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At the Law Offices of Dana C. Palmer, they believe that divorce doesn’t have to be so hard.

as a battle, with each spouse trying to extract as much money as possible from the other, then no one ‘wins.’

“What we try to do is get people through a divorce in the healthiest way possible so that everyone can move on to the next chapter in their lives, in the best way possible,” says Dana, creator of the Soft Divorce® brand. “We don’t define success by the other party’s failure. Instead, our goal is for our client, their children, and even their soon-to-be-ex-spouse, to be as healthy as possible after the divorce.”

“I’m the type of person who is always looking a better way to do something—and when I find that better way, I feel compelled to share it with others,” Dana explains. “That’s why I’m now sharing the Soft Divorce® program worldwide.”

A better way to divorce It’s a concept that Dana created after focusing his law firm in McKinney on family law in 2011. “I opened the firm in 2006, practicing a wide variety of cases. I soon realized that family law cases provided me with the biggest opportunity to help people and that’s when I decided to narrow my focus,” Dana says. Quickly, he says, he saw that when divorce is approached

Dana C. Palmer

Soft Divorce® is a concept and framework of best practices in family law and divorce procedures that aim to keep divorces civil, family-oriented, healthy and as painfree and stress-free as possible. “I believe in Soft Divorce® because it’s better than a ‘hard divorce.’” Dana says. “At the end of the day, former spouses will always be parents together and they need to have the best possible relationship with one another, as well as with their kids. A Soft Divorce® allows for that.”

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

r. Allen Gandy is a respected, board-certified orthodontist who has been in practice since 2003. He is one of few orthodontists in Texas offering in-office i-CAT 3-D imaging as a routine diagnostic tool for individualized treatment planning. This cutting edge 3-D treatment allows for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

“There’s a significant difference in the amount of information that we obtain from traditional 2-D x-rays compared to this advanced 3-D technology,” explains Dr. Gandy. “3-D imaging helps eliminate guesswork in many orthodontic situations. I can evaluate my patients’ growth and dental development accurately. “

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

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

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

ALLEN/FAIRVIEW 431 Stacy Road, Suite 109

972.727.3900 Wylie 972.429.0300

Frisco 972.712.9300

contents

September 2013

Vol. 23, Issue 9

cover story

58 Get on the band wagon

Under Craig’s direction, the Allen High School Band racked up many awards and accolades over the years—Grand Champion status from Marching Auxiliaries of America, two consecutive first place awards at the State Marching Contest and his bands marched in the 1997 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and earned Overall Winner for the 1994 Dublin International Band Competition. He worked with the Allen High School Band for 19 years, 18 as director, now he’s moving on to a new adventure—a community band. Several musicians from around the community have already hunted down their old musical instruments and joined Craig in his new endeavor. by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

special sections 29 pet page Readon

36 kids korner

Meals, Deals & Steals by Deborah Dove

46 calendar 66 business seen

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Glourious Cleaning Services The Boardroom Salon for Men Sandy M. Liu, Atty. at Law, PLLC by Nicole Bywater

For a chance to win a $50 dining card

contents departments civic forum 10

Happy Fall Fest by Jeff Mues

Chrysalis Ball

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Get Up and Give Allen

Brighten the Night

Join the conversation about Allen’s future

publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

advertising sales Sue Hardesty Kris Jones

by Kathleen Vaught

contributing writers

Into the Meadow Allen Coin Show

Nicole Bywater

Is Allen ready for the first Fire Truck Golf Ball Drop? Equest Men’s Auxiliary Golf Classic honors “Hooves for Heroes”

Allen Image

Allen Masonic Golf Tournament ACO golf goes shaken & stirred 27th Annual Golf Classic

Masonic scholarships

The Allen Quilters’ Guild Play 60 Allen student takes U.S. Gold

Deborah Dove Melanie Hess Tom Keener Jeff Mues Peggy Helmick-Richardson Keith A. Taylor Kathleen Vaught

cover photo Larry Fleming

library by Tom Keener

Allen Folk Festival

Sid Gutierrez

Viva Mariachi Fred & Ginger

education 32

Dr. Ken Helvey reflects by Keith A. Taylor

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Community impact from Collin to Columbia by Melanie Hess

cooking 42

An apple a day 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

Happy Fall Fest by Jeff Mues

Celebrate fall with a day of fun for the entire family at Allen Senior Recreation Center’s Happy Fall Fest. Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 14 because this is the place to be! From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., more than 50 vendors and artisans will offer an assortment of wonderful and unique gifts to choose from. But there’s much more than just shopping to keep you entertained at this free event. With a classic car show, children’s activities, historic tours, celebrity appearances and food vendors, the Happy Fall Fest offers something for everyone. The Classic Car Show, an exhibit and competition hosted by the Morning Maniacs, is one of the exciting additions this year. Many different makes and models of antique, classic and custom cars and trucks will be parked on the grassy field beside the building. Those with classic automobiles 25 years or older are invited to be a part of the show and can register through the Morning Maniacs ($10 for early registration through September 7) or day of show for a fee of just $15. 1 0 w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

What would the event be without delicious food choices? The Food Circle at Heritage Village will certainly be a popular place with a variety of food trucks offering delicious items including fairstyle fare such as corn dogs, funnel cakes and much, much more. Representatives from the Allen Heritage Guild will provide tours of two of the landmarks of the historic Allen Heritage Village—the Allen Christian Church and St. Mary Church—providing a rare glimpse into Allen’s historic past. The Allen Christian Church is a prairie style structure built in 1918 with beautiful stained glass windows dedicated in memory of the Brown, Bush and Ereckson pioneer families. In 2003, this church was moved from its original location to facilitate the reconstruction of Allen Drive. St. Mary Church was donated to the Allen Heritage Guild in 1999 by the Reverend George Anderson. Through careful restoration, the church has been restored to what it may have looked like at the turn of the twentieth century. “With the success of the Harvest Craft Festival in its first two years, we are excited to expand upon the event this year, re-branding it as the Happy Fall Fest, with many more offerings for the whole family” says Leslie Doran-Cope, Senior Recreation Center supervisor. “We are really taking it to another level with a classic car show, a great selection of food vendors and a special appearance from our favorite local celebrity, Burton Gilliam.”

