America’s Funniest People. In 2007, Darryl appeared on National Public Radio following the release of his first book, Black Comedians on Black Comedy, chronicling the history of African-American comedy. This account features interviews with 125 of the industry’s biggest stars. It was also the basis for the documentary Why We Laugh, by award-winning director Robert Townsend that made its premiere at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival and on Showtime in February 2010. In addition to tracing the roots of black comedy from slavery to contemporary times in this book, Littleton also explored the theme that getting people to laugh, even under the worst of circumstances, is the essence of a true comedian. Littleton is the first African-American on the advisory board of the Comedy Hall of Fame and served as script supervisor, touring host and personal writer for actor/ comedian Katt Williams. v

The library is located at 300 N. Allen Dr. Call 214.509.4911 for more information. Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library. A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

cover story

A fairy tale recounts the adventure of a hero or heroine on a journey to find the prize. Along the way, monsters are battled and magical characters provide assistance. And not all fairy tales are fantasy. With enthusiastic support of family and friends, 17-year-old Kassy Levels’ quest to share her music with the world proves to be a remarkable fairy tale of its own. At 10 years of age, Kassy’s singing talent caught the attention of her Sunday School teacher. At her urging, Kassy tried out for, and was accepted into, the adult worship team at her family’s church. At first apprehensive about being the only child in an otherwise all-adult group, Kassy soon realized she had found her niche. Then two years later, vocal nodules threatened to put a permanent end to her singing. In hopes of avoiding surgery, Kassy was prescribed six weeks of total vocal rest. “I couldn’t speak and that’s a lot to ask of a 12-year-old,” she now laughs. “I had a notepad and when I wanted anything, I had to write it down. “At that age, vocal nodules are not common,” she continues. “They told me that there was a possibility that I couldn’t sing anymore because my voice wouldn’t have a full range.” It took the threat of permanently losing her singing voice for Kassy to realize how important it was to her. “I knew my voice could be taken away from me, so I was like, ‘God, please give me my voice back so I can sing; this is what I want to do.’ And I was amazingly healed—they were totally gone in three weeks!” Motivated by this gift of a second chance, Kassy made a commitment to her music career. Recognizing both her talent and determination, parents Karen and Kevin, as well as other family and friends, have done all they can to help her see this dream come true. Today Kevin, a senior systems

engineer for Dell Services and volunteer pastor to a small church that meets in their McKinney home, plays bass for Kassy’s backup band. Older sister Kayla, 19, plays keyboard for the band as well as on Kassy’s YouTube videos, and family friends Andrew Darlington and Arthur Rhodes play drums and guitar respectively. A stay-at-home mother to Kayla and Kassy as well as Kaleb, 11, and Khloe, 8, Karen now works as Kassy’s manager, or what her daughter affec tionately refers to as “my momager.” Being her daughter’s stylist is one job this mother particularly relishes. “I do her hair and pick out her outfits and jewelry for her shows,” Karen explains. Kassy nods, “She’s out there trying to promote me to people and, at the same time, she’s trying to do my hair and make sure I’m in the right frame of mind, plus do mommy things like make sure that I eat right. She’s like a supermom!” Once Kassy completed seventh grade, the family decided home schooling all the children would be more practical and provide flexibility for performance schedules. Soon after, Kassy started ex panding her musical repertoire and writing secular music. Recognizing the teen’s talent, her choir director at the time encouraged her to pursue a career in the secular music business and managed her the first year. At age 14, Kassy had her first non-church gig—at the now closed Coffee N Cream in Allen. Other performance opportunities started coming her way, including Allen venues like Allen USA Celebration, Watters Creek and Yogurtville. Bolstered by her growing success, Kassy pulled double duty to graduate

a year early and then give herself a year to devote fulltime to developing her music career. Just a few months into this year-long self-improvement track, all signs are pointing to this being a good decision. Kassy confesses that despite her love of singing and songwriting, as well as all the accolades she has received for these talents, the training needed for stage performance was a challenging hurdle to jump. “When Kassy was younger, she was the shyest little girl,” Karen explains. “She never wanted to do anything. And her older sister Kayla was outgoing and took all these classes, and was on Barney with Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato. So when Kayla was taking dance classes, I decided Kassy might as well take dance classes too.” “And I cried and cried and cried,” Kassy laughs. Once Kassy got serious about her performance career, she decided to try dance classes again. “This was when I was 14 and I cried again!” she grimaces. “Since then, my confidence level has gotten so much better. Now I think I have the capability to do whatever I set my mind to do.” So much so, that earlier this year, Kassy worked with KidzBop director and choreographer Trey Preston to prepare for a competition—and this time sans tears. Because the Levels are a oneincome family, Karen admits that the family must make careful choices as to what work they do themselves and what they pay others to do. For Kevin, Kayla and the rest of the band members, that means packing and transporting their own gear. Kassy, as well, carefully weighs needs versus wants when deciding what training A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

should come from professionals and what she can teach herself. “Trey helped me learn the basics of stage choreography—the feel of it and what I want from my stage presence,” Kassy explains. “So now I look up YouTube videos and watch Beyoncé and Jessie J and learn move ments from them. You have to look for the best to be the best.” Other female singers she admires and studies are Pink and Janelle Monae. She also taught herself how to play the guitar through watching YouTube videos. “When I was 14, I considered being in country music and I know how to play country guitar,” she surprisingly reveals. “I can play country on the guitar better than R&B because that’s what I learned first. I love country music and think it has some excellent songwriting.” Among

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her favorites in the country genre are Miranda Lambert, Sugarland and Rascal Flatts. Kassy credits her family for much of her early training as well. “I’ve been blessed because my mom and dad and the rest of the family have been honest with me and told me when something didn’t sound right. My family’s standard is to not be mediocre. We put the ceiling really high so we have room to grow.” Kassy has also mastered a few songs in other languages, including Portuguese and Tagalog, but admits that she often doesn’t understand the words. There is one traditional Filipino ballad that she is particularly proud of—“Dahil Sa’yo” (“Because of You”). Kassy learned the Tagalog version of this love song in honor of her great-grandmother ’s 90th

birthday. “I don’t know what the heck I’m singing, but I know every word of that song!” she boasts. “Filipinos love that song and whenever I sing it, they sing it with me.” By 14, Kassy had written and recorded her first album, titled Storyteller. “My music style has changed since then,” Kassy explains, noting that her performance pre ferences have recently been heading more toward the urban sound. “This one was more pop and now I lean more toward R&B. I even rap in some of my stuff. I don’t like to limit myself as a singer.” As Kassy blossomed, a variety of diverse opportunities began opening up as well. And, as with any aspiring per forming artist, “dues” had to be paid. Declaring that she hasn’t had a gig “so horrible that I couldn’t learn from it,” Kassy does admit that she once endured a miserable pre-show experience. She recounts, “There was a gig one summer when our car broke down. Kayla and I were looking all pretty with dresses and heels and makeup on and our hair done, and we had to push the car to the nearest parking lot. But the gig went well and the audience didn’t know what happened to us because we still had to bring our best to the stage.” She also laughs about the time she and her band performed in the back of a truck at a Fort Worth festival. “The truck was tilting and the drummer was scared that he was going to fall out!” These early efforts soon began paying off, and Kassy has since taken the stage at well-known Dallas venues such as the Lakewood Theatre, Sons of Hermann Hall to open for Clara C, and the Voodoo Stage at the House of Blues restaurant. Sales coordinator and Voodoo Stage booking manager Krishna Stacey recalls how Kassy impressed the House of Blues staff the first time she sang there. “Kassy first came to our Wednesday night open mic a couple of years ago and now we invite her back to the Voodoo Stage as much as we

can!” She explains that the free Friday and Saturday night Voodoo Stage shows highlight local artists performing a variety of music genres. As part of her year-long effort to develop her singing career, Kassy opted to work with Allen vocal teacher Edward Kuntchef last summer. With formal studies at the International Opera Studio of Dallas, he also trained and performed in other countries including Italy, Austria and Bulgaria. A teacher of the bel canto method of singing, Edward notes that this style of teaching works for a variety of singing styles—country, pop, jazz and Kassy’s preferred R&B. “We clicked and it’s been great,” Kassy proudly announces. Starting this formal voice training with a two-and-one-half octave range, she quickly extended her range by an additional octave. “Kassy’s my little star!” Edward declares. “She has an amazing vocal ability and stage presence. And the voice isn’t everything. You also have to have the look, desire and performance ability, and Kassy has the full package!” One recent and significant turning point for Kassy was winning the Kollaboration Dallas 2013 competition in September. A non-profit organization founded 14 years ago in Los Angeles and very popular on the west coast, Kollaboration is dedicated to pro moting young Asian and Pacific Islander artists and entertainers. Over the past few years, Kollaboration has been expanding and currently hosts 15 shows in 14 cities across North America. The 2013 Dallas show, hosted September 14 at the Dallas City Performance Hall, was the second one offered in this area. A native Texan, Kassy qualified for Kollaboration because her mother is Filipino. Karen admits that the national Kollaboration organization and competition was new to her until she “stumbled on it quite by accident” earlier this year while doing a computer search for opportunities to promote her

daughter. She adds that Kenichi Ebina, the most recent winner of America’s Got Talent, is a Kollaboration alumnus. Sony vice-president and Rocket Multimedia CEO Corey Jones was one of 3 judges for the 2013 Kollaboration Dallas. The 34-year-old music industry veteran has worked with a number of recording artists since he first signed with Motown Records when he was 16. His Rocket Multimedia now has office/studios in Los Angeles; Portland, Oregon; and Flower Mound.

Jones admits that even prior to Kassy’s performance in the recent Kollaboration Dallas finals, her audition tape had him convinced that she had the talent needed to succeed. So much so, that following the contest he signed her to his label. “Kassy is an energetic, skilled and very unique talent,” Corey Jones emphasizes. “There is a superstar in your own backyard.” Among the artists/producers Jones has lined up for Kassy’s new

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album are Timbaland (whose work includes producing for artists such as Justin Timberlake, Missy Elliot, Jay-Z and Beyoncé), Kevin Deane (Mary J. Blige and Michael Bublé), Brian Littrell and Trey Songz. Jones notes that he has arranged for Kassy to perform several songs from her new album at several New York City venues, including Sean “Puffy” Combs’ Daddy’s House, as part of Fashion Week in February. These shows, hosted by recording star Monica, will feature DJ Cadillac Jack, who will be releasing an album this year with one of Kassy’s songs included on it. Jones has also arranged an upcoming concert for Kassy at the Dallas House of Blues main stage. “We’re trying to bring back substance,” Corey emphasizes. “Everything we do will be family shows and professional all the way.” Having focused so much time on completing her required school work and now on the fast-track to getting her album recorded and new songs written, Kassy opted to temporarily

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cut back on her performance schedule. This shift in priorities is beginning to pay off; more calls are now coming in for bookings. She’s particularly excited about the hours now being spent in the studio because they tap into Kayla’s fascination. Kassy notes that her early-limelighter older sister prefers working more

Kassy established a YouTube video blog with covers as well as a section called Street Corner Spotlight that she has been recording to highlight her year-long effort in preparation for her career in music. To hear some of her songs, keep up with her latest accomplish ments, see how far she has come in just a short while, go to www.youtube/kassylevels. You can also follow her via her Facebook fan page at Facebook/KassyLevels.

behind the scenes. “She wants to do production and is now getting to see it firsthand!” this little sister announces. With all the effort and long hours she has put into developing her music career, Kassy values the rare down times when she can relax and visit with friends. Like many young women her age, favorite activities include reading and going to the movies (with the Hunger Games series being her current favorites in both of these categories), going to the mall or “just hanging out.” One activity this homeschooler has come to truly relish is attending high school football games, especially at the new Allen High School stadium. “The first high school football game I went to was in Allen,” Kassy recalls. “It shocked me because it was such a huge stadium and there were so many teenagers there!” When queried about dating, Kassy emphatically responds, “No ma’am, I do not! Music is my boyfriend and I don’t want to get distracted. I want to make sure I give music my 100 percent.” She points out, “ I do have a new song

that sounds like a love song, but it is really about my relationship with food.” Taking delight in a variety of cultural and culinary treats, good food is a subject she’s always willing and ready to pursue. Kassy can readily rattle out a list of obscure hole-in-the wall restaurants in the area that serve unusual gastronomical treats that most teens would turn their noses up at— such as chicken feet. Kassy declares this one-time adventure good but, “just a little rubbery.” Another passion for Kassy is shopping for just the right clothes for her performances—at thrift stores. “I love fashion and I love being different with what I wear. My favorite places to shop are the Salvation Army in Plano, the big purple store (InnStyle] in McKinney and The Good Steward Consignment in Frisco,” she grins. “For my 16th birthday I wanted a thrift store shopping spree. We hit all three and I had a heyday!” One teen milestone Kassy has little interest in is learning to drive and she adds that even older sister Kayla only has her learner’s permit. “They haven’t had a need to go anywhere without us,” Karen shrugs. Kassy interjects with a laugh. “Even for our first club experience, we got on the dance floor and jammed with Mom and Dad!” “We have a great relationship with our parents,” Kassy concludes. “They help me keep a stable mind, especially in this industry.”

