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Allen Image inside this issue May 2019

Volume. 29, Issue 5

Allen Image

feature

publisher/editor

wishful thinking

Barbara Peavy

Two thirteen-year-old girls in our community have been Make-AWish recipients. Mallory Cass of Lucas and Sarah Philips of Allen both received dogs (and new best friends).

advertising sales Sherri Russell Nora Bollman

cover photo John Nervig

special sections

on the cover

14 CALENDAR 22 KIDS KORNER

Mallory Cass and Sarah Philips

Happy Campers

contributing writers Chelsey Aprill Steven Dawson

Deborah Dove

David Hicks Tom Keener Jonathan McCloskey

6 civic forum

6 COAST into Summer! 7 5 Milestones in Allen Tourism 8 Family Night: Campout & Movie

library

11 ACB Spring Concert

The Legend of Nan-Xia

Sassy and Savvy Texas Women

A Gathering to End Hunger

Fenglírë

Porch Fest

education

Concerts by the Creek

And Then There Were None

Finance

Off The Rails

Soaring Together

The Market Is Up, Now What?

Style

28 4

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Mother’s Day Out

Natasha Moser Simon Valentin Allen Image © 2019. 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, visit our website at www.allenimage. com or email us at contact@ allenimage.com.

civic forum

COAST Into Summer! by Jonathan McCloskey

he City of Allen Swim Team (COAST) will be making waves this summer with a new head coach who will advance the program’s “development and process focused” mission. The City of Allen has hired Tia McVey to be the new head coach of COAST, which is Allen’s annual summer swim program that prepares individuals for competitive swim teams. COAST emphasizes kicking and technical skills for beginners and progresses to training in all four strokes as an athlete grows within the program. “It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to lead the COAST program,” McVey said. “I’m beyond excited for the chance to work with the City of Allen’s outstanding COAST staff to make sure every swimmer is engaged and has fun.” Having begun her swim teaching career in 2004, McVey has coached for Special Olympics Texas, received her Water Safety Instructor Trainer certificate, and worked with all levels of coaches and swimmers in competitive and recreational environments. During the school year, Tia works for Allen Independent School District, which lends to her ability to work with all age groups and learning styles. The COAST program prides itself on being a low-stress and low-pressure swim team that offers a coaching and training structure to help swimmers achieve their highest potential. “One of our main goals is to make sure every swimmer who participates in COAST sees personal improvement this

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summer,” McVey said. “While the program strives to be competitive at swim meets, COAST celebrates all individual team member advancements, whether it’s mastery of a certain stroke, setting new personal record times or competing well locally.” The 2019 COAST season is from June 3 through July 19. All practices are held at the newly-renovated Ford Pool in Allen. There will be six circuit meets, which will all be held in North Texas. By competing in the swim meets, team members will have the ability to qualify for regional and state competitions. COAST is open to all ages, from children to adults, and skill levels, from beginner to advanced. For more information and to join COAST, please visit LifeInAllen. org, email Jonathan McCloskey at jmccloskey@cityofallen. org or call 214.509.4770. v Jonathan McCloskey is the Natatorium Supervisor for Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium and Ford Pool.

Five Milestones in Allen Tourism by Chelsey Aprill

If you like trying new restaurants, cheering on local sports, attending hassle-free concerts and shopping for your summer wardrobe without getting on the highway, you’re one of the many benefitting from Allen’s focus on tourism. See how it’s transformed our city in these five milestones. 1999—Allen’s Strategic Plan focuses on tourism. Each year, Allen City Council identifies priorities to help shape the city’s budget. Mayor Stephen Terrell, who had served on Allen City Council since 1991, knew a focus on tourism would help Allen grow without burdening local taxpayers.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re from Plano, Texas or Paris, France, if you’re coming here to spend money, you’re funding improvements that Allen residents enjoy.” says Mayor Terrell. 2000—Allen Premium Outlets opens. “This was the cornerstone in Allen becoming a destination market,” says Allen Convention & Visitors Bureau Director Karen Cromwell. “The year Allen Premium Outlets opened, direct travel spending in Allen hit $40.1 billion.” 2009—Allen Event Center opens, attracting sports franchises such as the Allen Americans and Dallas Sidekicks, along

with big-ticket acts from Reba McIntire to Lenny Kravitz to Kane Brown. Even as the 7,000-seat arena earned regional acclaim, it maintained beloved perks, including free parking at every event. 2009—Allen Convention & Visitors Bureau launches with an “aggressive approach to marketing Allen as a tourism destination.” In 2009, tourists spent $51.3 billion in Allen; by 2017, that number grew to $74.7 billion. 2019—Delta Hotels by Marriott Dallas Allen and Watters Creek Convention Center opens. The first city-wide conference of 2019 brought 2,500 high

school students and educators with the Texas Association of Future Educators to Allen for three days, resulting in $400,000 in direct economic impact. “When Allen adds new shopping, dining and entertainment options, residents reap the benefits,” says Cromwell. “Those amenities then draw new visitors and new sales tax revenue, allowing us to enhance Allen even more.” May is National Travel and Tourism Month. To learn more about tourism in Allen, check out visitAllenTexas.com. v Chelsey Aprill is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen.

Allen Image | May 2019

snippets Family Night: Campout & Movie

A Gathering to End Hunger

Families are invited to camp out under the stars and enjoy an evening full of nighttime fun with camp traditions on Saturday, May 18-19, in Hillside Amphitheater and Bethany Lakes Park outside at Joe Farmer Recreation Center (JFRC). After setting up camp, enjoy your own picnic, play in the park and watch a movie in the amphitheater starting at dusk.

Please join Community Garden Kitchen of Collin County at A Gathering to End Hunger in Our Community. Don’t miss an evening of fun, food and entertainment at The Sanctuary, located at 6633 Virginia Parkway, McKinney on May 9, from 7 to 9 p.m. There will be a live auction for fantastic items, fabulous raffle baskets, live music by Rory Payne, an open bar and food by Sterling Catering.

