Allen Image June 2012

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contents

June 2012

Vol. 22, Issue 6

cover story 48 One song at a time

Atomic Tangerine is a band that started as a summer hobby and has now blossomed.

The band has gone from singing at a yogurt shop to performing at children’s hospitals and to the main stage of the House of Blues.

by Nicole Bywater

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feature 16 Family Promise of Collin County offers a hand UP

The not-for-profit Family Promise of Collin County was organized in April of 2009.

Now, twelve local churches have been rallied and FPCC can provide shelter for up to 14 guests at a time.

by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

special sections 22 kids korner

16

Summer Stay-cation

by Deborah Dove

28 business seen

Ebby Halliday Realtors/Pam Lewis & Russell Dimmick

Allen Jewelers

Law Offices of Arthur Smith

57 pet page

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Ethan & Goldie

36 calendar 58 people seen

contents 10

departments

publisher/editor

civic forum

office administrator

8

Denim & Diamonds Boots ’n Bling

10

The Bangles Headline Market Street Allen USA

by Jeff Mues

11

A Red, White and Blue Event Gets Greener

12

Flags over Texas

Homebuyers Workshop

14

Project C.L.E.A.N.

by Kathleen Vaught

20

Allen Image

education 20

Allen ISD summer camps offer cool adventures

by Keith A. Taylor

24

Model UN makes the world a little smaller

Barbara Peavy

Carrie McCormick

advertising sales Jill Edelman

contributing writers Nicole Bywater Deborah Dove Tom Keener Jeff Mues Peggy Helmick-Richardson Mark Robinson Keith A. Taylor Kathleen Vaught

cover photo Larry Fleming

by Mark Robinson

30

library 29

Parris Afton Bonds

by Tom Keener

30

Cowboy Princess and Brown Jug Reynolds

by Tom Keener

Allen Image © 2012 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:

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cooking 32

Grilled to perfection

by Deborah Dove

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

Ashley Lane and Vicki Deerman

Denim & Diamonds Boots ’n Bling The Foundation For Lovejoy Schools held its 7th annual Denim & Diamonds Gala and Auction at Southfork Ranch on March 31. Gala chairperson Kelli Litchenburg’s goal for the evening was to complete the Foundation’s March to a Million fundraising campaign. It was a huge success—$200,000 in grants go to the district for the 2012-2013 school year.

The gala began with entertainment by the Friday Night School Band, which is led by Sloan Creek Middle School principal, Kent Messer. Messer and his fellow musicians Ray Winkler, Chris Tedford and Stan Starnes rocked

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the house and provided a great party atmosphere. Guests also enjoyed the mechanical bull and driving a Traxxas remote control truck on the demon­ stration track. There was also a great assortment of items to bid on in the silent auction.

The fun continued with dinner as special guests—including the Boots ’n Bling honorary chair, Lynette MacDonald—were introduced. Lynette is a retiring member of the Lovejoy ISD board of trustees and has long been a supporter of the Foundation For Lovejoy Schools.

The live auction was led by Wes

Pool of Murad Auctions and items up for bid included a crawfish boil; a party for 100 people including catering

by Eddie Dean, entertainment by Max Stalling and hosting at the 1899 Farmhouse; several trips; and Stock the Cellar with over 250 bottles of wine. This year’s live auction raised over $80,000. Total raised for the evening was $188,000. The live auction ended with the raffle drawing for a 2012 red and black Mini Cooper, which was won by Ashley Lane from Fairview.

The evening was topped off by music and dancing with the Jeff Allen band.

This success and fun would not have been possible without our generous sponsors. The evening’s proceeds allowed the Foundation to grant $200,000 in teacher grants and add $12,700 to our endowment fund. This raises total grants to the district and endowment funds to one million dollars! Thank you to every sponsor, donor and volunteer who made this success possible!

Next year’s Denim & Diamonds— The Beat Goes On—has already been scheduled for March 2, 2013. The entire community is invited to attend. v

The Bangles Headline Market Street Allen USA

by Jeff Mues

The Bangles, who topped the charts in the ‘80s with their unique brand of power-pop, will headline the Market Street Allen USA Celebration presented by Texas HealthAllen, on Saturday, June 30 at Celebration Park in Allen.

The free family-friendly event has grown into one of the largest Fourth of July celebrations in North Texas, drawing an estimated 85,680 attendees in 2011.

The Bangles have all the hallmarks of a legendary act—a litany of diverse hits, a harmonized sound that is unmistakably theirs, strong songwriting and an incredible live show. With their new album, Sweetheart of the Sun, the Bangles prove why they’re the undisputed queens of 60’s-

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inspired garage rock. Recorded by Susanna’s frequent collaborator, Matthew Sweet, the album combines their trademark soaring folk rock harmonies with jangling guitar riffs. Known for such hits as “Walk Like an Egyptian,” “Eternal Flame” and the Prince-penned “Manic Monday,” guitarists Susana Hoffs and Vicki Peterson and drummer Debbi Peterson will certainly ignite the crowd before their performance culminates with Allen’s massive fireworks show which gets bigger and bigger each year.

From the headliner on down, the full lineup features a number of family-friendly entertainers on two stages leading up to the fireworks. In addition to the Bangles

show, this year’s festivities will feature a special appearance by Brandon Mychal Smith from the Disney Channel Original Movie Let It Shine.

Other activities for the kids to enjoy include the Kid Zone—which hosts a multitude of bounce houses and play structures—plus a Kids Kraft tent, which provides fun and exciting crafts for children and youth of all ages. The always-popular sprayground provides a fun place for kids to beat the summer heat as well.

“From very humble beginnings as a small community gathering, it’s remarkable that the Market Street Allen USA Celebration has emerged as such a highly anticipated event,” said Tim Dentler, Allen Parks and Recreation Department Director.

“With the support of our great community partners and sponsors, each year we have raised the bar in terms of the caliber of family-friendly entertainment at the Market Street Allen USA Celebration,” Tim added.

“We are beyond excited to ratchet the excitement up another level with such a legendary headline act as the Bangles.”

Special thanks to title sponsor, Market Street, and presenting sponsor, Texas Health Presbyterian HospitalAllen. Supporting sponsors include Allen Americans, Allen Community Development Corporation, Allen Economic Development Corporation, Andrews Distributing, Cabela’s, CBS Radio, Chick-Fil-A, Coca-Cola, Community Waste Disposal (CWD), El Monte RV, Hilton Garden Inn, Metro PCS, Mustang Technology Group, NeighborsGo, North Texas Orthodontic Associates, Olive Garden, Pediatric Dentistry, Star Creek and Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm.

To learn more about the Market Street Allen USA Celebration presented

by Texas Health-Allen, please visit allenusa.org. v Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen Event Center and Allen Parks & Recreation Department.

A Red, White and Blue Event Gets

Greener

You may consider the Market Street Allen USA Celebration presented

by Texas Health-Allen to be a red, white and blue event, but it is getting greener by the year. In fact, this year’s Market Street Allen USA Celebration is striving to be the biggest zero waste event in Texas! What this means is that this colossal event is meeting the challenge of finding other means to dispose of waste rather than sending it to the landfill.

Recycling and Composting Recycling is a major component in accomplishing this feat with dozens of recycling containers positioned around Celebration Park.

These containers are designated for empty plastic drink bottles, aluminum cans, unwanted paper and empty glass bottles. More than two dozen compost collection containers will also be situated in the park, located primarily in the food court area. The compost containers will collect all compostable serveware (plates, containers, cups, napkins and tableware) made of a biodegradable material that can be composted right along with the unwanted food on your plate. By utilizing compostable serveware, all food waste can be taken to the regional composting facility rather than a landfill.

Recycle AND Reimagine!

Putting recyclables in the proper bins is a good start, but before you drop your trash, you might also check to see if you are near the Coca Cola “Reimagine” truck—a massive mobile recycling unit that will be parked at Celebration Park. Helping the environment by recycling is its own reward, but when you recycle at the Reimagine truck, there are even more good things in store. The Reimagine truck digitally tracks everything that is being recycled, racking up Reimagine points which translate to donations that will be made to local schools through the My Coke Rewards program!

Getting Greener by the Year In 2010, 1,365 pounds of recyclable materials out of 1,483 total pounds were collected from the event for an astonishing 92 percent diversion rate. In 2011, zero waste became even nearer reality as 195 pounds of trash was collected vs. 2,760 pounds of recycling/compostable materials for a 93 percent diversion rate. With the exception of the 7 percent of non-recyclables, all other material was recycled or composted, instead of being sent to a landfill. We look forward to seeing you June 30, and hope you will look to recycle, reimagine, compost and help keep this red, white and blue celebration, clean and green!

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Snippets Flags over Texas Honor the American flag at the 5th annual Allen Flag Day Celebration at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, June 10, at the Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main Street. Dressed in period costume, the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard will perform a Flag Presentation Ceremony. After the program, they will be available for photo opportunities and questions.

County Judge Keith Self and Congressman Sam Johnson, both veterans of the US Army, will be the keynote speakers. Kay Barrnet and the Class Act Tap Company will dance to patriotic music. Following the opening ceremony, you may inspect various flags that flew over Texas while historian Tom Keener gives an overview of the flags and the period they adorned the landscape.

Old and tattered flags are being collected by Heritage Guild members for a Flag Retirement Ceremony at the conclusion of the program. Bring your deteriorated flags and properly dispose of them.

Sponsored by the Allen Heritage Guild, the Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, Kiwanis and Daughters of the American Revolution, this event is free. Hours of operation of the Heritage Center are on the Guild website at www.allenheritageguild.org. For information, call 214.509.4911. v

Homebuyers workshop Want to buy a new home? The Allen Public Library invites you to a Homebuyers Workshop, 2 p.m., Saturday, June 2, in the Adult Program Room, 300 N. Allen Drive. Sponsored by the library’s Adult Services, DFW International Community Alliance and Wells Fargo, this program is free but registration is required.