Topping Kassy’s to-do list, once her music career takes off, is travel. The priority on that world tour list is treating the women on her mother’s side of the family to a trip to Pompeii. She explains that her middle name is Pompeya, that a number of women in her family also share the name, and that it started with her maternal greatgrandmother who was named after the

historic Italian city at the suggestion of a family friend. But this is only one of many voyaging adventures she hopes to pur sue. “We need to keep ourselves diverse and open to different cultures and nationalities,” she asserts. “Traveling is definitely in the future for me.” Stage-wise, she aspires to perform sometime soon on Good Morning Texas, but her ultimate goal is to earn the opportunity to sing her winning song during the Grammy Awards. Despite the capriciousness and uncertainty associated with the enter tainment industry, Kassy doesn’t waste time worrying about the “what ifs.” “People are always asking me what my backup plan is and I answer that I’m just going to worry about today,” Kassy shrugs. “My life has enough worries on its own, and today, this is where God has me and this is what I want to do and what I love.” v Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.

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At Palmer Family Law Group, P.L.L.C., they believe that Divorce doesn’t have to be so hard!® “What we try to do is get people through a divorce in the healthiest way possible so that everyone can move on to the next chapter in their lives, in the best way possible,” says Dana, creator of the Soft Divorce® brand. “We don’t define success by the other party’s failure. Instead, our goal is for our client, their children, and even their soon-to-be-exspouse, to be as healthy as possible after the divorce.”

A better way to divorce It’s a concept that Dana created after focusing his law firm in McKinney on family law in 2011. “I opened the firm in 2006, practicing a wide variety of cases. I soon realized that family law cases provided me with the biggest opportunity to help people and that’s when I decided to narrow my focus,” Dana says. Quickly, he says, he saw that when divorce is approached as a battle, with each spouse trying to extract as much money as possible from the other, then no one ‘wins.’ “I’m the type of person who is always looking a better way to do something—and when I find that better way, I feel compelled to share it with others,” Dana explains. “That’s why I’m now sharing the Soft Divorce® program worldwide.” Soft Divorce® is a concept and framework of best practices in family law and divorce procedures that aim to keep divorces civil, family-oriented, healthy and as pain-free and stress-free as possible. “I believe in Soft Divorce® because it’s better than a ‘hard divorce.” Dana says. “At the end of the day, former spouses will always be parents together and they need to have the best possible relationship with one another, as well as with their kids. A Soft Divorce® allows for that.”

Expanded offices Because of the positive response to the Soft Divorce® program, in 2013, the firm expanded by adding offices in Dallas and San Antonio. Kimberly V. Wright is the managing attorney for the McKinney and Dallas offices, while Pamela J. Thompson is the managing attorney for the San Antonio area branch. “The Soft Divorce® concept is catching on because it’s about ending the fighting, not increasing it,” Dana says. “We are really helping people and changing lives for the better.” In light of the new branches, the firm formally changed its name to the Palmer Family Law Group, P.L.L.C. in November. This month, they’re launching the informative websites: harddivorce.com, healthydivorce.com and Christiandivorce.com. “A hard divorce is basically the opposite of a healthy or a Soft Divorce®,” Dana explains. “That’s when a person threatens to ruin their spouse financially, to take away their kids or to just make their life a living nightmare. If that’s what someone wants, or if they’re only looking to exact revenge on their spouse, then we’re not the firm for them.”

Happy, healthier results Of course, the firm’s cooperative approach to divorce doesn’t mean that they’ll simply ‘lie down’ and take whatever the other party’s attorney is offering. “There are times that we have to, and we do, ‘play hardball,’” Dana says. “We go into court knowing that we’ve taken the high road, but we’re willing to do whatever it takes to get the healthy result we’re after.” When prospective clients first hear about the firm’s Soft Divorce® brand, Dana says, they’re often relived to discover that there’s a healthier way to go through the divorce process. “You always see on TV and hear about divorces where people end up hating each other and losing so much,” he says. “We show people a different and better way.”

travel

Winter in the coastal bend by Deborah Dove

In the summer, the beaches of Corpus Christi and Port Aransas are packed with sunworshipers, families and teens all vying for a patch of sand in the hot sun. However, come winter, these Texas coastal towns revert back to sleepy fishing villages where visitors have the beach to themselves and can walk into any restaurant and get a table, something unheard of during the busy summer months. With January temperatures averaging fairly consistent highs in the mid-sixties, the weather is certainly mild enough to enjoy a variety of activities, from walks along the beach to the best deep sea and bay fishing in Texas.

Beaches and Area Attractions The beaches along the Texas coast are especially clean in the winter, with a noticeable lack of seaweed, jellyfish and cars. Corpus Christi is home to numerous island and bay beaches, including five miles of coastline at Mustang Island

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State Park and the popular Padre Island National Seashore. Other attractions of this coastal city include the Texas State Aquarium and selfguided tours of the U.S.S. Lexington— the most highly decorated aircraft carrier of World War II. While in Corpus, be sure and visit the bay front downtown and see the lights of the Harbor Bridge at night.

the month at 8 a.m. at the Horace Caldwell Pier); or peddling along the bike trails of the Port Aransas Nature Preserve at Charlie’s Pasture (second and fourth Mondays at 10 a.m.). The area is also the winter home of whooping cranes, which migrate 2,400 miles from Canada each fall to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures, about 30 miles northeast of Corpus, offers Whooping Crane tours through the shallow coastal

waters of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge from November through April, typically getting within 100 yards of the rare birds. Tours usually also include sightings of 30 to 60 other species of birds and wildlife. Visitors can also see the whooping cranes, along with Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles, reddish egrets, alligators and coyotes, on land at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge center (a mere $5 for two or more adults in a car).

Port Aransas is located on the northern tip of Mustang Island, about 30 minutes across the bay from Corpus Christi, and boasts 18 miles of uninterrupted beach. You can get there from Corpus via the JFK Causeway, or you can take the more scenic route aboard the free car ferry, where travelers are often accompanied by bottlenose dolphins, seagulls and pelicans. Should you grow tired of lolling on the pristine, uncrowded beach, Port Aransas offers a host of free activities during the winter months such as guided bird tours (every Wednesday at 9 a.m. at the Leonabell Turnbull Birding Center); guided beach walks to search for shells and other treasures (fourth Friday of the month at 9 a.m. at the Horace Caldwell Pier); yoga on the beach (second Saturday of A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

Fishing Port Aransas doesn’t call itself the “Fishing Capital of the World” for nothing. The coastal bend is a fisherman’s dream, with year-round bay fishing, deep-sea fishing, flyfishing and surf or jetty fishing. President Roosevelt reportedly visited Port Aransas twice during his presidency to fish for tarpon, so enamored was he with fishing the waters of the coastal bend. The most common quarry for anglers today include spotted sea trout, red drum, and flounder, in addition to red snapper, marlin and shark. The winter months are particularly productive for yellow fin and black fin tuna. The area from Port Aransas to Rockport is said to be the best for offshore fishing, but the recent opening of Packery Channel from Corpus Christi now allows fishermen better access to southern waters farther offshore from Padre Island. Several outfitters in Port Aransas offer party boats starting at about $95 for an eight-hour fishing trip, or you can hire a private charter. Prices for private charters can vary

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from $400 for two for bay fishing to $1,900 for an eight-hour deep sea trip for up to ten people. The area also boasts a wealth of opportunity for bay fishing. Whether you fish by boat or not, the area’s shallow bays offer some of the best sight casting for redfish and trophy fish in the Gulf. As the name implies, when sight casting, anglers wait until they see a fish or group of fish before casting. Fly-fishing is growing in popularity in the coastal bend, with sight casting the red fish that populate the clear, shallow flats being a major draw. From north of Rockport to Baffin Bay, the area provides more than 20 boat ramps and miles of accessible and remote shorelines for wade fishing in seagrass flats or surf fishing. The famed Baffin Bay, an inlet of the Laguna Madre south of Corpus Christi, is the prime location for fishing for trophy specks. The trout, flounder and redfish in the hyper saline waters are known to be some of the biggest fish in Texas. In fact, two of the last three state recordholding trout came from Baffin Bay. Numerous fishing boats and charters

offer trips specifically to Baffin Bay for trophy fishing. The coastal bend is also the center of kayak fishing in Texas, since the non-motorized vessels allow anglers to paddle the shallow flats and mangrove lakes that motorboats can’t reach. You can rent a kayak at one of the local kayak shops, or hire a professional kayak guide. Corpus Christi also caters to the jetty fisherman with three main fishing jetties—one at Port Aransas, one at the old Fish Pass near Mustang Island State Park and another within Corpus Christi at Packery Channel. Popular fish near the jetties include speckled trout, redfish, black drum, flounder, gray snapper, sharks, Spanish mackerel and sometimes pompano. During the cooler months, pier fishing offers anglers their best opportunity to catch bull black drum. Who knows what you might catch in the waters of the coastal bend or along the coast? One thing you’re sure to catch is a few rays and a break from winter. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

For MarketPlace Your Health

A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

Fit

beauty/fashion

for

fashion by Dawn Bluemel Oldfield

Happy 2014! A new year…a time when 45% of Americans resolve to do things that most will not follow through with. According to a University of Scranton study, losing weight and getting fit rank at the top of the resolutions list year after year, yet 75% of people fail to maintain that goal. While being healthy may be an easier resolution to make than it is to keep, it doesn’t mean you can’t be successful. Perhaps you just need the right motivation! A high-energy Siberian husky who likes her morning walks and a family health history I don’t wish to repeat are my motivation. I not only look and feel better with daily exercise, but have found I actually enjoy it. Perhaps fitting into a pair of skinny jeans, an upcoming vacation, graduation, family reunion or wedding is yours? Still not motivated to get off the couch? Sometimes, when it comes to working out you just need a boost. And what better way to get excited about exercise than cute new clothes? Athletic wear has changed greatly since the gray

sweats of Rocky or the leotards and leg warmers of the 1980’s. Today’s clothing is more fashionable and designed for specific activities. There are some super cute and affordable clothing options whether you’re interested in jogging, cycling, kick-boxing, dancing, walking or yoga. Jump-start your get fit resolution with a shopping marathon and you’ll be fired-up about the physical activity of your choice. Dusty Solis and Emily Scolville are owners, directors and instructors at Pure Movement Dance and Fitness in Allen and the ladies concur that when it comes to fitness and fashion—the two definitely go hand-in-hand. Dusty says, “When it comes to fitness and fashion, our motto here at Pure Movement is when you look good…you feel good! And, when you feel good you are capable of getting out and moving more, which is our overall goal—to get all ages up and moving!” The 2014 athletic wear trends are really made for people on the go. Emily says, “Chic, transitional designs

“What a strange power there is in clothing.” -Isaac Bashevis Singer

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allow you to wear your workout clothes from the gym out to run errands afterwards…and not embarrass the family name at the grocery store. Pair yoga pants with a mid-thigh tunic or sweater and you’re ready for lunch with the ladies or a meeting with your child’s teacher. Also, it’s going to be the season of tanks, whether it’s a flow tank, a mesh tank, a razorback or built-in bra top, so get your guns ready! You won’t be able to hide behind long sleeve t-shirts this spring!” Dusty smiles, “I bet when you think fitness fashion, you think MC Hammer…no? Well, you will in 2014, because the Hammer pant…now known as the harem pant, has made its way to the fitness fashion world.” This upcoming fashion trend is billowy and sensuous, but depending on your body type may not be the right style for you. If you’re not feeling like taking it back to the early 90’s and being “Too Legit to Quit”, Sport Dresses, a simple athletic dress would be a wonderful addition to your workout wardrobe.