Gilliam, who first became a star playing the role of Lyle in Blazing Saddles, should be a big hit, especially with children. All ages should appreciate seeing him in full Western attire, acting the part of the cowboy in the Old West. How well he will do at the planned calf-roping activity remains to be seen! As amusing as Gilliam will be, kids can enjoy more traditional enter足 tain足ment as well, in the form of balloon artists, face painters, crafts, a dunking booth, bounce house and games such as the bean-bag toss. Children can enjoy all of this with a wristband that is just $3 for unlimited fun! Allen Senior Recreation Center is conveniently located at 451 St. Mary Drive on the corner of St. Mary and Cedar Drive. Overflow parking will be available next door to the facility at The Edge Visitor Center and Skate Park and Allen Station Park. Complimentary shuttles will be available. For more information, please call the Allen Senior Recreation Center v 214.509.4820. Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen Event Center and Allen Parks and Recreation Department. Allen Image x September 2013

Chrysalis Ball

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County (BGCCC) will hold its annual Chrysalis Ball on Saturday, October 5, at The Frisco Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center. The public is invited to attend this event. The ball will help financially support the growing needs of the BGCCC. Last year the organization experienced a 24% increase in membership and anticipates an even larger increase this year. This event plays a vital role in raising funds that support the organization’s programs. This year ’s theme is Building Bridges for Brighter Futures. CEO Mike Simpson states “The emphasis is on the importance of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Collin County, along with our supporting corporations and individuals, to help our young people move from children with issues and concerns across the bridge of many

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challenges to become productive, caring, responsible citizens.” The Chrysalis Ball has an average attendance of 750 people and is the largest annual fundraising event for The BGCCC. Last year’s gala generated over $750,000 in gross revenue for the organization. “Our goal for 2013 is to exceed last year ’s numbers in attendance and revenue generated,” said Simpson. “Not only have our clubs seen a tremendous increase in memberships, we have a fleet of buses and vans that need to be replaced.” He also expressed that few people understand that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin county has to pick up kids from over 60 locations across Collin County, including 58 schools, to bring them to our clubs. BGCCC wants to serve more kids in need; however, they need the additional transportation capabilities to do so.

For more information about individual tickets contact Laura Bese at 214.544.8924 ext. 105 or lbese@gccc. org. To find out about underwriting or sponsorship opportunities, contact Dennis Luellen at 214.544.8924 ext. 140 or dluellen@bgccc.org. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Collin County has been meeting the needs of children in Collin County since 1968 and their mission is to “enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.” The organization currently serves approximately 7,000 children each year through its afterschool, summer and outreach programs and has branches in McKinney, Plano and Frisco. Please visit the BGCCC website at: http://www.bgccc.org for additional information. v

Walk to End Alzheimers

The Alzheimer ’s Association invites Collin County residents to unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions through your participation in the organization’s Allen Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The walk launches from

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Celebration Park in Allen on Saturday, September 28, at 9 a.m. It is a great experience for thousands of participants in our community to learn about Alzheimer’s disease and how to get involved with this critical cause.

Alzheimer’s is a growing epidemic and is the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with this disease will rapidly escalate increasing well beyond today’s estimated 5.4 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. In Texas, there are 340,000 people with Alzheimer ’s and the number is expected to grow to half-amillion by 2025. The Alzheimer ’s Association Greater Dallas chapter has six walks spread throughout the Dallas area. The money raised in the Walk to End Alzheimer ’s will provide research, programs, services and education to help those affected in this area. Last year the association helped over 8,000 individuals affected by Alzheimer ’s through support groups, education, programs and Helpline. In addition to the 3-mile walk, participants will enjoy great music and fun activities for children, as well as a special tribute to those who have experienced or are experi encing Alzheimer ’s. “I want to be part of finding a solution to this problem, and I want our community to be a part of finding a solution to this problem as well. Walking and raising funds is one choice we can all make to be part of the solution,” said Kimberly Munson is the chairman for the Allen Walk Committee to End Alzheimer’s. As a result of the death of her grandmother from Alzheimer’s, and the devastating effect the disease had on her and her family, she decided to be more actively involved in helping the Alzheimer ’s Association raise money to fund research for finding a cure. “Every minute is a memory,” said Munson. Join Kimberly by signing up to walk at alz.org/allenwalk. To receive more information about the Alzheimer ’s Association, Greater Dallas Chapter and how they can help you, contact the Helpline at 800.272.3900 or online at Alz.org/ GreaterDallas. v

Get Up and Give Allen You can do it in your pajamas while drinking coffee; you can do it at work when you take a break; you can do it while eating lunch; or do it with a group of friends over dinner. Whenever, wherever you are on September 19, get up and give to an Allen nonprofit on this special day! North Texas Giving Day is an annual fundraising event that has pumped more than $34 million into North Texas over the past three years. In 2012, Allen area nonprofits also participated in this one-day event which broke records with 37,800 gifts totaling $14.4 million. Including the Allen organizations, more than 900 nonprofits benefit from the day, which is coordinated by the Communities Foundation of Texas and the Center for Nonprofit Management. Thursday, September 19, is the date for North Texas Giving Day 2013. The Allen nonprofits that will again participate are Allen Arts Alliance, Allen Community Outreach, Allen Parks Foundation, Connemara Conservancy Foundation, Foundation for Allen Schools and Foundation for Lovejoy Schools. Donations may be made in any amount but each donation of $25 or above qualifies for bonus or partial matching funds. There will be at least $1.5 million in bonus funds and $172,000 in prize funds. Every gift of $25 or more will be multiplied by a

percentage, plus the organizations are eligible for prize grants in amounts up to $10,000. All donations must be made online between 7 a.m. and midnight at DonorBridgeTX.org. The participating

organizations can monitor their donations throughout the day and will post results. For more information, visit the website of the participating organizations, DonorBridgeTX.org or cfTexas.org. v

Allen Image x September 2013

Brighten the Night Carson’s Crusaders Foundation will host the second annual Brighten the Night Wine Tasting and Live Auction on Thursday, September 19, at the brand new Noah’s Event Center in Fairview. This event raises funds to provide support and assistance to children and families who are battling solid tumor childhood cancers. We are pleased to announce that wine guru David Pennachetti will be hosting the tasting this year, and Albert Segui of Café Malaga will be A volunteer with a child served at an event for the sibling program at the Dallas Zoo in June. catering the event. More than 500 children in the Dallas-Fort Worth area Crusaders Foundation provides them with gas cards, are currently fighting a solid tumor cancer. Because we hospital parking vouchers and other financial assistance know that cancer treatment places extreme financial to alleviate some of the financial strain associated with burden on the families of these children, Carson’s transportation. We also provide support to the siblings of

Carson’s Crudsaders Foundation board members

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the cancer patient in a time when they often feel isolated and lonely. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month. Brighten the Night will highlight Childhood Cancer Awareness month and give people an opportunity to support a locally based charity. Every dollar raised will go to assist these children and their families in a time of great need and uncertainty. Just as light transforms darkness, the community’s generous support of Carson’s Crusaders Foundation will provide a spark to brighten the lives of these children and their families. Carson’s Crusaders Foundation was established in memory of Carson Richardson, who lost his battle with hepatoblastoma cancer in 2010 at the age of seven. Through Carson’s three-and-half-year battle with hepatoblastoma, the Richardsons were blessed with financial, emotional and spiritual support from friends and family. Their community embraced and supported them through the difficult journey and they soon realized that not all families were as fortunate. Their desire to help others led to the formation of Carson’s Crusaders Foundation. v

Join the

conversation about Allen’s future

by Kathleen Vaught

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn—just a few ways we engage in conversations on a daily basis. We connect to other people, to a status or a thought or a product or company page without effort. But, how often does a comment have the power to shape an entire community? The City of Allen wants to find out by inviting residents to participate in www.AllenIdeas.com beginning September 3. The online engagement tool www.AllenIdeas.com will initiate a conversation about Allen’s future. What types of housing and businesses will be needed in the next 10 or 20

