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contents

March 2013

Vol. 23, Issue 3

cover story 58 Allen Event Center teams score high in entertainment

The professional sports teams—Allen Americans, Dallas Sidekicks and Texas Revolution—that compete at the Allen Event Center have individual goals but they all have one primary motivator—community support. by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

feature 26 Turning a dream into reality

Allen resident Travis Davis created an app called Meeting Mapper that currently tops the Forbes Top Ten list of “Mobile Apps to Make Your Business More Productive in 2013.” by Deborah Dove

special sections 38 kids korner

Celebrat Spring by Deborah Dove

44 pet page

Van Halen

46 business seen

Cutting Edge Pool & Patio Color Bar & Salon

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Kwik Kar of Allen by Nicole Bywater

48 calendar

contents departments civic forum 10

Eggcellent adventure await by Jeff Mues

Allen in the 60s by Tom Keener

ACTV honored by Kathleen Vaught

March means sports of all sorts by Jeff Mues

publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

advertising sales Jill Edelman Joy Dickschat

contributing writers Nicole Bywater

by Dawn Bluemel Oldfield

Heather Darrow

Striving to stay in touch

Deborah Dove

by Kathleen Vaught

Allison Johnson

Bedtime at Boyd Barbie is 54

Tom Keener

Allen Dance Festival Almost grown movie series

3rd Annual CCMGA Grden Show

Allen Image

Jeff Mues Dawn Bluemel Oldfield Peggy Helmick-Richardson

library

Kathleen Vaught

by Tom Keener

Celtic Nights History of Passover

Book of Kells Author Gary Schmidt

Vampire author Rachel Caine

living green Mosquitoes—it’s time we bite back by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

education 36

Clear skies above and below by Heather Darrow

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Larry Fleming

by Allison Johnson

cover photo

cooking 40

Eating clean by Deborah Dove

Allen Image © 2013 by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. Allen Image is published by Moonlight Graphics and individually mailed free of charge to the residents of the Allen area. Subscriptions are available to residents outside the delivery area at a rate of $2.50 per issue—$30 per year. Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to: Allen Image, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807 or visit our website at www.allenimage. com.

civic forum

Eggcellent adventures await! by Jeff Mues

March is here and Easter is officially around the corner. The Easter Bunny will soon be hop, hop, hopping into our homes and communities. As we gear up to celebrate the holiday with time-tested traditions and look forward to some of Allen’s unique Easter events, it’s worth considering how these traditions evolved. Did you know the Easter Bunny

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has actually been around for thousands of years? It’s true! Between the fourth and sixth centuries, Anglo-Saxons cele brated the return of spring with a festival commemorating the goddess of spring time—Eastre. Like most goddesses, Eastre was associated with an earthly animal symbol. Which animal? A rabbit of course! When the AngloSaxons converted to Christianity, the rabbit kept going and going… all the way to modern times. The Easter Bunny was alive and well by the 16th century, where he was first docu mented delivering eggs to families in G e r m a n y. The tradition was brought to the United States by German and Dutch immig rants, with chocolate eggs and sugary candies becoming part of the celebration in the late 1800s. As traditions spread and evolved around the world, many colorful and unique manners of celebration took shape. In the British Isles, people began to look forward to annual Easter Egg Roll contests in which contestants roll their eggs down a hill to a finish line, cheering them on in hopes they

won’t crack! In Bermuda, they celebrate Good Friday by flying homemade Easter-themed kites made with colorful tissue paper. In Russia, exquisitely designed jewelry known as Faberge eggs are made from gold and precious stone. Originally created for the Russian Imperial Court, they continue to be admired to this day. But we do not need to go far to find unique Easter traditions! In fact, Allen is home to several Easter traditions. One event in particular has evolved over the years to become a true hometown favorite. Originally developed to be the City of Allen’s Easter egg hunt in 1996, more than 10,000 kids have hunted for over 125,000 eggs. In 2008 the event was re-branded as the Eggcellent Family Adventure and a new venue— Allen Civic Plaza (adjacent to City Hall)—was chosen f o r

the festivities, which will take place Saturday, March 23, 9 a.m.-noon. In case you are newly-hatched… or just new to the Allen area, the event features “trick-or-treating” Easter style! Tables are hosted by local community organizations and businesses. Children visit each table and collect eggs filled with goodies

as well as valuable information and offers from the participating organi zations. There are also opportunities for children to get pictures with the Easter Bunny, do crafts, play games, jump in a bounce house and get their faces painted! Thanks to sponsors such as 103.7 LITE FM, Raintree Healthcare and

Texas Health Resources, the event is completely free. Make sure to bring your basket to collect all of the freebies given away throughout the event. Of course, we wouldn’t want you to have all your eggs in one basket. There are more opportunities to celebrate as another great event returns this year. Lunch with the Easter Bunny is set for both Saturday, March 23, and Thursday, March 28. The Easter Bunny might nibble on carrots, grass and seeds, but children will dine on a yummy lunch provided by one of Allen’s many delicious restaurants. Memories from this classic event (and photos) are sure to last a lifetime! Registration is not required for the Eggcellent Family Adventure, but space is limited for Lunch with the Easter Bunny so hop to it! Visit AllenParks.org to register. Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen Event Center and Allen Parks & Recreation Department.

with the easy to use device and honest communication about sleep are ultimately what convinced me to give it a try. The results and the continued support and education are why I tell others not only about my device, but also about Simple Sleep Service’s philosophy.”

The whole family is happy that dad stopped snoring! “There was no way that I was going to use a CPAP mask or have surgery,” says Pierce Knight.

“Simple Sleep Services was straightforward and clear from the beginning - simple is really what they are all about. They didn’t try to sell me on a magic device that would solve all sleep problems. They listened to my concerns about my sleep and getting treated. Even after my snoring was gone and my sleep quality improved by using their device, they were honest about continuing to improve my experience by getting more exercise and losing some weight. Both of these were made easier after treatment because I feel better and have much more energy”.

Pierce’s wife Fowler claims, “After the first night of my husband using the device, I noticed a difference. No more snoring and he seemed more peaceful during his first night’s sleep. I was very skeptical that what seems to be a simple device would make such an impact, but I saw an immediate difference. The loud snoring stopped the first night my husband used the device, and he seems more rested every day...which means I get better sleep, too. Thank you, Simple Sleep Services!” Simple Sleep Services works with all private insurance companies including Blue Cross/Blue Shield, United, Aetna, Cigna, Humana and others. Simple Sleep Services is the streamlined, easy and effective solution for diagnosis and treatment. For more success stories go to www.simplesleepservices.com or call 469-685-1700 for a consultation or appointment. A good night’s sleep shouldn’t be work. It’s Simple. Stop Snoring, Sleep Healthy, Live Life!

469.685.1700

6101 Chapel Hill Blvd., Ste. 201, Plano

www.simplesleepservices.com

“I just assumed that being tired was part of having kids and getting older. The education Simple Sleep Services provided me has only been reinforced as I see more and more in the news and other sources about the importance of getting quality sleep. The home sleep test combined Allen Image x March 2013

Allen in the 60s by Tom Keener The “Allen in the 1960’s” exhibit will be on display the second and fourth Saturday, February through May, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main. The upcoming Allen Heritage Guild’s meetings will feature members of the Rodenbaugh and Kerr families reminiscing about their lives and businesses in Allen over the past few decades. Guild meetings are the first Wednesday of each month in the Allen Heritage Center/Depot, at 6:30 p.m. As a rural community, Allen experienced tremendous growth during the 1960s when Highway 75 (Central Expressway) was constructed from Dallas to the Oklahoma border. In Richardson, Texas Instruments and Collins Radio opened head quarters near Central and the popu lation began to explode as families moved into the area from other states. Finding homes was a challenge, so many families looked northward to the community of Allen. Incorporated in 1953, Allen was a rural community of about 600 residents. In 1960, as Allen began the

transition from a rural community to a thriving suburb, businesses sprang up in the community to provide goods and services. Rodenbaugh’s TV and Appliance opened in 1962 and is the oldest continuously open business in Allen. Another long-standing business, the Allen Flower Shop, which was owned by the Kerr family, opened its doors in 1972. The Allen Heritage Guild is

nizing these two businesses in recog their “Allen in the 1960s” exhibit. They were among the many arrivals that joined other long-time residents to become community leaders and shape Allen’s destiny. Photos and documents will show the beginnings of city departments (mayor and city council, volunteer fire department and police department), the AISD, the telephone company, post office, library, newspaper and churches. An array of business ads and maps of the decade will also be on display. The Heritage Guild invites anyone who has memories or printed materials about Allen’s past they would like to share, to call Bonnie Borrello at 972.390.7166. Visit www.allenheritageguild.org or find us on Facebook. Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

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ACTV honored by Kathleen Vaught

When people think of awards for TV and film, they most likely think of designer gowns, red carpets and big Hollywood budgets. However, it’s important to not overlook the vital role local, municipal television stations provide—and for that, Allen City Television continues to set the bar very high. From educational public service announcements (PSA) that help teach our community about ways to conserve water during extreme drought, to promotional spots featuring library and parks and recreation programs, to just making us laugh—ACTV con tinues to be honored both regionally and nationally. Earning their 11th nomination and 7th win since 2006 including a 2011 EMMY for Excellence in Community Service, ACTV was awarded the 2012 Lone Star EMMY for Excellence in Lighting Design. The Lone Star EMMY represents the most experienced and talented television professionals from all disciplines of the industry and from all 19 of the Texas television markets. “ACTV is the City of Allen’s television station used as a com munication resource tool for residents and visitors, and these awards show the high level of programming our viewers receive,” said Mark Kaufmann, ACTV Executive Producer. “ACTV Producer Scott Evans and Production Specialist John Perry are dedicated to providing quality shows and infor mation that bring relevance to all that we’re doing in Allen.” In addition to the EMMY, ACTV was recognized recently at the National Association of Telecommunication Officers and Advisors Annual Conference in New Orleans, with eight

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programming excellence awards. They also awarded Mark Kaufmann with the 2012 Brian Wilson Memorial Award for Programming Excellence. At the state chapter, ACTV was honored with 11 awards including the top prize for Overall Excellence in Government Programming.

Lone Star EMMY Winner—Excellence in Lighting Design

Texas Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors Awards: 1st Place—Overall Excellence in Government Programming

1st Place—Public Education for Stage 3 Water Restrictions 1st Place—Interview/Talk Show for The Dilly-O: Keep Interviews Weird 1st Place—Profile of an Organization/ Department for Teen Court 1st Place—Special Audience for SNAP Dance 1st Place—Event/Program Promotion for Allen Wranglers 1st Place—Use of Humor for The Dilly-O: Keep Interviews Weird 2nd Place—Public Education for Terra Court LEED Green Home 2nd Place—Public Health/Public Safety for Allen CERT 3rd Place—Community Event Coverage for Senior Recreation Center Ira Weisburd Line Dance Workshop 3rd Place—Profile of an Organization/Department for Olympic Swimmers at the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium

National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors Awards: 1st Place—Children/Young Adults for Teen Court 1st Place—Interview/Talk Show for The Dilly-O: Keep Interviews Weird 1st Place—Library for A Fistful of Spaghetti 1st Place—Event/Program Promotion for A Fistful of Spaghetti 1st Place—Public Safety for Allen CERT 3rd Place—Excellence in Government Programming for the City of Allen ACTV 3rd Place—Public Education for Stage 3 Water Restrictions 3rd Place—Use of Humor for A Fistful of Spaghetti ACTV is available on Time Warner channel 16, AT&T Uverse channel 99, Verizon FiOS channel 37 or through live streaming or video on demand at www.allentv.org, or visit and subscribe to ACTV’s You Tube channel www. youtube.com/allencitytv. v Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen. Allen Image x March 2013

March means sports of all sorts! by Jeff Mues

With the Dallas Sidekicks having clinched a playoff spot, it appears that all three professional sports franchises that call Allen Event Center home— The Sidekicks, Americans and Texas Revolution—will play games this month at the arena. But the professionals won’t be having all the fun! This month, two big intercollegiate championship tournaments come to town as Allen Event Center hosts the Lone Star Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament March 6-9, and the National Collegiate Wrestling (NCWA) Championships and Convention March 14-16. These two high profile events are fantastic examples of the types of events that Allen Event Center and the Allen Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) are working to bring to Allen. In addition to great concerts, tradeshows and professional sports, Allen Event Center is making a name for itself as a premier venue for a variety of sporting competitions amongst organizations such as the NCAA and the NCWA. Olympic organizing committees are also starting to take note. In fact, this past September representatives from the Convention and Visitors Bureau and Allen Event Center attended the annual Olympic SportsLink conference in Colorado Springs, headquarters of the U.S. Olympic Committee. They met with more than a half dozen Olympic organizing committees to discuss opportunities to host future Olympic qualifiers in Allen at either Allen Event Center or Eagle Stadium. When we talk about economic impact, we’re often asked what exactly that means. To help explain it, consider last year ’s Lone Star Conference

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Championship. In 2012, the City of Allen invested $41,974 in the event which resulted in $500,000 worth of economic activity in Allen. Similarly, a huge impact is expected from the National Collegiate Wrestling Championships and Convention. The event attracts some of the best college athletes in the country from more than 160 major universities such as Iowa State, Harvard, the University of Georgia, William & Mary and Vanderbilt. It is estimated that the event will generate total spending of over $2.5 million and result in tax revenues to the City of Allen in excess of $79,000. For both the Lone Star Conference Championship and the National Collegiate Wrestling Championships, the benefits to the community go well beyond those measured in dollars.