“This loose, one piece item allows you to stay cool while looking cool,” Dusty comments.

Emily adds, “Proper attire equals functional fitness. You must come prepared to maximize your workout.

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Wear what is comfortable and makes you feel good. You want clothing that hugs your shape without revealing too much. Too loose clothing during yoga or pilates will not allow the instructor to assess proper body alignment and technique. And, you might find a baggy t-shirt engulfing your face during inversions!” Women should look for bra support built into a yoga top. Capri style or full-length fitted yoga pants are popular for women and men alike. Alternatively, men’s surfer shorts are long enough and look great. Running, bicycling and walking are among the most popular work out activities in Collin County, and the nation.

Choosing the right clothing for these activities can make for a more comfortable, safer experience. Pick fabrics that breathe. Cotton/polyester blends and spandex remain popular fabric choices as they allow the exerciser freedom of movement and these moisture wicking materials pull perspiration away from the body, quickly evaporating it, leaving the clothing and athlete dry and warm. When it comes to shoes, Dusty says, “Think bright, and think colors…think happy feet! Neon and luminous colors are taking over the shelves in all your local sports stores. “It doesn’t matter if they don’t match anything else you are wearing…the more colors the better. That said, know your feet and buy the right shoe for your activity. If you are an avid runner/walker pick a running shoe. They are

supportive and have more cushion for joint health and can improve overall structural alignment unlike a CrossFit training shoe which is more for traction and flexibility. Proper fitting shoes make all the difference in enhancing your performance and preventing injury. No outfit would be complete without the right accessories! Dusty shares, “Although you can find pretty much any fitness accessory on a smart phone these days, e.g. heart rate monitor, pedometer, GPS tracker, calorie counter; the Nike Fuel ® band claims the top stop for the 2014 must have accessories.” The Nike Fuel® band is simply worn on your wrist like a bracelet, and tracks your every movement. Amongst the top 15 fitness gadgets of 2014 is the Polar Rcx3 heart rate monitor. Not only does it keep track of your heart rate, it tracks your route, time and speed, and has ongoing personal training assistance you can access via website. If you already have enough watches then the Stava Run/Stava Cycle is one of the top fitness apps for 2014…and it’s free! The right clothing can be a great motivator to start, and remain in, an active and healthy lifestyle. Dusty and Emily conclude, “The right workout wear is kind of like buying yourself that perfect little black dress. “You know that no matter how you are feeling… when you put it on you look good! It makes you feel happy, it makes you feel healthy,and it makes you feel good. The right workout wear is no different.” Always wear what works best for you. If you feel comfortable and confident you will always give your very best. The most important thing is to remember that no matter how you feel…get up, dress up, show up and never give up!” v Dawn Bluemel Oldfield is a freelance writer.

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For MarketPlace Your Health

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calendar january

Dinosaurs Live! 9 am-5 pm, Heard Museum, 1

Nature Place, McKinney through the 31st. Back by popular demand, dinosaurs are returning from extinction for your family to experience and enjoy! Encounter moving dinosaurs including a 46 foot long T-Rex along the Heard nature trails. For more information, visit http://www.heardmuseum.org/.

Allen Community Theatre Ribbon Cutting and Open Mic, 5 pm, 1206 E. Main St.,

Suite #105. After two years of performing in church and city owned-spaces ACT has signed a 64-month lease on storefront site. We can now offer the community a permanent theatre space. For the 2014 schedule or additional information, visit www. allencommunitytheatre.net.

TAAF Winter Games of Texas, various

locations and times, through the 19th. The City of Frisco will again host athletes, spectators, officials, organizers and volunteers from the great state of Texas for this exciting multi-sport festival. We are expecting almost 4,000 amateur youth and adult athletes to compete in basketball, bowling, fencing, figure skating, flag football, gymnastics, ice hockey, martial arts, and more. Medal winners from the 2014 and 2015 Winter Games of Texas in qualifying sports will be eligible to compete in the National State Games of America taking place in Lincoln, Nebraska on July 28-August 2, 2015. For more information and schedule, visit www.taaf.com.

Allen Philharmonic presents Amahl and the Night Visitors, 7 pm, First United Methodist

Church, Allen, through the 5th. The story tells of the night the Three Kings, following the star to Bethlehem, stop for shelter at the home of Amahl, a poor, crippled shepherd boy. Amahl offers his own simple gift to the Christ Child, and then a miracle happens. Visit www.allenphilharmonic.org for tickets.

Fine Arts Chamber Players invites you to a

free Bancroft Family Concert, 3 pm, Horchow Auditorium, Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood Dr., Dallas. Musicians and dancers of Avant Chamber Ballet will be featured. Admission to the museum and the concert is free with no reservations or tickets required. Auditorium doors open at 2:30 pm. You may call 214.520.2219 or visit www. fineartschamberplayers.org for further details.

Heard Museum Winter 2014 Night Hike,

5 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. A trail, familiar by day, becomes a new experience at night! Our trail guides lead you on an adventure—owls hoot, coyotes howl and strange rustlings in the brush are possibilities. Closed-toed shoes, long pants and bug spray are recommended. Bring a flashlight with a red lens to protect your night vision! Participants will be outdoors for an hour. Children ages 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. For additional information, email skennedy@ heardmuseum.org or call 972.562.5566 x241.

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Four Funny Females, 8 pm, McKinney Performing Arts Center, 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney. McKinney’s Laura Bartlett presents The New York Times-recognized, awardwinning, all-female stand-up comedy show back home for Season 8. Four Funny Females, lauded “Fastest Rising Franchise” [Theater Jones, 2012], boasts the comedic talents of Jodi Hadsell, Sherry Belle, Laura Bartlett and Linda Stogner. For information, please visit mckinneyperformingartscenter.org. A Festival of Russian Composers with the Allen Philharmonic, 8 pm. Fei-Fei Dong, Finalist, Fourteenth

Van Cliburn International Piano Competition performs Sergei Rachmaninoff’s ”Piano Concerto No. 3 in D, Op. 30,” Tchaikovsky’s ”Cappricio Italien, Op. 45” and Prokofieff’s ”Lieutenant Kije Suite, Op. 60.” For tickets or details, visit www.allenphilharmonic.org.

CITY OF ALLEN Allen Event Center

Tickets on sale now through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at the Allen Event Center box office. For more information, visit www. alleneventcenter.com. 2 Dallas Sidekicks vs. Wichita B-52’s 3 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Rapid City Rush 4 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Rapid City Rush 10 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Denver Cutthroats 11 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Denver Cutthroats 20 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Arizona Sundogs 24 Allen Americans Hockey vs. St. Charles Chill 25 Dallas Sidekicks vs. Texas Strikers 26 Allen Americans Hockey vs. St. Charles Chill 31 Dallas Sidekicks vs. Las Vegas Legends

Parks and Recreation Events 10 SNAP Dance, 7-10 pm, Recreation Hall. Special needs adapted program! Dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and

photo. Email tharben@cityofallen.org or call 214.509.4707. Senior Recreation Center Open House. Members are invited to bring a guest to ASRC for a complimentary pancake breakfast. After breakfast, meet the staff, advisory council and other members. Learn about the center’s offerings, tour the building and even register as a new member. Indulge in a morning of fun, food and prizes. Registration required by members who are bringing a guest. 25 Saturday Night Rec n Roll, Joe Farmer Rec Center. Fun, safe social program for students in 3rd through 6th grade. Gym games, dancing, music, dodge ball, pool, table tennis, theme nights, contests and prizes. Supervision provided, concessions available. An identification card (annual $5 fee) is required to participate. Walk up admission available for $10 at the door. Dive-In Movie. Grab your swimsuit and towel and join us at Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium for the Dive-In Movie. While you and your friends lounge in and around the pool, you’ll be entertained by one of the latest and greatest movies! Concessions will be available. Noodles and tubes can be rented.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Children’s Programs Story times begin January 20. Baby & Me—For pre-walkers with an adult Thurs., 10:15 am Fun Ones—For 1 year-olds with an adult Mon. & Tues., 10:15 am, Wed., 10 am Family Together Time—For children 2-6 years and their family Mon., Tues. & Thurs., 11:15 am, Wed., 10:45 am All By Myself—For 4 & 5 year-olds ready to attend independently, Wed., 11:30 am. Pajama Story Time—For children 2-6 years and their family, Tues., 6:30 pm, Thurs., 7 pm.

Teens 9

An Anime Filled Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. Ages 12-18. You’ve asked and here it is! Enjoy a night dedicated to watching anime with a higher age rating— shows such as Black Butler, Soul Eater and Hetalia. As always, there will be snacks and fun to be had hanging out with your fellow otaku. 10 Doctor Who, 4:30-5:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. Ages 12-18. Celebrate your favorite Time Lord with us! 11 Masterpiece Madness Tea and Trivia, 11 am-12:30 pm, 2ndfloor

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program room (for adults and teens). Join our British bash celebrating the season premieres of Downton Abbey and Sherlock. Make a fascinator, sample posh nosh and win some proper prizes. 17 An Anime Afternoon, 4:30-5:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. Ages 12-18. Join us every 3rd Friday of the month for an hour of anime, Japanese candy and more! The anime shown at this program is usually rated 13+ or lower. 24 Game On, 4:30-5:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. Ages 12-18. Join us every 4th Friday of the month for gaming of the video, board and card variety. Have a favorite game? Feel free to bring it and teach your friends!