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years? How do we meet the transportation needs of a growing and changing population? What community facilities will we need? Answers to questions like these will help shape a comprehensive plan that defines the city’s future. Just as Allen today is the direct result of previous planning efforts by residents, business owners, city staff and elected officials, Allen’s future will be guided by the same type of strategic planning process. With citizen input, technical data analysis and practical planning principles, a vision for the future is mapped out as the city’s comprehensive plan. “The comprehensive plan establishes goals and policies for future growth and development,” explained Lee Battle, Assistant Director of Community Development for the City of Allen. “The plan guides decisions in areas such as land uses, transportation, housing, economic development, parks, community facilities and infrastructure. And for it to be truly comprehensive, we need input from our residents and business community.” The current comprehensive plan was adopted in 2003 and has helped transform our city into the community we enjoy today. Back then, the population was just over 57,000, only about two-thirds of what it is now. Though much has

changed over the last ten years, the plan provided the necessary and valuable guidance needed to maintain our high quality of life as we grew. A key factor to Allen’s success is the periodic reevaluation of the overall plan to ensure it continues to meet the vision of city leaders and residents. In September with the launch of www.AllenIdeas.com, city staff will initiate a comprehensive plan update to reexamine how the city will continue to grow and develop over the next 15-20 years. Like any makeover, the result is only as good as the effort that goes into it. A stunning home, like a community, requires attention to detail, quality workmanship and pride of place. The success in fine-tuning Allen’s comprehensive plan will be the direct result of engaged residents that participate in the conversation about Allen’s future. “We want feed b ack and need creative ideas from our residents as we plan for Allen’s bright future,” continued Battle. “In previous years, gathering citizen input through traditional methods has proved challenging. So, in order to benefit from the tremendous online inter action that our residents currently do, we are turning to emerging civic engagement technologies to help get everyone involved.” The City of Allen has partnered with MindMixer, a web-based civic engagement platform, to develop www.AllenIdeas.com. Similar to other social networking sites, www. AllenIdeas.com is an interactive platform designed to open a dialogue not only between residents and city staff, but with each other. Through this conversation, we hope to generate and capture new ideas and feedback in various ways including surveys, polls, photo responses and idea submissions. The MindMixer tool allows us to facilitate the conversation across computers, smart phones and other mobile devices with basic Internet access. In order to participate, residents

simply need to sign up using existing accounts with Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+ or any standard email address. Once registered and logged in, residents can post comments and access the tool through various mobile devices. Because the site is interactive, the ideas and comments will continue to evolve. Residents are encouraged to visit the site on a regular basis to follow the conversations. The entire engagement process to update the plan will take about three

months, which includes city staff facilitating the conversation, preparing drafts based on the input and then sharing results with the community before proposing final updates to Allen City Council. Please visit www.AllenIdeas.com and sign up to join the conversation beginning September 3 and become a v part of planning Allen’s future. Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen.

Allen Image x September 2013

Snippets Into the Meadow The Connemara Meadow Preserve will once again be filled with food, fun, friends and music when the Connemara Conservancy Foundation hosts its fourth annual Into The Meadow presented by Whole Foods Markets on September 21. In just three years, Into The Meadow has become Connemara’s signature fundraising event, celebrating locally produced food and the conservancy’s mission of preserving and protecting open space throughout North Texas.

a magical evening. And it all goes to support the important work of the Connemara Conservancy.” Tickets are $200 per person and can be purchased at www. intothemeadow.com or by calling 469.200.4085 x101. The event begins at 5 p.m. and benefits the Connemara Conservancy, which currently protects more than 4,000 acres of open space throughout North Texas. v

This year’s dinner under the stars will once again feature the combined culinary talents of Patina Green and George Brown of Experimental Table, one of DFW’s top caterers. A live auction will follow dinner as well as dancing to the music of Nelo, an Austin-based alternative rock band. “We’re very excited about this year’s Into The Meadow,” said Connemara Executive Director Sandra Greenway, who noted that the first three fundraisers were sold out and she expects the 2013 tickets to go quickly. “From the cocktail reception in the Pecan Grove to the dramatic sunset to the fireflies floating throughout the meadow during dinner under the stars, it truly is

Allen Coin Show

Clean out your drawers, search between the sofa cushions, dig through old coat pockets and break open old piggy banks. Then gather up those rare finds and bring them to the coin show to be hosted in Allen.

On Saturday, September 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., highly collectible rare coins and currency, both domestic and foreign, will be on display at the Allen Depot, 100 E. Main. Eighteen dealers, including Allen’s own Steve Anderson

and Glen Shake, will be on hand to evaluate coins and currencies brought in and make offers. And if you don’t have any to sell, you might be interested in looking at or even buying old coins and currency to add to your own collection. Don’t have a collection? Then this would be a good time to start one. Coins are not only works of art, but for many are a far more interesting investment than the roller coaster risks of the stock market. And how often can you double your money in just a few minutes? Take a look if you have a jar of old pennies. Copper pennies minted before 1982 are now worth two cents each. “Double-die” pennies from 1972 and 1955 can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars! In addition to the coins, currency and bullion, an abundant arsenal of supplies for every collector will also be available. Free appraisals and coin grading! Sponsored by the Allen Heritage Guild, attendance is free with door prizes awarded every hour! For information, contact Stan Schwartz at SS124@ sbcglobal.net. v

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Snippets Golf Anyone? Is Allen ready for the first Fire Truck Golf Ball Drop?

Equest Men’s Auxiliary Golf Classic honors “Hooves for Heroes”

The Kiwanis Club of Allen will sponsor a “Golf Ball Drop” in conjunction with the annual Ron Gentry Memorial Golf Tournament. Golf balls, which may be purchased for $10 each or three for $25, will be dropped from the ladder of an Allen fire truck onto a practice green at the Courses of Watters Creek. The ball closest to the hole wins! The golf tournament is a major fundraiser for Kiwanis and is named in memory of Ron Gentry, Allen’s first fire chief and longtime member of the Allen Kiwanis Club. It is a four-person scramble with an entry fee of only $100 per golfer, which includes hole-in-one, closest to the pin and longest drive contests and dinner. There will also be a silent auction and door prizes. This is the eighteenth year Kiwanis has hosted a golf tournament and the first year for the ball drop. The ball drop and tournament will be held on Thursday, October 10, at The Courses at Watters Creek, 7201 Chase Oaks Blvd. in Plano. Proceeds will benefit the many childrenoriented service projects sponsored by Kiwanis. To participate in the ball drop or the tournament, you may contact any Allen Kiwanis member or go to www. AllenKiwanis.org. v

Equest is a non-profit internationally recognized therapeutic riding center for children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities. Equest also assists veterans who are dealing with the stress of returning from combat with the “Hooves for Heroes” program. Join us for our golf classic as we honor the Equest Hooves for Heroes veterans on September 8-9, at Las Colinas Country Club, 4400 N. O’Connor Road in Irving. Our honorary chairmen for this event are Congressmen Pete Sessions and Sam Johnson The Pairings Dinner is September 8 at 6:30 p.m. Our keynote speaker is Admiral Patrick M. Walsh, U.S. Navy (ret) and the cost of dinner only is $50. The golf tournament on September 9 kicks off with the shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. and includes a box lunch. Individual registration is $200 and includes one golf spot and one ticket to the Pairings Dinner; team registration is $800 and includes four golf spots and four tickets to the Pairings Dinner. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information and to purchase tickets online visit www. equestmauxgolfclassic.org. For more information about Equest visit www.equest.org v

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Snippets Allen Masonic Golf Tournament

ACO golf goes shaken & stirred! You won’t want to miss this year ’s ACO Charity Golf Classic! Girls will be out on the course mixing margaritas and giving away fun prizes, restaurants will be out there cooking up their specialties for you to sample while you play; and a Poker Run on the course increases your chances to go home with pockets full of cash. A vodkatequila bar will then be set up inside and a wonderful two-entrée dinner will be prepared by Heritage Ranch Chef Jason Bartlett—so make plans to stay for a fabulous meal. ACO’s Charity Golf Classic is set for 1 p.m., Monday, September 16, at Heritage Ranch Golf Club. Individuals $125; foursomes $450! Register online at www.acocares. org. For questions or sponsor opportunities, contact Rhonda Ptak, 972.727.9131 or rhonda@acocares.org.