During the Lone Star Conference Championship, players and coaches visit with each of Allen’s 16 elementary schools where they deliver presen tations on what it means to be a student athlete, sharing the importance of working hard in the classroom. The NCWA meanwhile has teamed up with Allen Community Outreach (ACO) to host a blue jeans drive. Working to address a community need as identified by ACO, the NCWA’s goal is to get every wrestler, coach and fan to donate one pair of jeans to help reach a goal of 2,000 pairs of jeans! For more information, please visit AllenEventCenter.com or LSCChampionshipAllen.Com. v Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen Event Center and Allen Parks & Recreation Department.

Photo: Mike Mezeul

The 3rd Annual CCMGA Garden Show by Dawn Bluemel Oldfield

Dig up some education and inspiration at the Collin County Master Gardeners Association 3rd Annual Garden Show. The garden show will take place March 23 and 24, at beautiful Myers Park and Event Center in McKinney. The show will include prominent guest speakers, educational demonstrations, local vendor booths, farmer ’s market, children’s activity center, garden tours and more. The theme of this year’s event, “Earth-Kind® Garden to Table”, shines a light on our area’s leading role in the sustainable living movement and Earth-Kind® gardening principles. Whether you are a newcomer to gardening, looking for basic information or a seasoned gardener wanting to learn new skills, pre

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sentations and demonstrations throughout the two-day event will enrich your gardening experiences. Learn the what, when, where, why and how of growing herbs, vegetables

Simple Approach and How to Think Creatively With the Season’s Bounty”; and Carrie T. Brazeal, CFCS with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension services will present “Canning 101”.

“For all things produced in a garden, whether of salads or fruits, a poor man will eat better that has one of his own, than a rich man that has none.” — J.C. Loudoun and other types of plants through research-based knowledge. Keynote speakers on Saturday include Master Chef Andre’ Natera who will discuss “Seasonal Cooking: A

On Sunday, noted horticulturalist and publisher Neil Sperry presents “To a More Successful Texas Landscape”. Collin County Master Gardeners with decades of collective experience will

host classes on popular topics throughout the show on vegetable gardening, growing herbs, container gardening, designing the garden for birds and butterflies, rainwater harvesting, composting and irrigation. Tours of the four Earth-Kind® Demonstration and Research Gardens will be conducted throughout the twoday event. The 111 species of herbaceous perennials, 25 varieties of crape myrtles and 19 Kordes rose varieties will be coming alive with new growth and color. Also on tour will be the new Earth-Kind® vegetable trial garden, an experiment to determine which perennials and other types of plants can be grown in North Texas without the use of fertilizer, pesticides and excessive irrigation. According to Charlie O’Halloran, show director and Collin County Master Gardener, “The Garden Show is a family friendly event—we have something for everyone and every age. Our mission is to empower residents to establish their own gardens by sharing valuable gardening tips and ideas that incorporate Earth-Kind® gardening principles, and connect them with reputable garden and landscape professionals. “This year ’s show features excep tional professionals and specialists

presenting timely information on outdoor living in North Texas, and an expanded exhibit area where attendees can purchase plants, tools, unique outdoor items and other garden related products.” The CCMGA is an educational service organization of volunteers trained in horticulture, landscaping, soil improvement, water conservation and other topics that are important to Collin County gardeners. The CCMGA volunteer program is

administered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. The garden show is an indoor event, so come rain or shine! Hours are from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Entry on both days is a cost of $2 or 2 cans of food per car. All proceeds will benefit the Community Lifeline Center. Visit www. ccmgatx.org/TheGardenShow, or call 972-547-4632 for information. v Dawn Bluemel Oldfield is a freelance writer.

Allen Image x March 2013

Striving to stay in touch by Kathleen Vaught Since the times of Ancient Greece up until about a hundred years ago, official news was delivered verbally through a town crier. Over the last century, the ability to disperse infor mation has exponentially diversified itself and news travels faster, and through more mediums, than ever before. Today you can learn about world events through 140 character tweets or specialized applications feeding directly to your mobile device. Of all of the recent technological advances, the Internet continues to be among the most popular. At CityofAllen. org residents can find answers to almost any question they may have. The website is organized by departmental services and the large format dropdown menus provide additional quick access to service areas such as Animal Control, Environmental Services, Utility Billing and Water Conservation. For the most common needs, there is an “I Need To…” drop-down menu linking to everything from finding a

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library book to requesting a household hazardous waste pick-up. There are entire sections of the website devoted to either new or existing residents living in Allen, as well as vendors who want to do business with the city. Coming soon to the site will be quick question polls to get your feedback on a variety of service topics. In addition to CityofAllen.org, you can find out about all the great things to do in Allen at VisitAllenTexas.com and AllenEventCenter.com. From a full online restaurant directory to the next big act or tradeshow, these are great resources for access to shopping, dining and entertainment information. For those who prefer to have the news come to them instead of searching for it, these websites provide the ability to sign-up for email updates from any available calendar or newsflash. For city news, go to CityofAllen.org/ NotifyMe, enter your email address and select your areas of interest—city council meeting notices, library, parks

and much more. Both VisitAllenTexas. com and AllenEventCenter.com offer similar options. You can also subscribe to the weekly residential e-newsletter, which is filled with events for the upcoming weekend, brief news items and alerts. Just go to CityofAllen.org/ COAEAccess and follow the prompts. You can even find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/CityofAllen! For many, TV will always be “king,” so don’t forget the awardwinning Allen City Television is always on somewhere. ACTV is dedicated to providing programming that is centered on government programs, activities and services. The City of Allen strives to keep its residents informed and up-to-date through as many outlets as possible— including the one you are holding right now. Kathleen Vaught is a Senior Marketing Specialist for the City of Allen.

Dr. Carla Spann, DDS has great memories of growing up in a small town in New Jersey. She loves that even as Allen has grown, it’s still retained that same ‘small town’ feel. “As a kid, my dentist lived a few houses down from me,” Dr. Spann recalls. “I went to the same high school that my parents went to. It was nice because everyone knew everyone else. That’s part of why I love Allen. I live here; I work here; my kids go to school and play soccer here. There’s a great sense of community.”

Conservative approach Being able to help people and be part of a small team are two reasons why Dr. Spann decided to become a dentist. Before earning her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, she worked in telecommunications. “I wasn’t feeling fulfilled in corporate America and wanted a job that let me be closer to home and more involved with my kids’ lives,” says Dr. Spann of her career change. In October, she purchased her practice, located in the Kroger shopping center. Dr. Spann has a compassionate and conservative approach to dentistry. She believes that patient education is paramount to success in both resolving and preventing oral health issues. “My definition of

conservative goes beyond not over-treating patients, but preserving tooth structure, taking preventive measures to reduce tooth decay and providing all options to patients,” she explains. “I encourage them to restore their teeth rather than extract them, whenever possible.”

Top-notch service Providing consistent, quality treatment to the whole family— from children to elderly adults—is important at Bethany Heights Dental Care. She is particularly skilled in helping fearful patients relax during their dental care and is certified to provide sedation for these patients. She can also partner with a dental anesthesiologist for IV sedation when necessary. The office features music options as well as televisions above its dental chairs to make treatment more pleasant. Dr. Spann can also provide clear braces, athletic and night guards, as well as antisnoring and sleep apnea devices. When not in the office, Dr. Spann enjoys spending time with her family, her sons, 11-year-old Carson and 7-year-old Cameron Lopez, as well as her father, Calvin J. Spann, who is an original Tuskegee Airman Pilot. She also enjoys reading, golf and attends Fellowship Christian Center Church in Allen.

Snippets Bedtime at Boyd On a night when the hallways of Boyd Elementary would normally be dark and children would be home in bed, things were quite the opposite! The hallways were filled with children and adults clad in night clothes waiting for milk, cookies, a good story and a free pair of PJs! It was the annual Bedtime at Boyd event to promote reading. In cooperation with The Assistance League of Greater Collin County and the addition of the AHS Golf teams, the event was a huge success. Students and parents were treated to milk and cookies in the cafeteria and then good stories were read by one of the Boyd staff members throughout the night. The Allen Assistance League donated over 200 books for students to choose from and take home. This year the AHS Golf Teams added a special activity—the chance for a free pair of pajamas! The golf teams sold pajamas as a fundraiser and collected over 100 extra pair to donate to Boyd. The players thought their involvement stopped after the fundraiser, but they quickly learned that giving of their time and themselves made everyone winners at “Bedtime with Boyd.” The Boyd students and families handed out appreciation, smiles and giggles to the Allen golf team and their parents. v

Learn about the history and evolution of an American icon, Barbie®, with Ric Markin at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 28, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive. Ric is a vintage toy and collectible expert whose expertise focuses on Barbie® and related toys. He is a frequent presenter at national conferences for collectors and has been an advisor for many vintage toy guides and articles. Ric has held positions in numerous organizations, including the National Barbie® Doll Collectors Convention and local vintage toy organizations and often qualifies collectible entries and judges for national collector competitions. This free program, sponsored by Bach to Books, will address rare and hard-to-find Barbies® and the care and preservation of historic collectibles such as the Barbie doll, her fashions and accessories. Ric understands the value—both in financial and emotional terms—that collectors place on their treasures. “Every presentation I give,” he comments, “is unique because it not only speaks of the historical significance of the toy, but also the real value—the meaning to each collector.” Call 214.509.4911 for more information. v

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Snippets Allen Dance Festival

Almost Grown Movie Series All films are free and begin at 7 p.m. at the Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive. Please call 214.509.4911 for more information. March 5—American Graffiti (1973), starring Oscar winning Richard Dreyfuss, Oscar winning Ron Howard and Harrison Ford. A couple of high school grads spend one final night cruising the strip with their buddies before they go off to college.

The Allen Civic Ballet will host the 14th annual “Allen Dance Festival” on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 7 at 2:30 p.m. at the Allen Civic Auditorium at 300 N. Allen Drive. The program will feature a mix of classical ballet, contemporary ballet and modern.

March 12—triple Oscar winner, To Kill A Mockingbird (1962), starring Gregory Peck, John Megna and Robert Duvall, Atticus Finch. A lawyer in the Depression-era South defends a black man against an undeserved rape charge, and his kids against prejudice.