Adults Adult Winter Reading : Groundbreaking Reads, Jan. 6-Mar. 2. What are you going to do to break new ground this year? Sign up for Allen Public Library’s first annual Adult Winter Reading club! Sign up in person or online! All it takes is 5 hours of reading for a prize entry! Contact the library at 214-509-4905 for more information. 8 Noontime Pageturners, noon, 2nd floor program room. Every Day by David Levithan. Bring a lunch and a friend and join us for a lively discussion! Free. No registration. Twisted Threads—A Fiber Craft Circle, 6:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. Do you knit? Or crochet? Or make spectacular things with thread and yarn? If so, Twisted Threads is for you! Twisted Threads is a social group for knitters, crocheters, felters, quilters, and any other type of craft done with thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome! So, bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. 9 Discover a Healthier You—Chair Yoga for Relaxation, Rita Mary Nicolini, 200-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher, 12 pm, 2nd floor program room.From a stable seat, modifications of many common yoga poses can be done without fear of injury or strain. These poses can bring mobility to all parts of the body in a safe and gentle way, help to clear the mind and relax the body. 18+. Registration requested www. allenlibrary.org; Walk-ins welcome as space permits. For more information, contact Debbie Vavra, 214-509-4913 dvavra@cityofallen. org. 11 Masterpiece Madness Tea and Trivia, 11 am-12:30 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room (for adults and teens). Join our British bash

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celebrating the season premieres of Downton Abbey and Sherlock. Make a fascinator, sample posh nosh and win some proper prizes. 15 DIY@APL—Create Your Own Spa, 10-11:30 am, 2nd floor Program Room. Come rejuvenate after the holidays with relaxing spa crafts. We will be making sugar body scrub, honey body wash and decorative candle holders. Register online or call 214.509.4905 or 214.509.4913. Free. Ages 16+ please. 16 Talking History—Russia: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, 7 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. Come learn more about the fascinating history of Russia and how the past is impacting the country’s present and future. Dr. Irina Vakulenko, of the University of Texas at Dallas, will discuss Russia’s rise to prominence—both historically and in the post-Cold War period, how the Communist legacy has shaped Russia’s present economic and social policies, and how the country’s history may influence its position in the global order going forward. Registration is required. Register online or contact the Reference Desk at 214-509-4905. 28 Armchair Travelers Visit Russia, 7 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. Can’t make it to Russia for the Winter Olympics next month? Join us as Claudia Wayland and Ben Baron share stories, pictures, and anecdotes from their travels through Russia, including the cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg. Russian snacks will be served. No charge, however, reg. is required. Register online or contact the Reference Desk at 214509-4905.

Connemara Conservancy

Connemara Meadow Preserve 4 Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 8-11 am, Allen. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them; learn what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. All ages welcome. We recommend wearing long pants, closed-toed shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent. Astronomy Walk, 9-11 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join Clyde Camp for an Astronomy walk. Meet at the Suncreek Park circular parking lot, 9 pm sharp, and walk to the meadow the back way. For more info: www. connemaraconservancy.org. 26 Open House, 1 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join us to

wander (and wonder) at the meadow hiking the trails, watching flora and fauna. Enter at Wooded Gate on East side of Alma, south of Bethany.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

City of Allen offers a variety of affordable recreational classes and programs. Register at Joe Farmer Rec Center, 214.509.4750 or Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 214.509.4770. For more info: www.allenparks.org. Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appointments. If you have a car and can spare time 9-5, you can help. For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711. Kids Helping Kids, bring new or gentlyused toys to Kids Pediatric Dentistry, donate to kids in the area. Receive chance to win prize. For more info: 972.727.0011 or www. kidspediatricdentistry.com. Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days & locations vary. For more info: www.75013. theheartlinknetwork.com. MOMS Club of Allen, group for moms and children who live in Allen,

Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips and business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more. For more info: http://momsclubofallentx. weekly.com or momsclubofallentx@ gmail.com. MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op, etc. Monthly bus. meeting. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo. com. Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers of preschoolers. Each month has fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch with friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids and other events. Come play with us. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com. Texas Health Presbyterian, a variety of events. For more info: www.texashealth.org. Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www.planobicycle.org.

American Cancer Society, Road to Baylor Health Care System offers support groups, medical information and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com. Urban Explorers, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups throughout Dallas area. Something for everyone! For more info: www.meetup.com/ getoutandabout. Every Monday-Friday The Shores AA Group, noon, Raceway Profesional Building, 200 W. Boyd, Suite C (Adjacent to Dayrise Recovery), Allen. Open AA discussion group. Everyone welcome. For more info: 469.854.9593. Divorce Care, 13-week courses—biblical teaching for recovering from divorce. For more info: Kim Tedford: 214.544.8050 ext. 109, ktedford@ creekwoodumc.org or www. creekwoodumc.org. Every Monday-Sunday Allen AA meets, 601 S. Greenville. Mon.-Fri., 7 pm; Sat., 9 am; Sun., 7:30 pm. For more info: Joe, 214.564.9403 & Tina, 214.566.7561.

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Every Monday Allen Toastmasters’ Club, 6:30 pm, Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100. Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net. Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome For more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per.treven@ericsson.com. Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, 7:15 pm, Custer Road United Methodist Church, Rm B2, 6601 Custer Rd, Plano. For more info: Ed Meissner, 469-3230538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www.prestonpersuaders.org. Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC. For more info: Henry@ WealthManagementGroupLLC.com Second Monday McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm. Various locations and service projects monthly. For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org.

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Collin County Early Childhood PTA, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery reservations req. For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. The MOB (Men of Business), 11:30 am-1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen for male bonding and networking over lunch. $20 chamber members; $25 non-members/general public. For more info: www. allenfairviewchamber.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars “Lone Star Post 2150”, 1710 N. Church Street, McKinney. Post Members, 6:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary, 5:45 pm; Men’s Auxiliary, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972-542-9119, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org. American Association of University Women-Plano/Collin County Branch, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior Living Center, 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with assoc. or bachelors degree interested in helping women. For more info: Carol, 972.862.3460 or www.aauwplanocollin.org. Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566 or www. northtexasbeekeepers.org.

Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, 7 pm, Tino’s Too Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, school programs, etc. Open to anyone interested. For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982. Third Monday Allen Retired Educators, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. For more info: or RSVP: Jerri Caldronia@ jlcaldronia@suddenlink.net. Collin County Aggie Moms, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, Coit between Bush Tollway & Campbell. For more info: 972.382.3124 or www. collincountymoms.aggienetwork.com Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family & friends, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney. For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984. Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net. Fourth Monday Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be a member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402.

Plano Photography Club, 7 pm, Grace Presbyterian Church, 4300 W. Park Blvd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www. planophotographyclub.com. Every Tuesday Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/ $7 non-mem. 1st visit free. For more info: 972.727.5585. 2ChangeU Toastmasters, 7-8:45 pm, Custer Rd. United Methodist Church, Rm B5, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.2changeu.org. Toastmasters Creative Expressions, 11:15 am- 12:30 pm. Raytheon, McKinney. Guests welcome. Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org. Every Tuesday & Thursday Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 7 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, Wesley House, 601 S Greenville. Offers strength and

hope to friends & family of alcoholics. For more info: 214.363.0461 or www. al-anon.alateen.org. Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping & gardening advice, 9 am-4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney. For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460. First Tuesday Heard Museum Native Plant Society, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. First and Third Tuesday Legacy 4-H Club (Allen and Lucas), 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus. com or 214.616.2460. Common Threads of Allen, 7 pm, Whole Foods Market Café, Stacy Rd., Fairview. Share needlework projects, learn new techniques, make friends. For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net. Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen. For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982.

Second Tuesday Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. For more info: 214.509.4820. Allen Democrats, 6:30 pm, Reel Thing Catfish Cafe, 600 E. Main St., Allen. For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214.893.3643. Collin County Archaeology Society, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney. For more info: archaeology@netzero.net. Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, 5024 Custer, in Plano, 7 pm. For more info: www.planopacers.org. Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, 9:30 am refreshments, 10 am program, SMU Plano Campus, 5228 Tennyson Pkwy., Plano. Program: How to be Likeable in One Minute and Why You Should. Anne Sadovsky, is a co-author of the book, Mission Possible, with Brian Tracy and Stephen Covey. She has been featured in Money Magazine, Ladies Home Journal, Texas Business and many trade publications. Guests are welcome! For more info: www.newcomerfriends. org.

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Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, 7-9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.bptmn.org or email info@bptmn.org. Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group of Collin County, 7-9 pm, parlor, 1st UMC, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. For more info: Shirli Salter, sscaroline@ aol.com. Third Tuesday McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, welcomes new residents, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. We will be serenaded with holiday tunes by our own McKinney Community Band Flute Choir. For more info: www. mckinneynewcomers.com. Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group provides support & resources for parents of children with autism & related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health. groups.yahoo.com/group/ autismparentsupport. Plano Republican Women’s Club, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expy., Plano. For more info: www. planorepublicanwomen.com. Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter meets Aug.-May. For more info:txshawm@sbcglobal.net. Fourth Tuesday Porcelain Art Guild of North Texas, 9:30 am, Carriage House, 306 N.

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Church St., McKinney. Open to anyone, beginner to expert For more info: Gayle Harry 214.509.0787. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon, 11:30 am-1 pm. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber. com. Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society meets at 7 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Every Wednesday Allen Rotary Club, noon, Courtyard by Marriot, 210 East Stacy Rd. For more info: www.allenrotary.org. Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, “Become the Speaker and Leader you can be”, 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expy,Allen. For more info: Daniel Dodd, 972.571.7527. Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, 7 am, Twin Creeks Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www. asrotary.org. McKinney Chess on the Square, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. Promotes creativity, imagination & strategic thinking. For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org. First Wednesday Allen Heritage Guild, 6:30 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www. allenheritageguild.org. Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:30-1:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage Hosue, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney.

Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. For more info: 972.569.6909 or www. headcraig.org. Collin County Master Gardeners Assoc. guided tour of Myers Park, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Res. requested. For more info: 972.548.4232 or go to mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu. First and Third Wednesday MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, 9:30-11:30, 3405 Custer, Ste. 200, Plano. For more info: 214-762-0037 or www. mopsofhope.com. Second Wednesday Collin County Genealogical Society, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail. com. VFW Post 2195, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www.vfw2195.org. Every Thursday Allen Kiwanis Club, Noon, Hilton Garden Inn on 75 just North of Bethany. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org. Allen Classic Cars, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Chipotle & Stacy Furn. Sweet Adelines, NoteAbly North Texas Chorus, 7 pm, Grace Evangelical Free Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy, Allen. Women of Allen & surrounding area invited. For more info: nntsing4fun@yahoo.com.

Bible Study, 9:30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Registration required. For more info: katpf@att.nett or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness of Collin County), Recovery support for adults living with mental illness. Led by trained individuals. Free, 6:30-8:30 pm, Custer Road UMC, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. For more info: 214.509.0085 or www. namicco.org. Weight Watchers, 12:15 and 6 pm, First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Enter at the south entrance, second floor. Speak Up! Frisco Toastmasters Club, 7-7:30 pm social, 7:30-8:30 meeting. U of D-Frisco campus, Frisco Chamber, 6843 W. Main St. For more info: http://speakupfrisco. freetoasthost.ws. First Thursday W .I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking & discussion of womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issues. Fun & informative meeting for women in Allen & surrounding areas. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenchamber.com North Dallas Newcomers, 11 am., Brookhaven Country Club. Social time followed by a luncheon. Like to keep up with seasonal fashion? For more info: www. northdallasnewcomers.net. Allen Garden Club, meets 7 pm, monthly gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main Street. For more info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www.allengardenclub. org. Second Thursday Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly general meetings at Creekwood UUMC, 261 Country Club Road, Fairview. Different topic and guest speakers each month. Lunch provided free and babysitting available for nominal fee. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA/. Osteoporosis Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, Com. Education Rm-Medical Office Bldg. 2. For more info: 972.747.6036. Legal Aid Clinic, 6 pm, First United Methodist Church. For more info: www.lanwt.org or 1.888.529.5277. A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Headquarters, 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location sometimes varies. For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com. PSA:NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness] of Collin County, 7:30 pm, Custer Road UM Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano. Enter at the SE end, room B2. Peer support group, B6, and Family support group, B1, meet from 6:30-7:20. For more info: www.namicco.org. Second and Fourth Thursday Allen High Noon Lions Club, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952. Allen Area Patriots, 7-8:45 pm, Failth Fellowship Church, 415 West Lucas Road, Lucas. Local Tea Party presents speakers, enlightening and motivating citizens to participate in the political process. For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots. com. Third Thursday Knights of Columbus, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc.org. Cancer Support Ministry, 7 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241. Collin County Republican Men’s Club, 7 pm, locations vary. For more info: www.ccrmc.org. Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, noon, First United Methodist Church Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch, fellowship, speakers & entertainers. For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net. Live @ 5 Business After Hours, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber. com. Breast Cancer Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, 1105 Central Expwy. N., Community Education Room-Med. Office Bldg. 2. For more info: 972.747.6036. Allen Quilters’ Guild, 6:30 pm, First Presbyterian Church, 605 S Greenville. For more info: www.allenquilters.org. Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new & expectant moms’