Each family member must register. The fee is $10 per person, but anyone under the age of two will be free. The event will start at 3 p.m. Saturday and end at 9 a.m. Sunday morning. JFRC is located at 1201 E. Bethany, Allen. For more information, please contact: 214.509.4750. v

Join us to help stop hunger in Collin County. Come out and support the Community Garden Kitchen, have fun and win prizes. Tickets are $150 per person. Seating is limited, so get your ticket now. For more information and tickets visit: www.communitygardenkitchen.org. v

Porch Fest Mark your calendars for Porch Fest—a unique, free live music festival hosted by the new home community of Tucker Hill on Saturday, June 1, 5 p.m. until dusk. This open-to-the-public event will feature live bands staged (5-7 p.m.) on some of Tucker Hill’s quaint front porches that surround the community’s Lawn Chair Amphitheatre. Other performers will be positioned on a restaurant patio, a charming Gazebo, and near the Residents’ Club, Pool and Playground. The evening highlight is a 7 p.m. concert-on-the-lawn featuring The Redwine Band. This Texas Country & Top 40 Music Cover Band from Dallas cover all of today’s and yesterday’s greatest hits! Attendees can stroll the event’s quadrant layout and enjoy simultaneous concerts, or peruse a pop-up Artisan’s market with 40 vendors. A new Kid’s Zone area will feature a live children’s entertainer and storyteller, Tanna Banana, free face painting and Henna tattoos, lawn games and the Tucker Hill playground! Food and drink will be available for purchase. v

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snippets Concerts by the Creek Whether it’s family night or date night, the return of Watters Creek at Montgomery Farms’ popular, free, outdoor music series, Concerts by the Creek is sure to bring the community together. The spring series kicked off on April 6 and these weekly concerts will continue through Friday, June 28. All concerts are 7-9 p.m., on The Green. In May, over Mother’s Day weekend, a concert will also take place on Sunday, May 12, from 3-5 p.m., TBA Band will perform. The spring series features: Saturday, May 4—Moving Colors (Today’s Hits) ; Saturday, May 11—Elevation; presented by Emerald City (High Energy Party Band); Saturday, May 18— Diva G & High Maintenance (Party Band); Saturday, May 25— Rob Holbert Group (Cool Jazz). Watters Creek is located at the intersection of US 75 at Bethany Drive in the heart of Allen, Texas. For more information, call 972.747.8000 or visit www.watterscreek.com. v

And Then There Were None Allen’s Community Theatre presents And Then There Were None, a dark thriller in three acts, May 3-19. One of Agatha Christie’s darkest tales and a masterpiece of dramatic construction. Ten strangers are summoned to a remote island. All that the guests have in common is a wicked past they’re unwilling to reveal and a secret that will seal their fate. Each person has been marked for murder. As the weather turns and the group is cut off from the mainland, the bloodbath begins and one by one they are brutally murdered in accordance with the lines of a sinister nursery rhyme. Allen’s Community Theatre is located at 1210 E Main St #300, Allen. For times, tickets or more information call 844.822.8849 or visit allenscommunitytheatre. net. v

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Diva G & High Maintenance

Off The Rails Off the Rails Country Music Fest presents the biggest two-day celebration of country music in Dallas Fort Worth for 2019. The lineup for Saturday, May 4: Luke Bryan, Jake Owen, Aaron Watson, Craig Morgan, Ashley McBryde, Abby Anderson, Harper Grace and DJ Rock. The line up for Sunday, May 5: Sam Hunt, Luke Combs, Eli Young Band, Lauren Alaina, Travis Denning, Jameson Rodgers, Ray Johnson Band and Grace Tyler. In addition to an award-winning lineup, Off The Rails Country Music Fest will offer a fan-filled experience, which will include food trucks, outdoor party games, craft beers and much more. Visit OffTheRailsFest.com for tickets or more information. v

library

The Allen Public Library presents… by Tom Keener

ACB Spring Concert

The Allen Community Band (ACB), under the direction of Craig Logan, concludes its sixth season with its Spring Concert at 7:30 p.m., Friday, May 17, at the library. In this free concert, the band will honor those who have fallen by opening the concert with a traditional patriotic selection.

Following will be music from the 10-part series, Band of Brothers, with its beautiful and almost haunting melodies. Guest Conductor, Dr. Lee Hudson takes the podium to conduct “Hail to the Fleet,” written by Richard Malty for Fleet Week at the major Naval Base in Virginia. Dr. Hudson was privileged to be one of the first to perform the march as a young student musician. A U.S. Navy Musician for 26 years, Dr. Hudson will share his background and history as it relates to the selection. Concluding the concert, the band will perform John Phillip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever,” featuring piccolo soloist, Julie Bell. v

The Legend of Nan-Xia Puppet shows are exciting for children, but can be just as thrilling for adults. Witness the energy of Taiwanese puppet theater and the world’s first projection mapping puppet show in a free program at 3 p.m., Sunday, May 5, at the library. Sponsored by Taiwan’s Overseas Community Affairs Council, The Shinergy Puppet Show Troupe from Taiwan incorporates modern audio and visual technology to creating spectacular imagery and sensational music for the audience to experience its thrilling 4-D effects. How will the conflict end between the two most powerful Wulin sects? The puppet show, “The Legend of Nan-Xia,” tells the story of a kung fu master’s excursion in the quest for help from several mysterious skilled fighters after learning about an imminent threat from an evil warlord. It ends with an inevitable battle and several unexpected revelations. Built on a fascinating story, the show is full of action and humorous dialogues and is suitable for the whole family. The Allen Public Library is one of only 15 venues in the United States selected by the Taiwan’s Overseas Community Affairs Council to feature this outstanding display of puppetry. v Allen Image | May 2019

Sassy and Savvy Texas Women Savor the tales of “Texas Dames,” women who managed sprawling ranches, built towns, organized major banks and locked adversaries in a wine cellar in a free program at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, May 12, at the library. From Angelina of the Hasisai, interpreter for the Spanish, and sharpshooter Sally Scull, to Dr. Claudia Potter, America’s first female anesthesiologist, and Birdie Harwood, first female mayor in the U.S., historian Carmen Goldthwaite has been profiling Texas women and their valuable contributions. Chris Enss, author of Bedside Book of Bad Girls: Outlaw Women of the Midwest, declares, “She recounts the lives of driven ladies such as Peggy McCormick, a rancher who fearlessly stood

up to Texas revolutionary leader Sam Houston by demanding he bury, on her land, the bodies of the Mexican men he had shot in battle. She examines the lives of professional gambler Lottie Deno, timber queen Sallie Gibbs and “Savior of the Alamo,” Clara Driscoll. The experiences of these women who gave their lives to settle the Texas frontier are as vast as the country itself.” Carmen is the author of Texas Dames: Sassy And Savvy Women Throughout Lone Star History and Texas Ranch Women. A seventh generation Texan, Carmen writes and tells the stories about the Texas she loves for western magazines, community newspapers and women’s organizations around the state. v

Fenglírë The trio, Fenglírë, will perform 3 p.m., Sunday, May 12, at the library. On reed instruments, the trio’s free concert will feature a wide variety of contemporary songs, including a piece by 20th century British composer Gordon Jacob, a 21st century piece by Emmy-winning composer William Bradbury based on the meditative music of Javanese gamelan, and “Found Objects on the Beach” by award-winning composer Jenni Brandon.