Have fun and help a great cause at the Allen Masonic Lodge’s 5th Annual Community Golf Tournament on Friday, September 20 at the Courses at Watters Creek, 7201 Chase Oaks Blvd., in Plano. Registration and buffet lunch at 11 a.m.; shotgun start at noon. The cost for an individual player is $125 each; foursome, $450 (must sign up before September 1). Corporate sponsorships are available: hole sponsor, $150; silver sponsor, $500; gold sponsor, $750; and platinum sponsor, $1,000. Silver, gold and platinum levels include two, three or four playing spots, respectively, as well as added recognition, signage and company promotional items added to the goody bag. All playing spots include lunch. For more information, visit www.allenlodge1435.org or call 214.509.4653. Proceeds benefit the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and Shriners Hospitals for Children. v

With your participation you help provide shelter for a family, make sure a child doesn’t go hungry and ensure that lives will be rebuilt and transformed. All this with an all day buffet of food, drink and fun! Get shaken & stirred today! v

27th Annual Golf Classic The Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce invites you to a “fun”draising day and an excellent opportunity to treat your clients and/or employees to a golf outing. A hole-in-one, putting and other contests, along with valuable prize drawings, is what is in store for participants. Add to that breakfast, lunch and an after golf party, and you have an event to remember. Come out and play a round! Fees are: $150 per person or $500 for a four-person team. Sponsorships are also available. The fun begins at 7 a.m. and the shotgun start is at 8 a.m. on October 4, at The Courses at Watters Creek, 7201 Chase Oaks Blvd. in Plano. You may register online at www.allenchamber.com. Please contact the chamber office at 972.727.5585 for more information and sponsorship opportunities. v Allen Image x September 2013

Snippets Masonic scholarships Each year Allen Masonic Lodge No. 1435 provides scholarships to graduating Allen and Lovejoy High School seniors. On May 14, we presented our 2013 Mirabeau B. Lamar Scholarships to Amy Minix, Toma Malagic and Jaclyn Allen. Each received a scholarship of $2000. Amy Minix is a graduate of Lovejoy High School and will be attending Texas A&M in the fall, majoring in industrial engineering. Toma Malagic, an Allen High School graduate, will be studying computer software at Collin County Community College. Jaclyn Allen is a graduate of Allen High School and will be attending UCLA and majoring in biology. v

Fuel Up to Play 60

The Allen Quilters’ Guild

A Mini Quilt Auction is being held on Thursday, September 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 605 S. Greenville Ave. in Allen. Mini quilts can be used to decorate or add seasonal spice to a room by hanging them on a wall or using them as a table runner. The styles range from traditional to modern and whimsical. Other items, such as dolls and tote bags, will be available for purchase.

Trinity Williams, from James and Margie Elementary School in Allen, recently returned from a four-day Student Ambassador Summit for Fuel Up to Play 60, the nation’s largest in-school nutrition and physical activity. This year, 67 student representatives and 50 adult program advisors, including Trinity Williams met in Charlotte, North Carolina, at Bank of America Stadium, home of the Carolina Panthers. Ambassadors had the opportunity to participate in football drills led by Carolina Panthers players Ben Hartsock, Steve Smith and Luke Kuechly. “With Fuel Up to Play 60 I have learned a lot about healthy eating and how getting active for 60 minutes a day is very good for your body,” said Trinity Williams. v

You may also purchase tickets for the guild’s 2013 raffle quilt, “Show Me Your Boots.” This western-theme quilt is 74” x 95” and includes a fun surprise on the back. The silent auction is a key fundraiser for the guild and a great way for public to see what is being created by these talented members. Bidding begins at 7 p.m. The Allen Quilters’ Guild meets the third Thursday of each month at the First Presbyterian Church. For more information, visit www.allenquilters.org. v

Allen student takes U.S. Gold in fencing Ariel Armoza of Allen defeated several competitors at the USA Fencing Summer Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, last month to win the gold medal in Y10 men’s epee. A sixth grade student at Green Elementary, Ariel has been fencing for less than two years. An outstanding athlete in both football and soccer, Ariel says that fencing is much different from team sports. “In fencing you’re on your own. In the first few seconds of a bout I have to evaluate my opponent’s strengths, weaknesses and strategy, and determine the best combination of moves to get the ‘touch’ to score points.” v

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At Bethany Heights Dental Care, it’s not unusual for three generations of the same family to all be patients at the office. “We provide consistent, quality treatment to the whole family—from young children to elderly adults,” says Carla Spann, DDS. “Not only is it convenient for the family to receive treatment in one office, it also gives ‘the whole picture’ of their dental history, which is important because some issues can be hereditary.” 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.”

she adds. “As a general dentist, I take care of most of a patient’s needs. When a specialist is needed, I see myself as the ‘quarterback’ who refers to the ‘team’ for help.”

Regular checkups Children and teens should receive checkups at least twice a year to develop healthy habits and a good relationship with the dentist. For teenagers who play contact sports, such as football, Dr. Spann provides custom, high-quality mouth guards. Adults also need to make sure they’re regularly receiving checkups, Dr. Spann says, even if they don’t think they have dental problems. “Many people believe their teeth are in good condition because they don’t have cavities or toothaches,” she says. “Unfortunately, gum disease can still occur, sometimes with no signs at all.”