Excerpts from several classical ballets will be included— La Bayadere, Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty among others. Special guest star Norbert Nirewicz will be performing with the Allen Civic Ballet, partnering with two company dancers in Cinderella and Don Quixote. A native of Poland, Norbert began his ballet studies at the National Ballet School in Gdansk. He has danced with the Polish National Theater, Ballet Classico de Camara in Venezuela, Cleveland San Jose Ballet and Columbia City Ballet. He portrayed roles in a variety of classical ballets such as Swan Lake, Giselle, Sleeping Beauty and La Fille Mal Gardee in Warsaw and throughout Europe. He was a finalist in Poland’s national Ballet Competition in 1993 and obtained a silver medal in the same competition in 1995. Allen Civic Ballet company dancers Becca Chrasta and Moira Maloney will dance with Mr. Nirewicz at the Festival. “Norbert gets to Allen on Monday, and we will have only five days of rehearsal to get it perfect,” says Becca. Artistic Director Stefanie Best says “we’re training our dancers for a professional career, and these circum stances would be pretty typical of a professional company.” Joining the Allen Civic Ballet onstage will be Atlanta Dance Connection, Dancing Minds and Bodies, Fairbank Dance Theatre of San Antonio and Premiere Ballet of Colorado. Tickets to the Allen Dance Festival are $10 each and will be available at the door only. Cash or check only. For more information, please call 972.727.5959 or visit www. allencivicballet.org. v

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March 19—Sixteen Candles (1984), starring Molly Ringwald, Justin Henry and Michael Schoeffling. A young girl’s “sweet sixteenth” birthday becomes anything but special as she suffers from every embarrassment possible. March 26—Sounder (1972), starring Cicely Tyson, Paul Winfield and Kevin Hooks. The son of a family of black sharecroppers comes of age in the Depression-era South after his father is imprisoned for stealing food. v

feature

Turning a dream into a reality by Deborah Dove Most extremely successful people have a knack for turning problems into solutions. Such is the case with Allen resident Travis Davis, who created an app called Meeting Mapper that currently tops the Forbes Top Ten list of “Mobile Apps to Make Your Business More Productive in 2013.” Davis, who was in the Army for many years before moving into sales and consulting jobs, was always bad with names. “During meetings, I would get business cards and set them in front of me like they were sitting (in the room),” remembers Davis. “Then one day I said, ‘Holy cow. There should be an app for that!’” Davis joined forces with Mike Williams, a long-time friend and former co-worker from his days at Microsoft, and together they formed Point N Time Software. Armed with a very specific idea of what they wanted their app to do and what it should entail, the two approached a company that develops apps. For two-and-a-half months, Davis and Williams worked with the company to turn the concept in Davis’ head into reality. The result was an interactive business app they named Meeting Mapper. Although there were other marketing apps out there, Meeting Mapper was the only visual meeting app to use color-coded symbols for the role and stance of meeting attendees. The interactive app allows the user to visually identify each meeting participant by using easy-to-understand color-coded symbols, as well as keeping detailed notes about activity during the meeting. “The app allows you to build strategy based on what’s going on in the meeting,” explains Davis. “It is very unique in the sales force market.” Since hitting the iTunes market in February of 2012, Meeting Mapper has undergone several revisions based on feedback from reviewers. In addition to the Meeting Mapper app for iPad (which sells for $6.99), Meeting Mapper Fierce is now available for the SalesForce.com AppExchange cloud-computing marketplace. Meeting Mapper Lite, which does not include updates and revisions, is available for iPhone. However, having a brilliant idea and bringing it to fruition is often easier than letting the world know about it. “It’s a tough market,” acknowledges Davis. There are over 21,000 business apps alone, and it typically takes 18 months to two years to fully publicize an app and make it well known. Making the Forbes Top Ten list was an unexpected boon for the small company. “There’s a need for it,” says Davis. “It’s not a throw away app. People who bought it last April are still using it.” Creating apps has been a dream of Davis’ for quite some time, and his vision is not just limited to business-related

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products. Twentyseven years ago, he came up with his first idea for an app—a game for kids that would teach and hone color, shape and number skills. “I still have the legal pad with notes on it (for the game),” says Davis with a laugh.

It was only natural for Point N Time to incorporate his first brainchild, so they created and developed SHAPES+ and added it to the company’s product line. One day, Davis would love to devote himself to creating and marketing apps full time, but for now he is content to watch Meeting Mapper take off and provide pro bono advice and guidance to friends in the process of getting their own apps to market. He is also enjoying the side benefit of teaching his 16-year-old son real life economics and business lessons. He gave son Tyler two-percent ownership in the company, letting him observe and participate in the process of starting and building a business from the ground up. But perhaps most importantly, he is providing his son with the most valuable lesson of all—how to follow your dreams. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

library

The Allen Library presents… by Tom Keener

Celtic Night offers a spectacular evening filled with dance, instrumentals and song at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 15, at the Allen Public Library. Bagpiper Rafe Aalderink opens this free program with a lively processional. A Highland piping instructor, Rafe plays and competes with the Fort Worth Scottish Pipes and Drums. He has been performing for weddings, funerals and other events in the DFW area for over a decade. Hailey Sandoz and Joseph Carmichael present a delightful medley of favorites that are beautifully blended together like Celtic knots. An Irish step-dancer and fiddle

player, Hailey Sandoz can perform both simultaneously, thus her nickname “The Fiddle Dancer.” A member of The Hooligans and the Cowboy Church Band, Hailey is also a Trinity Hall Session player. Joseph began playing Irish music in 2006, starting with the tin whistle and progressing to the Irish flute and guitar. He became a regular musician with the Trinity Hall Session before joining the band, Needfire. Irish dancer and Allen High School student Jason Hickman takes the stage with rocket-speed leg and foot movements. The winner of the Southern Region Oireachtas—the Irish dancing regional competition—Jason will also compete in the International Dance Competition in Boston. Needfire is a nationally touring Celtic-folkrock band formed in 2004 by bass, dulcimer and mandolin player Ed Walewski. Inspired by traditional Celtic music, the band members are also composers and some of their original work with modern beats will be performed. The group includes four-time California state fiddle champion Linda Relph (fiddle, vocals), Joseph Carmichael (flute, whistles, guitar), Kevin Hanlon (guitars, vocals) and Trey Ware (drums). The band has headlined for major national Celtic festivals, including the North Texas Irish Festival. Free tickets will be issued at 7 p.m. that evening on a first come, first served basis. v

History of Passover

Learn about the origins of the Jewish holiday of Passover—known in Hebrew as Pesach—at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 21. During this free program, the audience will follow the path Moses took through the Sinai desert and get a glimpse of the mountain where he most likely delivered the Ten Commandments. Jewish slaves are believed to have escaped from Egypt during the reign of the Pharaoh Ramses II, approximately 1350 BCE. The story is told that prior to their escape, Jewish families were spared when the first born of each family in Egypt was slain. After leaving Egypt, the Israelites roamed the desert for 40 years before entering the promised land of Israel. Passover is so called because when the angel of death came to deliver the last plague in Egypt, he passed over the homes of the Israelites. Allen resident Murray Stein will present stunning photographs of the terrain where Moses most likely led his people. Stein took these photos on a personal research project called, “In the Footsteps of Moses.” He will also discuss the Seder and other traditions associated with the holiday. When asked to comment on the Passover’s importance, Murray notes, “It commemorates the liberation of the Israelite slaves. It is a celebration of freedom, and as part of the Seder ritual, prayers are given for all people who are still in captivity and cannot enjoy their freedoms.” v

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Book of Kells Ireland’s famed Book of Kells, the Western world’s most beautifully illustrated manuscript, poses a riddle. The Allen Public Library offers you the opportunity to learn about its origins and the artists that created this important Celtic treasure. Professors Jerry Lincecum, Ph.D., and Peggy Redshaw, PhD., will discuss both the lore and

history of the Book of Kells at this free program, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 7. Dr. Lincecum has puzzled over the Book of Kells since 1970 when he first viewed the original while visiting Trinity College in Dublin. Dr. Lincecum notes, “The Book of Kells was copied by hand and illuminated by monks around the year 800 A.D. Although it was probably begun on the island of Iona, between Scotland and Ireland, its name is derived from the Abbey of Kells, in the Irish Midlands, where it was kept from at least the 9th century to 1541.” This book consists of a Latin vulgate of the four Gospels, written in ornate majuscule, an ancient script, and lavishly illustrated with brilliantly colored pictures. In a period of high illiteracy, illuminated manuscripts told the story to those who could not read. More than a religious manuscript, the age and design of the Book of Kells allow a glimpse into the art and style of ancient Ireland. Since 1661, it has been kept in the Library of Trinity College in Dublin. Dr. Lincecum is a past president of the Texas Folklore Society and Emeritus Professor of English at Austin College. Dr. Redshaw is a Professor of Biology at Austin College. Dr. Lincecum and Dr. Redshaw are the editors of twelve volumes of the Telling Our Stories anthologies and members of the editing team for three books on the life of Dr. Gideon Lincecum, a Texas naturalist and physician. They have accompanied several Austin College student groups to Ireland. Rare facsimiles of the Book of Kells can be viewed at the Abell Library at Austin College in Sherman and at Texas Christian University in Ft. Worth. v

Author Gary Schmidt

Two-time Newberry Honor-winning author Dr. Gary Schmidt appears at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 9. Dr. Schmidt is the author of this year’s ALLen Reads selection— Okay For Now—that was also chosen for National Public Radio’s Backseat Book Club. Author of Lizzie Bright, Buckminster Boy and the much-praised The Wednesday Wars, Dr. Schmidt is a professor of English at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Okay For Now is an inspiring story of a young teenager, Doug Swieteck, who faces tremendous adversity, including reading challenges and both a physically and emotionally abusive father and brother. The story begins with Doug’s father losing his job, thus forcing the relocation of his family to a more modest location in another town. Like most dysfunctional families, a scapegoat is created by the abuser and Doug takes the blame for bad choices of others. Empowerment and healing are endearing themes in this tragic saga. The road to Doug’s healing begins in the town’s public library, which is only open on Saturdays. Doug’s focus and intrigue began with a display of art by John James Audubon. Learning to draw Audubon’s Arctic Tern became Doug’s first passion in life. His transition from pain to healing begins. A Real Bookstore in The Village at Fairview will provide copies of Okay For Now for purchase and the author will autograph them. Sponsored by ALLen Reads, this is a free event. v All programs take place at the Allen Public Library located at 300 N. Allen Drive in Allen. Call 214-509-4911 for more information. Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library. Allen Image x March 2013

Vampire Author Rachel Caine by Allison Johnson

To clarify, Rachel Caine is not a vampire. She is, however, a New York Times, USA Today and internationally bestselling author of more than 30 novels, including the immensely popular Morganville Vampire series, the Weather Warden series, and the Outcast Season series. Join us as Rachel discusses her popular book series, how her favorite characters were created and get a sneak preview of her upcoming book Fall of Night. Rachel appears at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 23, Allen Public Library Civic Auditorium. Glass Houses, the first installment in the Morganville series, introduces Claire Danvers, a freshman at college in Morganville, Texas. Claire never expected to assimilate with the in-crowd, but she never imagined having odd roommates and living in a town run by vampires. She has to make a choice, work for the vampires

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and benefit from their protection or be fair game. When asked about her inspiration, Rachel notes, “A friend asked me to tell her the first thing that popped into my mind and I said that the streetlights in this part of town were too far apart. She asked me the most important question you can ever ask a writer— why! And my response was that if vampires built a town, they’d put streetlights really far apart. And that was the beginning of Morganville.” A book signing and photo opportunity will follow the discussion, and books will be available for purchase courtesy of a Real Bookstore. All ages are welcome and free tickets will be issued at 1:30 p.m. The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive. For information, call 214.509.4906. v Allison Johnson is the youth librarian at Allen Public Library.

Should I Get a Divorce?

6. Do you have no/limited access to marital accounts?

his is one of the hardest questions that any married person will ever contemplate. And unfortunately, it is one that I am asked often by prospective clients.

7. Are you currently involved in a romantic relationship with someone other than your spouse—including an “emotional affair” or nonsexual relationship?

My answer to them is simple: I am a family lawyer, but I don’t sell divorce. If you can’t decide if divorce is worth it, you probably need to consult with a marital counselor instead of an attorney.

8. Has your spouse avoided counseling or medical treatment for a diagnosed mental disorder/disease?

If you are considering divorce, here are 10 simple true-or-false questions to ask yourself before meeting with an attorney: 1. In the last six months, has your spouse changed their exercise, diet or style to look younger or fitter? 2. Have you not had sex with your spouse in over one month? 3. Does your spouse act strange when you borrow their cell phone, or not let you use it at all? 4. Can you not remember the last time that your spouse did something special for you outside of a birthday, anniversary or holiday? 5. Have you actively fantasized about life without your spouse?