Formerly a graduate teaching assistant at the University of North Texas, oboist Ashley Rollins was a featured English horn soloist on the North Texas Wind Symphony’s premiere recording of Ryan George’s The Wild Goose and was invited to perform the Marcello Oboe Concerto with the Nashville Summer Orchestral Institute. Clarinetist Jason Baker holds a clarinet position with New Life Symphony and the Dallas Civic Wind Ensemble. Previously, Jason played clarinet in the Marine Corps, conducted local musical theater shows, was a graduate teaching assistant at UT Arlington, and produced his own CDs. A freelance bassoonist and chamber musician, Ryan Morris performed for the Greater Princeton Steinway Society in New Jersey. He also spent two summers as a quintet/sextet fellow in the Imani Winds Chamber Music Festival, performing with the Force Five woodwind quintet of the Air Force Reserve and alongside Grammy-nominated Imani Winds. v

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

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calendar

MAY CLUBS

2ChangeU Toastmasters, meets every Tuesday, 7 pm, Plano Family YMCA, 3300 McDermott Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. More info: www.2changeu.org. A Place To Go (APT G), meets 3rd Saturday each month, (Sept-May), 79:30 pm, 1st UMC, 601 S. Greenville, Allen. Volunteers, high school age & up paired with special needs teen/young adult. Eat, play games and make crafts in a parent’s night out environment. Free. More info: 214.385.8850 or email specialkids@fumcallen.org. Allen Area Patriots, meets the 4th Thursday each month, 7-8:45 pm, Allen Municipal Building, 301 Century Pkwy., Allen. Local Tea Party presents speakers, encourages citizens to participate. More info: www.AllenAreaPatriots.com Allen Garden Club, meets 1st Thursday each month, 7 pm, gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. More info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www.allengardenclub.org. Allen Heritage Guild, meets 1st Wednesday each month, 6:30 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. Guest speakers on topics of historical significance. More info: 972.740.8017 or www.allenheritageguild.org. ALLen Reads meets 2nd Monday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive. More info, www.allenfriends.org. Allen Retired Educators meet 3rd Monday each month, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. RSVP: Sondra Long, billysondralong@tx.rr.com. Allen Toastmasters’ Club, meets every Monday, 6:30 pm, Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. More info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100. American Assoc. of University Women-Plano/Collin County Branch, meets 2nd Monday each month, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior Living Center, 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with assoc. or bachelors degree interested in helping women. More info: Carol, 972.862.3460. Art History Brown Bag Series, meets 1st Wednesday each month, 12:301:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage House, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. More info: 972.569.6909 or www.heardcraig.org. Bible Study, meets every Thursday, 9:30-11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Ave., McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Reg. req. More info: katpf@att.net or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org. Camp Gladiator, meets every Saturday, 8 pm, parking lot (or inside) Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Sam Rayburn Tollway. Adult outdoor fitness group for all fitness levels. Free community workout. More info: jeanettelintzen@campgladiator.com.

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Collin County Aggie Moms, meets 3rd Monday each month, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, 17360 Coit Road. More info: 972.382.3124 or www. collincountymoms.aggienetwork.com. Collin County Archaeology Society, meets 2nd Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney. More info: archaeology@netzero.net. Collin County Genealogical Society, meets 2nd Wednesday each month, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. More info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com. Collin County Libertarian Party meets 2nd Wednesday each month, at 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., Allen. More info: collinlp.org or email collinlp. org@gmail.com. Collin County Master Gardeneers tour of Myers Park, meets 1st Wednesday each month, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Reservations required. More info: 972.548.4232 or mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu. Collin County Republican Men’s Club, meets 3rd Thursday each month, 7 pm, locations vary. More info: www.ccrmc.org. Dallas Dog Lovers, events for dogs and owners in the Dallas area. More info: www.dallasdoglovers.com Department 56 Village Collectors Club meets 2nd Saturday each month in Plano/North Dallas to share ideas. More info: www.bigd56ers.com. Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, meets every Monday, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome. More info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per.treven@ericsson.com. First Nighter African Violet Society, meets 3rd Monday each month, 7-9 pm, Collin Higher Education Center, 3452 Spur 399, McKinney. More info: www.beautifulviolets.com. Friends of the Allen Public Library meets 3rd Wednesday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr. More info: www.allenfriends. org. Gaslighters Book Review Club meets 3rd Wednesday each month September thru May at Heard Craig House, 205 W. Hunt Street, McKinney, refreshments noon, speaker 1 pm. More info: LaRue Whatley, 423.585.4983. Greater Collin Kennel Club, meets 3rd Wednesday each month, 7:30 pm, FUMC of Plano, 3160 E. Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano. All welcome. More info: www.greatercollinkc.org. Legacy 4-H Club (Allen & Lucas), meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. More info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460. Lone Star Parliamentary Unit, meets 2nd Monday each month (Sept. thru May), 10:30 am, Allen Public Library. Promotes parliamentary education. More info: 972.727.3090, Mae Shaw, Pres. Lovejoy Preschool PTA, meets 2nd Thursday each month, Creekwood UMC, 261 Country Club, Fairview. Different topic & speakers. Free lunch; babysitting

available for nominal fee. More info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/LovejoyPreschool-PTA/. McKinney Amateur Radio Club, meets 2nd Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Spring Creek Bar B Que 1993 N. Central Expressway, McKinney. More information: 972.814.4190. McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, meets 2nd Thursday each month, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Hdqts., 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location varies. More info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com. McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, meets 3rd Tuesday each month, 9:30 am, social; 10 am meeting, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. May program: Collin County Sheriff Jim Skinner speaking on Stopping drug and human amuggling. More info: www.mckinneynewcomers. com. NARFE Chapter 559, meets 3rd Monday each month, 1:30 pm, Village of Stonebridge Assisted Living, 3300 S. Stonebridge Drive, McKinney. All current government employees and retirees invited. Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, meets 2nd Tuesday each month, refreshments 9:30 am, meeting 10 am, Noah’s Event Center, 5280 Towne Square Dr., Plano. All welcome to join. More info: www.newcomerfriends.org. North Dallas Newcomers, meets 1st Thursday each month, 11 am, various country clubs. More info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net. Open Forum, meaningful discussions, meets 1st Saturday each month, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney. More info: Charlie, 214.585.0004. Plano Amateur Radio Klub, meets 3rd Monday each month, 7 pm, FUMC of Plano, 3160 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano. All welcome. More info: www.K5PRK. net. Plano Photography Club, meets 3rd Thursday each month, 7 pm, W. Plano Presbyterian Church, 2709 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. More info: www.planophotographyclub.com. Plano Republican Women’s Club, meets 3rd Tuesday each month, 11:30 am, Reflections on Spring Creek, 1901 E. Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano. More info: www.planorepublicanwomen.com. Prelude Clubhouse, community center for adults living with mental illness meets at Collin Creek Church, 1905 E. Parker Rd, Plano. Open Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 9 am-4 pm. More info: 469.301.6639 or www.preludeclubhouse. org. Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, meets every Monday, 7:15 pm, Champions School of Real Estate in the Rangers Room at 3721 Mapleshade Ln, Plano. More info: Ed Meissner, 469.323.0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www.prestonpersuaders.org. Random Events Dallas, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups in Dallas area. More info: RandomEventsDallas.com.