Through this bilingual workshop, basic steps in the purchase of a home will be discussed and concerns of homebuyers will be addressed. This program will be conducted in English and Spanish. Audience interaction and questions are encouraged. Some of the topics to be discussed: How to clean your credit; How to avoid losing your home to foreclosure; Down payments; Closing costs; Interest rates; How to purchase a foreclosed home; Subsidies that help purchase and keep your home; and Repairs.

The library also offers books and resources on several of the topics, including 1000 Best Homebuying Secrets by Michael Flynn and Buying a Home: The Insider’s Guide to Success.

Register online through the Interactive Library Calendar at www.allenlibrary.org. For more information, contact Allison Johnson at ajohnson@cityofallen.org or call the Reference Desk at 214.509.4905.

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by Kathleen Vaught The Allen Police Department wants to partner with you to bring down crime in our community. The message they are sending out to make it happen—See It, Hear It, Report It. Allen has been recognized as among the 10 safest cities in the nation three out of the last five years from rankings based on a City Crime Rankings study published by CQ Press a unit of Congressional Quarterly Inc. Chief Harvey wants Allen to be even safer by developing a city-wide crime watch initiative known as Project C.L.E.A.N. or Citizens & Law Enforcement in Allen Neighborhoods.

“The Allen Police Department has already built some strong relationships with residents and businesses across the city, helping to make us the safest city in Texas,” stated Chief Harvey.

“To become the safest city in the nation, we need to reach out to those pockets of Allen that may not realize there are more ways to be involved with Allen Police than by calling 9-1-1.”

“We truly want to form a partnership with residents,” said Sergeant Jon Felty of the Community Relations Unit. “That’s why we’re here. It’s going to take some work, communication and camaraderie. We can do this!”

As Allen has grown in population and attractions, so has its risk for crime

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and criminal activity. Being proactive by following a few simple steps can create some of the greatest deterrents to criminals and property theft.

1. Make sure doors and windows are locked.

2. Make sure shades or window covers are closed when leaving the house.

3. Make sure alarm systems are set, operating properly and monitored.

4. Close garage door when you are out of the garage.

5. Know your neighbor and look out for each other in a helpful way.

Life or death situations should always be reported to 9-1-1 first.

Outside of those types of situations, if residents see or hear about something suspicious, report it to Non-Emergency Dispatch by calling 214.509.4321. Using this number for non-emergency situations helps make sure the remaining 9-1-1 phone lines are open for true life and death emergencies.

Residents can also send an anonymous tip via text message to Allen Police by simply texting the keyword ALLENPD followed by your tip to 847411.

Another great way to help Allen Police reduce crime is to join or form a Neighborhood Watch group. Forming a watch group is easy—gather a few of your neighbors together who are

interested and contact the Community Relations Unit at 214.509.2500 to help you get started. If there is already a sign in your neighborhood for a group, contact the Community Relations Unit to learn more about how to join them.

Residents will have more opportunities to learn about Project C.L.E.A.N. in the coming months.

There are two meetings scheduled for June 18 and 20 at the Allen Public Library Civic Auditorium with more expected over the summer. The program starts at 7 p.m. and will provide participants with current crime statistics along with the numerous ways we can work together to help make Allen the safest city in the nation.

Another way to become involved includes participating in the Citizens Police Academy, which offers valuable insight into how our police department operates. It also provides further opportunities for graduates of the program to become involved in Citizens on Patrol and Volunteers in Policing.

To learn more about the programs offered by the Allen Police Department, visit www.allenpolice.org or contact the Community Relations Unit at 214.509.2500.

Kathleen Vaught is the Senior Marketing Specialist for the City of Allen.

feature

Family Promise of Collin County offers a hand up

by Peggy Helmick Richardson

When she unexpectedly lost her job at the hotel where she also lived, Edwina* and her 12- and 16-year-old sons were suddenly homeless. Having worked earlier as a coordinator for a homeless shelter in another state, she admits, “It was a humble pill to swallow.”

Through Family Promise of Collin County (FPCC), Edwina not only found a safe refuge for her family, she was provided resources to help find another job and permanent housing. She now plans to return to school and complete her human service management certification.

After a death in the family followed shortly by a house fire, *Theresa and her son were taken in by another family member. Not long after settling in, this state employee learned the entire household was being evicted. A Frisco outreach organization recommended Family Promise of Collin County that, in turn, provided shelter for Theresa and her 10-year-old son as well as two 12-year-old nieces and a 14-year-old nephew.

Kim Rodenbaugh and Julie Morren

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“It has been such a blessing,” Theresa declares. “This has allowed us to get on our feet. It wasn’t our choice to be homeless. We have been judged by the situation we are in, but many people are just a paycheck away from being homeless!”

Is Theresa right? Could homelessness be a serious issue in Collin County?

After all, our county not only boasts of being one of the fastest growing counties in the United States but also the wealthiest in Texas. In addition, it offers The Samaritan Inn, a quality shelter in McKinney.

Sadly, this facility is forced to turn applicants away daily because of insufficient space. Many of those sent elsewhere are families with children. For example, on the third week of April, the Samaritan Inn reported that 160 people, 59 of whom were children, were currently living at the shelter. Eight new people were given beds that week, and 83 others were referred to other agencies. Of those turned away, 15 were adults with a total of 27 children.

To qualify for federal funding, every year on a designated evening in January the Collin County Homeless Coalition (CCHC), in conjunction with the Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance, conducts a “Point in Time” homeless count. In addition, some Collin County school districts conduct their own surveys among students.

The 2011 count found there were 368 homeless individuals that night, more than double that of the previous year. Of these, 110 were age 17 and under.

Surprisingly, the numbers of homeless students reported by the Allen, Frisco, Plano and McKinney school districts were significantly higher. On January 27, 2011, Allen ISD found 24 homeless students, Frisco ISD 205, Plano ISD 183, and McKinney ISD 773, for a total of 1,185.

Numbers collected in the January 2012 Collin County count will be reported in June. Several issues this year may make comparisons to previous counts somewhat skewed.

On the day of the 2012 count, heavy thunderstorms led to flooding in low-lying spots. “Several areas in which families were found last year were literally under water,” FPCC president Gary Rodenbaugh explains. “This is the first year that the actual physical volunteer assisted count was

extended beyond Plano,” he adds. “There was a volunteer assisted count done in Allen, Plano, McKinney and Frisco.”

The not-for-profit Family Promise of Collin County was organized in April of 2009. Don Kiser, an associate with the national Family Promise organization as well as president of its affiliate Longview Interfaith Hospitality Network, presented a program overview for the first meeting. The national Family Promise currently has over 170 affiliate operations in 41 states, providing lodging for approved families with children through a host congregation network system.

Rev. Ken Crawford and Gary Rodenbaugh In February of 2011, the FPCC board hired their first director, Brandy Hill, a licensed counselor specializing in education and nonprofit sectors and is currently child and adolescent therapy. Five months later, 12 network completing her master’s in counseling. churches located in Allen, Plano, McKinney, Lucas and “If I could write a job description for myself, this Fairview had been rallied and FPCC opened its doors, would be it,” she declares. “Everything we do is designed providing shelter for up to 14 guests at a time. to get people back to self-sufficiency, and nationally, we Brandy reports that by the end of December of 2011, have an 83 percent success rate.”

Family Promise had served 43 people—16 adults and 27 “Our goal is to keep the families together as a unit,” children, and three families had graduated out. she emphasizes. “Part of our screening process is to assure The City of Lucas leases its old city hall at a reduced that all our volunteers and families in the program are in a rate to FPCC for use as the organization’s Day Center. safe environment.”

Volunteers renovated the building to provide office space More long-term goals for Jacqueline include adding for the director as well as showers, laundry area, and two more FPCC Networks in Collin County and partnering workspace with a computer for guests. A small secure area with more agencies to not only provide additional services holds additional family items that cannot be taken to the for guest families but to also prevent homelessness before host churches, and a fenced playground gives little ones a it happens. Developing a more interfaith network, with a place to play. greater diversity of religious groups participating, is This is a typical week-day schedule: In the early another objective for Jacqueline, evening all FPCC guests meet between 5 and 6 p.m. at that Topping her immediate wish list is an automobile that week’s host church for a family-style evening meal would belong to the organization for loaning to guest provided by church volunteers. Following this, students do families without vehicles. “Right now, I’m having to turn school work and others participate in family activities. people away who don’t have their own transportation, and Each family is provided a private area with roll-away beds that is something that doesn’t set well with me,” she sighs. to sleep, and in the morning they have breakfast and make Another, always significant, need is gift cards, particularly sack lunches at the church before heading to school, day gasoline cards. care, work, or the FPCC Day Center. Students without Jacqueline sums up FCPP’s purpose as “giving people transportation to school are picked up at the Day Center. the tools to go out there and direct themselves in their own After a week, the entire group moves on to the next host lives so they can be successful.” church. At each host church volunteers are always present For more information about Family Promise of Collin to address possible problems when guests are on site.

County, go to www.familypromiseofcollincounty.org In April 2012, Jacqueline Cook became FPCC’s second *Names of FPCC guests were changed for this article. v Network director. With a bachelor’s degree in human behavior and development, she has experience in both the Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.

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kids korner

Summer Stay-cation

By Deborah Dove

Ever wonder what people do when they vacation in Dallas? Our fair city is filled with fun attractions, many of which those of us who live here don’t take advantage of. Whether you’re headed out of town or not, summer is the perfect time to explore and all that Big D has to offer.

Ripley’s Grand Prairie—601 East Palace Parkway, Grand Prairie, 972.263-2391 This fun museum is actually four family friendly attractions in one: Ripley’s Believe It or Not!—12 galleries of the weird, strange and fun; Louis Tussuad’s Palace of Wax—over 200 life-like figures of famous celebrities, figures from history and a gallery of creepy characters from scary movies; The Enchanted Mirror Maze—2,000 square feet of backto-back mirrors, endless passages and dead ends; or you can try your skill at Ripley’s Impossible Laser Race. Tickets are $29.99/adult or $19.99/child for all four attractions, or $21.99/adult or $12.99/child for the two museums only. Other attraction combinations are also available.

Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza/Book Depository—411 Elm Street, Dallas, 214.747.6660 Amazingly, many locals have never taken their kids to this historical landmark in downtown Dallas, which chronicles the assassination and legacy of John F. Kennedy. The sixth floor of the former Texas School Book Depository where Lee Harvey Oswald pulled the trigger on the gun that shot JFK is now a museum featuring hundreds of photographs, documentary films and artifacts documenting the events surrounding the assassination, as well as two areas recreated to appear as they did in 1963 (including the sniper’s perch). Be sure and visit the John F. Kennedy memorial located two blocks east of the museum.

Admission is $13.50 for adults and $12.50 for children 6-18.

Mesquite Championship Rodeo—Mequite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite, 972.285.8777 Every Friday and Saturday night through August 25, you can experience true Texas-style entertainment at the rodeo! The Mesquite ProRodeo prides itself on being family friendly, and the doors open at 6:30 for face painting, cowboy autographs, pony rides and the petting zoo. At 7:30 p.m. the action starts, with an opening laser show and championship rodeo events such as bareback riding, steer wrestling, roping, bronc riding, barrel racing and bull riding. The arena is indoors and air-conditioned, and tickets run $12 for general admission to $60 for Club seats that include VIP seats plus dinner and drinks.

Dallas World Aquarium—1801 North Griffin, Dallas, 214.720.2224 Although it’s called an aquarium, this attraction in the West End area of downtown Dallas is actually three attractions in one. The aquarium does have a variety of tanks featuring fish and sea life from areas around the world, as well as penguins, sharks and a huge walk through water tunnel where sharks, turtles and fish swim all around you. It also has a living, walk-through rainforest where guests can spy monkeys, brightly colored birds and the occasional sloth in the trees, crocodiles, manatee, river otters and many more animals of the rainforest. A Mayan exhibit includes flamingos, an ocelot and other animals native to Texas and Central America. Tickets are $20.95 plus tax for adults and $12.95 for kids ages 3-12.

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Legoland Discovery Center and Sea Life—both inside Grapevine Mills Mall, Grapevine, www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com This is where all of my friends with kids want to go when they come to visit. The Legoland Discovery Center is a Lego lover’s dream where kids can see how Legos are made, watch 4D movies, zap skeletons and trolls with a laser gun on a chariot ride, see the Dallas skyline created in Legos, build and test vehicles and more.

The Sea Life Aquarium is a small aquarium that is perfect for young guests. Attractions include a 360-degree walk through tunnel, an interactive rock pool, and various exhibits that include stingrays, green sea turtles, clown fish, sea horses and more.

Tickets can be purchased separately to each attraction, but you can save money and double your fun by purchasing a combo ticket good for both attractions for $31.39 (adults 13+) or $24.90 (kids 3-12) online.

Purchase tickets online to avoid long lines (and get cheaper tickets).

Magic Time Machine—5003 Belt Line Road, Addison, 972.980.1903 We love this restaurant in Addison, where you might sit in a pumpkin, get your salad from a salad bar set up in old car and have your dinner brought to you by Jack Sparrow, Cinderella, Spider Man, Indiana Jones or Dora.

Six Flags over Texas—I-30 and Hwy 360, Arlington, 817.640.8900 This 212-acre amusement park is a favorite for the whole family with thrilling coaster rides (including the 255 foot tall Titan with drops exceeding 85 mph), family rides such as the Roaring Rapids, Go Karts and the Texas Chute Out parachute drift, and a special Looney Toons section for younger kids. The park also hosts concerts and several live shows including iLuminate (a glow in the dark performance), plus meet and greets with The Justice League and Looney Tunes characters.

Tickets are just $39.99 if you purchase them in advance online.

Texas Rangers Baseball—1000 Ball Park Way, Arlington www. texas.rangers.mlb.com Take them out to the ballgame this summer to watch our own Texas Rangers, who made it all the way to the World Series last year. Home games are played at the Ballpark at Arlington throughout the summer, with most games starting at 7:05. A post-game fireworks show is held after most Friday home games. Tickets run $8-$100. Tours of the stadium are also available for an additional charge.

American Girl Place—Dallas Galleria (Inwood at the Dallas North Tollway) Little girls can buy clothes and accessories for their American Girl dolls, see displays of the historic characters, have their doll’s hair done, or enjoy lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner with their doll at the bistro (dolls get their own chair). The store also offers lots of special events such as crafts and scavenger hunts through the store. Visit www.americangirl.com for a schedule of events.

education

Allen ISD summer camps offer cool adventures

by Keith A. Taylor

Imagine you are a third-grader, happy the long summer vacation is finally here, but kind of wondering what you will do every day.

Do you sit around watching TV or playing video games? Maybe you’ll try to find some of your neighborhood friends who haven’t left town for vacation. You don’t want to hang around with your little brother and sister. You hate to admit it, but summer can be a little boring.

What if you could enter the world of Hogwarts or hang out with Dr. Suess? What if you could visit the Districts of “Hunger Games” or play some fun sports with new friends? You also might be able to hone your photography, math or writing skills. You could spend a week learning a new hobby such as crafts, collecting, tiedying or knitting.

The possibilities are nearly endless for kids who go to Allen ISD’s Summer Camp programs for kids from pre-K to seventh grade. For more than 13 years the program has provided kids with fun and educational adventures while giving teachers a chance to try out new ideas for enriching their classroom experiences.

“We try to offer a wide variety of camps that will appeal to the largest number of kids,” said Allen ISD Community Education Coordinator Sandra Lovesey.

“There are so many activities competing for kids’ time. A lot of kids, though, want to hang out with their peers and learn new skills or play fun games. That’s some of what we offer.”

The camps run from mid-June to the first week of August and offer something for everyone.

“One of our most popular camps is ‘Chicka Chicka Boom Boom,” a kindergarten readiness camp,” Lovesey said. “It teaches kids going into kindergarten some

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basics such as the alphabet, numbers and patterns so they can hit the ground running when school starts.”

“Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” joins other perennial favorites such as “Science Extravaganza,” “Backyard Adventures,” “Inventors Workshop,” “Pretty Princess,” “The World of Eric Cadle” and “Platform 9¾”—all camp staples for years.

Lovesey says there is always something new for summer campers.

This year, for example, the program is introducing a “Pinterest,” camp as well as “Hunger Games 1-12.”

“We try to keep the camps fresh and fun,” she said. “Our teachers know kids and know what they like, so they usually come up with some way to connect to the latest trends and fashions.”

Lovesey said creating camps based on the ideas of innovative teachers was part of the plan for developing the program from the beginning.

“All of our teachers are educators

Current Allen ISD Community Services Coordinator Sandra Lovesey. from Allen ISD—either teachers, teacher ’s aides or substitutes,” she said. “They always are looking for ways to improve their skills. The

summer camps give them an opportunity to step away from the traditional classroom and concentrate on fun ways to express important

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have a good number of kids concepts. Then they can from outside Allen ISD. take the lessons learned and Sometimes, we even have apply them in their regular international students. It’s classes.” not unusual for a relative or Jennifer Gillis was the grandparent to sign their Community Services out-of-town kids for a week Coordinator when the district of camp.” began the summer camps Keeping with the trend in 1999. of introducing new ideas, “As we were developing camps this year even include the idea for the camps, we something for parents, knew we would have to Lovesey said. provide classes that were not “For the first time, we’re only fun, but challenging,” offering a ‘No Excuses Boot she said. “It made sense that Camp’ for busy moms and we would turn to Allen ISD dads,” she said. “Every staff. Who is a better teacher morning from 9:15 to 10:15 than a teacher?” parents can get a great After talking with workout after dropping the teachers and soliciting their kids off at camp.” ideas, Gillis said she put Angie Platten, Olson together a camp of about 20 Elementary PE teacher and a classes. “After that, we certified fitness instructor, watched it grow and grow,” leads the boot camp. The she said. “We solicited Former AISD Community Services Coordinator Jennifer Gillis. workouts will include cardio, parent feedback and kept an step and weights. She also eye on what was popular they were surprised that the popularity can test your Body Mass Index and and what was not. Later we added the of the camps extends well beyond help develop a workout plan. pre-K classes, which really expanded Allen ISD’s boundaries.

This year ’s camp schedule will the scope.

“When we first started, we were include more than 150 week-long Among other things, she said the only program around,” Gillis said. camps during the eight weeks of adding pizza parties on Fridays for all “I guess it was only natural that classes. Each class begins at 9 a.m. and the camps also contributed to the we started seeing kids from all over lasts until 2 p.m. Classes will alternate popularity of the program. the area, but it was a bit surprising between Reed Elementary, 1200 “From the start, though, the most at first.”

Rivercrest Blvd., and Cheatham popular classes always seemed to be Since then, several other area Elementary, 1501 Hopewell Drive. A the ones that involved going outside districts have started similar programs. complete schedule of all the camps as and getting wet,” Gillis said. “That’s “They still like to come to our camps, well as registration information is what kids like to do in the summer.” though,” Lovesey said. “We always available on the district website, www.

Both Gillis and Lovesey said that allenisd.org/communityed.

“The whole idea behind the camps is allowing kids to have a fun and creative experience,” said Allen ISD Community Services Director Tim Carroll. “At the same time, we wanted our teachers to have a program that allows them to stretch their skills and to develop innovative ways to reach kids. I think our camps accomplish both goals.” v Keith Taylor is a public relations specialist for Allen ISD.

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Model UN makes the world a little smaller

by Mark Robinson

Students around the world get to jump on an airplane, travel to a foreign country and study abroad.