9. Does your spouse have an addiction to drugs, alcohol, porn, gambling, shopping, etc. but fails to seek treatment to address it? 10. Do you fight more than you laugh? If you answered TRUE to 1 or 2 questions, you are probably in need of some marital counseling and a good, old-fashioned date night with your spouse that includes a heart-to-heart conversation. If you answered TRUE to 3-5 questions, your marriage is salvageable but will take a lot of work. You need to ask yourself, “Does my desire to fix this marriage outweigh my exhaustion at trying to do so?” If so, then you should explore marital counseling. It is also advisable to consult with a lawyer just to ensure that you know your rights. If you answered TRUE to more than 5 questions, contact me.

To receive a free 10-minute phone consultation with an attorney, mention this ad when you call the number below.

living green

Mosquitoes—it’s time we bite back safely by Peggy Helmick-Richardson Last summer North Texans were abuzz over mosquito problems and the related growing number of West Nile virus cases. By August, many cities in the Metroplex resorted to both ground and aerial spraying of a synthetic pyrethroid in hopes of reducing the numbers of mosquitoes, thus lowering the risk of people being exposed to West Nile. A synthetic version of the pyrethrin extracted from chrysanthemums, pyrethroids are often deemed “safe” for humans because for most people the known level of toxicity is extremely low. Yet there is evidence of pyrethroids causing both dermal and/or respiratory allergic reactions, plus many pyrethroids have been shown to be endocrine disrupters. The latter problem could possibly affect both the reproductive and immune systems plus increase estrogen levels, an issue associated with breast cancer. We also need to take into account how pyrethroids affect other living creatures we share this world with. Since there isn’t a mosquito-specific pyrethroid, beneficial insects such as honeybees and the mosquito-eating dragonflies are killed when exposed to the chemical. Plus, pyrethroids are extremely toxic to many aquatic organisms and moderately toxic to birds. But this doesn’t have to be a pick your poison issue. There are far safer and environmentally sounder actions that can be taken to drastically reduce mosquito populations, thus significantly diminishing the numbers of West Nile cases. By the “Living Green” column standards, the City of Allen has taken impressive proactive steps to keep mosquitoes at bay in an effective and environmentally responsible manner that poses the least risk to citizens, pets and area wildlife. “We don’t advocate spraying in our city,” emphasizes Brian Bristow, assistant director of Allen Parks and Recreation. “The routine we

follow is to use a non-toxic product called BTI, available in a doughnut-shaped disk that you place in stagnant or still water—those waters that are breeding grounds.” Brian explains, “BTI is a bacteria [bacillus thuringiensis Israelensis] that is particularly effective in killing the larval stage of mosquitoes—those wigglers in the water. A spray only targets adult flying mosquitoes it

comes in contact with and the larvae keep right on growing.” He also points out that BTI is considered relatively safe for people, pets and wildlife. “With any product, we have to be sensible about it,” he concludes. “Some people are allergic to BTI and must handle it properly. Just follow the manufacturers instructions and use good sense.” There are ways you too can help the city keep the lid on mosquitoes and in doing so, reduce your family’s and neighbors’ risk of exposure to either pyrethroids or West Nile. Brian suggests three simple actions individuals can take to minimize their exposure to mosquitoes: 1. Because still or stagnant water is necessary for mosquitoes to breed, he advises residents to carefully manage the water on their property, such as outdoor ponds, birdbaths or anywhere water collects. “Overnight these can become a mosquito breeding ground,” he warns. 2. Stay indoors during those times when mosquitoes are most active. (Mosquitoes are most active at sunup and sundown, and times when there is little to no wind.) 3. When you do have to be outdoors, use common sense by wearing protective clothing and some form of repellant. Although products containing DEET are often recommended as the most efficient chemical deterrent, Brian notes that he personally prefers one of a number of brands of non-toxic, all natural repellants. The respected Natural Resources Defense Council reports that recent research shows that DEET is a neurotoxin that may also increase the toxicity levels of other chemicals the wearer is exposed to. The organization also notes that the National Institutes of Health reports evidence that those with long-term exposure to high levels of DEET can exhibit serious dermal reactions, insomnia and mood swings. Some of the more popular natural, non-DEET insect repellants use botanical oils from plants such as lemon eucalyptus, lemongrass, citronella and rosemary oil. When looking for those spots on your property where mosquitoes may breed, be sure to keep an eye out for those “hidden” spots such as the saucers placed under

potted plants, clogged gutters, or hidden low-level spots under bushes and in overgrown corners. If possible, drill holes in the bottom, not sides, of water-catching containers for maximum drainage. Make sure your swimming pool stays adequately chlorinated, even when it is not being used. If you have a fishpond on your property, make sure it is properly aerated and/or consider adding a mosquitolarva-eating fish such as gambusia. Tall grass and weeds often hide low water-collecting spots, so keep grass mowed regularly. Limit lawn watering to only when necessary and only for as long as needed. With a build up of washed off grass and leaves, water that runs off a saturated lawn can get trapped in storm drains, making an ideal out-of-sight mosquito haven. And please allow me one rant about one popular contraption often touted as a solution to mosquitoes that is truly anything but a problem solver—electronic bug zappers. The light emitted from these units actually lure more insects to the area and demonstrations show that far more beneficial insects than mosquitoes are killed by them. BTI dunks are available at a number of area nurseries and garden supply stores. If you have questions about mosquito control in Allen or wish to report a potential mosquito problem area, call Lee Battle with the City of Allen Community Development Department, 214.509.4163. If we start now, each of us will be well armed with information and an arsenal of safe solutions to ward off any possible threat of mosquito invasion this coming summer. Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer. Allen Image x March 2013

As warm weather and

swimsuit season draws nearer, it’s time to try a POWERHOUR at TITLE Boxing Club. The club’s boxing and kickboxing group classes offer a total body cardio workout that can burn up to 1,000 calories an hour. “TITLE Boxing is not about fighting—it’s about fitness,” said Michelle Currier, who owns the Allen and McKinney locations, along with husband Tom. “People come here, have fun and get results.” As a trained cardiac nurse, Michelle is passionate about health and helping members achieve their goals. “I get a tremendous amount of satisfaction from watching our members meet and even exceed their health and fitness goals,” she says. “It’s just wonderful to see those transformations and all the great things that happen here everyday.”

In addition to losing weight and getting healthier, people often find confidence through the workouts. “It’s such an empowering thing to do,” Michelle says. “Once you finish a POWERHOUR, you feel like you can accomplish anything. Plus, there’s not many places that you can go and take out all of your stress and aggression on a 120-pound heavy bag.” Open since October, the Allen location also offers classes for children ages 5-12, making TITLE Boxing Club a great place for families to workout together. Each class is led by a professionally trained boxer or kick boxer, and can be adapted to fit any fitness level or ability.

Experiences:

“I’m a health coach and have exercised regularly for a long time. The best part about TITLE is that it’s a true full-body workout in one hour that’s going to push you past your limits. It’s like having a personal trainer right there with you three times a week. The classes are always unique, so you never get stagnant. I find myself constantly challenging different muscle groups—including ones I never knew I had. It doesn’t matter who you are or what shape you’re in, this is challenging for everyone. I found that it’s also helped reduce my stress level and lowered my blood pressure, which is so important to overall health. But the biggest thing I’ve gotten from working out at TITLE has been the ability to do a push-up. Even though I’ve been in fitness and nutrition for years, that’s something that I just never could do. Thanks to TITLE, now I can. That was huge for me.” – Carrie Zamora “Before joining TITLE, I had been going to a gym, but wasn’t really motivated working out. On a whim, I decided to check this out even though I had zero experience with boxing. Now, I’m there three times a week after school and on weekends, along with three other

co-workers. Our students think it’s pretty cool that we have boxing gloves under our desks. And it’s something we can talk about to help motivate them to carry on even when problems get difficult. The workouts are fun and the trainers really push us, but in an encouraging way. I’ve lost 40 pounds, and love the added energy I have. After seeing my results, my husband Roy also joined TITLE. If you would have told me a year ago that we’d both be boxing, I would have laughed. But now, I’m so happy about what it’s given us.” – Stacey Mitchel “I have been a physically active person all of my life. My exercise routine has included running, spinning, swimming and various aerobics classes to name a few. Recently I had slacked off because I was bored with my routine. I no longer felt like my regimen was challenging or exciting. With a busy schedule, I fit exercise in when I could. In June 2012, I moved to the Dallas area. It was then that I read about TITLE Boxing Club. My interest was piqued immediately! I attended my first boxing class mid-August 2012. Instantly, I was hooked and have been going nonstop! I currently attend classes four to five times per week and have private sessions with a TITLE trainer. In each session I’m challenged and get a workout from head to toe. The trainers have also helped me improve my boxing and kickboxing technique. I have seen my body transform, giving me more lean muscle and less fat. I have never had a ‘six-pack’ but I may be well on my way! I feel great after every class and I feel stronger. I would highly recommend TITLE Boxing to anyone of any fitness level. It is a lot of fun and you see results!” – Maranda Daye

Attend your first POWER HOUR workout at TITLE Boxing Club for FREE!

TITLE Boxing Club Allen 300 N. Greenville Avenue • Allen

214.644.2640

TITLE Boxing Club McKinney 5080 Virginia Parkway

214.856.7007

ww w.titlebo xi n gc l u b. c om This TITLE Boxing Club® is an independently owned & operated franchise of Polar Bear Allen, LLC.

education

Clear skies above and below Collin student takes to the sky

By Heather Darrow

When Allen resident Steven Maggard was in second grade, he read The Hobbit. Like Bilbo Baggins, he unwittingly waited for his adventures to begin. As a young boy, he spent hours reading and crafting hordes of paper airplanes in an effort to discover a better design that would keep his creations in the air longer. Ah, but let’s skip ahead to where the story really takes flight—the day he approached his Collin College physics professor, Dr. Mike Broyles, about an experiment involving an aircraft. Fast forward a smidge in time and you find Maggard strapped into an airplane seat, wearing a force vest to measure acceleration and altitude. At 2,000 feet in the air, he is the human element in an experiment

that could provide the answers he was seeking so many years ago. Suddenly, the engine stops humming and the plane plummets. Eyes wide open, Maggard watches as Four Winds Aviation pilot Russell Husbands pulls the plane out of a forced stall.

“ ”

down to stall speed of around 49 knots and then we fell. He pushed on the yoke and slowed the angle by readjusting the aileron and we leveled out and flew smoothly again. On a rollercoaster, you are on a track. On an aircraft, you know if you don’t catch your self you are doomed,” Maggard said. President of the Collin Math Club, Maggard is a student in Collin College’s Center for the Advanced Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences (CASMNS). Students often work one-onone with professors in this unique undergraduate research program and projects range from gene sequencing to asteroid discovery. Dr. Broyles was enthralled with Maggard’s idea on flight research.

One of my goals is to

become an aviator in the

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Marine Corps.…

“We fell a few feet. My heart was racing. The pilot pulled a lever, which changes the angle of the aileron, a hinged flap on the wing. He slowed

Broyles’ father was a World War II Navy pilot. Following in his father’s footsteps, the college physics professor acquired a license to fly gliders, served as a commercial flight instructor for gliders and sailplanes and also flew power planes. “A lot of people fly but don’t have an understanding of the physics behind the flight. We wanted to explore the theory. Steven came to my office and we discussed Bernoulli’s principle, how lift is generated and how airplanes fly. We also went over centripetal force when you do turns. I suggested he wear a force vest to measure acceleration and altitude. The instru ment measurements on the plane are not always the true air speed because air can be moving relative to the ground,” Dr. Broyles said. Dr. Broyles also suggested that Maggard learn the aircraft’s flight characteristics and measure ments and compare the mathematical data to his flight. According to Dr. Broyles, CASMNS projects are fairly open ended, and he encourages students to generate ideas that will extend their knowledge in the careers they plan to pursue. “One of my goals is to become an aviator in the Marine Corps. Now, I understand the physics of flight and how the plane moves through the air,” Maggard said. Maggard recently earned an associate degree from Collin College, summa cum laude, and plans to transfer to an area university to earn a bachelor’s degree in physics. “You can complete research, but unless you see how it applies you miss a lot. It becomes true, not just something you read about. There’s nothing quite like Collin College. I was able to get to know students and my professors. I’ve never had an experience like that before. In a way, Collin feels like home,” Maggard said. Maggard and Dr. Broyles do not view flying the same way most people do. They truly understand the mechanics of the experience. Formulas and principles are emblazoned like

watermarks in their minds, the foundation behind every take off, turn and landing. “Air is a fluid like water, not as thick as water, but the physics principles that apply to a fluid still apply to air. In a glider you can hear the air. Gliding— the word is like the experience,” Dr. Broyles said. “Being able to soar above the ground was surreal. I could see clear sky above and below accompanied by the hum of the engine as we went

along. It was amazing,” Maggard said, his eyes twinkling with excitement. The truth is this Allen resident’s adventures have only just begun. For more information about undergraduate research at Collin College, visit www.collin.edu/ v academics/casmns/. Heather Darrow is a public information writer for Collin College. Photo: Nick Young, Collin College.