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forum, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330. Fourth Thursday Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, 10 am, Heard-Craig Hall Gallery, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas. For more info: voyagersofmckinney@ gmail.com. Every Other Thursday North Texas Referral Group, 11:45 am, Friday’s (121 & Preston). For more info: www.ntrg.info. Every Friday Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Members free/ Non-member Allen resident $3. For more info: 214.509.4820. McKinney Chess Club, 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney.Adults 50+(Free). For more info: 972.547.7491. Every Other Friday MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), non-denominational support group for moms with kids birth to 5 years, 9:30-11:45 am, First Baptist Church in Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241. First & Third Friday Classic 55+ Game Night, 6:30 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games. Open to the community, no res. required. For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com. Every Saturday McKinney Chess Club, 10:30 am1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Any age. Free. For more info: 972.547.7491. First Saturday VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, 10 am, 1710 N. Church Street, McKinney. For more info: “Driveway John” 971822-4483, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org. Open Forum, meaningful discussions, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004. Second Saturday Heard Museum Nature Photography Club meeting. 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, service

organization to teach children to serve their community. For more info: 972.396.8010. Department 56 Village Collectors Club meets in the Plano/North Dallas area to share ideas. For more info: www.bigd56ers.com. Third Saturday Single Side Up, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. No charge to attend. Low cost child care is available. For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@thissideupfamily.org. Allen Folk Music Society, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Drive, Allen. Musicians aged 15-100. Bring snacks to share. For more info: www.twiceasfar.com. Fourth Saturday American Sewing Guild, 10 am-noon, Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Rd (at Parker), in Plano. For more info: Jane Johnson, 972.841.6854 or www.planoasg.org. Last Saturday Plano Pacers run at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, 8 am. For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www.planopacers.org. Every Sunday Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out live to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net. First Sunday United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, 2 pm, First Methodist Church of Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Church Parlor. Join us for book discussion and refreshments. Book selections are determined at the January meeting. We do encourage women of all faiths to participate. For more info: cynannrobinson@gmail. com.

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

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health & fitness profiles

Children’s Medical Center/Children’s at Legacy 7601 Preston Road • Plano • 469.303.7000 • childrens.com/legacy Five years ago, Children’s Medical Center opened its Legacy campus in west Plano to address the need for a pediatric hospital north of Dallas. Today, Children’s Medical Center at Legacy treats more than 100,000 children annually—including 41,000 emergency room visits, 6,000 surgeries and 70,000 outpatient clinic visits. The hospital offers access to the services children north of Dallas and beyond need most, with complete connectivity to Children’s Medical Center Dallas for a more comprehensive range of services. Children’s Medical Center at Legacy is perfectly situated to serve a five-county area that has 600,000 children. The facility includes 72 inpatient beds and features six state-of-the-art operating rooms, 24/7 emergency services and full-service laboratory, pharmacy and imaging services. In addition, Children’s at Legacy has a preserved green space to create an environment of healing and tranquility for patients and families. For more information, visit Children’s Medical Center at Legacy at www.childrens.com/legacy.

Baylor Regional Medical Center at Plano 4700 Alliance Blvd., Plano • 1.800.4BAYLOR • BaylorHealth.com/Plano Baylor Regional Medical Center at Plano is a 160-bed hospital committed to serving our adult neighbors since December 2004, by providing personalized care and advanced technology on a beautiful campus. We offer quality, compassionate care in a variety of areas, including scoliosis, orthopedics and sports medicine, minimally-invasive spine surgery and weight loss surgery. Since 2005 Baylor Scoliosis Center—the first center of its kind in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex— has been devoted to treatment, surgery and care of advanced spine curvature in adults and adolescents. Baylor Plano also has several neurosurgeons on its medical staff with one fellowship trained in minimally invasive spine surgery. In addition, Baylor Plano offers three FDA-approved procedures for weight loss: laparoscopic Rou-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), gastric banding and sleeve gastrectomy, which reduce the size of the stomach and limit food intake. Baylor Plano is the first hospital in Collin County accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and the only hospital in Plano designated as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. For a referral to a physician call 1.800.4BAYLOR or visit BaylorHealth.com/Plano.

The Medical Center of Plano 3901 West 15th Street • Plano • 972.596.6800 • www.TheMedicalCenterofPlano.com Since 1975, The Medical Center of Plano has maintained a reputation for delivering superior care as the largest and most sophisticated medical facility in Collin County. The 427-bed hospital boasts a long list of recognitions and honors, including designation as a Level II Trauma Center; Magnet recognition for excellence in nursing; certification as a Primary Stroke Center; and accreditation as a Chest Pain Center and Breast Center of Excellence. The program of cancer diagnosis and treatment was recently reaccredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer. Specialized departments include HeartLink™, providing comprehensive cardiovascular services; NeuroLink™, delivering state-of-the-art diagnostics and expertise in the minimally invasive treatment of highly complex brain and spine disorders; Women’sLink™, with a complete range of women’s services including digital mammography, a high-risk antepartum unit and a neonatal intensive-care unit; The Wound Care Center, offering specialized treatment for chronic and non-healing wounds; and The Bariatric Surgery Institute. Other services include both inpatient and outpatient surgery, diagnostic radiology and imaging and comprehensive critical care. In 2011 the hospital was named one of the nation’s 100 “Best Places to Work in Healthcare” by Modern Healthcare magazine.

Legacy ER & Urgent Care 1310 W. Exchange Pkwy. • Allen • 972.678.4545 • legacyer.com Legacy ER & Urgent Care combines a full-service, freestanding emergency room and a leading-edge urgent care center all in one state-of-the-art facility. We provide superior medical care in a soothing environment designed for comfort, privacy and convenience. A board certified emergency room physician treats all minor and major pediatric and adult emergencies. Most patients are seen within minutes upon arrival and discharged in less than an hour. An on-site laboratory provides speed and access to state-of-the-art NASAdeveloped equipment. Legacy ER also offers on-site radiology services with real-time readings of X-rays and CT scans by a board certified radiologist. Legacy ER was selected to receive the Star Community Newspaper award in Frisco for Best Emergency Care for 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012, as well as #1 Emergency Room in 2012. Two of their physicians were selected as some of D Magazine’s Best ER Doctors in the DFW region for 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. Legacy ER & Urgent Care encourages patients to utilize the online check-in on their website. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Urgent care services are available from 7 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Now open in Allen! A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

health & fitness profiles

Cutting Edge Therapy 800 N. Watters Road, Suite 150 • Allen • 469.675.3153 • www.cuttingedgepediatrictherapy.com Cutting Edge Pediatric Therapy (CEPT) is growing up! While CEPT just opened in June of 2013 they have already doubled their size becoming the largest pediatric therapy gym in Texas!! The three Texas-sized gyms allow therapists to focus on the specific needs of each client with a wide range of therapeutic activities. For families affected by sensory integration dysfunction, developmental delays, learning disabilities and autism, CEPT is a life-line—a place where children can receive cutting edge occupational therapy close to home and where parents can get the support and resources they need to cope with their child’s diagnosis. For co-owners Joe and Kate Lundgren, it’s their business, but more importantly, it’s also a ministry. At Cutting Edge Pediatric Therapy, pediatric occupational therapists provide evaluation, intervention and consultation in self-help and daily activity skills, fine motor development, play and socialization, sensory integration, interactive metronome, craniosacral therapy and more. The clinic also has a one-of-a-kind gym with zip lines, rock climbing walls, obstacle courses with a suspension swing, scooter board ramps and other “challenges” designed to provide the kids they serve with sensory and motor challenges. In an attempt to help the community, Joe and Kate also offer a unique service called “Bend an Ear,” where parents can make an appointment for a free consultation to ask questions and get answers about different interventions, resources or just to “bend an ear.” For more information, please call our office at 469.675.3153 or visit our website at www.cuttingedgepediatrictherapy.com.

Allen Dentistry 551 W. McDermott Drive • Allen • 972.359.9950 • www.allendentistry.com Allen Dentistry has been a part of the Allen community since 2000. The main goals of Allen Dentistry are to provide competent, efficient, comforting, family oriented dental care. A wide range of dental services are offered, including sedation to allow for a more comfortable and complete treatment experience. At Allen Dentistry, effective communication is our standard. No hidden fees or tricks. Whether we are answering questions about treatment or insurance we strive to communicate what is important to you. Dr. Justin Nylander has been around dentistry all of his life as his dad was a dentist in the United States Military. Dr. Nylander graduated from high school in San Antonio and received his undergraduate degree from Oregon State University. He attended dental school at the Arizona School of Dentistry and afterward practiced dentistry in Salt Lake City, Utah, for many years before making Texas his home. At Allen Dentistry we are grateful for our patients and their trust in us and hope to always make your interactions with us a positive experience.

Texas Foot & Ankle Clinic / Dr. Jeffrey Radack 8080 State Highway 121 • Suite 200 • McKinney • 469.742.0406 • www.TexasFootClinic.com Dr. Radack and the staff at Texas Foot & Ankle Clinic are committed to providing the highest quality of care, utilizing the latest techniques and advances in the field of podiatric medicine and surgery. Dr. Radack provides a complete range of services for pediatric and adult patients. He specializes in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, sports medicine, trauma and diabetic limb salvage. Dr. Radack has practiced in McKinney for 10 years and is located at the Medical Center of Craig Ranch. He attended the College of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco, and completed reconstructive foot and ankle surgery residency at West Houston Medical Center in Houston. He is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. In his spare time, he enjoys mountain biking, tennis, snow skiing and travel. His wife, Jill, is a pediatric endocrinologist in Fort Worth and they enjoy spending time with their son, Elliot. If you are experiencing foot or ankle problems, call for an appointment today or please visit the website: www.TexasFootClinic.com.

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health & fitness profiles

Allen Kids Dentist Tammy Gough, DDS, MS • Jessie Hunter, DDS 201 North Alma Drive, Ste. 100 • Allen • 972.727.0737 • www.allenkidsdentist.com Dr. Tammy Gough is a board certified pediatric dentist who has practiced in Allen since 1993. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois and received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and master’s degree in Pediatric Dentistry from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Dr. Gough has served as President of the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentists and the Southwest Society of Pediatric Dentists. She has been selected as a “Best Dentist in Dallas” by D Magazine. Dr. Gough is honored to be appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the Texas State Dental Board. Dr. Jessie Hunter is also a board certified pediatric dentist. She was raised in Oklahoma and did her undergraduate studies at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, and received her dental degree from the University of Oklahoma Dental School. Jessie earned her Pediatric Certificate from Louisiana State University. She currently lives in Frisco with her husband, Brandon, and their children, Haidyn, Austin and Dylan. As pediatric dentists, Drs. Gough and Hunter are experts in the growth and development of the oral structures of infants, children and adolescents and are specially trained in behavior management and sedation techniques for apprehensive or special needs patients. “Our office is committed to making every visit a fun and positive, yet educational, visit for the children.” The office provides its young patients plenty of fun, with a video arcade for their enjoyment before and after their appointment. A sports theme features Dallas professional teams and a wall displays a collection of sports memorabilia. The doctors and staff provide the highest quality of dentistry through continuing education on new procedures, products and equipment.