Still, that does not prevent others from discovering the world at home. In fact, students are learning that the highest tiers of global conflict, compromise and international intrigue are not easy, whether on the floor of the United Nations or the library at Collin College.

For more than 40 years, Model United Nations has been a part of college and university campuses. For some students, it’s practice for a career on the national and global stage.

Others find it as a way to stay engaged and discover opportunities for the future. Two things are for sure: It’s not just playacting and having fun.

“You get slammed,” said David Weisser, a former Collin College Model UN delegate, currently at The University of Texas at Dallas (UTDallas), where he transferred in the spring of 2012. “In Chicago, everyone got sick because it was so tough.

Eleven or 12 people were all laid out because they were so sick. That’s when you learn to buy a bunch of Gatorade when you first arrive.”

Model UN is a simulation where students act as delegates of an adopted country, conduct research, engage in debate, draft resolutions and partici­ pate in conferences.

Steffi Mangelsdorf also served on Collin College’s Model UN and transferred with Weisser this spring to UT-Dallas, where she joined the Model UN team there. In fact, UT-Dallas waived its rule of making new or

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transfer students wait a year before joining for Weisser and Mangelsdorf due to the extensive experience they had at Collin College.

“There is an incredible amount of work involved with Model UN,” Mangelsdorf said. “At first, it seems overwhelming. You have to look up resolutions and speeches. Sometimes, there is not a lot of information available. You have to start reading between the lines, seeing if there was a consensus in speeches and resolutions, and seeing how one country reacts to another. Are they aggressive? Do they compromise? You have to learn how to write resolutions so you don’t make a fool of yourself at the conference.”

Model UN also can inspire change in the person. Kimberly C. Smith, a current member of Collin College’s Model UN team deemed herself “pretty argumentative.” Since joining Model UN in the spring 2012 and competing in New York City, she sees issues as less than “black and white.”

“This course, more than any other, has opened me up to different perspectives from different people and taught me how to listen differently to reach compromise that everyone is happy about,” Smith said. “No longer am I the bulldozer in the room. It’s helped me academically in addition to my personal and work lives.”

Yusra Jabeen joined Model UN at Collin College about a year ago, and it has opened her eyes to the vast influence government has on its citizens. She also now understands the importance of public participation in voting and maintaining involvement on the grassroots level. “(Politics) is a platform to make a bigger change, to impact the world,” Jabeen said. “I do want to change the world. It is an idealistic dream that I have.

“When I was 19, I did not care about anything all. I took the political science class, participated in Model UN, and I learned how it works. I learned I could be a person that could impact the people through government,

and that I could be a person to make this system better. I started believing that good things happen to places where it is needed.”

Model UN may be a series of mock resolutions, votes, caucuses and actions, but the changes in its participants are real. Model UN teams are assigned a country. Collin College’s squad has been “Zimbabwe,” “the Democratic Republic of Congo,” “Pakistan” and “Zambia.”

Students are charged with

immersing themselves in their adoptive country. They must learn and know the country’s strengths and weaknesses, allies and enemies, historys, presentand future. Students must immerse themselves in how that country has acted in international affairs in the past: What resolutions did they vote for and what they would not vote for? Whether they agree or disagree with a country’s attitudes, mores or culture, students must represent these countries accordingly.

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The Collin College delegation representing “Zambia” at a Model United Nations conference held at the actual United Nations building in New York City. Kimberly C. Smith is in the front row, third from left.

“The biggest challenge is making sure that when you’re there you’re speaking for your country and not for yourself,” Weisser said. “For example, Zimbabwe is very corrupt. You have to make sure the choices you make in

talking with people are the real choices that Zimbabwe would make. We made someone cry the last day because we wouldn’t work with them. We take it upon ourselves that if we’re going to do it, we’re going to do it right.”

Mangelsdorf added: “Smaller countries like Zimbabwe have specific assets like the diamond trade. It is not a powerful country, but they have a lot of leverage. We were able to sway other countries to agree with us because we had that advantage over them. I had this experience when someone came up to me and yelled at me because I was Zimbabwe and I didn’t know about human rights.”

The Collin College Model UN has competed against some of the foremost universities in the nation. This spring, the team travelled to New York City and held their conference on the actual floor of the United Nations.

If awards and recognition are any indication, the preparation, practice and research paid off. At the National Model United Nations Conference in spring 2012, the Collin College delegation (representing Zambia), took home awards for Distinguished Delegation and Outstanding Position Paper. They received similar awards at the American Model United Nations Conference in Chicago in 2011 representing the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The work Jabeen, Smith, Weisser and Mangelsdorf put in now might pay dividends soon. The latter two plan on careers involving inter­ national affairs and the United Nations. Jabeen plans to transfer to Southern Methodist University to study political science and journalism.

Smith has her eyes on a law degree from Columbia University. Former Model United Nations students from Collin College have transferred to Stanford, Columbia, SMU and other prestigious schools.

All four said something to the effect of a quote from Mangelsdorf: “The Model UN program was the best thing that happened to me at Collin College,” she said. “It made me focus so much more on what I wanted to do with my life.”

Mark Robinson is the public relations associate at Collin College.

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business seen

by Nicole Bywater

Ebby Halliday Realtors/Pam Lewis & Russell Dimmick

For most people, buying or selling a home is a complicated process. The full-time realtor team of Pam Lewis and Russell Dimmick want to take care of those complications. Operating with the slogan, “Relax…we’ll handle the details,” Pam and Russell help guide their clients through smooth, stress-free real estate transactions.

“We assist with all aspects of the process—from valuations to staging to negotiations— leading and guiding the whole way,” Russell says. “Our experience and knowledge are what allow us to take care of whatever complications should occur.” In addition, the pair excels at turning data into useable information so that their clients can make the best decision for them and their family. Both Pam and Russell are designated Certified Residential Specialists (CRS), and have completed advanced residential real estate training and have a proven track record of sales. They have been partners for 11 years, offering their strengths and differing perspectives. “Plus, real estate is open seven days a week,” Pam says. “Between the two of us and our full-time assistant, there’s always someone available to meet our clients’ needs.”

Attention to detail is also important to the team. “We utilize the latest technology such as social media, professional photography and virtual tours,” Russell says. “These days, how a house is presented on the Internet is critical.”

They specialize in residential real estate in all price categories in Collin County. For more information, visit www.pamandrussell.com, or call Pam at 214.675.1477 or Russell at 214.734.7599.

Allen Jewelers

Family-owned and operated by Pete and Sally Ray since 1972, Allen Jewelers offers personalized customer service and fine craftsmanship.

Pete and Sally moved to Allen in 1997 in search of a better school district for their children. “After our son and daughter had been enrolled for a few months, Sally and I found that we liked the people so much that we decided to relocate our jewelry store here and name it Allen Jewelers,” Pete says. “We are the one and only original Allen Jewelers and take great pride in this city.”

Allen Jewelers carries all types of jewelry and watches, including reflection beads, and a large selection of unusual gift items. Of course, if they don’t carry what a customer is looking for, they’ll try to find it, adds Pete, who is also the in-house jeweler.

They change all types of watch batteries and service high-grade watches such as Rolex, Baume & Mercier, Omega, Movado and Concord. They also buy gold and silver.

They specialize in bridal jewelry, including engagement rings and men’s wedding bands. “If you’re having a hard time finding that ‘just right’ engagement ring, I can custom design one for you,” Pete says. “And no one can beat our diamond prices.”

Even as the city has grown and the store has changed locations, Allen Jewelers maintains its ‘small-town’ feel, with Pete and Sally behind the counter alongside their Yorkshire terriers. They’re located at 535 West McDermott Dr. in Allen, behind Wendy’s and next to MexiGo restaurant. For more information, call 972.359.7477.

Law Offices of Arthur Smith

There is no shortage of lawyer jokes, but when you are in the midst of a personal crisis—such as a divorce—where emotions run high and logic often takes a back seat to hurt feelings, you need a professional who can help you navigate the situation. You need a good lawyer.

“An ethical attorney will help you make the best decision and protect your interest in a crisis while trying to minimize the emotional and monetary costs of your situation,” explains Art Smith with the Law Offices of Arthur Smith, a five-attorney firm that set down roots in Allen 10 years ago. His practice focuses on family law, personal injury, and consumer rights disputes.

What sets Art Smith apart is his 27 years of experience applying the law and representing his clients effectively. As a long-time Allen resident, Smith is sensitive and committed to helping the people of his community. “I have always had a passion for, and been an advocate for, a fair outcome,” explains Smith. “We don’t have voicemail or go-betweens. We want to be accessible and have our clients deal with us directly.

“The most gratifying part of being a lawyer is guiding clients through crisis times, knowing that you provided the best possible representation and treated them the way you would want to be treated,” says Smith. Free or reduced rate initial consultations are available for some clients, depending on their type of case. To find out more, contact the Law Offices of Arthur Smith at 469.519.2500.

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library

Parris Afton Bonds

by Tom Keener

Declared by ABC’s Nightline as one of the three best-selling authors of romantic fiction, the award-winning Allen resident Parris Afton Bonds appears at the Allen Public Library, 7:30 pm, Thursday, June 21. With more than 35 published novels, Parris cofounded both the Romance Writers of America and the Southwest Writers Workshop. Her most recent book Dancing With Wild Woman is a mystery that combines the spirituality and mysticism of the Hopi with a thrilling race to stop a monstrous serial killer who is causing havoc on the reservation.

Her novel Deep Purple was on the New York Times Trade Paperback list.

Deep Purple weaves the stories of women from three different generations into exciting drama. Inspired by books of the late Frank Waters such as his novel The Man Who Killed the Deer and his non-fiction Book of the Hopi, her latest book Dancing With Wild Woman explores the deep culture of the Hopi.