Allen Image x March 2013

kids korner

Celebrate Spring By Deborah Dove March is bursting with reasons to celebrate—St. Patrick’s Day, Easter and the first day of spring all occur during the month. Here are some ideas to help you celebrate each one. Ten things to do with your kids on St. Patrick’s Day 1. Look for four leaf clovers. 2 Serve a meal or snack that is all green: pasta tinted green with food coloring, green macaroni and cheese, green grapes salad, green apples, broccoli, green Jello, split pea soup, scrambled eggs with green food coloring, Lucky Charms with green tinted milk, mint chocolate chip ice cream. 3. Make a fruit rainbow (sliced strawberries, orange wedges or cut up cantaloupe, pineapple chunks, kiwi or green grapes and blueberries or purple grapes) with a pot of “gold” (a bowl of gold coins or gold wrapped Rolos) at the end. 4. A green scavenger hunt. Challenge your child to find 10 green things outside (leaf, grass, etc.) or inside (crayon, sock, cup, etc.). 5. Hold your own St. Patty’s Day parade. Let kids decorate their bikes and scooters with green streamers, gold curling ribbon, and green straws on the spokes and make simple musical instruments (dried beans or rice in an empty oatmeal or Pringles can). Map out your route and go around the block. 6. Make rainbows with coffee filters. Color a rainbow on the coffee filter with markers, then mist with water. 7. Find a smooth rock. Let your child paint it green, and then sprinkle it with gold glitter while the paint is still wet. When it’s dry, they will have their own Blarney Stone! 8. Hide gold coins, gold wrapped Hershey’s Hugs or gold craft pom-poms around the house. Give your child a basket and let them search for all the “gold.” 9. Fill a plastic shoebox or large tub with several bags of raw split green peas. Add spoons, bowls, shovels, measuring cups, etc. for sensory play. 10. Have leprechauns been in your house? Footprints near an open window (dip your fingers in washable green paint, flour or talcum powder for this), a sprinkle of glitter, overturned furniture, and green food coloring in the toilet will convince your kids they have!

Easter egg stuffers (that aren’t candy) Money—Fill eggs with coins in varying quantities (five dimes, four quarters, ten pennies, etc.). Fill a few with dollar bills. Squinkies—These cute little rubber figures are the perfect size and come in generic themed packages or special themes such as Barbie or Hello Kitty for girls and Star Wars or WWE for boys. Puzzle pieces—Buy a small puzzle. Divide pieces, putting one in each egg. Once all the eggs are found, kids put the puzzle together. Balloons—Most kids love balloons, so an un-blown up balloon is a fun thing to find. For extra fun, slip pieces of paper with a typed message from the Easter Bunny into each balloon as a special

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surprise. After the balloons are blown up, kids will have fun popping the balloons to read the message. Ideas include “Some bunny loves you” or “You will have an eggscellent day!” LEGOS—Stuff a few eggs with LEGO mini-figures or a small set, or buy individual pieces at the LEGO store and fill a few eggs with an assortment for creative play. Grow Animal capsules—Put these small capsules in water and they turn into sponge shaped animals. You can usually get a package of a dozen for a dollar at most dollar, grocery and drug stores. A pipe cleaner and a handful of pony beads—Kids can string beads onto the pipe cleaner to make a bracelet. Makes a fun and quick do it yourself craft. Mini puzzles or erasers Small party blowers—Because Easter is a celebration, after all Stickers or tattoos Nerf bullets (for boys) or costume jewelry or small hair bows, clips or barrettes (for girls) Grand Prize Egg—Fill one special egg with confetti. Whoever finds the confetti filled egg wins the grand prize (which can be anything from a stuffed animal to a chocolate bunny).

Welcome spring Dallas Blooms at The Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas March 2-April 7—Nothing says spring like 66 acres overflowing with the fragrant blossoms of 600,000 spring blooming flowers such as tulips, daffodils, Dutch iris, hyacinths, and pansies. Mommy & Me Mondays and Tiny Tots Tuesdays (Mondays and Tuesdays from 10-2) offer extra fun for kids with a petting zoo, arts and crafts, face painting and Kindermusik. There will also be special children’s activities Easter weekend (Friday 10-2 and Saturday/Sunday from 12-4) with a petting zoo, face painting, photos with a live bunny, and Eddie Coker in concert on March 29 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $15 for adults, $10 for children 3-12 (parking is an additional $10). Go Wild at the Dallas Zoo, 650 South R.L Thornton (I-35), Dallas Daily from 9-4—Spring is the perfect time to visit the Dallas Zoo and its 2,000 animal residents, including chimpanzees, elephants, giraffes, penguins, otters, lions, koalas, lemurs and more. SOAR, A Festival of Flight, a new show featuring 20 species of trained birds that perform acrobatic feats as they fly through the audience and interact with the host, opens March 1st in ZooNorth. In addition to red-tailed hawk fly-bys, pick-pocketing crows and trumpeter hornbills catching flying objects, visitors can also meet six-foot American alligators and watch penguins swim. $12 adults 12+, $9 children 3-12 (parking is an additional $8). SOAR is free with zoo admission.

Allen Image x March 2013

cooking

Eating clean by Deborah Dove

Slowly but surely, Americans are waking up to the fact that almost twothirds of us are obese and that in order to change that alarming statistic, we have to learn to eat differently. As a result, trends are moving away from “diets” to a more healthy and holistic way of approaching how we eat. One such trend is clean eating, which is a fancy way of saying what dieticians and doctors have been saying for years—stay away from processed foods and eat more natural foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats. The main rule of thumb is to stick to fresh foods if possible and if you have to buy packaged food, look for those with the fewest ingredients and ingredients that you recognize and would find in your own kitchen. In addition to avoiding refined food (including white flour and sugar), clean eating also stresses buying organic whenever possible and eating produce that is seasonal and local. The amped up version of clean eating that is currently moving to the forefront of healthy eating trends is the Paleo diet, which mimics the diet of our caveman ancestors. Advocates maintain that our highly processed, carb-heavy eating pattern is to blame for some of our biggest health problems and that in order to eat and live more healthy lives, we should go back to eating what our ancestors ate in the hunter/gatherer days of the Paleolithic period, before we became farmers and grain eaters. Similar to the Atkins diet, the Paleo diet is low-carb and focuses on foods that occur naturally—meat, eggs, fruits, vegetables, oils and nuts (but no dairy). Although anyone wanting to lose weight or start a weight loss plan should check with their doctor first,

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everyone can benefit from eating more fruits and vegetables and less processed foods. Luckily, with spring around the corner, eating clean is easier than ever. Don’t know where to begin? Following are some “clean” and “paleo” recipes to add to your menu, including a healthy brownie recipe that you’ll swear is as good as the kind from a box.

Paleo Chicken Salad 1 cooked rotisserie chicken 1/2 c. dried cranberries 3/4 c. of purple grapes, halved 1/2 c. walnuts, chopped 1 c. celery, chopped 1 apple, cored and chopped 1/2 c. red onion, chopped 1 tsp. dried tarragon 3 Tbs. olive oil 1 Tbs. apple cider vinegar 1 tsp. lemon juice Salt to taste

Shred chicken and combine with next six ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice and tarragon. Pour over chicken mixture and mix well. Add salt to taste.

Grilled Ratatouille Salad 1 red onion, cut into ¼” slices 1 red pepper, stem and seeds removed, quartered 1 med. eggplant, cut into 1/4” planks 1 zucchini, cut into 1/4” planks 2 med. squash, cut into 1/4” planks 12-16 asparagus 2 Tbs. olive oil 3 tsp. balsamic vinegar 2/3 c. crumbled feta 2 Tbs. chopped basil Preheat grill. Toss vegetables with olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Grill vegetables until cooked through and lightly charred, turning frequently. Remove vegetables as they become done, as some will take longer to cook.

Drizzle with vinegar. Sprinkle with feta and basil.

Sweet Potato Brownies 4 oz. dark chocolate 2 med. sweet potatoes, boiled (purpleor red-skinned) 1/4 c. honey 3 eggs 1/4 c. cocoa powder 1 Tbs. vanilla 1 Tbs. coconut flour 1 Tbs. coconut oil 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt Melt dark chocolate in coconut oil in microwave in 30-second intervals— stirring after each—until chocolate is melted (about 1-1/2 minutes). Puree the sweet potato in a food processor until smooth, making sure there are no lumpy bits. Add in all other ingredients and mix until smooth and creamy. Transfer batter to an oiled 8×8 or a 6×11 baking dish. Bake at 325º for 35-40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a wooden skewer into the middle and seeing if it comes out clean. If not, cook for another 5 minutes and test again. Allow to cool completely for best taste.

Black Bean and Avocado Tostadas 1 c. cooked black beans, drained and rinsed 1 lg. poblano pepper, seeded and finely chopped 1/4 c. finely chopped red onion 1/4 c. (packed) cilantro, chopped Juice of one lime 1/4 tsp. sea salt 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and chopped 1 tsp. ground cumin 4 whole grain corn tortillas

1/2 c. shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican or mozzarella) Preheat oven to 350º. In a bowl, combine black beans, pepper, onion, cilantro, lime juice and salt. Gently fold in avocado. Place tortillas on a baking sheet sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle with cumin. Divide cheese evenly between tortillas. Bake five minutes or until cheese has melted. Top with black bean/avocado mixture and serve.

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spray or oil. Put Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, salt and paprika in a shallow bowl and mix thoroughly to combine. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk eggs. Dip each zucchini piece in egg and then breadcrumb mixture and put on prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini fries with the cooking spray. Bake 20-25 minutes, until crispy on all sides. Serve with garlic mayonnaise.

Garlic Mayonnaise

Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Fries with Garlic Mayonnaise 1 c. panko breadcrumbs 1/2 c. grated parmesan 1 tsp. salt 2 tsp. paprika

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2-3 med. zucchini, cut into thick matchsticks 2 eggs Vegetable or olive oil spray Preheat the oven to 400Âş. Lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking

1 free-range egg or Âź c. egg substitute 2 Tbs. white wine vinegar 1 tsp. salt 3/4 c. olive oil 1 clove garlic, crushed Place the egg, vinegar and salt in a food processor. Turn the machine on and with the motor still running, dribble the oil into the egg mix, drip by drip. When you have added all the oil, add the crushed garlic and taste to check seasoning. Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

ining in

llen

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pet page

Van Halen

Van Halen is a 75-pound, 6- to 7-year-old hound mix that was found as a stray. He has adjusted so well to being an inside dog that he has free roam of his foster’s house even when they are away. He prefers to be inside and loves his crate, often taking his afternoon naps in it. He is calm and happy to be around other dogs as long as they are calm as well. He gets spunky when he sees his leash, because he loves walks and riding in the car. He is well behaved and doesn’t jump up on people or on the couch, but he does like to put his head in your lap—especially after eating.