Reasonable Faith Discussion Group, meets every Tuesday, 11am-12:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Church Rm. B1116. More info: www.RFCCTX.org. Reasonable Faith Collin County Chapter, meets 2nd and 4th Thursday, 6:45-8:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Church, Rm B202. More info: www. RFCCTX.org; email: ReasonableFaithCollinCO@gmail.com. Single Side Up, meets 3rd Saturday each month, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. Low cost childcare. More info: www.singlesideup.org or info@thissideupfamily.org. St. Jude Carreer Alliance, meets most Wednesdays, 9 pm, lecture Hall, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. Helping to develop career strategies for students, career builders & unemployed. More info: Jack Bick, jbick@stjudeparish.com or www.stjudecareeralliance.net/aboutus/. Texas Nationalist Movement-Collin County Chapter, meets 1st Tuesday each month, 6:30 pm at Scotty P’s restaurant in Allen, 109 Central Expy N #501, Allen. If you love Texas and value our independent spirit, come join us! Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, meets every Wednesday, “Become the Speaker and Leader You Can Be,” 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expwy, Allen. More info: Bill Peterson, 972.523.9425. United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, meets 1st Sunday each month, 2 pm, FUMC, 601 S. Greenville. Book discussion & refreshments. We encourage women of all faiths to participate. More info: http://www.fumcallen.org. Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping and gardening advice, every Tuesday & Thursday, 9 am-4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney. More info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460. Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, meets 4th Thursday each month, 10 am, Eldorado Country Club, 2604 Country Club, McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas. More info: voyagersofmckinney@ gmail.com.

ART/MUSIC/THEATRE

Allen Folk Music Society, meets 3rd Saturday each month, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Dr. Bring snacks to share. More info: www.twiceasfar. com/news. Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, every Monday, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC. More info: Henry@WealthManagementGroupLLC.com.

CRAFTS

Allen Quilters’ Guild, meets 3rd Thursday each month, 6:30 pm, Blue House Too, Watters Creek. More info: www.allenquilters.org. Common Threads of Allen, meets 1st & 3rd Tuesdays each month, 7 pm, Whole Foods Market Café, Stacy Rd. Share needle-work projects, learn techniques, etc. More info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@ verizon.net.

HEALTH

Allen AA meets every Monday-Sunday, 601 S. Greenville. Mon.-Fri., 7 pm; Sat., 9 am; Sun., 7:30 pm. More info: Joe, 214.564.9403 & Tina, 214.566.7561. Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group meets 3rd Tuesday each month. Support & resources for parents of children with autism and other related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health. groups.yahoo.com/group/autismparentsupport. Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, meets every Tues & Thur, 7 pm, 1st UMC, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. For friends and family of alcoholics. More info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon.alateen.org. American Cancer Society Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appointments. If you have a car and have time 9 am-5 pm, you can help. More info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711. Baylor Health Care System support groups, medical info and events. More info: www.BaylorHealth.com. Cancer Support Ministry, meets 2nd Sunday each month, 4 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. More info: Jimmy Smith, 972.727.8241. Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Meets monthly. Days & locations vary. More info: www.75013. theheartlinknetwork.com. Nar-Anon Family Group, meets every Wednesday, 7:30-8:30 pm, at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. Fellowship for those affected by someone else’s addiction. More info: Nar-Anon.org or 800.477.6291. National Alliance of Mental Illness (for Collin County) Support Groups meet every Thursday, 6:30-8 pm, LifePoint Church, in the LifePoint Kids Bldg, 4501 Hedgcoxe Rd, Plano. There is one support group for persons with a mental illness and another group further down the hall for friends and/or family. More info: NAMI Dallas, 214.341.7133. Take Off Pounds Sensibly, meets every Tuesday, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd UMC, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. More info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org. Texas Health Presbyterian, variety of events. More info: www.texashealth.org. The Shores AA Group, every Monday-Friday, noon, Raceway Prof. Bldg., 200 W. Boyd, Suite C, Allen. Open AA discussion group. All welcome. More info: 469.854.9593. Weight Watchers, meets every Thursday, 12:15 & 6 pm, 1st UMC, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. South entrance, 2nd floor.

Allen Image | May 2019

HOBBIES/SPORTS/FITNESS

Allen Classic Cars, meets every Thursday, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Stacy Furniture. Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, meets 2nd Monday each month, 6:30 pm, Collin College, Central Park Campus Conference Center, 2200 W. University Dr., McKinney. More info: www.cchba.org. Fit and Funky Fit Club, meets every Monday, 7:30 pm, & every Sunday, 7 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. More info: fitandfunky@att.net. Infinity Personal Fitness Charity Workout, meets every other Saturday at 9 am, 1201 W. McDermott, Suite 106, Allen. Min. donation $5. Proceeds donated to local charities. More info: email cattaneo.ray@gmail.com. McKinney Chess on the Square, meets every Wednesday, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. More info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org. McKinney Chess Club, every Saturday, 10:30 am-1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Free. And, every Friday, 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney. Adults 50+(Free). More info: 972.547.7491. Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. More info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www.planobicycle.org. Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, 2nd Tuesday each month, 5024 Custer, Plano, 7 pm., and at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, last Saturday every month, 8 am. More info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244 or www.planopacers.org. Pure Athlete Volleyball Club offers high-performance volleyball skills training and club teams for boys and girls ages 6-18. Free player assessment. More info: Mischelle Slaton, 214.803.0311 or www.pureathleteclub.org. Skilled Motorcycle Riders Association promotes motorcycle safety through rider training. Monthly practice courses, social activities, etc. More info: www. skilledmotorcycleriderassociation.com. Stroller Strides Classes. For class information, check out Fairview.fit4mom.com. First class Free. More info: Fairview.fit4mom.com, email Lolo@fit4mom.com. The Experiment Aircraft Association, Chapter 1246, meets 1st Saturday each month, McKinney National Airport. Everyone interested in aviation is invited. More info: eaa1246.org.