Dr. Hunter

Dr. Gough

Acupuncture & Herbs • Dr. Julie Qu 2305 Coit Road, Suite D • Plano • 972.832.1584 • www.jqclinic.com. Americans are increasingly interested in acupuncture and herb treatment because of the great results achieved and the lack of associated side effects. Dr. Qu has extensive training and twenty-two years experience in acupuncture and herbal medicine. She graduated in 1985 from Hei Long Jiang University in China, a school of traditional Chinese medicine. In 1993 she earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Chinese Medicine and became a member of the first generation of Ph.D.s in Traditional Chinese medicine. Through combinations of acupuncture and herbs, Dr. Qu has treated patients with a variety of disorders including pain, injury, fibromyalgia, arthritis, migraine headaches, vertigo, TMJ, stress, depression, anxiety, fatigue, allergies, PMS, infertility, digestive problems, IBS and more. She can also help patients to quit smoking or lose weight. She has been teaching Acupuncture and Herbology at the Dallas College of Oriental Medicine since 2003, where she works as a professor, a clinic supervisor and a clinic director. To schedule an appointment or for more information, please call or visit her website.

Creekview Orthodontics 1780 W. McDermott, Suite 100 • Allen • 214.547.0001 At Creekview Orthodontics, Dr. Jay Ghosh, Dr. Trent Lofgren and their team strongly believe in preventive care with a conservative treatment philosophy. In addition to practice experience, both doctors have taught orthodontics at the university level—Dr Ghosh full-time for many years. Their belief is to use the latest technology, but only that which is backed up by peer-reviewed research. While creating beautiful smiles is their goal for each patient, the most satisfying part of orthodontics is the relationships created with patients and their families. Orthodontics provides beautiful smiles that improve self-esteem, while contributing to overall health. Other benefits include better function, ease of cleaning and greater longevity of teeth. Since detecting a problem early makes prevention and correction easier, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist at age seven. Since newer materials—like tooth-colored “invisible” braces and special alloyed wires—have made treatment more cosmetically appealing and comfortable and has shortened treatment time, more adults are accepting orthodontic treatment as well.

Dr. Lofgren

Dr. Ghosh

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health & fitness profiles

Advanced Foot & Ankle Center 4501 Medical Drive, Suite 300 • McKinney • 972.542.2155 • 221 N. Preston Road, Suite C • Prosper advancedfoottexas.com At Advanced Foot and Ankle Center, Eric M. Silvers, D.P.M., and Robert Hadfield, D.P.M., provide experienced care for the entire spectrum of podiatry, including reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. “Our extensive medical training provides a solid foundation for uncompromised comprehensive medical and surgical foot and ankle care,” says Dr. Silvers. “Because we’re a private practice, patients can be assured that we employ state-of-the-art procedures and equipment that have proven to be safe and effective.” Ignoring a problem and hoping it will go away is ill advised, particularly when it comes to pediatric foot issues. “Caught early, many problems such as flat feet or in-toeing can be corrected with shoes, orthotics or braces,” says Dr. Hadfield. Also, most foot conditions, like flat-footedness, tend to be genetic. Fortunately these problems, when caught early, can often be treated without surgery. Dr. Silvers

Dr. Hadfield

Drs. Silvers and Hadfield often treat patients who have had unsuccessful procedures done elsewhere, giving patients much appreciated relief.

North Dallas Plastic Surgery/ Dr. Todd Pollock and Dr. Harlan Pollock 1105 Central Expwy. N. #2310 • Allen • 8305 Walnut Hill Ln. #210 • Dallas 214.363.2575 • www.drpollock.com North Dallas Plastic Surgery has been providing a full range of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery to North Texas for over 40 years. Offices are conveniently located in both Dallas and Allen. Cosmetic procedures include facial rejuvenation (facelift, browlift, eyelid surgery), breast surgery (breast augmentation, lifts and reduction) and body contouring (liposuction, tummy tuck, thigh and arm lifts) Our doctors are nationally recognized for the development of the “Drain-free Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).

Drs. Todd & Harlan Pollock

We offer a variety of surgical and non-surgical procedures to reverse facial aging changes. Our approach is individualized and employs current techniques to minimize incisions and downtime. Our medical treatments include Botox, Restylane, Radiasse and Juvederm; all of which are administered by a physician. Our surgeons are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are members of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. All consultations include comprehensive evaluation and discussion face-to-face with the surgeon. Our educational website: www.drpollock.com, reflects our professional, caring and ethical philosophy—“Beauty begins with knowledge.”

Maryam Mojdehi-Barnes, DDS, MS 604 S. Watters Road, Suite 150 • Allen • 972.390.1100 • www.AllenOrthodontist.com Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes and her team have been specializing in creating healthy and beautiful smiles for patients of all ages since 1999. They provide their patients and their families with the highest quality of orthodontic treatment in a friendly and professional environment. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes uses the latest technologies and treatment modalities to customize unique treatment plans that emphasize comprehensive, preventative and interceptive therapy. They focus on patient education and personalized care, and they involve other specialists, as needed, to customize unique treatment plans that address each patient’s specific needs. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes received her bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Texas A&M University with summa cum laude honors and went on to Baylor College of Dentistry to complete her DDS degree as the top graduating student. She then completed her orthodontic residency and masters’ degree at the world- renowned program of Baylor with top honors. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes is active in her community and numerous national and local organizations.  To learn more about the practice visit their web site or call for information.

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

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health & fitness profiles

Allen Family Dental Dr. Lina Lizardi • Dr. Marisol Chaves-Trautmann 1420 W. Exchange Pkwy., Suite 170 • Allen • 469.342.6644 • www.allentexascosmeticdentist.com At Allen Family Dental, we spend extra time helping our patients feel comfortable and understand their treatment. We are committed to giving our patients the personalized care they deserve in a beautiful and comfortable office setting with state-of-the-art technology and equipment. Our core values are: understanding patients’ needs, presenting an honest diagnosis, giving a thorough explanation of treatments, providing quality care and creating a comfortable dental experience. Dr. Lina Lizardi graduated as a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the College of Dentistry at the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2007, and from the University of Santo Tomas de Aquino in Colombia in 1994. She has been practicing dentistry since 1995. Dr. Lizardi lives in Allen with her husband, Rafael, and their two children, Alex and Sofia. She stays active in the community at a personal and professional level. Dr. Lizardi is a member of the Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), The American Dental Association (ADA), The Texas Dental Association (TDA), the North Texas Dental Society (NTDS), the Hispanic Dental Association (HAD) and she is an Allen sports activity sponsor. Dr. Chaves-Trautmann was born and raised in Costa Rica and came to the United States to pursue her post graduate dental education. She graduated in 1991, and in June of 1997 she completed the Ohio State University program of Advanced Prosthodontics—the field of dentistry that specializes in dental restoration associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes. Shortly after completing the program, she joined the Dr. Chaves-Trautmann Dr. Lizardi Baylor College of Dentistry faculty in Dallas and taught at the Advanced Educations of General Dentistry Program, and then joined private practice. She enjoys watching her three boys play sports and spending time at the lake with family and friends. During her 20 years in the dental field, she has focused on delivering to patients the best possible care in a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Experience the difference for yourself today.

Allen Ophthalmology 400 N. Allen Dr., Suite 108 • Allen • 972.727.7477 • www.heritageeyecenter.com Heritage Eye Center • 1501 N. Redbud Blvd. • McKinney • 972.548.0771  The city of Allen’s premier ophthalmology center is in the expert hands of Dr. James Norbury who provides state-of-the-art treatment while maintaining the personalized service of a small town practice. An avid hockey fan, Dr. Norbury was recently selected to be the team ophthalmologist for the Allen Americans, caring for team players and attending to any game injuries. By partnering with his associates at Heritage Eye and Surgery Center—Drs. Rudolf Churner, Sanjay Patel, Stephanie Tanck, Grant Gilliland (oculoplastics), Henry Choi (retina) and Santosh Patel (retina)—he can ensure quality care in all facets of eye care. For patients who require surgery, the Heritage Surgery Center team specializes in the treatment of cataracts offering Crystalens and ReSTOR lens implants, as well as LASIK, laser treatments for a variety of eye conditions and oculoplastic surgery. For the best sight of your life, make an appointment with Dr. Norbury. Allen Ophthalmology is open four days a week, Saturday morning appointments are available at the McKinney office.

Ponder-Terry, Orthodontics/Stacy Ponder-Terry, DMD, MS 1505 W. McDermott Drive #145 • Allen • 214.736.3705 • www.ponderterryortho.com Dr. Terry is a native of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Millsaps College and completed her dental school training at the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry where she finished at the top of her class. It was there where Dr. Terry made history, becoming the first African American female in the school’s history to become accepted into an orthodontic specialty program. She completed her specialty training at one of the country’s top orthodontic programs—the University of Michigan. During her residency, Dr. Terry was named a Charley Schultz Resident Scholar for her distinguished thesis research project on External Root Resorption. Dr. Terry’s work was recently published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. A past orthodontic patient herself, Dr. Terry is committed to providing the best patient care possible. Dr. Terry closely listens to her patient’s concerns to develop an individualized treatment plan. She currently lives in Allen with her husband, Ryan, and their Shih Tzu, Gracey. Keeping busy when not working with her patients, Dr. Terry enjoys step aerobics, running, attending her patients’ extracurricular events and spending time with her family and friends. A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

health & fitness profiles

Premier Foot and Ankle 8080 Hwy. 121, Suite 200 • McKinney • 6309 Preston Road, Suite 1200 • Plano 972.424.8999 • www.premierfoot.com Dr. Jaryl Korpinen of Premier Foot and Ankle offers the newest technologies for the treatment of foot and heel pain. Podiatherm is a non-surgical, insurance approved treatment using radiofrequency to cure heel pain as well as pain in the ball of the foot called Morton’s neuroma. The EPAT is a non-invasive in-office treatment to heal conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Although Dr. Korpinen was surgically trained at the Harris County Surgical Residency, he has invested in these new, conservative technologies for better solutions for foot pain without the need for surgery. As a former college basketball player, Dr. Korpinen has a special interest in sports medicine and works closely with various running clubs, triathlon clubs and races. Dr. Korpinen has been recognized by his peers as a D Magazine Best Doctors in Collin County. Premier Foot and Ankle also has on-site x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, treatments for neuropathy and vascular testing for diabetics. New technology for the treatment of toenail fungus is now available as well. Please call for an appointment or more information.

Allen Dental Center, PA 300 West Boyd • Allen • 972.727.3941 • www.allendentist.com Allen Dental Center is a family and cosmetic dental practice that offers state-of-the-art dental services. Patients enjoy receiving regular check-ups with as much quality and care as crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, root canals or cosmetic dentistry services. Whether it is a smile makeover or restorative work, we offer sedation dentistry for those apprehensive about dental treatment. Bringing over 30 years of combined experience to Allen, Drs. Jeff and Steve Williams provide a special brand of quality care. “The people who come to see me are more than just patients,” says Dr. Jeff Williams. “For me, practicing dentistry has always been about connecting with the patient,” adds Dr. Steve Williams. “That’s why we make sure that all of our patients know all about the procedure we’re performing and the status of their oral health. We offer the kind of care we would want for our own families.”  Allen Dental Center strives to consistently provide a superior level of treatment and comfort with state-of-the-art dental products and services at affordable prices. Call for an appointment today and see how Allen Dental Center is helping to make Allen more beautiful, one smile at a time.