Early preventive care It’s recommended that parents bring infants to the dentist as early as 6 months of age, or when they get their first tooth. “At this young age, we do a lot of education on caring for a baby’s teeth and gums,” Dr. Spann explains. “Around age 6 or 7, children begin to get their first molars, and the focus is more on preventive dentistry, such as sealants and fluoride varnish that protect against tooth decay. Early childhood is a great time for Dr. Spann to check teeth spacing. If there does seem to be an issue with crowding, she will refer to local orthodontists so early intervention can take place. “As with most problems, the earlier it’s caught, the more likely it is that it can be taken care of in the least invasive way,”

No matter what stage a patient is at in their oral health, the staff at Bethany Heights Dental Care provides compassionate care and attention. “I became a dentist because I wanted to help people,” Dr. Spann says. “This is a great community that I’m proud to live and work in, and I love being able to help take care of families.”

library

Allen Folk Festival by Tom Keener

Join us for Allen Public Library’s Folk Festival at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, September 14, 300 N. Allen Drive. The program will feature two exciting programs—from the Ozarks, 3 Penny Acre will entertain you with the best of folk and roots music; and local residents Kevin Vaught, Michael Carroll and Dennis Brown will perform selections of early Texas folk music. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free. The group, 3 Penny Acre, is a musical collaboration between three songwriters—Bayard Blain, Bernice Hembree and Bryan Hembree. Their lyrics, harmony and carefully crafted acoustic arrangements are steeped in roots music traditions, but incorporate original songwriting. Released in the summer of 2010, their album, Highway 71, debuted on the folk radio charts at number three. This group has performed at the

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most revered folk festivals across the nation such as Kerrville Folk Festival, Woody Guthrie Folk Festival, St. Louis Folk and Roots Festival; and have also showcased their music at the Madison Square Park Concert Series. In 2011, 3 Penny Acre provided the music for a new play funded by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Sundown Town. The band also founded and hosts the annual Fayetteville Roots Festival in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The festival has grown rapidly over the last three years and the band has had the opportunity to present some of their “heroes” of music including Guy Clark (in 2011), John Prine (in 2012), David Grisman (in 2012) and Darrell Scott (in 2012). With Kevin Vaught on guitar, Michael Carroll on mandolin and Dennis Brown on piano, guests will enjoy this early Texas folk music as the

group offers up a toe-tapping good time. Kevin is a regular guest for Like Minded Friends and coffee houses around Allen. Michael is a composer who has crafted jazz arrangements for a Christmas hymn and classical music and Dennis is the organist for the Church of the Savior Episcopal Church in Allen. Folk music historians Alan Lomax, Francis Abernathy and William Owens recorded and documented the lyrics, notes and origins of early Texas folk songs in their respective books, The Folks Songs of North America, Singin’ Texas and Texas Folk Songs. Some Texas folk songs can be traced back to England, but evolved as they were performed on the Texas frontier. Please call 214.509.4911 for further information. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

Sid Gutierrez by Tom Keener

Sidney M. Gutierrez, the first Hispanic astronaut to command a spaceÂ s hip and the first U. S. born Hispanic astronaut, discusses his exciting career at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, September 26, at Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive. Call 214.509.4911 for more information. Sponsored by Bach to Books and Allen High School LULAC, this program is free. Selected by NASA in May 1984, Gutierrez became an astronaut in June 1985. A veteran of two space flights, he logged over 488 hours in space. He served as pilot on the Space Shuttle Columbia STS-40 (June 5-14, 1991) and was the spacecraft commander on Endeavor STS-59 (April 9-20, 1994). STS-40 was a dedicated space and life sciences mission launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew performed experiments that explored how humans, animals and cells interface with microgravity and re-adapt to Earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gravity. Following 146 orbits of the Earth, Columbia returned to Edwards Air Force Base, California. STS-59 Space Radar Laboratory was an 11-day flight dedicated to the study of the Earth and its atmosphere. Two payloads were the Spaceborne Imaging Radar-C/X-Band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SIR-C/X-SAR), and Measurement of Air Pollution from Space (MAPS). The crew completed over 400 precise maneuvers to properly orient the radar to over 400 selected sites that facilitated the completion of 14,000 photographs and recorded a vast amount of data to fill 26,000 encyclopedias. Ecology, oceanography, geology and hydrology were the topics of investigation. Launching from the Kennedy Space Center, the Endeavour

completed 183 orbits of the Earth before landing. In September 1994, Gutierrez retired from the U.S. Air Force and NASA, returned to his native home of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and joined Sandia National Laboratories.

Gutierrez serves on the board of directors of the Texas-New Mexico Power Company and Goodwill Industries of New Mexico. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

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Viva Mariachi Creating an atmosphere to stir the passions, the award-winning ensemble Mariachi Quetzal performs 7:30 p.m., Friday, September 20, at Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive. In just a short time, Mariachi Quetzal has made a major impact on the North Texas music scene, performing and con ducting student camps and teaching the art of mariachi across North Texas. Mariachi Quetzal will perform arrangements from across different regions of the Southwest and Mexico. Selections include “El Son de la Negra” (considered the ‘anthem’ of all mariachis) and Mariachi Quetzal’s own shock-wave inducing arrange ment of “Ring of Fire.”

In 2011, the Dallas Observer designated Mariachi Quetzal as the Best Latin-Tejano Act in Dallas. They are dedicated to entertaining audiences with traditional mariachi music, as well as a little bit of not-sotraditional music. Hispanic and non-Hispanic fans embrace mariachi music as the happy music of the world. The nostalgia and history expressed through the mariachi tunes bring delight and pride to all listeners. Today, it is enjoyed across the world and by countless ethnicities. This nine-piece band is comprised of a diverse group of individuals—men, women, Anglo and Hispanic—who share a love for performing mariachi

by Tom Keener music. They have played with the Irving Symphony Orchestra, Mesquite Symphony Orchestra, Fort Worth Music Fest and Dallas Wind Symphony. Mariachi Quetzal band leader Sarah Knuth notes, “Mariachi music captivates audiences with its passion, its energy and its complex rhythmic patterns. We love the challenge of playing the music and sharing it with audiences of all ages.” Sponsored by Bach to Books and Allen High School LULAC, this program is free. For more information, call 214.509.4911. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

Fred and Ginger All films are at the library, free and begin at 7 p.m on Tuesdays.

September 3

The Gay Divorcee (1934), starring Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers and Betty Grable. Mimi Glossop seeks a divorce so her Aunt Hortense hires a professional to play the correspondent in apparent infidelity. The film garnered three Academy nominations and the first Oscar for Best Song: “The Continental.”

September 10

Top Hat (1935), starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. An American dancer travels to Britain and falls for a model whom he initially annoyed, but she mistakes him for his goofy producer.

September 17

Swing Time (1936), starring Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers and Betty Furness. A performer and gambler travels to New York City to raise the $25,000 he needs to marry his fiancée, only to become entangled with a beautiful aspiring dancer. This film won an Oscar for Best Music, Original Song.

September 24

Shall We Dance (1937), starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. A budding romance between a ballet master and a tapdancer becomes complicated when rumors surface that they’re already married. v

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pet page

“Readon” Readon is SWEET SWEET SWEET! He was found as a stray and taken to the local shelter. He waited and waited for his family to come look for him but sadly no one ever did. The shelter staff loved him so they pleaded for rescue! And when a CCHS volunteer learned just how long he had been waiting, she swiftly took him into the foster care program where this very special boy now awaits his permanent home!