MOM’S CLUBS

Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers kids age 0-5. Fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch w/friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids, etc. More info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com. Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new and expectant moms’ forum, meets 3rd Thursday each month, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. More info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330. Collin County Early Childhood PTA, meets 2nd Monday each month, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery res. required. More info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. Moms Club, meets 1st Friday each month (Sept.-May), 10 am-noon, at Grace Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy, Allen. Moms of preschool children. Relax with hot brunch & speaker. Childcare-$3 per child/$6 max. More info: www.grace-efc. org/womens-ministry/. MOMS Club of Allen, for moms & children in Allen, Fairview & Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips, business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more. More info: momsclubofallentx@gmail.com. MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op. More info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.com. Moms in Prayer, join prayer movement—bringing mothers together and seeing God change children through prayer. More info: MomsInPrayer.org or Amy Guthrie at amyguthrie@verizon.net.. MOPS, support group for moms with kids 0-5 years, meets every other Friday, 9:30-11:45 am, First Baptist Church, Allen. Childcare. More info: 972.727.8241. MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, meets 1st and 3rd Wednesday each month, 9:30-11:30 am, 3405 Custer, #200, Plano. More info: 214.762.0037. Walking by Faith, prayer and support for mothers of children with special needs. Meets 3rd Wednesday each month (during the school year), 6 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm B214. Childcare provided with advance reservations. More info: Stacie Smith, staciesmithslp@gmail.com.

mUSEUMS/preserves allen heritage guild museum

Open second and fourth Saturdays, 10 am-2 pm, 100 E. Main St., Allen. Permanent and rotating exhibits, DVD programs on Allen history and historic photo collages. More info: www.allenheritageguild.org.

Connemara Meadow Preserve

Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 3-hour walk, monthly alternating 1st Saturday and 1st Sunday, 8 am, Oct thru Apr; 7 am, May thru Sept., Alma and Tautm Rd., Allen. Bring binoculars and field guides; wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen & insect repellent; learn habits, calls and characteristics from Gailon and Rodney, Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society. All ages. More info: www.connemaraconservancy.org.

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HEARD MUSEUM

Saturday Bird Walk Educational Program, 8 am. Learn more about birding! These walks are intended to help beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, meets 2nd Tuesday each month, 7-9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome. More info: www.bptmn.org or email info@bptmn.org. Heard Museum Native Plant Society, meets 1st Tuesday each month, 7:30 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. More info: 972.562.5566. Heard Museum Nature Photography Club, meets 2nd Saturday each month, 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. More info: 972.562.5566. Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society, meets 4th Tuesday each month, 7 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. More info: 972.562.5566. Third Saturday Nature Talks: Nature Journaling. Learn new ways to experience nature through nature journaling! An intro to journaling techniques thru hands-on activities.

SENIORS

Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, meets 2nd Tuesday each month, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. More info: 214.509.4820. Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, meets 4th Monday each month, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be member of ASRC. More info: www.asgconline.com. Classic 55+ Game Night, 1st and 3rd Friday each month, 6:30 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship, games. More info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com. Singles Mingle 60+, meets 1st Monday each month at Delaney’s Irish Pub, 6150 Eldorado Pkwy, McKinney. A social forum for active men and women singles who enjoy meeting new people and like getting together twice a month. Various social activities throughout the month. More info: For meeting information on the 3rd Monday each month at 5:30 pm, call Bill, 214.544.5835. Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, meets 3rd Thursday each month, 11:30 am, Sept. thru May, First UMC Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch ($5), fellowship, speakers and entertainers. More info: jgarling@swbell. net.

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Allen High Noon Lions Club, meets 2nd & 4th Thursday each month, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. More info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952. Allen Kiwanis Club, meets every Thursday, noon, Bonefish Grill, 190 E Stacy Rd #100. Visitors welcome. More info: www.allenkiwanis.org. Allen Masonic Lodge No. 1435, meets 2nd Tuesday each month, 7:30 pm at 101 North Allen Drive. Dinner is served at 6:30 pm. More info: www:allenlodge1435.org. Allen Rotary Club meets every Wednesday, noon, 1st UMC, 601 S. Greenville, Allen. More info: www.allenrotary.org. Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, meets every Wednesday, 7 am, Warm Springs Hospital, 1001 Raintree Cir., Allen. More info: 972.673.8221 or www. allensunriserotary.com. Assistance League, Greater Collin County Chapter, meets 3rd Wednesday, 10 am at Gleneagles Country Club, Plano. Guests welcome. More info: algcc.org or call 972.769.2299. Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter, meets 3rd Tuesday each month. More info:GenBernadoDeGalvez@gmail.com. Fairview Rotary Club, meets 2nd and 4th Thursday each month, Stacy Rd, Fairview. More info: 214.893.5360. FUMC Legal Aid Clinic meets 2nd Thursday each month, 6-8 pm, First UMC, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Legal assistance for civil matters to low income individuals in partnership with Legal Aid of NW Texas. No reservation required. Food & fellowship provided. More info: kim.klieger@gmail.com or www.lanwt.org. Knights of Columbus, meets 3rd Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville Ave., Allen. More info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc.org. Knights of Columbus Council 13044 meets 4th Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, Our Lady of Angels, 1914 Ridgeview Drive, Allen. More info: Jason at jason.beckett.1@gmail.com, or visit us at https://kofcknights.org/ CouncilSite/?CNO=13044. Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, meets 2nd Monday each month, 7 pm, Tino’s Too Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, programs, etc. Open to anyone interested. More info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982. VFW Armistice Memorial Post 2195, meets 2nd Wednesday each month, 7:30 pm, Allen Heritage Guild Train Depot, 100 E. Main St., Allen. More info: Jack Rettig, 972.529.8504 or www.vfw2195.org. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150,” meets 2nd Monday each month, 6:30 pm, 1710 N. Church St, McKinney. More info: 972.542.9119, gmlsp2150@ gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, meets first Saturday each month, 10 am, 1710 N. Church St., McKinney. More info: “Driveway John” 971.822.4483, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit www.vfwpost2150.org.

formarketplace your health

Allen Image | May 2019

feature

Wishful Thinking by Simon Valentin Mallory Cass and Maybelle

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aybelle the Schnoodle is a smoky-gray, sit-in-yourlap, ball of happy. The pup with the black racing stripe down her back has a hard time sitting still, her bright eyes searching the room for snacks or mischief to get into. When thirteen-year-old Mallory Cass gives her a couple loving scratches behind the ear, it seems to soothe both of them.