Parris explains, “Hopi culture examines our relationships with each other and ourselves. Hopi Indians believe it is their duty to dance in order to keep the world in balance, but with the recent Chilean earth­ quake, our axis has shifted, and our world is now off balance. In Dancing with Wild Woman, my protagonist learns to dance to restore balance to the earth, her reservation, and her own off-kilter love.”

Her novels have been published in more than a dozen languages. She donates her time to teaching creative

writing to both grade school children and female inmates.

Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free. The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive.

For information, call 214.509.4911. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

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Cowboy Princess and Brown Jug Reynolds

By Tom Keener

Embark on a happy trail that takes you straight back to the wild west with Cheryl Rogers and Brown Jug Reynolds. They will take you galloping off to that time when Roy Rogers was King of the Cowboys, Dale Evans was Queen of the West and the Red Ryder film series preceded all the western films at the movie theater. And all this happens at the Allen Public Library on Friday, June 8.

At 6:30 pm, Ride, Ryder, Ride!

(1949), one of the Red Ryder films, starring Jim Bannon and Brown Jug Reynolds, will be featured.

Cheryl, daughter of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, will reminisce about her parents’ careers in television and film. Since she was a little girl, Cheryl was often on site while The Roy Rogers Show and some of the great movie classics that featured her parents were filmed.

One nugget Cheryl mentioned, “Because of his respect for Indians, Dad insisted that Indians be treated with respect in his movies. The only TV series he owned and produced besides The Roy Rogers Show was a series called Brave Eagle.” Cheryl serves on the Advisory Board of the Western Music Association and appeared in the History Channel’s When Cowboys Were King.

Cheryl is the author of two books— All-American Cowboy Grill, which she co-wrote with Ken Beck and Jim Clark, which features grilling recipes from “reel and real” cowboys; and her autobiography—Cowboy Princess: Life with My Parents Roy Rogers and Dale

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Roy Rogers and Brown Jug Reynolds Evans, which tells the story of America’s most famous cowboy and cowgirl.

Cheryl and her husband, Larry, live in Washington, Utah, and have seven children and 14 grandchildren.

Accompanying Cheryl, Brown Jug Reynolds will discuss his colorful career as a child actor and his role as Trigger’s rider.

As an adult, he trained Shadowfax for the Lord of the Ring film series.

Brown Jug appeared with Roy Rogers and Dale in The Yellow Rose of Texas (1944) and Song of Arizona (1946). He also appeared with Gene Autry in The Last Round-up (1947) and Robert

Mitchum in The Red Pony (1949). His most memorable role was as Little Beaver in the Red Ryder film series.

Brown Jug will bring his original Red Ryder BB Gun, which is the basis of the plot in A Christmas Story (1983).

The Twin Fiddles, Devon Dawson and Kristyn Harris will open the program with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans music. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free. The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive. For more information, call 214.509.4911. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

cooking

Grilled to perfection

By Deborah Dove

When summer arrives, my oven and stove get a longer vacation than my family does as I shift to cooking outdoors, focusing on grilled meats paired with cold salads or all-in-one meals I can throw on the grill together.

My newest fave this summer is grilled pizza; it comes off the grill with a crispy crust and a wonderful smoky flavor. The crust is the main attraction with grilled pizza, so go light on the sauce (too much and the pizza will be soggy) and choose a few simple toppings that pair well together. Even a frozen store-bought pizza cooked on the grill will taste pretty darn good (I won’t tell if you won’t!).

Using your favorite pizza dough recipe (or a refrigerated store bought dough), shape the dough into small rounds by hand or with a rolling pin.

Each round should be no more than 1/4” thick. Preheat the grill. Place one dough round on the grill. After two to three minutes it should move easily on the grill. If it doesn’t, give it

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another minute. When the crust is set, remove from the grill and transfer to a plate, flipping the crust upside down so the “cooked” side is up. Add toppings. Return to the grill until cheese is just melted.

Grilled burgers are also a summer staple at our house. This is the one time it’s best to buy ground beef with a higher fat content. You’ll end up with juicier burgers, but keep in mind, the higher the fat content, the more the burgers will “shrink” during cooking.

If you find your burgers fall apart (or if you are using leaner beef), try adding 1/8 cup of olive oil per pound of meat and mix together well before making the patties.

You can make simple patties, or you can mix the ground beef with dried herbs, your favorite cheese (blue and pepper jack are my favorites with burgers), or a little bit of barbecue sauce, Worcestershire or soy sauce.

If you’re grilling meat, marinade it for a few hours or overnight for more

flavor, more tender meat and a healthier meal, since a marinade can cut the carcinogen deposits in grilled food by up to 88%. The best marinades contain an acid (vinegars, wine or juice) and a flavor builder (mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, herbs, etc.). You can also use pre-bottled marinades or salad dressings, which already incorporate these components.

And, throw a few veggies and fruit on the grill—corn, tomatoes, peppers, onions, zuchinni, asparagus, mangoes, pineapple or any of your favorites—they taste great!

Following are some of my current favorites for the grill.

Grilled Fish Tacos 1 lb. tilapia fillets, cut into chunks (you can also use cod, grouper, Mahi Mahi, shrimp or salmon) Corn tortillas 3 tomatoes, seeded and chopped Shredded cabbage 1 bunch of cilantro, chopped Sliced avocado

Marinade 1/4 c. extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbs. white vinegar 2 Tbs. fresh lime juice 2 tsp. lime zest 1-1/2 tsp. honey 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 tsp. cumin 1/2 tsp. chili powder 1 tsp. seafood seasoning, such as Old Bay™ 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper 1 tsp. hot pepper sauce, or to taste Whisk all marinade ingredients together until well blended. Place the fish in a shallow dish and pour marinade on the fish. Cover and refrigerate 6-8 hours.

Remove fish from marinade, drain off any excess and discard marinade.

Grill fish until it easily flakes with a fork, turning once (about 9 minutes).

Assemble tacos by placing fish pieces in the center of warmed corn tortillas (double up on the tortillas if they’re thin). Top with tomatoes,

cilantro, cabbage and avocado. Add a dollop of store bought chipotle mayonnaise or thin Marie’s Ranch Dressing (or your favorite mayo) with a little lime juice and add Chipotle Pepper flakes (or minced chipotle pepper in adobe sauce) to taste.

Note: You can avoid the fish falling through the grate by using a grill pan or Reynolds Wrap for the Grill.

Grilled Shrimp Scampi 1-1/2 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined 1/4 c. olive oil 2 Tbs. melted butter 1/4 c. lemon juice 3 tsp. dried parsley 1 Tbs. minced garlic 1/8 tsp. black pepper 1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes Stir together olive oil, melted

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Ranch Burgers

2 lbs. ground beef 2 (1 oz.) packages Ranch dressing mix

1 egg, lightly beaten 1/2 onion, finely chopped A few dashes Worcestershire

Preheat grill. Mix all ingredients together and form into patties. Grill patties for 5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Serve on buns with lettuce, tomato slices, onion and pickles. Makes 8 burgers.

oil grill grate. Remove shrimp from marinade and thread shrimp onto skewers. Discard marinade. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side or until opaque.

Remove from grill. Serve over cooked pasta tossed with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Grilled Barbecue Pizza Shredded cooked chicken from one rotisserie chicken 1 can refrigerated pizza dough 1 c. BBQ sauce 2 c. Mexican blend shredded cheese or mozzarella 1 green apple, thinly sliced 1/4 c. real bacon bits Preheat grill to medium high.

Unroll pizza dough and shape on a disposable cookie sheet sprayed with no-stick cooking spray. Place on grill and cook for 2 minutes. Flip pizza crust and spread cooked side with barbecue sauce. Top with chicken, apple, bacon bits and cheese. Cover and cook an additional 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Mexican Hot Dogs

butter, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, pepper and red pepper flakes in a glass, stainless steel or plastic bowl.

Add shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Preheat grill to high heat. Lightly

6 hot dogs 6 green onions (green part only) 6 hot dog buns Pico de gallo 3 roma tomatoes, diced 1/4 red onion, minced 1 1/2 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced 1/4 lime, juiced Pinch of garlic powder Pinch of ground cumin Salt and pepper to taste Stir the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt and pepper together in a bowl. Refrigerate at least 3 hours.

Heat grill. Add hot dogs and green onion and grill until lightly charred on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove from grill. Place hot dogs in hot dog buns and top each with a scallion and a spoonful of pico de gallo. Makes 6 servings. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

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For MarketPlace Your Health

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calendar JUNE 1-3 McKinney Repertory Theatre presents White Liars and Black Comedy, 8 pm, Fri. & Sat., 2 pm, Sun., McKinney Performing Arts Center, Downtown McKinney. Two one-act comedies by Peter Shaffer.

For more info: www.mckinneyrep.org.

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Plano Childrens Theatre presents Les Miserable (school edition), 7:15 pm, Fri. & Sat., 2:15, Sat. & Sun., 1301 Dolphin Drive, Plano. Performed entirely by students.

For more info: www. planochildrenstheatre.org.

McKinney Second Saturday, 7-10 pm. Come to Historic Downtown McKinney and enjoy an evening of art, music and wine!

Explore the local art galleries, listen to great local and regional talent and taste some of the areas best eateries.

For more info: McKinney Main Street at 972-547-2660.

10 5th annual Allen Flag Day Celebration, 1:30 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main St.

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Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard will perform a Flag Presentation Ceremony. Old and tattered flags are being collected by Heritage Guild members for a Flag Retirement Ceremony at the conclusion of the program. Free event.

For more info: www.allenheritageguild. org or 214.509.4911.

30 Market Street Allen USA Celebration presented by Texas Health Allen, Celebration Park.

Concessionaires will be on site with your favorite festival foods and snacks. The Kid’s Zone hosts a multitude of inflatables and interactive games. The new Cabela’s Zone will include interactive elements. Catch fun and exciting local talent on the Community Stage Main Stage will be host to The Bangles who will perform such hits as “Hazy Shade of Winter,” “Eternal Flame,” “Manic Monday,” “Walk Like an Egyptian” and many more! The evening culminates with one of the largest fireworks shows in North Texas! Admission is free.