Readon is looking for his furever home! Readon starts off his day by giving his foster parents and his furry companions a kiss. He is such a happy boy despite his rough start at life. He is very well behaved and mild mannered. He loves to go on walks or play fetch, but is equally happy napping at his foster parents’ side. Readon does great with kiddos and other furry companions. He has not been exposed to cats while in foster care but can be cat tested if necessary. Readon is 3-4 years old, weighs 30 lbs., is neutered , heartworm negative, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. He is crate trained and house trained. He is good on leash, but is a bit nervous in the car. He is also scared of thunderstorms and he needs to be medicated, but once he takes his medication, all is good. If you are interested in meeting this loving gentle soul, please fill out an application online at http:// www.collincountyhumanesociety.org/ adoption-application.html and you will be contacted by his foster family. Allen Image x September 2013

education

Dr. Ken Helvey reflects by Keith A. Taylor

After 12 years in Allen and a career spanning more than 30 years in education, Superintendent Dr. Ken Helvey is saying goodbye to classrooms and kids with his retirement from the district in September. Dr. Helvey spent seven years in the district’s top job after being hired as an assistant superintendent in 2001. During the course of his time in Allen, the district and the community have undergone tremendous change and growth. The student population has more than doubled from around 7,000 students to more than 17,000 today. Eight elementary schools and one middle school were built. New facilities, such as Eagle Stadium and the Allen High School Performing Arts Center and Career and Technology Education center were constructed. However, the accomplishments that make Dr. Helvey most proud focus on the district’s ability to provide students with a quality education that prepares them for life, with or without college. Before leaving his post, Dr. Helvey was asked to reflect on his career, his tenure, the state of the district and what he sees in the future:

What was your first teaching job? “I began as an Ag teacher for Anna High School. I took over from a teacher who retired after 40 years, so he was well known and well-liked in the community. After about a year and

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a half in the job, I was ready to quit teaching forever. “I really needed a mentor, someone to help me learn how to teach and to be an educator. In searching for that mentor, I had the opportunity to take a position in Celina.” In Celina, Dr. Helvey served as a science teacher and football coach—a career track he would follow in Denison and continue at the S&S Consolidated Independent School district in Staples, Texas, for 12 more years. “In Celina, I had a great deal of support. I was nurtured in how to be an educator. I was mentored and connected to what I was supposed to do as a teacher. That’s where I learned the importance of mentoring and the importance of making people feel they are part of the organization.”

Why did you decide to leave teaching and coaching and move to school administration? “A lot of that gentle nudging came from my wife,” he said laughing. “She was an important part of it, but my mentors also were encouraging me at that time that I might want to consider a broader reach of leadership.

“I was a coach and athletic director. I had four young daughters at home and I was gone a lot of the time leaving my wife alone. So, I made the decision to further my education and start a new track in my career.”

Who are some of the people that influenced your career? “Marty Criswell, the head coach and athletic director in Denison. He was my role model as to what makes an educator. “I started wearing a tie to class every day because of him. At the time, most coaches always dressed like coaches, as you would expect. “However, Marty told me that when I was in class, I was an educator and I should look like an educator. After that, I always wore a tie. “He also told me that an educator’s job is to reach the student, to build their trust so they have the right kind of environment to learn in. He said if you can’t make the time or have the patience to gain a student’s trust, you might be in the wrong line of work.” He also credited three other major influences on his career. “Joe Wardell, the superintendent

at S&S Consolidated, taught me about adminis trative leadership. “I would have to put Dr. Jenny Preston (former Allen ISD superintendent) high on the list for moral and intellectual leadership. “Also, Victoria Sublette (former Allen ISD Board of Trustees president) for her leadership abilities. She did a lot to help me develop as a superintendent just by watching her interact with the board and community.

What are the most significant changes to education that you have seen in your career in Allen and elsewhere? “The biggest change is the shift in philosophy regarding educational opportunities. When I started, school was viewed as an opportunity to learn. If you could not or would not learn, you were left behind. Back in the ‘50s and ‘60s, dropouts were a solution, not a problem. “Now, all students are expected to learn and schools have to adapt to make sure all students have the opportunity to learn. That’s a monumental shift in the role of schools. “That was a challenge for Allen schools, too, especially because of our growth and the increase in the number of students over a short period of

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in the state of Texas. Allen ISD, along with several other districts across the state, joined together to revise student assessment in regards to choice of career and college readiness. We were successful and Allen ISD was very influential in these efforts. Legislative action on these initiatives will have farreaching influence for years to come.”

What advice would you give to a new teacher beginning his or her career?

time. What students should learn became a big question because not all solutions fit all students. “One advantage of having a big high school is we can provide students with a lot of choices in one building. We can help them build a foundation for the future whether they go to college or enter the workforce when they graduate.”

What do you consider the district’s significant accomplishments during your tenure? “I think first would be the direction of our strategic plan coupled with the bold vision and leadership of the community in realizing that students needed career experience to be successful after graduation. This led directly to our successful bond issues and the development of our Career and Technology Education facilities. “Our philosophy, ‘The Allen Way,’ says that Allen ISD believes in the ability and potential of every child that comes through our doors. The community has made a commitment to that vision by investing in human capital through education. “The second would be developing and funding to improve curriculum and training to emphasize instruction, innovation and intervention when needed. Because of our rapid growth during the mid-2000s, we could have lost this focus and only concentrated on issues involved with meeting infra structure needs. However, we remained

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focused on a strong curriculum and that paid off for our students. “Third would be our reaction to the budget crisis in the late 2000s. After the legislature cut state funding to all schools, we were able to absorb the reductions without cutting staff. I think that showed we were respectful of our employees and the system. “The passage of the TRE (Tax Ratification Election) was a pivotal point in my career with the district. I was proud of the way the community responded in providing the resources we needed at a critical time. Now, it has us well positioned financially for the future. I also would point our work to promote the new vision of education

“There are three non-negotiables: Student learning will improve, your own learning will improve and you will work for improvement through collaborative teams. “You have to make a commitment to your students and yourself. Set reasonable expectations, find support for your non-negotiables and use mentors. If you are committed and dedicated, this will be the best job you will have in your life.”

What advice would you offer to your successor? “Build on the success of the relationship between the district and the community. Bring life to a new strategic plan now as it is just beginning. Sustain and improve ‘The Allen Way’ culture. It’s as simple as that.” v Keith Taylor is a public relations specialist for Allen ISD.

For MarketPlace Your Health

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Meal Deals & Steals By Deborah Dove

CiCi’s Pizza 204 N. Greenville, Allen, 972.727.2424 Kids 3 & under eat free every day (kids age 4-10 eat for $2.99) Denny’s 1830 N. Central Expwy., Plano, 972.423.8005 1615 N. Central Expwy., McKinney, 469.742.9920 Kids eat free daily from 4-10 p.m. Sonic (all locations) Half price drinks daily 2-4 (plus 99¢ snacks); Half price shakes nightly after 8 p.m. Steak and Shake 1820 W. Eldorado Parkway, McKinney, 972.547.4662 2313 N Central Expwy., Plano, 972.509.1112 Half price shakes & drinks daily 2-4 IHOP 315 Central Expwy. N., Allen, 214.383.3434 Kids Eat free daily 4-10 p.m. Mexi-Go 533 W. McDermott, Allen, 972.359.0607 Kids eat free daily w/purchase of a drink (two kids per table) Dickey’s Barbecue 405 Central Expwy. S., Allen, 214.495.8877 Kids eat free Sundays w/adult entree Cristina’s Fine Mexican 2811 Craig Drive, McKinney, 214.544.2800 8210 Highway 121, Frisco, 214.618.8230 Free kids meal Mondays & Tuesdays JC’s Burger House SE corner McDermott and Hwy. 75, Allen, 214.495.9090 Kids 12 & under eat free with purchase of adult burger, fries & drink Mondays & Tuesdays 4 p.m.-close (dine-in only) Spaghetti Warehouse 1517 N. Central Expwy., Plano, 972.516.8903 $1.99 kids meal kids 10 & under (includes salad, soup or applesauce, beverage & dessert) on Mondays Applebee’s 1820 W University Drive, McKinney, 972.562.8016 Kids eat free all day Tuesday