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Soothing is something Mallory and her family were in need of for quite a while. When she was eight, the frecklefaced-kid from Lucas, who’d been a bundle of non-stop energy, started fading. “One day I was practicing with the swim team, then playing tennis and I felt really tired and worn out,” she said. “I started to feel really cold.”

Even though that would wear most of us out, for her, it was a slow day and she could tell something was off. Her mom, Staci, knew something was wrong as well— non-stop sinus infections and double ear infections were treated over and over with antibiotics that didn’t help. The night before another doctor’s visit, they noticed bruising on Mallory’s legs. So, this time, Staci told a visiting doctor she didn’t want to treat with antibiotics again, she wanted blood work. The physician got angry, saying she “was part of the problem,” but he relented and ordered the blood work. The next day, when the family’s regular doctor returned to his office, he made an emotion-filled phone call—Mallory had leukemia, a cancer that happens in the bone marrow. The leukemic cells weren’t feeding Mallory’s organs enough oxygen and they were shutting down. It was so pervasive, Mallory was sent straight to the hospital where an oncology team was on standby and started chemotherapy treatments that would last nearly 30 months. From that moment, the old family dynamic was a memory. For her older sister, Kylie, her mom and her dad, Rich, it became a hardcore battle against cancer—it was all about saving Mallory. “The focus became her needs, medically and emotionally,” Rich said. During her treatment, as Mallory started getting stronger, the thought of contacting Make-A-Wish started bouncing around in conversations. The Cass family discovered that Make-A-Wish is there for all kinds of kids. Some recover from their challenges; others, heartbreakingly, do not. The organization does its best to help them all, providing much more than trips. Whatever the child’s wish is, they do their best to fulfill it. “I wanted a wish that would last more than a day or a week, I wanted something I could enjoy for a long time,” Mallory said. When Make-A-Wish suggested a puppy, the young girl lit up—that was all it took. Make-A-Wish searched the region and found Maybelle, a bouncy Schnauzer Poodle mix, and it wasn’t long before the kid/canine connection was made. That became clear when friends were over and Mallory got hurt in the family pool. Her mom and sister helped her to her room. The pup scratched wildly at the closed bedroom door and when she got in she bounded onto Mallory’s bed and…stopped. “Maybelle just stood there and observed. She saw Mallory was motionless, so she laid down and snuggled right next to her,” Rich said. “It was the most amazing thing. She’s the most intuitive animal I’ve ever seen.” The family said when anyone isn’t feeling well or when there’s a bit of anxiety, Maybelle senses it and plops herself next to whoever’s out of sorts. She brings a positive energy to the entire family. That is what wishes are all about. A recent study based in Israel showed the knowledge Allen Image | May 2019

of an upcoming wish, as well as the wish itself, improved children’s physical and emotional health. The wish inspired hope, confidence and happiness, which resulted in the need for less medical visits and treatments. Other research shows dogs reduce stress and anxiety. Playing with them elevates oxytocin and dopamine, the “feel good” hormones in the brain. But, Make-A-Wish pups aren’t just triggers for our brain’s natural warm and fuzzy chemicals. These

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direction crossed the center line, and although Johny did all he could to avoid it, the cars collided head on. Sarah’s mom and brother Daniel were in the back seat and died at the scene. Sarah was left paralyzed from the waist down. About three years ago, Sarah discovered Make-AWish while reading a medical fiction story (“I love medical fiction!” she said). Her insatiable curiosity prompted research and when she learned wishes could include a dog, she was elated. “I always wanted one that would be considerate of my wheelchair, that pulls me only when I’m holding things, like when I’m at school,” she said. The request was made and after a yearlong application process, waiting for the right pup to become available, then a year of training, Sarah and Johny traveled to Kansas to Cares Incorporated. Sarah recalls the day she met Blogg. She was sitting in a room full of tables, a family seated at each one, waiting for their Sarah Philips and Blogg service dog. The first one to trot out was a handsome Golden Retriever with great energy and what appeared to be a dogs become integral for the momentgrin on its face. Sarah was seated at to-moment needs of some wish kids. the very last table and thought, “Oh, I Thirteen-year-old Sarah Philips is wish he was ours!” one of them. When she was six years As the handler walked him past old, the family was driving home to the other tables and stopped in front Allen from a trip. Her mom, Dr. of Sarah, her life changed again. Reena Daniels, and dad, Johny “I was like, yay!” she said. “He Philips, had just returned from was ours! Now, he’s always there for Jerusalem. They picked up Sarah and me, he’s a fuzzy, cuddly guardian.” her brothers, Daniel and Samuel, in Sarah was recently in the hospital New Jersey where they’d been staying for a month because of complications with relatives. Not far from home, a with the line that provides her driver headed in the opposite

nourishment, and her companion with the luxurious coat of reddish golden hair was right by her side. “He stayed next to me the entire time,” she said. “After surgery, it was nice to have him jump on the bed. He laid his head on me and no matter what I was thinking, it calmed me. It’s like he knows what I’m feeling.” Blogg also tags along with her at school and lays next to her in the classroom. If she drops a piece of paper, a pencil, an eraser, etc., he gently picks it up and hands it to her. Unfortunately, being only two years old, he occasionally mistakes an eraser for a treat and snarfs it down. He joins her pretty much everywhere at school, including their production of The Little Mermaid. Although Blogg had a bout of belly issues onstage during rehearsals (possibly due to a tasty eraser), the pup had become a well-loved member of the class and the theater teacher gave him the thumbs up to join Sarah during the actual performance. “It was five minutes before curtain went up and all of a sudden my teacher grabbed a clown fish costume and some scissors,” she said. A flurry of quick snips here and a stitch or two there to Blogg’s vest, and, voilà! “He looked like a furry clownfish, like Nemo, next to me,” Sarah said. “He’s young, but he’s smart,” Johny said of Blogg. “He understands a lot, sometimes more than human beings. We’re so grateful to Make-AWish for him.” Staci Cass echoes those thoughts when she thinks about how Maybelle helped Mallory with her healing. She wants other folks to realize how much Make-A-Wish does. “It’s more than a group that provides a thing or a vacation. It’s a community,” she said. “There’s friendship and love there. We hope to continue to be a part of Make-A-Wish for a very long time!” v Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen. Allen Image | May 2019

kids korner

Happy Campers by Deborah Dove Many parents’ happiest summer memories are those from “sleep away” camp, where kids learn self-reliance, participate in activities they might not normally get to experience and forge friendships that last a lifetime. According to Bob Ditter, M.Ed., LCSW, the following are good indications they’re ready for overnight camp—they show interest or ask to go; they’ve slept away from home before; they’re confident in new situations; they can bathe themselves; they can swim; they’re comfortable with new people; they can follow instructions; and mom and dad are ready to let them go. If your child is ready, you might want to consider the following camps in the area.