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.

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Parks and Recreation Events Summer Sounds Concert: High Definition, 7 pm. This band’s versatile style and high energy will turn the Joe Farmer Recreation Center Amphitheater into a high def party zone.

SNAP Dance for Adults with Disabilities (Luau Theme), Recreation Hall, 7-10 pm. Live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and a commemorative photo mailed to each participant’s home. For complete information or to get on the email distribution list, email tharben@ cityofallen.org or call 214.509.4707.

Family Night at Ford Pool. Come join us once a month for family night at Ford Pool! It’s an evening of food, fun and family time, as we keep the pool open late and take care of supper so you can enjoy the evening as a family. Early registration is available at the DRN. Each paid guest will receive a concessions coupon.

Disc Golf Tournament. Test your skills against other disc golfers in the area. All skill levels are encouraged to play. Foursomes will be matched up on tournament day. Trophies awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers.

11 Summer Sounds Concert: Me & My Monkey, 7 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Center Amphitheater. Ready to Twist and Shout? We’ve got your Ticket to Ride with Me & My Monkey, the ultimate Beatles tribute band.

Step Up to Health, 6-7:30 pm, Joe Farmer Rec. Center. In conjunction with the Summer Sounds Concert Series, this Joe Farmer Recreation Center event is designed to highlight the many health/ wellness programs offered by Allen Parks and Recreation. Bring your family and enjoy a variety of activities including obstacle courses, soccer dribbling, bounce house and more before the concert.

14 Family Night at The Edge Skatepark, 6-8 pm. Children must be accompanied by at least one parent to gain entrance to the park.

18 Summer Sounds Concert: Live 80s, 7 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Center Amphitheater. Live ‘80s will flash you back to a time when Rubik’s cubes, big hair and leg warmers were all the rage.

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22-24Mid-Summer Meltdown Tournament, Allen Community Ice Rink. Beat the heat and come watch the 2012 Mid-Summer Meltdown Tournament! The competition will be comprised of three divisions: Women’s Recreational, Adult Beginner and Adult Novice. The tournament is sanctioned by USA Hockey and will be comprised of teams of men and women 18 years of age and older.

25 Summer Sounds Concert: Cuvee, 7 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Center Amphitheater. Cuvee will be pumping out energizing renditions of classic R&B, Motown, rock and disco dance hits.

For more info: 972-912-1097 or www.

AllenParks.org.

Flag Football—Format: 7 games + play-offs.

Play begins June 12.

Ultimate Frisbee League—Cost: $265 per team. Format: 14 games + playoffs. Play begins: June 14.

Volleyball—Format: 8 Games + singleelimination tournament. Play begins June 4.

4v4 Sand Volleyball League—Cost: $170 per team. Format: 12 Games + singleelimination tournament. Play begins June 5. Leagues available on Tuesday or Wednesday night. Games played at the Village Beach in The Village at Fairview.

For more information, log on to www. allenparks.org or call the Athletic Information Hotline: 214-509-4810.

Adult Athletic Leagues

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Children

Tennis and Soccer—Registration is open for Summer Tennis and Soccer camps.

Kickball—Tournament: June 2. Co-Rec Church League: Season Begins June 11.

Allen Academy of Skating—Learn to Skate classes for all levels ages 3-adult.

Cost: $80 for 8 weeks. June 5– Aug. 4.

Softball—Cost: $325/$340 per team. Format: 8 games. Play begins June 11.

Men’s Basketball—Format: 8 Games + single-elimination tournament. Play begins June 5.

Baby and Me: Pre-walkers with adult, Tue. & Thu, 10:15 am.

Fun Ones: 1-year-olds with adult, Mon. & Wed., 10 am; and Tue. 6:30 pm.

Together Time: 2 & 3 year-olds with adult, Tue. & Thu., 11:15 am; Wed. 10:45 am.

All by Myself: 4 & 5 year-olds, Wed. 11:30 am.

Family Storytime: 2-6 year-olds & family, Mon. 11:15 am; Thu. 7 pm.

Free tickets for the first show will be distributed at 2 pm and second show will be given out starting at 2:30 pm.

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Summer Reading Club sign up begins. Children of all ages can stop by the Allen Library and pick up a reading log. Choose between a title log or 15 minutes every day, return your log by August 5th.

11 Whirled on a String. Come watch award-winning yo-yo artist Valerie Oliver present her fun and factual program about yo-yos.

18 Reading With Mother Goose. Join Margaret Clauder (Mother Goose) for an interactive program full of rhymes, puppets and fun!

25 Professor Brainus. Explore the world of science and observe exciting experiments with Professor Brainus.

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All of these programs are for ages 12-18 and will be held from 2-4 p.m.

Minute-to-Win-it Kick Off Party.

Have you seen the TV show Minute-toWin-it? Have you ever played Silent

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Library? We’re going to combine elements of both and have a fun, (silent) laugh filled party!

Read, Rewind, Rant, Repeat: A Genre Club. This month’s genre is realistic fiction. (You know, books about real life stuff like school, friends, and tough decisions.) Read a book, watch a movie, or do both…then come and tell us what you thought.

Anime Day. Are you an avid manga reader? Do you watch anime? Then join us as we celebrate all things anime!

Henna Art. Have you ever admired henna tattoos? Do you want to get one of your own? Then join us at the library for Henna Art! Hunger Games. You’ve read the books, you’ve seen the movie, now find out if you would survive the Hunger Games!

Game On. Join us for a mix of Xbox, board, and card games. Featured this month—Just Dance for Xbox.

28 T-Shirt Art and Soda Pop-Tab Jewelry. Do you have an old T-shirt that you don’t know what to do with? Bring it to the library and have fun tie dying, cutting and re-creating. Then, try your hand at creating jewelry out of tabs from soda cans.

30 Duck Design. Come test out your design skills with a plastic ducky or two!

For more info: 214-509-4913.

Adults 4

Adult Summer Reading program through Aug. 4. Theme is Reading Takes You Everywhere. Participants must be 18 or over and have a valid Allen library card. First 200 to sign up will receive a coupon for a cookie from the Reading Café. Must complete 5 items to be eligible for gift card drawings. Prize drawings Aug. 5, before the library opens. First 350 to turn in a reading log will receive a tote bag and a book.

For more information, please call the reference desk at 214-509-4905.

Noontime Pageturners, noon, upstairs program room. Best Advice I Ever Got

by Katie Couric. Bring lunch & a friend.

19 Mom’s Night Out Bookclub, 7 pm, , The Language Of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. Registration required. First 5 Moms to register will receive a free copy of the book!

For more info: 214-509-4905.

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Watters Creek 2 9 16

17 23 30

Concert by the Creek, Rob Holbert Group, 7-10 pm.

Concert by the Creek, Don’t Tell Mama, 7-10 pm.

Father’s Day craft, 2-4 pm.

Concert by the Creek, Rhett Butler, 710 pm.

Morning maniac car show, 1-5 pm.

Concert by the Creek, Moving Colors, 7-10 pm.

Movie Night, Father of the Bride, 9 pm.

For more info: www.watterscreek.com.

Connemara Conservancy

Connemara Meadow Preserve 2 3

Habitat Walk, 9 am, Connemara Meadow Preserve.

Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 8 am- 11 am, Allen.

Bring your binoculars and field guides if

you have them, and learn what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, both with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society.

All ages are welcome. We recommend wearing long pants, closed-toed shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

24 Open House, 12-5 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve, join us to wander (and wonder) at the Meadow by hiking the trails, watching the flora and fauna.

Enter at Wooded Gate on East side of Alma, south of Bethany.

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

For more info: www.connemaraconservancy. org.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS City of Allen offers a variety of affordable recreational classes and programs.

Register at Joe Farmer Rec Center, 214509-4750 or Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 214-509-4770.

For more info: www.allenparks.org.

Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents and caregivers of preschoolers. A new calendar each month filled with fun activities for you and your children.

Activities include play groups, park days, lunch with friends, field trips,

Mom’s Night Out, Dads and Kids, and other great events. Come play with us!

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

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

For more info: 972-727-0011 or www. kidspediatricdentistry.com.

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

For more info: www.BaylorHealth.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.

Heart Link Women’s Networking group.

Industry specific, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days and locations vary.

For more info: http://75002.

TheHeartLinkNetwork.com.

Urban Explorers, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups throughout Dallas area. Something for everyone!

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

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

For more info: Kim Tedford: 214-544-8050 ext. 109, ktedford@creekwoodumc.org or www.creekwoodumc.org.

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

For more info: Debbie Moen, 972-712-5711.

MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, holiday parties, babysitting co-op, etc. Monthly bus. meeting.

For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.com.

Every Monday

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.

Allen Toastmasters’ Club, 6:30 pm, Keller Williams office at 1002 Raintree Circle #100, Allen.Guests welcome.

For more info: Joe Nave at 214-566-3100.

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

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

For more info: fitandfunky@att.net.

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

For more info: Ed Meissner, 469-323-0538 or Todd Richardson, 214-497-4495 or www. prestonpersuaders.org.

Every Monday, Thursday & Saturday

Allen AA meets, 601 S. Greenville.

For more info: 972-359-7383.

Second Monday

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 bachelors or assoc. degree interested in helping women.

For more info: Carol, 972-862-3460 or www. aauwplanocollin.org.

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

Open to anyone interested.

For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972-4425982.

McKinney Childcare Association, non-profit org. of state-listed, reg. and lic. home childcare providers McKinney area, 7 pm, locations vary.

For more info: Alice Lang, 972-346-2280 or www.mckinneyareadaycareassociation.org.

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

For more info: 972-562-5566 or www. northtexasbeekeepers.org.

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

Nursery res. required.