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Black-Eyed Pea 605 West 15th, Plano, 972.423.5565 Kids eat free after 4 p.m. Tuesdays Which Wich 190 East Stacy Road (Village at Allen), Allen, 972.678.2774 Kids eat free after 4 p.m. Tuesdays w/purchase of adult meal $7 or more Splittsville Village at Fairview, Fairview, 972.549.4263 Bowl for $2 per person per game all day Tuesdays, plus $2 shoes Bar-B-Cutie 208 N. Greenville Ave., Allen, 214.383.7555 Half off kid’s meal Tuesdays & Thursdays Boston’s 6800 Highway 121, McKinney (at Craig Ranch), 214.585.0900 Kids eat free Wednesdays w/purchase of adult entrée Gattitown 3251 Preston Road, Frisco, 214.618.9800 Kids 10 & under eat free Wednesdays w/adult buffet purchase; Moms eat free Mondays w/kid buffet purchase Firehouse Subs 5999 Custer Rd. at 121, Frisco, 214.618.8277 Kids eat for $.99 Wednesdays w/purchase of adult combo (limit 2 kids meals per one adult combo) El Chico 1222 North Central Expressway, McKinney, 972.548.7526 Kids 12 and under eat for $.99 Thursdays w/ purchase of adult entrée Amazing Jakes 831 N. Central Expwy. (inside Collin Creek Mall), Plano, 972.509.Jake Free kids buffet w/each paid adult buffet Thursdays Chili’s 903 W. McDermott, Allen, 972.727.1004 Like Chili’s on Facebook or join their e-mail club at www.chilis.com for weekly coupons, including kids eat free deals at least once a month

Think Outside the (Lunch) Box

Choose a protein/carb combo: • Turkey & cheese roll ups with Triscuits • Whole grain tortilla roll up with cream cheese, sliced ham & chopped olives • Tuna salad with whole wheat crackers • Toasted bagel topped with marinara & melted mozzarella • Crescent roll hot dog • Rice cakes with peanut butter (jelly optional) • Chicken noodle soup in a thermos • Chef salad with lettuce, whatever salad veggies your kids like, chopped lunch meat, shredded cheese & a bag of Fritos for crunch (send dressing on the side) • Macaroni & cheese in a thermos • Hard-boiled egg, pita chips & hummus • Store bought taquitos with salsa • Cooked noodles tossed with butter & edamame • Pasta salad

Add a side for heartier appetites (or send as a snack):

• Pretzels with mustard for dipping • Popcorn • Baked chips • String cheese, cheese stick or Babybel cheese • Cottage cheese • Yogurt • Nuts (make sure your school allows nuts) • Tortilla chips with salsa • Hard-boiled egg • Trail mix • Pita chips & hummus

Add a fruit or vegetable:

Sliced apple—alone or with peanut butter or caramel for dipping, sliced strawberries, grapes, blueberries, cubed watermelon, cantaloupe, banana, fruit cup, carrot sticks with ranch, red pepper strips, cubed pineapple, sugar snap peas, celery sticks stuffed with peanut butter or cream cheese, Clementines. applesauce, grape tomatoes or broccoli trees with ranch.

End with a small treat (optional)

Cookie, pudding cup, frozen yogurt tube, Jell-O, granola or nutrigrain bar, graham crackers, mini marshmallows, chocolate covered almonds, yogurt covered raisins, animal crackers, fruit roll up, banana chips or a Rice Krispie treat.

Community impact from Collin to Columbia by Melanie Hess Amid sprawling suburban homes, nationally-ranked schools, aesthetically-pleasing nature facilities and one of the highest median incomes in the nation, it might be hard to believe there are children in Collin County who find themselves without a place to call home. Nonetheless, the harsh reality stands. Homelessness in Collin County rose 48% in 2012, and 52% of those individuals were minors. Exposed to the reality of homelessness in the U.S. through volunteer work at City House, Collin College student Jammie Sean Smith decided keeping quiet wasn’t an option.

The Beginning of a Quest for Change Rewind a couple of years, and Smith, a celebrity wardrobe stylist with work experience in both New York and Los Angeles, returned to her hometown in North Texas, hoping to spend more time with family and pursue her goal of earning a college degree. “I loved working in styling, and I was good at it,” Smith said. “But it wasn’t my dream. I feel like a lot of people get trapped in careers they’re comfortable with, but not passionate about. To me, it was worth the risk.” After enrolling in honors courses at Collin College, Smith found professors like Ryan Rynbrandt and Dr. Kay Mizell, who she says encourage students to look outside the classroom—to think globally, but act locally.

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According to Rynbrandt, Smith resonated with his concern for community involvement, constantly engaging the course material with an eye for better understanding and improving the world around her. “She challenged her classmates both to excel in the classroom and to work for social change,” Rynbrant said. “When she found out about a threat to the local Samaritan Inn homeless shelter, Sean recruited classmates to attend a city council meeting in its defense.” “Mama” to a two-year-old little boy, Smith found she was deeply moved as she continued to learn more about child and family homelessness. She joined Volunteer Outreach in Civic Engagement (VOICE), a Collin College student organization, and began volunteering at City House, a transitional living center serving homeless children and teens in Collin County. Maegan Rodgers, program director at My Friends House, a branch of City House, said Smith worked directly with youth ages 0 to 17, whether that meant playing a game, doing a puzzle or helping a child through a crisis. “When interacting with the kids, she is able to communicate, guide them through self play, help them with fine motor skills and just be there as a consistent person who they feel comfortable being around,” Rodgers said. “During the homeless count last January, Jammie became very enthusiastic and helped put care packages together for the people she interacted with.”

Smith’s group chose her as director. It was through that role that she found she was not merely interested in film. She was good at it. “In the midst of our class project, I just realized ‘Oh my gosh! I’m supposed to be doing this,’” Smith said. Kearns-Simmons said one thing she loved about Smith’s project was her decision to put a twist on a classic play and focus on a controversial social issue.

A Vehicle for Creating Conversation Now aware of her two strong passions, Smith began work on her dream and future career. “I plan to use film as a vehicle to create and capture conversations about social justice issues, like homelessness,” Smith said. “People need to be aware.”

A New Talent As she continued in her courses and volunteer work, Smith, somewhat accidently, discovered another interest—film. “I took a theater class from Shannon Kearns-Simmons,” Smith said. “For our big semester project, we had to pick different roles on a production crew and make a film.” Allen Image x September 2013

focused on the increase of homeless ness within Collin County. Dr. Millie Black, Collin College faculty advisor for VOICE, said Smith is a change agent. “She sees the world as it should be and seeks to go about creating a place where the voiceless have a voice, particularly disadvantaged children,” Black said.