Faith-Based

Pine Cove, Tyler and Columbus (Central Texas) This Christian camp for second graders to high school seniors (campers are grouped together in separate parts of the camp by age) offers daily Bible study and activities such as horseback riding, a skate park, climbing wall, tubing, zip line, a pool with a blog, trapeze, slides and more. There are two camps—one in Tyler and one in Columbus, Texas—and sessions are one to two weeks. Prices start at $1049. Visit www.pinecove.com for more information.

Sky Ranch, Van, Texas Sky Ranch offers a five-to-one camper to counselor ratio with Christian college-aged counselors and activities galore for campers in first through ninth grade. Sessions are one week long and campers fill their days with Bible study, sports, water activities such as the blob and water slides, laser tag, horseback riding, a zipline, climbing wall, and of course, campfires. Leadership camp is offered for teens in seventh through twelfth grade in Van or at their Colorado camp. Sky Ranch also offers a rodeo camp for kids in second through seventh grade who are just learning the basics of roping, barrels, poles and goat tying and for girls in seventh through eleventh grade who enjoy horseback riding and want to deepen their spiritual life. Camp prices start at $1018. For more information, visit www.skyranch.org.

Traditional

Camp Olympia, Livingston, Texas Located on beautiful Lake Livingston since 1968, Camp Olympia is one of the best-known overnight camps in the U.S. Camp Olympia offers a classic summer camp experience focused on building character and values, with over forty activities campers can choose from depending on their interests. From wakeboarding and watersports of all kinds to golf and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone. There’s a four-to-one counselor to camper ratio, and sessions are two or three weeks for seven- to sixteen-yearold campers and one week for six- to nine-year-old campers. Cost begins at $1900 for one-week sessions and $3705 for two-week sessions. Visit www. campolympia.com for more information.

Camp Grady Spruce, Possum Kingdom Lake, Texas Offered by the YMCA, Camp Grady Spruce is a co-ed overnight camp for children age six to sixteen. Nestled just 120 miles west of Dallas on beautiful

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Possum Kingdom Lake, Camp Grady Spruce is the quintessential summer camp, offering arts and crafts, archery, canoeing, horseback riding, outdoor living skills, riflery, swimming, sailing, skiing and more. Camps run throughout the summer from Sunday to Saturday, with weekly themes such as Color Wars, Amazing Race and Superhero Week. Cost is $899, with an optional add-on for transportation to and from camp. Visit www. campgradyspruce.org for more information.

Collin County Adventure Camp, Anna, Texas This YMCA camp in nearby Anna offers day camp for kids ages 5-13 who want to experience camp, but aren’t ready to stay overnight, as well as a seven-day/six-night themed overnight camp for kids 7-13. Cost is $215/ week for day camp and $515 for overnight. Visit www. collincountyadventurecamp.org for more information.

Specialty

SeaWorld, San Antonio, Texas SeaWorld Overnight Camps are an all-inclusive experience allowing students going into fifth grade through college exclusive insight to the amazing animals that call SeaWorld home. Campers have the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the animal exhibits, work alongside SeaWorld professional to prepare animal food, clean, and interact with the animals and enjoy rides, shows and time in Aquatica. Camps run Sunday through Friday and cost $765 (7-8 grade) or $900 for high school students, including dorm and meals. For more information, visit www.seaworld.com.

Charis Hills, Sunset, Texas Located in the North Texas Hill Country area, Charis Hills is a Christian Summer Camp that offers kids with learning differences and social difficulties—those with ADD, ADHD, high-functioning Autism, Asperger’s disorder and other special needs—an opportunity to come to a place of acceptance. Camp is tailored for each child’s unique needs. Activities include animal care, boating and swimming, geocaching, golf, horseback riding, outdoor skills (such as setting up a tent), skeet shooting, music, dance and more, plus crazy theme nights such as Top-Secret Agent, Crazy Circus, Camouflage and Rodeo and Talent Show nights. Camp sessions are one week long and cost $1,500. For more information, visit www.charishills. org. v

formarketplace your health

Allen Image | May 2019

education

Soaring Together Allen ISD Celebrates Diverse Community by David Hicks

The fact that every Allen ISD student becomes an Allen Eagle is a common bond and source of community pride. While all students share this bond, they also hail from diverse backgrounds, which helps form the tapestry of the community. That tapestry was on full display at Soaring Together, Allen ISDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual diversity showcase on March 29.

A Vietnamese traditional canonical hat dance

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he showcase, held at Allen High School, provided students an opportunity to shine a spotlight on their unique cultural backgrounds. A crowd of hundreds watched as students performed songs or dances from cultures as diverse as Indian, German, Latin American, Korean and Vietnamese. The showcase was hosted by the Allen ISD Diversity Committee, which is composed of parents, community members and AISD staff. The showcase, which is in its second year, was a longtime goal of the committee to help bring the entire community together. “Originally, the committee looked at hosting an MLK Day event, but then decided that we wanted to create something unique in Allen” said Richard Jordan, Diversity Committee Chair. “Eventually, our idea morphed into this event, Soaring Together, where we can highlight and celebrate our diversity.” Many parents watched with pride as their children performed significant dances or songs from their cultural heritage. Prachi Mohanty beamed with a smile as she watched her daughter perform a semiclassical Indian dance with her classmates from Preston Elementary. Mohanty and her daughter arrived early and stayed late to watch a majority of the student presentations. “Events like this showcase, it’s why we love Allen,” Mohanty said. “We are a global community, and we just love to come together as one and celebrate with each other.” Students of all ages performed, ranging from young students in elementary school to seniors in high school. Daniel Hanfland and two of his classmates from Allen High School’s German Club performed a traditional German folk dance called the Holzhacker. Clad in a blue-checkered shirt and brown lederhosen, the trio danced, leapt and flailed their arms around a wooden log. According to Hanfland, the Holzhacker dance dates back hundreds of years and was performed by lumberjacks in the mountains of Bavaria. Hanfland and the rest of the German Club members decided to participate in Soaring Together for two reasons: to spread interest in the German culture and potentially recruit new club members. Hanfland said joining the club was the best decision of his high school career and hopes other students can share the same experiences. “I joined because I am German, and have family in Germany, so it just seemed like a natural fit,” Hanfland said. “But, now I’ve been in the club for three years and I’m just so grateful for the friends I’ve

Students performing a traditional Mongolian dance

Parents, students and community members were thrilled to be a part of the 2nd annual Soaring Together: Diversity Showcase.