Van Halen will love you unconditionally! Van Halen can be anxious with new environments, noises and people so he probably wouldn’t be happy in a home with children. He is currently up to date on vaccines and he takes medication for his anxiety and will need to continue on it ($20/month). He is not a big barker like most hounds, but likes to quietly wooooo with the sirens of ambulances or fire trucks. He will be a very devoted companion and will love you uncon ditionally once he gets to know you. If you think you might like to be Van Halen’s new forever family, please complete an application online at http://www. collincountyhumanesociety.org/adoptionapplication.html. 4 4 w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

For MarketPlace Your Health

Allen Image x March 2013

business seen by Nicole Bywater

Cutting Edge Pool & Patio

Color Bar & Salon

Kwik Kar of Allen

Innovative design and personal attention are what makes Cutting Edge Pool and Patio stand out. “Most jobs are word-of-mouth referrals, with many coming to us after being told their project couldn’t be done,” says owner Glenn Miller. “I see those jobs as a challenge and will work with designers, engineers and city staff to take them all the way from design to completion.” A long-time Allen resident, Glenn has over 21 years of experience and has owned his company since 2001. “I’m very hands-on as far as meeting with customers and directly supervising all of our jobs,” he says. “We’re a turn-key company so things like outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fence work, landscaping and lighting can be included in one package.” Cutting Edge Pool and Patio uses top-quality materials—Jandy pool equipment, thicker-grade steel and gunite—and utilize the latest technology by giving customers 3D illustrations and offering the iAquaLink system, which allows homeowners to monitor their pool via smart phone or computer. “We don’t cut corners and we take time to get the project done right,” Glenn says. Even with that personal attention, most projects are competed in three to five weeks and at comparable pricing because he’s negotiated great rates with suppliers. The company believes in giving back and created the charity—The Makenna Project (themakennaproject. org)—to help children experiencing medical challenges. For information or a free quote on your backyard project, call 469.247.9648 or visit cuttingedgepoolandpatio.com. v

The best part of Stacy Gozzola’s day is when a client leaves her salon with a great new look and a boost of confidence. “For both men and women, their hair is their biggest accessory,” says Stacy, owner of the Color Bar & Salon in Allen. “If someone’s hair isn’t right, they don’t feel good about themselves. We get to change that—and make people feel amazing.” The salon specializes in providing top-quality European color, as well as modern cuts. “If you’re looking for a hairstyle that’s current, or ahead of the trends, we’re experts in giving you that look,” explains Stacy. “Some salons will immediately ask a client what they want done with their hair, and they’ll do it, with little regard for what’s actually going to be best for that person.” Instead, at Color Bar & Salon, the highly-trained staff will consider a client’s features such as hair texture, facial structure and skin tone to help them select the best style for their individual needs. “Ultimately of course, the client is the boss, but we want to help guide them to looking their best.” Prior to opening her salon in Allen, Stacy worked as a color educator for Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salons. Other services offered by the salon include: medical massage, nail services, scalp therapy and waxing hair removal. Color Bar & Salon is located at 204 N. Greenville Ave in Allen. For more information, visit colorbarandsalonallentx.com or call 972.727.7077. v

The staff at Kwik Kar of Allen takes pride in treating customers like family and taking care of cars as if they were their own, says owner Tim Kaiser. “We really strive for superior customer service,” he explains. “Our highly trained mechanics provide standard services such as oil changes and state inspections, as well as general auto repairs to keep your car safe and operating at its best.” Kwik Kar of Allen opened in 1993 and includes six full-size bays so services can be performed quickly and conveniently. No appointments are needed and the shop’s updated waiting room includes free Wi-Fi as well as gourmet coffee, magazines, children’s books and a television. All repairs and scheduled maintenance are done to meet or exceed manufacturer’s standards and can help extend the life of a vehicle. “For most people, cars are our second-most valuable asset and spending a little on maintenance in the short-term can help avoid a costly repair in the future, which just makes good financial sense,” Tim says. Being environmentally responsible is also important at Kwik Kar of Allen. The shop recycles all of the oil and filters used in every oil change, and also accepts oil for recycling from people who choose to do their own oil changes—eliminating the opportunity for that oil to be disposed of improperly. Kwik Kar is located at 400 W. McDermott Drive in Allen. For more information, visit allenkwikkar.com or call 972.396.1022.

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For MarketPlace Your Health

Allen Image x March 2013

calendar

MARCH

McKinney Repertory Theatre presents Hotel de Fools by Clyde James Aragon, thru the 10th, 8 pm, Fri. & Sat., 2 pm, Sun., McKinney Performing Arts Center, 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney. The action revolves around the unseen corpse of a Mr. Thompson who is found dead in the hall. The hotel just happens to be the site of the first annual Detectives United for Humanity convention. For details, visit www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org.

Allen Philharmonic’s 15th Anniversary Gala Concert with legendary trumpet player Doc Serverinsen, 8 pm, Allen Performing Arts Center, Allen High School, 300 Rivercrest Blvd. Severinsen is loved by audiences world-wide for his incredible musicianship and repertoire which includes pop, jazz, ballads, big band and more. A Grammy award winner, he has produced more than 30 albums. Visit www.allenphilharmonic.org for details.

National Collegiate Wrestling Championships and Convention. The event attracts some of the best college athletes in the country from more than 160 major universities such as Iowa State, Harvard, the University of Georgia, William & Mary and Vanderbilt.

Dallas Summer Musicals along with Disney and Cameron Mackintosh present Mary Poppins thru March 30, Music Hall at Fair Park, Dallas.An irresistible story and unforgettable songs from one the most popular Disney films of all time. For more information, visit www.dallassummermusicals.org.

Carson and Barnes Circus presented by the Allen Kiwanis Club and Allen High School Key Club, thru the 24th. Fri., 4:30 & 7:30 pm, Sat. and Sun., 2 & 5 pm, Allen Millenium Park, 505 Century Pkwy., Allen. Come see the spectacular tent-raising where the elephants raise the world’s largest circus tent on Fri., Mar. 22, tentatively scheduled for 9 am. Ticket information: www.allenkiwanis.org.

Collin County Master Gardeners Association 3rd Annual Garden Show, 9 am.-5 pm, Sat. & 11 am-5 pm, Sun., Myers Park and Event Center, McKinney. The show will include prominent guest speakers, educational demonstrations, local vendor booths, farmer’s market, children’s activity center, garden tours, and more. All proceeds will benefit the Community Lifeline Center. for event details, visit www.ccmgatx.org/ TheGardenShow, or call 972-547-4632. Eggcellent Family Adventure. Bring your Easter basket and come stroll through Civic Plaza. Kids will visit tables hosted by civic organizations and local businesses where they will be awarded eggs, candy and other goodies. The event features a visit from the Easter Bunny, games, crafts, face painters and a bounce house. For more information contact Tiffany Harben at tharben@cityofallen.org or 214.509.4707. Foundation For Allen Schools presents: 5K run and 1 mile fun run/walk at Eagle Stadium, 155 Rivercrest Boulevard, Allen, TX 75002. Run on the field where the State Champion Allen Eagles play! Registered runners will receive a goodie bag with Eagle Run t-shirt. Cost: $25. Call 972.727.0362 or visit AllenEaglesRun.org. Plano Civic Chorus presents “Lone Star Salute,” March 2—8 pm, St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 5801 W. Plano Pkwy., Plano & March 3—4 pm, Pollman Hall at Temple Emanu-El, 8500 Hillcrest Rd., Dallas. We’ll introduce you to Texas composers who’ve put the Lone Star State on the musical map. Accompanied by the Jon Schweikhard Trio. For more information, contact tickets@planocivicchorus.org or 972.606.5220.

Lone Star Conference Championship, thru the 9th. This NCAA Division II Basketball action also features a number of other activities in addition to the games including Fanfest on March 9, 3-6 pm. FanFest offers fun for the entire family with free food and a mascot challenge taking place just outside the main rotunda entrance of Allen Event Center. Visit LSCChampionshipAllen.com.

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Lunch with the Easter Bunny, Recreation Hall. Join the life-sized Easter Bunny for lunch and pictures while you make memories that will last forever (also on the 28th). Children will dine on a yummy lunch provided by one of our area’s delicious restaurants. Photo and adult lunch are available for an additional fee. Contact 972.912.1097 or www. AllenParks.org for more information.

CITY OF ALLEN Allen Event Center Tickets on sale now through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at the Allen Event Center Box Office. For more information, visit www. alleneventcenter.com. 1

Allen Americans vs. Wichita Thunder

Hockey Double Header: Allen Police vs. Fire and Allen Americans vs. Missouri Mavericks, 5 pm. The game features City of Allen police and fire department employees and raises money for the Public Safety Recovery Fund and the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Allen Americans vs. Arizona Sundogs

Allen Americans vs. Texas Brahmas

Allen Americans vs. Wichita Thunder

Texas Revolution Football vs. Tri-Cities Fever

Allen Americans vs. Missouri Mavericks

Parks and Recreation Events 2&23 Saturday Night Rec and Roll, Joe Farmer Rec Center. Fun and safe social program for grades 3-6. Gym games, dancing, dodge ball, pool, table tennis, theme nights and contests with prize giveaways. Supervision provided & concessions available. Party Packs $12—$5 concession credit for only $4 (20% savings). ID card (one-time $5 fee) required and must be purchased at JFRC anytime before 5:30 pm on the day of the event. 9

SNAP Dance, (Mardi Gras Theme), 7-10 pm, Recreation Hall. Special Needs Adapted Program! Dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and a commemorative photo. For complete information or to get on the email distribution list, email tharben@cityofallen. org or call 214.509.4707.

11-15 Spring Break Camps. Check AllenParks. org for different Spring Break camp options! 14

Family Night @ The Edge Skate Park. An opportunity for families to bring out their small children and enjoy the skate park. Children must be accompanied by at least one parent to gain entrance to the park during event hours.

Visitor Center Lock In. Fun-filled night! Video game tournaments to dodgeball and movies, activities all night long! Concessions will be available and meals will be provided.

ASRC Quarterly Dance. Allen Senior Recreation Center welcomes The High Caliber Band. Dance to a variety of music, 40-50’s standards, 50-80’s rock and roll, classic to 80’s country and western, blues, Cajun, polkas and waltzes. Light refreshments provided by Toyota of McKinney. No membership required!

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Adult Athletic Leagues

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Children Storytime Schedule

For more info: www.allenparks.org or call Athletic Information Hotline: 214.509.4810.

Softball—8 games + playoffs. Play begins Mar. 4. Flag Football—7 games + playoffs. Play begins Mar. 5. Ultimate Frisbee League—14 games. Play begins Mar. 7. Adult Men’s and Coed Soccer League—8 games. Play begins Mar. 5. Allen Adult Hockey I League. For individuals with minimal ice hockey experience who want to learn basic skills and concepts: skating, stick-handling, shooting, passing, stick-checking, angling, positioning and breakouts. Season will be divided into practices and games, with a higher expectation for fair play and sportsmanship. For more information including dates, times or registration, call the ACIR at 972.912.1097 or stop by during customer service hours. Allen Adult Hockey D2 League. For individuals with novice to intermediate hockey skills. League emphasis to create a fun, enjoyable, competitive environment for players with average skill abilities and a basic understanding of team play. Hockey Spring/Summer League—Registration: Mar. 1-Apr. 1. Format: 4 practices + 9 games. Play begins in May.

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Celebrate National Potato Chip Day! 4-5:30 pm, 2nd floor Program Room. National Potato Chip Day? Lots of potato chips for you to taste test and munch on as we watch the first couple episodes of the TV show Supernatural.

An Anime Afternoon, 4-5:30 pm, 2nd floor Program Room. Join us for Japanese culture, manga, anime, Japanese candy, and fun!

Iron Chef Cupcake Battle, 4-5:30 pm, 2nd floor Program Room. We provide cupcakes, you provide decorating skills! Compete in a tasty battle to create the best cupcake!

Baby and Me—Pre-walkers with an adult. Tues. & Thurs., 10:15 am. Fun Ones—1-year-olds with an adult, Mon. & Wed., 10 am, Tues., 6:30 pm. Together Time—2 & 3 year-olds with an adult, Tues. & Thurs., 11:15 am. All by Myself—4 & 5 year-olds, Wed., 11:30 am. Family Storytime—For 2-6 year-olds & family, Mon., 11:15 am, Thurs., 7 pm.

Children’s Programs 6

beTween the Lines, 4-5 pm. For grades 4-6.