For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972-7123634.

McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm, location varies. See website for outreach project of the month.

For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org Third Monday

Allen Retired Educators, 10:45 am, Patrizio’s Restaurant, 101 Fairview Station Pkwy, Village of Fairview, Stacy Rd. and Hwy. 75. Anyone with a heart for education is welcome.

For more info: Jerri Caldronia, at jlcaldronia@suddenlink.net.

Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome.

For more info: www.K5PRK.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, 972-5404984.

Fourth Monday

Texas Democratic Women of Collin County meets at 6:45 pm, Collin College, Frisco campus, Rm F148.

For more info: www.tdwcc.org or Barb Walters, 214-477-5183.

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.

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

For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214-616-2460.

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 nonmem. 1st visit free.

For more info: 972-727-5585.

Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 7 pm, First 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.alanon.alateen.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.

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.

Every Tuesday & Thursday

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 972-4241460.

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First Tuesday

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

For more info: 972-562-5566.

First and Third Tuesday

Common Threads of Allen, 7pm, A Real Bookstore, 113 Praire Rd., Village at Fairview. Share needlework projects, learn new techniques, make new friends.

For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214-704-0994 or debik@verizon.net.

Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Twin Creeks Golf Club, 501 Twin Creeks Drive.

For more info: kevin_carlson@sbcglobal. net.

Second Tuesday

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

For more info: 214-509-4820.

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

Visitors welcome.

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

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

For more info: archaeology@netzero.net.

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

For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214893-3643.

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

For more info: www.planopacers.org.

Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group of Collin County, 7-9 pm, parlor, First United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen.

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

Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, 9:30 am refreshments, 10 am meeting, Collin College Courtyard Center, 4800 Preston Park Blvd., Plano.

Program: Larry Ratliff presents the top 10 movies 1960-present. Guests welcome!

For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org.

Third Tuesday

McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, Welcomes new residents, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. Speakers, prizes and refreshments each month. The McKinney Summer Musical performers will entertain with a sampling of the music from the upcoming summer musical My Fair Lady.

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

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group at http://health.groups.yahoo. com/group/autismparentsupport.

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

Fourth Tuesday

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

For more info: www.allenchamber.com.

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

For more info: 972-562-5566.

Porcelain Art Guild of North Texas, meets at 9:30 am, Carriage House, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Open to anyone, beginner to expert, interested in china painting and porcelain art.

For more info: Gayle Harry 214-509-0787.

Every Wednesday

Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, 7 pm, Braums, 1222 W. McDermott, Allen.

For more info: Dan 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.

Allen Rotary Club, Noon, Courtyard

by Marriot, 210 East Stacy Rd. For more info: www.allenrotary.org.

McKinney Chess on the Square, 47pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. Chess promotes creativity, imagination and strategic thinking.

For more info, 214-620-0527 or mckinneychess.org.

First Wednesday

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.

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

For more info: 972-740-8017 or www. allenheritageguild.org.

Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:301:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage Hosue, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch and enjoy.

For more info: 972-569-6909 or www. headcraig.org.

First and Third Wednesday

Mothers of Preschoolers, 9:15-11:30 am, First Baptist Church, 1300 E. 15th, Plano.

For more info: Debbie Parker, 972-424-8551.

Second Wednesday

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

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, 972-7279956 or www.vfw2195.org.

Every Thursday

Allen Kiwanis Club, Noon, Twin Creeks Clubhouse, 501 Twin Creeks Blvd. Visitors welcome.

For more info: Sandy McNair, 214-548-5483 or www.allenkiwanis.org.

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.

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.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness of Collin County), Recovery support group 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.

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

Community Bible Study (September 8, 2011 to May 10, 2012), 9:30-11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Daniel and Hebrews. Reg. required.

For more info: bbrakebill@tx.rr.com or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org.

First Thursday

W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), 11:30 am. Location varies.

Networking & discussion of women’s issues. Fun & informative meeting for women in Allen & surrounding areas. $20 member/$25 guest. Payment expected unless reservation cancelled 48 hrs. in advance.

For more info: www.allenchamber.com

North Dallas Newcomers, meets Sept.-June, 11 am, Bent Tree Country Club. 5201 Westgrove Drive, Dallas.

Candy Thompson will present “ A Brief, But Full of Fun Outline of Dallas History!” for the program. Guests are welcome.

For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers. net.

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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

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.

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

For more info: www.lanwt.org or 1-888-5295277.

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

For more info: 972-747-6036.

First and Third Thursday

Allen’s Community Theatre hosts Improv, 102 S. Allen Dr. For more info: allenscommunitytheatre@gmail. com.

Second and Fourth Thursday

Allen High Noon Lions Club, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Tony Pritchard, 214-2931598.

Allen Area Patriots, 7-8:45 pm, New Heritage Church, 8 Prestige Circle, Allen.

Local Tea Party presents speakers, enlightening and motivating citizens to participate in the political process.

For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots. com.

Third Thursday

Men of Business, networking and discussion of men’s issues for men of the Allen Fairview Chamber. Call for location. $20 member/$25 guest. RSVP required.

For more info: www.allenchamber.com.

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

For more info: www.amamom.org or 972260-9330.

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

For more info: www.allenquilters.org.

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. Our goal is simple—to support you any way we can.

For more info: James Craver, 972-727-8241.

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

For more info: www.ccrmc.org.

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.

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. Meet new people and enjoy social activities.

For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail. com.

Every Other Thursday

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

Beginning April 1.

For more info: www.ntrg.info.

Every Friday

Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Members free/Nonmember Allen resident $3. Non-Allen residents $24/annually. Allen resident annual membership/$5.

For more info: 214-509-4820.

McKinney Chess Club meets 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, 9:3011:45 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. Enjoy snacks, fellowship and games (dominoes, Skip Bo and other table games). Event is open to the entire community, no reservations are required.

For more info: 972-727-8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com.

Second Friday

Allen Early Childhood PTA, monthly meeting, 9:30-11 am, at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 821 S. Greenville. Activities include play groups, field trips and educational opportunities, baby sitting co-op and more. Nursery reservations are available for children 6 mo.5 yrs.

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

Every Saturday

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

For more info: 972-547-7491.

Second Saturday

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

For more info: 972-562-5566.

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

For more info: www.bigd56ers.com.

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

For more info: 972-396-8010.

Third Saturday

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

The North Texas Unit of the Herb Society of America, 10:30 am, North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd, Dallas. Garden talks and programs by local experts are open to the public.

For more info: Beth DiGioia, 972-658-6852 or www.northtexashsa.org.

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

Scleroderma Support Group, 3 pm, Allen Presbyterian Hospital, Conference Room 1.

For more info: Cindi Brannum, 972-9547185.

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

For Your Health

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For Your Health

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For Your Health

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cover story

Atomic Tangerine Atomic Tangerine is a band that started as a summer hobby and has now blossomed into a community service project. Consisting of seven teenage girls led by Bob Baldwin, the father of one of the singers, the band has gone from singing at a local yogurt shop to performing at children’s hospitals and then to the main stage of the House of Blues, in less than a year.

While the girls, ages 14 and 15, had always kept a list of “cool names for a band,” they didn’t actually have a band until last summer. “My daughter Chloe would stay over here a few nights a week and would always have two, three or four of her friends over too,” Bob recalls. “I quickly realized that it was going to be a very long summer for me unless I found a way to keep them busy.”

The girls all share a love of singing and musical theatre and liked Bob’s idea. They started with artists Bob already knew, such as Journey and Tom Petty. Before long, they were asking if they could learn other lyrics,

“

pizza, conversation, learning a few songs, swimming and more conver­ sation. But amid all their chatting, Bob discovered that these girls had talent as a group. And now that they were a band, they needed a gig.

Their attitude makes such a

difference and I really value the fact that they’re wanting to give back. from singers like Adele, Justin Bieber and Bruno Mars.

And a band was born.

Genuine talent Atomic Tangerine consists of singers Chloe Baldwin, Madeleine Dennett, Mallory Heins, Sidney Samuels and Bailey French, and managers Audrey Woodard and Jessica Clark. They live in Allen and attend the Lowery Freshman Center, with the exception of Sidney, who attends Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and lives in Dallas during the week.

From the list of band names they had been keeping for fun, the girls chose Atomic Tangerine, a color name they found in a 96-pack box of crayons.

Weekly summer practices consisted of

”

Bob called his friend, Tom Hermann, owner of the local Yogurtville franchise, and asked if they could be part of his store’s summer performance schedule. He agreed, and last July, Atomic Tangerine played their first show.

“Once we did those gigs and got some confidence going, we started thinking, ‘What can we do above and beyond with this?’” Bob remembers.

“And I’m very proud of these girls because they’re good, strong Christian girls that want to do good in the world, so we began doing gigs at children’s hospitals.”

Giving back

“They’re so enthusiastic and energetic and just so happy and loving,” says Vidya Ayyr, volunteer Allen Image x June 2012

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services coordinator at Children’s Medical Hospital, who facilitated the band’s performances at both the Dallas and Plano locations.

“Their attitude makes such a difference and I really value the fact that they’re wanting to give back. They’re making patients, their families and even the doctors and nurses all feel good and that’s a huge thing.”

The band has also played at the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and plans to add more charitable performances in the future.

But beyond the chance to perform in a new venue, the girls are rewarded with the interaction and positive vibes that come from these shows.

“There was one little boy I saw who had a halo brace and, throughout

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the gig, he had this pipe cleaner that he was working into the shape of a heart,” Bailey remembers. “I saw him doing this and really struggling

because his hands were making it difficult for him. Then, towards the end of the show, he gave the heart to me. He said he had made it for me and was very sweet.”

The girls smile in agreement, remembering this little boy, as well as other patients and families who touched their hearts. “My favorite part of the singing is definitely singing at the hospitals because, not only is it fun to sing for people, it’s amazing to think that I’m helping people through music,” Chloe says. Hence, the band’s tagline, ‘Making the world a better place—one song at a time.’