Members of the German Club performed a traditional German folk dance called the Holzhacker.

Allen Image | May 2019

An Indian classical Tabala and song

made and experiences I’ve had. It’s so much more than just a club to me.” Soaring Together also featured a row of informational booths hosted by various organizations where

A folkloric Latin Americann dance

curious visitors could learn more about yoga or receive a temporary henna tattoo. Students from Allen High School’s Korean Club hosted a booth with the intention of drawing

new members to the organization. Claire Monroy, a junior in the Korean Club, said being able to witness the community coming together for the event was an added bonus. “Allen High School is just made up of so many students from so many different cultures, and I think we’re lucky that we get to experience that,” Monroy said. “Having exposure to so many different people helps me become more open-minded and realize that there are a whole lot of different perspectives in our world.” The Diversity Committee is already looking forward to the future and planning to make Soaring Together bigger and better in the following years, according to Jordan. A potential goal includes raising money through the event, either through donations or sponsorships, to help fund a student scholarship. “The committee would love to see this event grow and become a cherished annual event in our community,” Jordan said. “Seeing these families and students smiling and excited to be a part of this event makes it all worth it.” v David Hicks is the Director of Communications for Allen ISD.

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finance

The Market Is Up, Now What? by Steven J. Dawson Over the years, I’ve found that during volatile times in the stock market, remaining level headed and committed to a sound investing strategy has rewarded many in their portfolios. However, what should one do when the market appears to be doing well or after their accounts have bounced back from the red? This tends to be a very popular question, so I thought I would take a moment to share a few ideas.

just because the S&P 500 might have dropped 10% or 20%, doesn’t necessarily mean your overall portfolio is down by the same amount. It’s the difference between falling on the grass or the concrete, one landing is a little easier to get up from. Most investment professionals would agree that diversification is a very important component of helping reach long-range financial goals while seeking to minimizing risk.

Consider Your Risk Tolerance

Volatility Isn’t Always a Bad Thing

This particular piece of advice takes a lot of introspection. The truth in most cases is that everyone wants to earn as much return as possible, as long as there isn’t much risk involved. However, that isn’t how the markets work and it’s not the best way to make long-term financial decisions. If the ups and downs of a turbulent market are a bit too much for you as an investor, consider scaling back your risk and reallocating to more conservative investments. Now that the market has stabilized since the fourth quarter of 2018, taking some gains from your portfolio might be worth considering.

Contingent upon the investor’s risk tolerance and time horizon towards retirement, a few corrections in the market could represent opportunity. I understand that this runs contrary to the average investor’s frame of thought. Consider

this, as humans we prefer predictability, smooth roads and sailing, yet the unpredictability of markets, and life itself, is part of the fabric of wealth creation and asset protection. Unpredictability creates profitable opportunities for investors to help reach their goals. Now may be the perfect time to speak with your CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional to discuss what the best move is for you and your family. v Steven Dawson is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, educator, national speaker and president of Dawson Private Wealth in Allen. Any information provided in this article has been prepared from sources believed to be reliable, but is not guaranteed by Raymond James Financial Services and is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision. Views expressed are the current opinion of the author, but not necessarily those of Raymond James or RJFS, and are subject to change without notice. Asset allocation and diversification do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future results. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful. Investing involves risk. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Any information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation. Dawson Private Wealth is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.

Stay Diversified Even a diversified portfolio is no guarantee that you won’t suffer losses. But, diversification means that Allen Image | May 2019

style

Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Out by Natasha Moser

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elebrate Mom this May with a shopping trip! Spoil her with fun separates, vibrant printed dresses and gorgeous jewelry from local designers. Shopping local is a great way to support your community and the artists that live and work in it.

Have fun with separates this spring. Local mom, Annette, looks amazing in a floral duster that can easily transform to a dress from Soaked in Luxury. It is paired with an understated white t-shirt made by Velvet by Graham & Spencer and skinny stretch denim in a dark wash by Level 99. She finishes off her look with a multi-strand beaded necklace and beaded stretch bracelets with coin accents by Frisco jewelry designer Catherine Page and Crystal-embedded pearl stud earrings from local Plano jewelry designer Giselle Lin of Cupid Stone. Maggey sports a light pink linen shirt by Cino, her own white jeans and jewelry by local Fort Worth designer Kori Green.

d Make gift-giving more fun by taking mom shopping to pick out something she really loves. Annette and her daughter, Dayley, are enjoying some time together with unique finds at the jewelry table. Mother-daughter matching outfits may be for the younger girls, but why not wear outfits that complement each other as you spend the day out celebrating mom. Annette looks elegant in a colorful, abstract print maxi dress by Conditions Apply. Dayley wears a tie-front dress in complementary colors by the same designer. Annette accessorizes with gold bangles by Julie Vos. Her gold and pearl charm necklace and Dayleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beaded moon necklace and baroque-style, textured gold fill hoop earrings with pearl accents are all designed by Kori Green. Allen Image | May 2019

d Thank you to the Julep Boutique at Preston Park Village, 1900 Preston Road, Suite 150 in Plano for providing the amazing looks for our models. Thank you to our beautiful models, Annette, Maggey and Dayley Rayburn. Special thanks to Dayley Rayburn for makeup and Tara

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The mother-daughter trio is enjoying a lunch at Katy Trail Outpost in Plano. Annette is wearing a blue silk blouse in a stunning crane print by designer Tyler Boe and white stretch pants by Krazy Larry. Her finishing touches are a coin pearl necklace by Kori Green and stretchbeaded bracelets and pearl drop earrings by Catherine Page. Maggey, standing, is wearing an embroidered dress by Jade, and Dayley’s ensemble includes an abstractprinted blouse and light blue blazer by Weverly Grey. Maggey’s necklace and Dayley’s pearl stud earrings are both by Giselle Lin for Cupid Stone. Dayley’s coin pendant necklace is by Tat2 Designs.

Jane Hlavac at 214.437.5821, for the hair styling for all of our models. v Natasha Moser is a freelance writer and stylist. Amber Starling Photography at amberstarling.com provided photos.