Craig Ranch OB-GYN 7900 Henneman Way, Suite 100 • McKinney • 214.544.6600 • www.craigranchobgyn.com Conveniently located off of the Sam Rayburn Tollway between Alma and Custer, Craig Ranch OB-GYN provides OB-GYN services to the north Collin County area including Frisco, Plano, Allen and McKinney. We offer complete obstetrical care with management of both high-risk and low-risk pregnancies and perform deliveries at several of the local hospitals including Medical Center of McKinney, Presbyterian of Allen and Baylor Medical Center at McKinney. We are one of the leaders in all of Texas for in-office procedures such as endometrial ablation and Essure for permanent sterilization. For the convenience of our patients, we have also added in-office mammograms, making us the first and only OB/GYN group in the area to do this. The group consists of Andrew Shimer, MD, Shea Joyner, MD, Sara Robert, MD, Heather Sloan, MD, Christine Wan, MD, Allison Atlas, WHNP and Kristan Rhone, WHNP. Please call for a consultation.

Vision Source Fairview 1546 E. Stacy Rd., Suite100 • Allen • 214.383.5400 • www.visionsource-fairview.com Vision Source delivers exceptional service to maintain healthy eyes and a lifetime of good vision for the entire family. Dr. Carey Patrick, O.D, and Dr. Shannon O’Hare, O.D., provide comprehensive eye health care using digital retinal imaging and advanced technology to detect sight-threatening conditions before most symptoms are noticeable. As therapeutic optometrists, Drs. Patrick and O’Hare diagnose, treat and co-manage care of eye infections, eye injuries, Dry Eye Syndrome, ocular allergies, eye surgeries, macular degeneration and cataracts. Both are Certified Glaucoma Specialists.

Dr. O’Hare

Dr. Patrick

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Specialty services include pediatric eye health and vision development evaluations for patients 6 weeks to 4 years old; sports vision performance evaluations; custom contact lens designs for hard-to-fit patients; and CRT—Corneal Refractive Therapy—to reshape the patient’s eyes, without surgery, to see great without daytime glasses or contact lenses. Vision Source offers eyeglasses and sunwear from designers including Coach, Lisa Loeb, Adrienne Vittadini, Calvin Klein, Nautica and Nike. Advanced eye health care, fashionable eyewear and family-focused eye doctors—that’s the difference at Vision Source.

health & fitness profiles

North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine Mark Lessner, M.D. and Vudhi Slabisak, M.D. 955 Garden Park Dr., Suite 200 • Allen • 214.592.9955 • NTOSonline.com North Texas Orthopaedics & Spine is dedicated to utilizing the latest minimally invasive techniques and providing comprehensive orthopaedic and spinal care to families in Allen and its surrounding areas. Conveniently located in Watters Creek, the practice has long-standing roots in the Allen community. Dr. Vudi Slabisak is board-certified in orthopaedics and fellowship-trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the lumbar, cervical and thoracic spine. Dr. Slabisak evaluates each patient’s condition and then initiates a surgical or non-surgical treatment plan as needed. His surgical treatments for spine conditions can result in improved healing times. Dr. Mark Lessner is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with specialty training in sports medicine and arthroscopy. His fellowship included active participation as an assistant team physician for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League and the University of Cincinnati sports teams. Dr. Lessner is trained in all areas of orthopaedic care, but his special interests lie in the care of athletes of all ages and levels, as well as advanced arthroscopy and reconstruction of the shoulder and knee. Dr. Lessner

Dr. Slabisak

North Texas Orthopaedics & Spine is part of the Texas Health Resources network, one of the largest health systems in North Texas. Drs. Slabisak and Lessner have designed the practice’s office for the convenience of patients, offering many in-office services, including on-site X-rays, injections and some procedures.

Bethany Heights Dental 1208 E. Bethany Drive, Suite 7 • Allen • 972.390.8500 • www.bethanyheightsdentalcare.com Dr. Carla Spann earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from the Texas A & M Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Before attending dental school, she graduated from Duke University School of Engineering in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. A believer in keeping her skills current, she has completed numerous continuing education courses and is an alumnae of the Pankey Institute in Florida where she has expanded her knowledge of principles of general dentistry to incorporate all aspects of patients’ oral health, nutrition and medical systemic conditions in her practice philosophy. With a compassionate and conservative approach to dentistry, she believes that patient education is paramount to success in resolving and preventing oral health issues. She is particularly skilled in helping fearful patients relax during their dental care and is certified to provide sedation for these patients when necessary. This former Associate Professor at Baylor College of Dentistry, is a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, Dallas County Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, and the Christian Medical and Dental Association. Her sons Carson and Cameron Lopez attend Chandler Elementary School here in Allen.

Gandy Orthodontics/Dr. Allen Gandy 431 Stacy Road, Suite 109 • Fairview • 972.727.3900 • www.gandyorthodontics.com Dr. Allen Gandy is a Board Certified Orthodontist and regularly lectures on new advances in orthodontics. He graduated at the top of his class and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree, with highest academic honors, from Baylor College of Dentistry. As a resident, he attended the University of Nebraska Medical Center where he completed his post-doctoral specialty training in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, and his Masters of Science degree in Oral Biology. Recognized for his clinical and research achievements, Dr. Gandy has been honored with distinguished awards from the American Association for Dental Research, the American Association for Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and the Southwest Prosthodontic Society. He is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists and he is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics (Board Certified). Dr. Allen Gandy is one of relatively few orthodontists in Texas offering in-office i-CAT 3-D imaging as a routine diagnostic tool for individualized treatment planning. This cutting edge 3-D treatment allows for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. His offices also offer the most advanced orthodontic systems including the DAMON and SURESMILE systems, as well as Invisalign treatment. A complimentary consultation with Dr. Gandy can be scheduled by calling 972.727.3900. A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

health & fitness profiles

Jupiter Kids Dentistry 600 E. Bethany Dr., Suite 130 • Allen • 972.396.8080 At Jupiter Kids Dentistry, Dr. Sal Taiym and Dr. Elizabeth Kamali are committed to providing exceptional oral healthcare to infants, children and adolescents. They have been married since 2008 and have a beautiful baby daughter to keep them busy at home. As parents and dentists, they understand the importance of nurturing a positive attitude toward dentistry and emphasizing good oral health habits from an early age. Kids feel at ease when they first step into the office, with the kid friendly atmosphere, video games and movies above chairs.

Dr. Kamali, Dr. Taiym & daughter

Dr. Kamali is a native of the Allen/Plano area. She studied biology at UT Arlington. In 2004, after graduating from Baylor College of Dentistry, she was eager to begin working with children. Upon completing her general practice residency at the University of Oklahoma Children’s hospital, she was ready to return to Allen and give back to the community. Dr. Taiym attended UT San Antonio for his undergraduate studies and Baylor College of Dentistry for dental school and his pediatric dentistry training. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and is on the medical/dental staff at Children’s Medical Center of Plano/Dallas, where he participates in emergency call coverage.

Allen Chiropractic/Dr. Jane Perry 1506 N. Greenville, Ste. 260 • Allen • 972.727.1106 • drjaneperry.com Dr. Jane Perry has brought relief to thousands of patients over the past 28 years, and your health is her number one concern. She and her staff are dedicated to helping patients achieve excellent health and increased vitality through chiropractic, and educating patients about long-term health and lifestyle changes. “It’s important for me to offer effective chiropractic care that can be documented and proven to my patients. That’s why I’ve chosen the Activator method of adjusting, in which patients simultaneously experience state-of-the-art precision chiropractic along with a gentle, caring touch.” Dr. Perry was also recently certified in Impulse IQ Chiropractic Instrument Adjusting, an innovative chiropractic technique that incorporates the use of a hand-held computerized adjusting instrument to apply treatment. Using this instrument allows her to specifically target problem areas of the spine and extremity joints with a controlled force in an effort to correct the underlying cause of the patient’s pain. This technique is used to help patients suffering from a variety of conditions including low back pain, sciatica, neck pain, headaches and whiplash injuries. Dr. Perry joins an elite group of doctors to become certified in the Impulse IQ Adjusting technique.

I Choose Change PLLC 1514 N. Greenville Ave, Suite 310 • Allen • 214.547.1318 • www.ichoosechange.com Love the couch. Love yourself. The couch has long been synonymous with psychotherapy and counseling and a red sofa has become a highly recognizable symbol of quality counseling and life coaching in the Allen area. Within easy reach of Fairview, Plano and McKinney, I Choose Change (ICC) offers individual counseling, family therapy, life coaching and a women’s support group. Working closely with local pediatricians, their registered play therapists and counselors work extensively with young children and teens. The majority of clients choose to sit on that couch but those who live too far away to travel to Allen, or need to fit their therapy into hectic work and life schedules, find that ICC’s 21st century approach to counseling suits them better—counseling and coaching not only via traditional face-to-face but via email, telephone and Skype. Jennifer Slingerland Ryan, founder and director of ICC, has worked in the mental health industry for almost 15 years and has been in private practice for over 10 years. She and her team look forward to helping and supporting you and yours. To learn more visit their website or call for information.

365 Fitness 214.213.3732 • kilaham@msn.com The goal at 365 Fitness is to be a lifestyle leader in health and wellness for people of all ages. Owner and certified personal trainer, Kila Hamilton is a weightlifting guru who has been training residents of Allen and surrounding areas for over five years. At 365 Fitness they promote weightlifting and nutrition in a concerted effort to build confidence and great physiques. With a staff of accomplished trainers, they provide workouts specifically tailored to you and your health and wellness goals. For your convenience, 365 Fitness offers in-home personal training, as well as training at various facilities around the area. People seek personal trainers for a variety reasons—to work off a few extra pounds after the holidays; to get in shape for swimsuit season; to make a lifestyle change to become a healthier individual; to train for a body building competition, etc.—and we can design a plan to fit your needs. Health and longevity are life’s greatest assets, so please contact us today to start living the 365 Lifestyle.

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health & fitness profiles

Raintree Healthcare 919 Medical Drive • Allen • 214.644.0280 • www.raintree-healthcare.com Raintree Healthcare continues to grow! Last year we added Family and Sports Medicine to create what we think of as 360-Degree care. This year we’ve added X-ray to the services we are proud to offer our patients. Our spacious office near Watters and Exchange will continue to allow us the opportunity to provide excellent comprehensive care in a relaxing and friendly environment for all of our adult and pediatric patients. Raintree is home to two board-certified pediatricians—Dr. Yuri Cook and Dr. Chad Smith, as well as four other outstanding pediatric providers: Michelle Holwerda, RN, MS, CPNP, Jennifer McLean, MS, PA-C, Beth Godi, RN, MSN, CPN, and Amber Holifield, MS, PA-C. They possess the knowledge and experience both to treat a variety of childhood illnesses and to guide parents through important decisions regarding the preventative health of children. Raintree Healthcare offers comprehensive services including: same-day sick appointments, complete vaccinations and preventative medicine for international travel, on-site blood draws and lab work, x-ray, extended winter hours, early seasonal flu vaccinations, after hours nurse triage by phone and Saturday morning pediatric urgent care. “Meet the Doctor” night is the first Monday of each month (excluding July and December). Give us a call and come meet our Pediatric providers. Additional information can be found on our website: www.raintree-healthcare.com.

Dr. Rosemary Bates, MD PA 6300 Stonewood Drive, Suite 302 • Plano • 972.943.8597 • drbateswellness.com Rosemary Bates, MD, is a board certified internist with a special interest in prevention, helping her patients achieve optimal wellness and better qualities of life. She and her caring staff offer personalized, progressive care with modern methods and equipment in a warm and friendly environment. They encourage a healthy lifestyle including weight management, good nutrition and exercise. She offers diet and exercise counseling, nutritional and dietary supplements and has added a safe and effective rapid weight loss option using Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG). Originally from England, Dr. Bates has been in the U.S. since 1986 and is a citizen. She earned her B.S. in Chemistry at Lamar University and her medical degree from University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas. Her internship and residency were completed at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas and she has been in private practice since 1999. She is married and lives in Lucas with her husband and two young children. For an appointment or more information, call the office or visit her online.