11-17 Scavenger Hunt, Children’s Department on-going during regular library hours. 12 Globetrotters, 4-5 pm. For grades K-1. Space is limited. 15 Crafternoon, 2-4 pm. Recommended for ages 3+. Caregivers must stay with children under age 9. 23 Crafternoon, 2:30-4 pm. Recommended for ages 3+. Caregivers must stay with kids under age 9. 25

Made by Me, 4-5 pm. For ages 9-12.

Teens 12-18 11 iCraft, 4 pm, 2nd floor Program Room. Show off your creative side by making cubees, CD scratch art, origami and more!

25 Tangled Teens, 4:30-5:30 pm, 2nd floor Program Room. Learn to knit! Come with yarn and needles—leave with a scarf! Please see our website for the supply list.

Adults 6

Noontime Pageturners Book Club, noon, Okay For Now by Gary Schmidt (ALLen Reads selection), Adult Program Room. Bring lunch and a friend and join us for a lively discussion!

Discover a Healthier You. Sugar Blues? Understand & Reduce Cravings That Sabotage Your Health & Weight Loss; presented by Carrie Zamora, Board Certified Health, Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach, noon. Reg. required. Adults, 18+, FREE! 2nd Floor Adult Program Room (Walk-ins welcome as space permits.) For more info: Adult Services at 214-509-4913 or 214-509-4905.

2nd Tuesday Chess Night, 7-8:30 pm., 2nd Floor Program Room. Age 16 to adult. Open chess play for all skill levels in a fun, non-competitive setting. Free. No reg. required. Newcomers welcome. Chess boards & pieces provided. For more info: Rebecca @ 214.509.4913.

Learn to Knit, 4:30-5:30 pm, Upstairs Program Room. Ages 12-adult. Come with yarn and needles—leave with a scarf! Please see website for supplies needed.

Talking History—China in the World: From the Silk Roads to the Opium Wars, 3 pm, 2nd floor Program Room. Learn more about how China has influenced the world with Dr. J. Michael Farmer, University of Texas at Dallas. Free registration thru Engaged Patrons is required. Register online or call the Reference Desk at 214-509-4905.

Armchair Travelers Visit Germany with Sarah Potvin, 7 pm, 2nd floor Adult Program Room. Reg. required online or call the Reference Desk at 214-509-4905. Sarah Potvin will share stories, pictures, and anecdotes from her time in Germany. German-inspired refreshments will be served. Free. Registration is required. For more info: 214.509.4905.

Connemara Conservancy

Connemara Meadow Preserve 2

Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 8-11 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, closedtoed shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Astronomy Walk, 9-11 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join Clyde Camp for an Astronomy walk. Meet at the Suncreek Park circular parking lot at 9 pm sharp and walk to the Meadow. For more info: www.connemaraconservancy.org.

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

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS City of Allen offers a variety of affordable recreational classes and programs. Register at Joe Farmer Rec Center, 214.509.4750 or Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 214.509.4770. For more info: www.allenparks.org. Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents and caregivers of preschoolers. A new calendar each month with fun activities for all. Activities—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.

Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days & locations vary. For more info: http://75002.TheHeartLinkNetwork. com. Divorce Care, 13-week courses—biblical teaching for recovering from divorce. For more info: Kim Tedford: 214.544.8050 ext. 109, ktedford@creekwoodumc.org or www. creekwoodumc.org. American Cancer Society, Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appointments. If you have a car and can spare time 9-5, you can help. For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711. MOMS Club of Allen, New group for moms and children who live in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips and local business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more. For more info: http://momsclubofallentx.weekly. com or momsclubofallentx@gmail.com MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, holiday parties, babysitting co-op, etc. Monthly bus. meeting. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.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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Baylor Health Care System offers support groups, medical information and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com. Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www.planobicycle.org. Support Group? Wanted: Anyone interested in starting a support group for Trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder?) For more info: Megan at trichhelpallen@gmail. com. Kids Helping Kids, bring new or gently-used toys to Kids Pediatric Dentistry, donate to kids in the area. Receive chance to win prize. For more info: 972.727.0011 or www. kidspediatricdentistry.com. Texas Health Presbyterian, a variety of events. For more info: www.texashealth.org. Every Monday-Friday

The Shores AA Group, noon, Raceway Profesional Building, 200 W. Boyd, Suite C (Adjacent to Dayrise Recovery), Allen. Open AA discussion group. Everyone welcome. For more info: 469.854.9593.

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.

Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/$7 non-mem. 1st visit free. For more info: 972.727.5585.

The MOB (Men of Business), 11:30 am1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen for male bonding and networking over lunch. $20 chamber members; $25 non-members/ general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

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.

Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, 7 pm, Tino’s Too Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, school programs, etc. Open to anyone interested. For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982.

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.

Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 7 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. Offers strength and hope to friends & family of alcoholics. For more info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon. alateen.org.

McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm, Community Lifeline Center, 1601 W. University Drive, McKinney. MLA welcomes the public to participate in this evening of service for CLL. For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org. Third Monday

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, Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100. Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC. For more info: Henry@ WealthManagementGroupLLC.com 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 Rd, Plano. For more info: Ed Meissner, 469-323-0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www. prestonpersuaders.org.

Allen AA meets, 601 S. Greenville. For more info: 972-359-7383.

Legacy 4-H Club (Allen and Lucas), 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460.

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. Plano Photography Club, 7 pm, Grace Presbyterian Church, 4300 W. Park Blvd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.planophotographyclub.com.

Second Monday

American Association of University Collin County Early Childhood PTA, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery res. req. For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566 or www. northtexasbeekeepers.org.

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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 Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net. Allen Retired Educators, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. For more info: or RSVP: Jerri Caldronia@ jlcaldronia@suddenlink.net.

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

Every Monday, Thursday & Saturday

Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family & friends, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney. For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984.

Every Tuesday

Toastmasters Creative Expressions, 11:15 am-12:30 pm. Raytheon, McKinney. Guests welcome.

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 972.424.1460. First Tuesday Heard Museum Native Plant Society, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. First and Third Tuesday

Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Twin Creeks Golf Club, 501 Twin Creeks Drive. For more info: kevin_carlson@sbcglobal.net. Common Threads of Allen, 7 pm, A Real Bookstore, 113 Praire Rd., Village at Fairview. Share needlework projects, learn new techniques, make friends. For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net.

Second Tuesday

Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, 5024 Custer, in Plano, 7 pm. For more info: www.planopacers.org.

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. Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. For more info: 214.509.4820.

Allen Democrats, 6:30 pm, Reel Thing Catfish Cafe, 600 E. Main St., Allen. For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214.893.3643.

Collin County 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, Refreshments, 9:30 am, Program, 10 am, SMU in Plano, 5228 Tennyson Parkway. Guests are welcome! For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org.

Third Tuesday

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

McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, welcomes new residents, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. Annie Royer will be the quest speaker. Speakers, prizes and refreshments each month. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com.

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

Fourth Tuesday

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

Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society meets at 7 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

Porcelain Art Guild of North Texas, 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

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

Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, “Become the Speaker and Leader you can be”, 7 pm, Market Street, 985 W. Bethany Dr., Allen. For more info: Marlene Byndon, 816.456.6803.

Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, 7 am, Twin Creeks Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.asrotary. org.

McKinney Chess on the Square, 4-7pm, 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 Allen Heritage Guild, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main St, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www. allenheritageguild.org.

Collin County Master Gardeners Assoc. guided tour of Myers Park, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Res. requested. For more info: 972.548.4232 or go to mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu. Allen Image x March 2013

Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:30-1:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage House, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. For more info: 972.569.6909 or www.headcraig. org. First and Third Wednesday MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, 9:30-11:30, 3405 Custer, Ste. 200, Plano. For more info: 214-762-0037 or www. mopsofhope.com. Second Wednesday Collin County Genealogical Society, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com. VFW Post 2195, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www.vfw2195.org. Every Thursday

Allen Classic Cars, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Chipotle and Stacy Furniture. 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. 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. Community Bible Study, 9:30–11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Registration required. For more info: katpf@att.nett or mckinneyallen. cbsclass.org. Weight Watchers, 12:15 and 6 pm, First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Enter at the south entrance, second floor.

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.

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

First Thursday

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.

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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 Luncheon, 11 am. We love to have new members join the many fun activities that this group offers. Guests are welcome. For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net.

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.

PSA:NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness] of Collin County, 7:30 pm, Custer Road UM Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano. Enter at the SE end, room B2. Peer support group, B6, and Family support group, B1, meet from 6:30-7:20. For more info: www.namicco.org. Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly gen. meetings at Creekwood United Methodist Church, 261 Country Club Road, Fairview. Different topic and guest speakers each month. Lunch provided free and babysitting available for nominal fee. A list of speakers is available on website. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/ Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA/. Osteoporosis Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, Community Education Rm-Medical Office Bldg. 2. For more info: 972.747.6036.

Legal Aid Clinic, 6 pm, First United Methodist Church. For more info: www.lanwt.org or 1.888.529.5277.

Second and Fourth Thursday Allen High Noon Lions Club, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Tony Pritchard, 214.293.1598.

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

Live @ 5 Business After Hours, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

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.

Collin County Republican Men’s Club, 7 pm, locations vary. For more info: www.ccrmc.org.

Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new & expectant moms’ forum, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330.

Allen Quilters’ Guild, 6:30 pm, First Presbyterian Church, 605 S. Greenville. For more info: www.allenquilters.org.

Cancer Support Ministry, 7 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241.

Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, noon, First United Methodist Church Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. An inspiring group of retirees and soon to be returees who gather once a month for lunch and fellowship. Speakers & entertainers. For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net.

Breast Cancer Support Group, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, 1105 Central Expwy. N., 6:30 pm, 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. For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail. com.

Every Other Thursday

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

Every Friday

Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Members free/Non-member Allen resident $3. For more info: 214.509.4820.

McKinney Chess Club, 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney.Adults 50+(Free). For more info: 972.547.7491.

Every Other Friday

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), nondenominational support group for moms with kids birth to 5 years, 9:30-11:45 am, First Baptist Church in Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241.

First & Third Friday

Classic 55+ Game Night, 6:30 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games. Open to the community, no res. required. For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com.

Every Saturday

McKinney Chess Club, 10:30 am-1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Any age. Free. For more info: 972.547.7491.

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.

Vroomanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Single Side Up, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. There is no charge to attend. Low cost child care is available. For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@ thissideupfamily.org.

Allen Folk Music Society, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Drive, Allen. Musicians aged 15-100. Bring snacks to share. For more info: www.twiceasfar.com.

Fourth Saturday

American Sewing Guild, 10 am-noon, Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Rd (at Parker), in Plano. For more info: Jane Johnson, 972.841.6854 or www.planoasg.org.

Last Saturday

Plano Pacers run at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, 8 am. For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www.planopacers.org.

Every Sunday

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

First Sunday

Readers Book Club, 2 pm, First Methodist Church of Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Church Parlor. Join us for book discussion and refreshments. Book selections are determined at the January meeting. For more info: cynannrobinson@gmail.com.

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

Allen Image x March 2013

For Your Health

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For Your Health

Allen Image x March 2013

cover story Would having a professional sports venue minutes from home and all seats offering a great view make a difference? What if ticket prices were much lower than those for the Cowboys, Mavericks or Stars? How about tossing free parking into the deal? And what if those local games add extra entertainment and community support at no extra cost? Got your attention? The professional sports teams that compete at the Allen Event Center offer all these, plus a whole lot more. Although each team has individual goals, they all have one primary motivator—community support. They want you there and are on the lookout for ways to make that happen. With this kind of game in town, everyone comes out a winner.