“It feels good to perform and to share your talent with others, especially at the children’s hospitals where the kids come out and dance,” adds Sidney.

“There was one little girl in a ballet outfit and she was dancing and began to do some ballet moves. So then I did some ballet too and it was great.”

These charitable performances led the band to their most high-profile gig to date—playing the main stage at the House of Blues in Dallas in March.

The event, called Dallas Pays It Forward!, was sponsored by the nonprofit Live Wright Society. The

For MarketPlace Your Health

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really see the audience because it was dark. But then, suddenly, there’d be a flash of lights and you’d see the whole crowd at once and it was kind of like, ‘Whoa, that’s a lot of people there’.”

An extended family

Managers Jessica Clark and Audrey Woodard opportunity came about through the band’s connection to Children’s Hospital—Vidya is also the society’s event manager. After meeting the girls, she was so impressed with their ambition and generosity that she suggested they enter the society’s talent contest. They were chosen as finalists, performed at the show and created a professional music video, courtesy of the organization.

“I love the girls in Atomic Tangerine and really value that they want to be role models,” Vidya says.

“Teens have so many opportunities to participate in so many different things.

The fact that they want to involve themselves in the community when they could be, say behind a computer playing on Facebook, really speaks to their character.”

Playing at the House of Blues was a mind-blowing experience, the girls

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say. “We were backstage and all having a little ‘spaz attack’ because of how cool everything was,” Sidney remembers. “It’s so crazy to think about all that has happened in the short time we’ve been a band.”

“The girls did great and were very professional,” says Bob, estimating the crowd at over 600 people.

During their part of the show, the girls sang “I Want You Back” and “Walking on Sunshine,” along with “Any Way You Want It,” which they sang with another finalist band.

Despite the high-pressure performance, the girls say their nerves were calm because they had one another.

“If I was up there by myself, I probably would have run right off the stage,” Mallory says. “But with all of us up there, I just felt like ‘Let’s party’ and started dancing.” Adds Mallory: “We were on stage and you couldn’t

Bob has been in bands since he was 15 and loves the camaraderie they bring. His current group, Party On!, played as part of the Watters Creek summer concert series last year, with Atomic Tangerine making appearances during those shows.

“My goal is to show these girls how much fun it can be to be in a band, and also the creative process and sisterhood or brotherhood that comes out of it,” Bob explains. “I’m a single dad so I’ve got some free extra time right now to do this, so I want to do fun things and teach her about what I think is important in the world, like traveling and playing music. And these girls are kind of like an extended family now.”

While some of the members have known each other since before elementary school, they became close friends at Ford Middle School, where they were part of the Christian club D.O.L.L.S., which stands for Daughters of Our Living Lord and Savior. At one time or another, all of the members have been part of the club’s leadership, which is known as ‘5 Main.’

Chloe, Madeleine, Mallory and Sidney attend Morrow’s Performing Arts Center in Plano and have performed in various plays and musical productions together. In addition, Madeleine, Bailey, Chloe and Mallory are in the Lowery choir together.

“The best part of being in Atomic Tangerine is performing with my friends,” says Madeline. “They’re like family and we’re always going to be there for each other.”

It’s a friendship they all expect to continue through school and beyond.

As we go into high school next year,” Audrey says. “We can be friends with

other people, of course, but we’ll always be friends with these people no matter what.”

“The fact that we all have the same purpose and just want to bring joy to other people brings us together,” Bailey explains. “And the bond you get with people after you perform with them is really cool.” Adds Mallory, “It helps that we’re all pretty similar personality wise and that we have a good balance of traits.”

Completing each other ’s sentences, talking over one another and an abundance of enthusiasm are just what you get when you sit down with the members of Atomic Tangerine.

would be.” She’s going to study audio/video productions in high school and is planning on a career as a broadcast journalist.

Like Chloe and Madeleine, Bailey has been singing her entire life and joined the school choir in eighth grade.

She was friends with the girls, but didn’t happen to be with them when they formed Atomic Tangerine. “After their first Yogurtville performance, I went to watch them and they sort of

said, ‘Bailey, why aren’t you doing this with us?’” she says. “They kind of drafted me and since then, I’ve grown a lot musically and I’ve gotten a lot better at performing in front of people.” For a career, Bailey says she hopes to do something in student ministry or teach Bible classes at a private school.

Sidney started acting in seventh grade, after sort of ‘falling into’ performing. “I started first doing the

A blend of personalities

Thanks to her dad, Chloe says there has always been music in the house. “I’ve been performing since I was little—first in Montessori school then in elementary and middle school plays,” she explains. “My dad plays guitar and piano and sings all the time. He’s really inspiring because he’s always had music as part of his life. Even as he’s had other jobs, he’s been in bands because it’s fun. We help each other out and it’s just fun to be with him.”

Hanging out with her dad has become even more fun now that her friends have joined in on their shared love of music. And like most of the girls, Chloe also loves theatre. “That’s why I love musical theatre,” she says.

“Because it’s both singing and acting.”

In the future, Chloe says she would love to perform on Broadway. “It’s kind of a long shot, but I’m going to try,” she says.

Madeleine also discovered her love for music at a young age. “I can remember always watching the Disney movies and running around the house singing the songs in them,” she says. “I really liked it when Bob had the idea for the band and this has been more than what I even hoped it Allen Image x June 2012

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Left, top to bottom: Bob Baldwin, Madeleine Dennett and Sidney Samuels; right, top to bottom: Bailey French, Mallory Heins and Chloe Baldwin.

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technical stuff, but then I got on stage and realized I kind of liked performing,” she remembers. “I did dance for a little while after that and then got into singing and now I also do tennis.”

At Christmas, Sidney performed through her school at the Myerson Symphony Center in Dallas, alongside the Turtle Creek Chorale men’s chorus. She was also honored this year to be chosen as one of just a few freshmen to be part of her school’s biannual collaborative show. “I just really love performing and am having so much fun.” While she’s not really sure what she’d like to do for a career, Sidney says that right now, she loves performing in musical theatre along with the technical side of it such as set design.

Like Sidney, Mallory didn’t discover her love of the stage until middle school. “I grew up in a sports family so I didn’t really know anything about performing,” she says. “I saw Chloe in a play and thought it was so cool and that maybe I could audition for one too.” After being in her first play, Mallory says she knew she was done with sports. “I played select volleyball, but I didn’t really like that competitive world and there was nothing ever new about it,” she says.

Mallory was born with hearing problems and although her hearing has gotten better, she says she has always been fascinated with sign language. She’d like to pursue a career in deaf education or work as an interpreter at a church. While

For MarketPlace Your Health

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Atomic Tangerine onstage with Royal Tease at the House of Blues in Dallas

she loves theatre—she recently played the genie in Aladdin while Chloe played Jasmine—Mallory really loves the freedom that comes with singing.

“You don’t have to worry about memorizing lines or being in the exact right place at the exact right time,” she says. “You can just go and dance and have fun.”

Managers Jessica and Audrey rap on some of the band’s songs and provide support to the singers.

“Somehow our personalities all just clicked,” Audrey says of the band.

Both girls share a love of animals— Jessica would like to be a marine biologist or a zoologist, while Audrey hopes for a career as a dolphin trainer.

A busy future

The girls are now “fearless performers”—they know around 60 to 70 songs from a variety of decades. But in addition to boosting their confidence, this experience performing as a band has also made them better singers.

“When we started this, most of us were just in voice lessons and we’d ask each other to listen to a song that we were working on with our vocal teacher,” Sidney says. “Once we started working on songs together, it’s brought us closer and we’ve gotten better. We practice a lot and by singing with just one or two acoustic guitars, you can really hear yourself more. It’s harder to stay on pitch, of course, but now we

have the ability to perform with just a guitar or with a whole band and that’s great experience to have.”

This summer, the band members say they hope to create some original songs and increase their number of performances at children’s hospitals.

“By summer, most of the girls will have turned 15, which is the age limit for being able to perform in patient rooms at the hospitals,” Bob says. “My hope then is that we can do a show in the lobby and spend the rest of the afternoon visiting and performing for kids that are in their rooms.”

Through their performances, the band members are enhancing lives.

But they’re also finding out what it means to have their own lives enhanced by this experience. “I love being part of Atomic Tangerine because it helps us know that we’re always going to have something fun to do,” Mallory says. “Learning music is really fun because music is something that I’ve always loved. But until this, I’ve never gotten the chance to BE the music and that’s really been the best part.”

Nicole Bywater is a freelance writer from Allen.

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pet page

Ethan is a 12-year-old male golden retriever that was attacked by a dog or coyote and his family was unable to provide care. CCHS stepped up and Ethan was immediately taken to the vet where he had surgery and was nursed back to health! He tested strong heartworm positive and is unable to undergo heartworm treatment, but he is on prevention to stop any further damage.

Even after all he has been through, Ethan is a big boy who is full of love and adores being where his foster parents are. He still has spring in his step and enjoys short walks despite being a “senior” with arthritis in his knees and hips. Ethan still has so much love to give and is waiting for a home where he will be pampered! He is neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations and on heartworm prevention.

“Ethan”

“Goldie”

Goldie is a 12-year-old lab-golden mix who was adopted years ago from a shelter and was handed back to them this week in horrendous shape. She was taken into the CCHS foster program where she is gaining weight and strength daily. She tested very light positive for heartworm. Adopter will be given a year’s supply of heartworm preventive.

Goldie has wonderful manners and is housetrained and knows basic commands. Despite the neglect, she does not have a mean bone in her body. She follows her foster family around and gets lots of attention from the children that live in the home.

She is spayed, microchipped, current on vaccinations and all ready for her new home.

If you are interested in adding Ethan or Goldie to your family, please complete an application online at: http://collincountyhumanesociety.org/ adoption-application.html.

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