Master’s Hand Dental 935 W. Exchange Pkwy., Suite 300 • Allen • 972.905.9091 www.mastershanddental.com Your Smile. Our Passion. The entire team at Master’s Hand Dental is excited about the latest high-tech developments to make your dental treatment a high-comfort, low-stress experience. Our practice features general dentistry, oral sedation, cosmetic dentistry, whitening, orthodontics, non-surgical periodontal treatment and so much more. With our popular oral sedation dentistry, you can complete your entire dental treatment while you sleep and wake up with a new smile! We pride ourselves in individual service with state-of-the-art equipment and sterilization techniques. Dr. Koons and our caring, knowledgeable staff provide you with a comfortable and warm atmosphere! We would be delighted to welcome you to our office as our new patient! Call today. A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

health & fitness

Face the facts about facial rejuvenation by Dr. Todd Pollock

ost people want to look as young as they feel, and as people are living longer, healthier lives they may see changes in their appearance that are not consistent with the way they feel. Additionally, people are staying in the work force longer and competing and interacting with younger colleagues. This naturally leads some individuals to investigate options for facial rejuvenation. Nowadays, there are a myriad of options available. The key (and often the biggest challenge) is to find the right option for you. Advertisements can be found everywhere for Botox, fillers and a variety of lasers and other devices that offer a supposedly simple route to a youthful appearance. National TV info足mercials and print ads for surgical procedures with catchy names offer seemingly inexpensive, simple procedures with minimal recovery as the answer to turning back facial aging. While all of these modalities can be very effective in the properly selected patient, improper selection can lead to disappointment and wasted money. So how do you determine what the right treatment is for you? The first step is a consultation with an appropriately trained professional. If you are fairly young and simply looking to maintain and freshen your healthy skin, an aesthetician or dermatologist is probably appropriate.

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As facial aging progresses into lines, folds and sagging skin, it is wise to seek an opinion from a plastic surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. These surgeons are not limited in their scope and abilities to treat just certain modalities, but are able to make suggestions across the broad spectrum of available treatments. A consultation is often best done by the surgeon and he should assess your concerns, do a complete examination and discuss with you the options for treatment. Often there is more than one option that would address your concerns and you should try to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each, including treatment limitations, recovery time, risks and, of course, cost.

hollow or a static line (one present without animation). There are a large number of fillers available and different fillers are better or worse for different situations. Talk with your physician to determine which would be better for you. Lasers and peels are used to resurface the skin to reduce or eliminate wrinkles, improve pig mentary problems and skin quality. These treatments vary based on the depth of their effects. Some devices

are touted to tighten skin, but their effectiveness has been inconsistent at best. Some non-surgical treatments are not appropriate for certain signs of aging and that is where surgeries such as limited or full facelifts, browlifts, eyelid surgery, liposuction and others may need to be considered. v Todd Pollock, M.D. is a plastic surgeon

practicing at North Dallas Plastic Surgery.

The key…is to find the right option for you. In general, the more extensive the procedure, the longer it lasts. And, these procedures usually come with a longer recovery time, greater risk and a higher price tag. If a treatment is offered promising major changes with minimal risk and little or no downtime, you should be skeptical and proceed with caution. Never be pressured into signing up for a procedure or treatment you have doubts about. The smart consumer should do his/her research, including inves tigating the treatment offered, verifying physicians’ credentials and considering more than one opinion. In general, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There are a wide range of nonsurgical treatments available, but it is important to understand the effect and limits of each one. Neurotoxins, such as Botox, weaken or paralyze the muscle that creates dynamic lines (one that is present only with animation). Fillers are used to fill a A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

Ask the orthodontist by Dr. Alan Gandy

Q: I am 45 years old and I always cover my teeth when I smile; is it too late for me to get braces? A: In general, teeth can be moved at any age. Patients have been treated well into their sixties. Besides the obvious cosmetic benefits, teeth function better after orthodontic treatment. It is also easier to brush and floss, so it is possible to keep your teeth for the rest of your life. If you feel like you need braces, call an orthodontist for a consultation to see what your options are. You should never have to cover your teeth when you smile!

Q: My son is eight years old; is it too early to see an orthodontist? A: Not all children need

orthodontic treatment at an early age. However, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, all children seven or older should also be evaluated by an orthodontist. Usually by the seventh birthday, the child’s permanent teeth have started to erupt and the presence of spaces, crowding, rotations, cross-bites and other ortho dontic problems have begun to become evident. The child is now in the mixed dentition (both baby and adult teeth are present). Furthermore, presence or lack of development of teeth can usually be detected.

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Any oral habits including finger sucking and tongue thrust can be evaluated at this time. During the exam appointment, the orthodontist can also monitor the development of facial bones and bite relationship between upper and lower teeth. In some instances, early treatment may be beneficial. Using orthopedic appliances (i.e. Rapid Palatal Expander “RPE”, Facemask or functional appliances) in a growing child, the orthodontist is often able to make significant changes in growth and development of upper and lower jaws. They are also able to interrupt harmful oral habits such as thumb and finger

sucking. With early treatment, they can guide permanent teeth into desirable positions or preserve or gain space for their eruption in the future. Correction of major orthodontic problems, as well as establishment of a good bite relationship at an early age, may help prevent some orthodontic problems in the future. At times, early orthodontic treatment may potentially simplify treatment or shorten its duration in the future. Orthodontic treatment at any age can also drastically improve a child’s self esteem and appearance. v Dr. Alan Gandy is an orthodontist practicing at Gandy Orthodontics in Allen.

It’s not too late to vaccinate by Dr. Maria Flaquer

Make getting a flu shot today part of your New Year’s resolution

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Late is better than never—and sooner is better than later—when it comes to getting your flu shot. And despite flu season already being in full swing by the time January comes around, rolling up your sleeve for a shot this month can help protect you from catching the flu during the second half of its typical season. In fact, it’s almost never too late to benefit from getting vaccinated against the flu. The advantages of getting a shot today instead of tomorrow are clear— it limits your exposure to cold and flu germs before the flu season really kicks into high gear, and it allows your body to build up its immunity. But it takes about two weeks after vaccina tion for the body’s immune response to provide full protection. It’s difficult to predict exactly when the flu will start and stop from one year to the next—its timing, severity and length varies from year to year. Typically, the flu season runs from October until May, with the peak of illnesses between December and March. The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Practicing these good health habits may also help protect you from being counted among the 5 to 20 percent of U.S. residents who get the flu each year. Wash your hands frequently; cough into your elbow and not into your hands; and stay home if you are sick. This way, you won’t expose others to the highlycontagious illness. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized annually for flu-related complications. It’s especially important for highrisk populations to get the flu vaccine as soon as possible. These include pregnant women, children and seniors older than 65. People who work in high-risk environments—hospitals, doctors’ offices and preschools—also are included among the highest-risk populations, as are patients with chronic health conditions (cancer, asthma, diabetes, etc.). The CDC recommends a yearly flu

vaccine for everyone six months and older. While many different flu viruses exist, the flu vaccine is designed to protect against the three main flu strains that research indicates will cause the most illness during the flu season. The flu vaccine doesn’t work the same way on every person and it also depends how well the vaccine matches with the viruses that are spreading in the community at the time. New strains can appear each year and their seasons are unpredictable. Symptoms of the flu, which can resemble other illnesses like colds or strep throat and last two to seven days, may include fever, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion or body aches. Some people can have vomiting or diarrhea. It’s important to remember that not all patients with flu will develop a fever. Getting vaccinated each year provides the best protection against influenza throughout flu season. It’s important to get a flu vaccine every year, even if you got vaccinated the season before and the viruses in the vaccine have not changed for the current season.

Protect yourself against the flu with these simple steps In addition to getting vaccinated, the Centers for Disease Control recommends these everyday steps to help prevent the spread of germs: • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. • Stay away from people who are sick. If someone in the household is sick, try to keep the sick person in a separate room from others in the household, if possible. • Wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. • Keep surfaces like bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label. v Maria Flaquer, M.D., is a family medicine specialist at Crescent Family Medicine in Allen.

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True graciousness—giving thanks and being content

by Jennifer Slingerland Ryan

I recently heard the lovely Brene Brown say, “We don’t need to just have an ‘attitude of gratitude.’ We need to be deliberate in giving thanks.” What she means is, simply going through each day pretending to be thankful, or being superficially gracious (while having negative self-talk) isn’t what creates gratitude. What creates true gratitude is taking notes of the gifts we have in our lives. There is a distinction to be made between happiness and gratitude. They are not the same, although we sometimes use them interchangeably. To be grateful means giving thanks for something that’s been given as a gift. It can be a person in our life that was giving, or nature, or God. It was such a surprise to me last year as I pulled up to the window of Starbucks for my traditional “non-fat, peppermint, no-whip cafe mocha” (I recommend the drink wholeheartedly!), the car in front of me had paid for my drink. I tried to get a glimpse of them,

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but I didn’t catch them in time and they sped away. The person working in the window said, “They told me to tell you Happy Holidays!” It was such a treat. I felt grateful for the gift of not only the drink, but the thoughtfulness of a complete stranger! Contrary to feeling grateful, happiness would be something one just feels good about. You can be happy that it’s sunny outside, or grateful that the sunshine has been provided (the gift of sunshine!). You can be happy to have an extra $100 in the bank, but grateful that the extra money has been given as a gift. You get the point. Having gratitude means being content. Being thankful and grateful leads to more contentment. Conversely, continually wanting more and more external things leads to the feeling of emptiness and unhappiness. It is human to want more, but that does not keep you from growing and evolving; it’s easy to get trapped by the feeling

of not having enough in your life. To be content, get out of the rut of wanting more, more, more, and just experience that right now, in this moment, you are satisfied and content. Research shows that “daily gratitude exercises resulted in higher reported levels of alertness, enthusiasm, determinism, optimism and energy.” According to Michael McCullough of Southern Methodist University, “Anyone can increase their sense of well-being and create positive social effects just by counting their blessings.” While some may view the holidays as chaotic, stressful and anxiousridden with extended family, there is the opportunity to choose differently. We take from this what we put into it. Giving thanks really means being thankful for the gifts you have in your life. If you don’t already view the things in your life as a gift, try shifting your focus from what you don’t have to focus on what you do have. Here are some examples:

Mounting bills are things to be thankful for, because the vendors behind those bills have provided a lifestyle for you that you wouldn’t have otherwise had. You have electricity and running water, and while you may balk at the bill that comes in the mail, it would be a very unpleasant day to wake up and find they had been turned off. Further, the garbage truck comes like clockwork to take away your smelly trash and when we receive the bill for this, let’s give thanks. That credit card with a high balance? Look around your house. The furniture you’re sitting on, the fence you put up in your backyard, even the clothes you’re wearing might have been purchased on credit. Your car payment? Be thankful you have a car! The hospital bills? Be thankful you had great hospital care. Our bills are a true gift—this idea is a true shift in focus. Shifting focus in the midst of chaos, when life is feeling particularly stressful, is bold. Giving thanks means being gracious for all things, not some things. Gratutide requires deliberate action and mindset shift, not simply a superficial surface-level word of thanks. Introducing graciousness and appreciation is truly about taking inventory and loving what you have, even when it’s hard to make ends meet to pay the bill to obtain the item. As soon as we start feeling appreciative and content about the things we have, we start to attract and have more and more blessings throughout all of life. Everybody goes through things they don’t like and times that are hard, but it is those who remain grateful and thankful for what they do have, who have true joy, peace and abundance in their lives. Start to see everything as the gift that it is. So, every month, give thanks; have gratitude and experience the overwhelming abundance, peace and v joy pouring into life. Jennifer Slingerland Ryan, M.Ed., LPC-S is the

founder and director of I Choose Change in Allen. A lle n I m a g e x J a n u a r y 2 0 1 4

B U S I N E S S C A R D S

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