Dallas Sidekicks Celebrating an impressive 19-year record, racking up four national championships and scores of fans, the Dallas Sidekicks went inactive in 2004 for lack of a home field. Eight years later, the Sidekicks were resurrected through the efforts of new owner Ronnie Davis and long-time Sidekick star and now head coach, Tatu. Boasting a 20-year history in professional sports business, Ronnie started with the Texas Rangers, then moved to sponsorship sales and operations for the Mavericks, then owned by Don Carter. During the Mavericks’ offseason, Ronnie would work for the Sidekicks, also owned by Carter at the time. It was then that Ronnie and Tatu became friends. Following a three-year stint as vice-president of sponsorships for the Dallas Stars hockey team, the Dallas Cowboys asked him to come on board selling sponsorships for the yet-to-bebuilt Cowboy Stadium. His job with the Cowboys also included running the business end of their arena football team, the Dallas Desperados. After three years with the Cowboys, Ronnie went to work for Roger Staubach’s PPI Marketing and assisted the now defunct Arena Football League team Dallas Vigilantes in selling sponsorships. It was during

conversations between the City of Allen and the Vigilantes that Ronnie learned Allen also wanted a soccer team at its community arena. “I said, I can put that together,” Ronnie recalls. “So I went to Tatu, and he said, ‘I’ll coach it, you own it, let’s go!’” Tatu had been coaching soccer for Prince of Peace High School in Carrollton, winning the state championship seven of his nine years there, as well as coaching the Sting, a young women’s soccer club. But as the years passed, Tatu had not given up hope for the Sidekicks return. “I felt like the job we did was not finished,” he explains. “This was another opportunity to do a better job than what we did in the past. I feel blessed to get a second chance.” With the still-new Sidekicks already making impressive strides on the field, Tatu has plans for establishing new long-term community projects and traditions such as soccer camps. “We want to make a difference one by one, and so far, so good,” he declares. “Our number one goal is to be a positive role model in the community.” The reason for re-starting the Sidekicks rather than establishing a new team was a no-brainer for Ronnie. “The brand!” he asserts. “We had 19 years of families coming to games and now we hear things like, ‘I used to come with my dad and watch your games or play on your field, and now I get to bring my kids.’” As in the past, on Saturday game days soccer begins at the Allen Event Center hours earlier with the youth Make It and Take It Tournaments. “They play for four hours,” Ronnie explains of the event he describes as ‘soccer heaven.’ “Their names are announced, they’re on the scoreboard and video, like they are playing in a Sidekicks game.” He also notes that evening game tickets include seats for the daytime tournaments, letting families make an entire day of playing and watching soccer. For both men, tapping into those long-held affections means bringing back some of the most popular sideline activities associated with past Sidekicks games. “We want to make it like our fans

stepped into a time machine and went back to 1985,” Ronnie states. “From the music, to the promotions on the field, to how we introduce the players.” One of their new features is Purple Chaos, a head-to-toe purple squad in Sidekicks t-shirts that entertains fans with its antics at games and pro motional events. Ronnie laughs that although his intention was not to make the Sidekicks a full-time family endeavor, that’s what it has become. “I’m doing the sponsorships, marketing, promotions, community relations and overseeing the business part. My wife Missy is the CFO and she does all the merchandise sales. And the Purple Chaos, that’s my kids and their friends. So it’s truly a family affair.” Now playing in the Professional Arena Soccer League (PASL), a 4-yearold organization with 19 teams around the United States, the Sidekicks’ season runs from November through February with eight games played at the Allen Event Center. At the February 9 home game a significant milestone was celebrated in grand style with the retirement of Tatu’s Number 9 jersey. “People love what Tatu has done, not just for soccer, but what he’s done for kids and the community,” Ronnie asserts. “Tatu says we are role models and we should embrace that.”

Allen Americans Established in 2009 by majority owner Douglas Miller and Stanley Cup winner Steve Duschene, the Allen Americans hockey team has the distinction of being the Event Center’s first professional sports team. These athletes had a grand entry their initial year, making it to the President’s Cup Championship Finals. The following two years, they topped the league in wins for the regular season, In 2012, former Dallas Stars and Stanley Cup winners Mike Modano, Craig Ludwig and Eddie Belfour also became minority owners, Steve Martinson was named head coach and general manager, and former Stars player Richard Matvichuk was appointed defensive coach and assistant general manager. Allen Image x March 2013

Craig Ludwig also has the distinction of being the father of Americans’ defensemen Tyler and Trevor Ludwig, who were on the team a year prior to his becoming an owner. For many Americans fans, especially the younger crowd, one of the more significant additions to the team is Biscuit, the American bulldog mascot, introduced last season. Along with giving their fans exciting games, Tommy Daniels notes the team also offers exceptional game t ainment. “We won the day enter

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award for the best game presentation in the league,” the director of broadcast and media relations boasts. “That’s for all the activities going on during the game, like the videos shown and the games played.” One of their popular mid-game activities is the Americans’ Legends Race, with runners, each sporting a giant head of Duschene, Modano, Ludwig, Belfour or Matvichuk, and sprinting less than gracefully around the ice rink to the finish line. Tommy adds that team members

are also active in the community, particularly sup p orting the youth. “They go to the schools to read to the kids or make morning announcements, or participate in PE with the kids,” he notes. “We’re pretty involved with Allen as well as neighboring schools.” Noting that he had an interest in the Americans since its inception, Eddie Belfour recalls, “Ludwig came to me this summer and said they were putting together a group of guys to help run the team, promote it and try to win a championship. When he asked if I would be interested, I said, “Yes, for sure!” The former Stars goalie continues, “All of us have been learning the business side of it, so we’ve been a part of budget meetings and learning how to run the team from the money side. We’d never been a part of that so it’s been a nice learning experience.“ The new minority owners are also taking an active role in creating new ideas for fan entertainment during the games. “We’re thinking about live music during intermission,” Eddie shrugs. “That’s something we haven’t done yet. We are doing everything we can to promote the team and get more fans here. We want to make it exciting and are doing whatever we can to create an atmosphere so that when the fans leave, they say, ‘Hey, that was awesome! Not only did we have fun watching the game, but there was also a lot of extra stuff going on.” Allen Americans student interns assigned to the press box, Elaine Kirby of Allen and Kristen Perez of Mesquite are proof positive that being Allen Americans fans is not only great fun

but may also have an impact on your professional life as well. Currently a communications student at Collin College, Elaine shares that her experience with the Americans played a major role in her decision to branch into sports journalism as a career. Managing the press box at home games, Elaine notes that at away games the two are free to cheer the Allen Americans on as regular fans. For an upcoming out-of-state game, she and Kristen, a sports manage m ent student at Richland College, gleefully make plans to wear shirts with the Americans insignia, paint their faces, don fake beards much like the real one sported by American’s right-winger Darryl Bootland and carry signs stating “Dread the Red” and “Fear the Beard.” For the Americans, the games start in October, with playoffs beginning in March and ending with the finals in May. This still gives newcomers a chance to join the fun and cheer on the team for this year’s playoff drive.

Texas Revolution The newest name on the Allen Event Center roster is the Indoor Football League’s (IFL) Texas Revolution, kicking off its premier game Thursday, February 21. Former IFL commissioner and one of the Texas Revolution owners, Tommy Benizio, also serves as the organization’s president and CEO. The other two owners are Heisman Trophywinner and 18-year NFL veteran Tim Brown and State Senator Ken Paxton. “We are not only focused on putting out a good product on the field but also making sure we involve the community,” asserts Matthew Lerman, director of communi cations. “Yes, we want to be a competitive football team, but we also want to make sure people come to the Allen Event Center and enjoy the games.” He continues, “We’re also going to go out to different elementary schools to encourage students to stay fit and active and we want to try to be a part of this community.”

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This effort to build a stronger team both on and off the field enlists the involvement of support personnel. Just off a three-year consecutive championship-winning streak as coach of the Cincinnati Commandos of the Continental Football League, new

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head coach Billy Back boasts a 35-3 career record. He also played six seasons of indoor football. Back played baseball for Miami University in Ohio and played professional baseball in the Pioneer League. Last year he was inducted into the Miami University’s Athletic Hall of Fame. “Our head coach brings a lot of experience and a winning attitude that we are looking forward to,” Matt points out. “He is not only getting great players, he is getting great people too—people who will represent the team in a positive manner. I think that’s very important because these people are going to be living in our community for the next six months or more, so we want them to be upstanding gentlemen.” One of the Revolution quarter backs may be of particular interest to Allen fans. Nathan Dick was a popular quarterback at Allen High School who went on to play for the University of Arkansas and the University of Central Arkansas. Final team try-outs were hosted Saturday, Feb. 2, at the Blue Sky Sports Center in Allen. The official training camp began February 11, followed by the Revolution’s premier game on February 21 against Ft. Worth’s North Texas Crunch. The Revolution is the only Texasbased team in the IFL. Opponents for the 2013 IFL season are the Cedar Rapids Titans (Iowa), Chicago

Slaughter, Green Bay Blizzard (Wisconsin), Sioux Falls Storm (South Dakota), Colorado Ice, Nebraska Danger, Tri-Cities Fever (Washington), and Wyoming Cavalry. “We play a 14-game schedule with three weeks of playoffs with the higher seeded teams hosting those games,” Matthew explains. “So if we do well enough, we could have all the playoff games hosted at the Allen Event Center. That would be great to be in front of the home crowd.” During the regular season, half of the Revolution’s games will be played in Allen. Among the proposed promotions for the 2013 season are a Boy Scout night that management hopes to coincide with free hat night, a Faith and Family Night,and a 70s night that may offer the auctioning off of a very special piece of nostalgia from the era. “We want to make sure people come out to the games because we think we are putting on a fun event, with music, dancing, promotions, and half-time is always going to have something fun,” Matthew concludes. For those familiar only with outdoor football, most rules for IFL games is the same as NFL except for a few minor variations explained on the IFL web site, www.GoIFL.com. Matthew notes that the primary difference with indoor football is “we play on a 50-yard field…and on the fourth down, we don’t allow punts, so you either have to go for it or kick a

For MarketPlace Your Health

Allen Image x March 2013

field goal. That brings the scoring up higher and encourages excitement.” Matthew also laughs that, with the field boundaries so close to the fans, “if a ball is thrown right to the sideline, one of our players could actually jump into the stands and land on your lap. You can get that close to the action.” Then he adds, “And if any ball gets thrown into the stands, our fans get to keep those as a souvenir.” One more perk, albeit most likely unexpected.

Lone Star Conference

In addition to the professional teams now playing at the Allen Event Center, the Lone Star Conference returns for its second year of college men’s and women’s basketball NCAA Division II playoffs on Wednesday through Saturday, March 6 -9. Members of the Lone Star Conference are Abilene Christian University, Angelo State University, Cameron University, Eastern New Mexico University, University of the Incarnate Word, Midwestern State University, Tarleton State University, Texas A&M University—Commerce, Texas A&M University—Kingsville, Texas Women’s University, and West Texas A&M University. The top eight men’s and top eight women’s teams from these will compete in the Lone Star Championship. With pairings done by seed, the first round of games will be played in four doubleheader sessions for both men and women during the first two days. The two doubleheader semifinals will be Friday and the doubleheader championship concludes the event on Saturday. According to LSC commissioner Stan Wagnon, the organization is the oldest still active athletic conference in this area of the country. “We’ve been a conference since 1931 and we’ve had the basketball championship for the last 40 years.” Requiring a neutral location for the games, Stan states that prior to coming to Allen, the LSC Championship was hosted for four years in Oklahoma. He explains that they chose to move to the Allen Event Center because “with the schools we have and our fan base, it is the perfect size venue. We feel like we can have a nice showing of our

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event here.” The commissioner adds that Allen provides volunteers for the championship, primarily serving as hosts to the different teams. He notes that members of the competing college teams visit Allen elementary schools prior to the games. “They might talk to the students about being a good sport and the importance

Want to Know More?

plans for a fun family outing, information is just a few keystrokes away. • For the LSC Championships, individual tickets, session passes and team passes can be purchased at the Allen Event Center box office. For more about the event, go to www.lscchampionshipallen.com. • The Allen Americans schedule, upcoming promotions, and ticket sales can be found at www. allenamericans.com. • For additional information on the Dallas Sidekicks, including the game and Make It Take It Tournament schedule and ticket sales, go to www. dallassidekicks.net. • And if you want insight on the new Texas Revolution, check out their website at www.texasrevs.com. At a recent Allen American’s game against the Ft. Worth Brahmas, The Wanted’s pop tune “Glad You Came” filled the arena. It’s an apt song to play for a sporting event at the Allen Event Center. v

To learn more about the teams that play at the Allen Event Center or to make

Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.

of a good education,” Stan explains. “It’s also an opportunity for them to say ‘Come out and cheer for our team.’”

Allen Image x March 2013

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

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