Ivy League and a Four-Year Degree

Jammie Sean Smith with her son Cruz Starting with her local community, Smith developed a documentary

A member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society, Smith knew she wanted to continue on for a four-year degree. Knowing a number of universities in Dallas-Fort Worth and the state of Texas house well-known film programs, Smith applied locally. Acceptance letters came in, and she was excited about her next step. However, as time went on, she just couldn’t keep ignoring the recruiting emails she received from Columbia

University in New York. Smith said she’d never really considered the possibility of attending an Ivy League college before, but decided it was worth a shot. “When I finally looked into applying, I found out there was an entrance exam,” Smith said. “ I wasn’t able to make that, but when I called they said their entrance exam was pretty comparable to the SAT. I could just take that again. I looked it up, and there was one last date to take the SAT before admissions for the next year closed. I signed up, went and took it.” A few weeks later, Smith received a call from Columbia University. “They don’t typically call people, but I’d discussed my situation of having to give up my spots at other schools,” Smith explained. “They said I’d been accepted!”

The Next Step Following a few good years with family and college courses that led to the discovery of an unexpected dream, Smith is excited to return to New York. “If I hadn’t gone to Collin, I would have never thought I could go to Columbia,” Smith said. “Enrolling in honors classes was the best decision I made. They challenged me and pushed me to Ivy League thinking.” Although it required a crosscountry move for the single mom with a two-year-old son, Smith wholeheartedly believes Columbia University is the next step in fulfilling her dreams and generating awareness about societal injustices in America. As she enters Columbia University, the former Collin College student said she has one major goal: learn as much as she can about film and develop awareness about the needs facing the many children and families in America who simply cannot say, “I’m going home.” v Melanie Hess is a public relations associate for Collin College. Photos by Nick Young, Collin College.

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For MarketPlace Your Health

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cooking

An apple a day by Deborah Dove

If September had a fruit like it has a birthstone or flower, it would be an apple. September is the month of backto-school, and as every teacher can attest, apples are synonymous with school. Apple picking season begins September first, and nothing says fall has arrived like a warm apple pie or a delicious caramel apple. Apples also pack a nutritional punch; it’s no wonder your grand mother always said, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples contain pectin, an important fiber that helps to bind toxins in the bowel and flush them out of the body, as well as high levels of malic acid, which improve energy production in the body. Preliminary studies have also shown that apples may help fight cancer and stop the formation of new cancer cells. They’re also tasty and can be incor porated into a variety of dishes—fresh on a sandwich, in a salad or cooked in a pie or cobbler or applesauce. How to know which apple to

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choose? Although there are more than 2,500 hundred types of apples grown in the U.S. alone, grocery stores typically carry an average of eight varieties, with farmer’s markets often offering a dozen or more. Sweet flavored Gala and Fuji varieties are good to eat fresh and also make the best applesauce, while Honeycrisp make the best juice (and are also good for pies or baking). Jazz apples are sweeter than Galas and good alone or in apple butter, while Melrose apples, which are slightly sweeter than Jonathan’s, are great in pies because

the slices hold together. Pink Ladies are sweet and crisp, making them equally good in applesauce or fresh in a salad, while the relatively bland Rome variety is best for cooking and baking. Old standbys such as Golden Delicious have a rich mild flavor when baked or cooked but also work well in salads. Granny Smiths are enjoyed by those who prefer a tart apple (and are delicious sliced thin and coupled with bacon on a grilled cheese sandwich). Regardless of which variety you prefer, following are some creative ways to enjoy the season’s bounty.

Slow Cooker Apple Butter 5-1/2 lbs. apples, peeled, cored and finely chopped or processed 2 c. sugar 2 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. ground cloves 1/4 tsp. salt Place the apples in a slow cooker. In a bowl, mix the sugar, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Pour mixture over apples and mix well. Cover and cook on high for one hour. Reduce heat to low and cook 9-11 hours more, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and dark brown. Uncover and continue cooking on low for about one hour. Stir with a whisk to remove lumps. Spoon the mixture into sterile containers and refrigerate or freeze. Spread on toast, waffles, pancakes, biscuits, English muffins, over ice cream, etc.

spoon. In another bowl, combine the topping ingredients. Sprinkle over apple/cranberry mixture. Bake uncovered, 55-60 minutes or until browned and bubbly. Serve warm.

Fresh Apple Cake

(my mom’s secret recipe) 2 c. sugar 1 c. vegetable oil 2 tsp. vanilla 2 eggs, beaten Juice from half a lemon 1 tsp. salt 3 c. flour 1-1/4 tsp. baking soda 3 c. of apples, finely chopped 1-1/2 c. pecans, chopped Preheat oven to 325º. Mix sugar, oil, vanilla, eggs, lemon juice and salt in a large bowl. Add flour and baking soda and mix well. Stir in apples and pecans. Bake in a greased tube pan for 1-1/2 hours or until done.

Classic Apple Pie Pastry: 2 c. flour 1 tsp. salt 2/3 plus 2 Tbs. shortening 4-6 Tbs. cold water Filling: 1/2 c. sugar 1/4 c. flour 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg 1/8 tsp. salt 6-8 apples, thinly sliced and peeled (a variety of apples for richer flavor) 2 Tbs. butter In medium bowl, mix 2 cups flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Cut in shortening, using pastry blender (or pulling 2 table knives through ingredients in opposite directions), until particles are size of small peas. Sprinkle with cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing with fork until all flour is moistened and pastry

Apple Cranberry Crumble (from skinnytaste.com). Filling: 3 c. (about 4) gala apples, peeled and sliced 1 c. fresh cranberries 1 Tbs. flour or cornstarch 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 2/3 c. honey Topping: 3/4 c. dry quick-cooking oats 1/4 c. packed light brown sugar 1 Tbs. flour 3 Tbs. light butter, melted 1/4 c. chopped walnuts or pecans 1/2 tsp. salt Preheat oven to 325º. Lightly spray a 9-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. Combine apples, cranberries and remaining filling ingredients in a bowl. Pour into a baking dish and even out with a Allen Image x September 2013

almost cleans side of bowl (1-2 teaspoons more water can be added if necessary). Gather pastry into a ball. Divide in half; shape into 2 flattened rounds on lightly floured surface. Wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate about 45 minutes or until dough is firm and cold, yet pliable.

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Heat oven to 425째F. With floured rolling pin, roll one pastry round into circle 2 inches larger than upsidedown 9-inch glass pie plate. Fold pastry into fourths; place in pie plate. Unfold and ease into plate, pressing firmly against bottom and side. In a large bowl, mix sugar, 1/4

cup flour, cinnamon, nutmeg and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Stir in apples until well mixed. Spoon into pastry-lined pie plate. Cut butter into small pieces and sprinkle over filling. Trim overhanging edge of pastry 1/2 inch from rim of plate. Roll other round of pastry into 10-inch circle. Fold into fourths and cut slits so steam can escape. Unfold top pastry over filling; trim overhanging edge 1 inch from rim of plate. Fold and roll top edge under lower edge, pressing on rim to seal; flute as desired. Cover edge with 2- to 3-inch strip of foil to prevent excessive browning. Brush with egg whites (optional). Bake 40-50 minutes or until crust is brown and juice begins to bubble through slits in crust, removing foil for last 15 minutes of baking. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

ining in

llen

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calendar September

Plano Children’s Theatre presents Tarzan, 1301 Custer Road, Ste. 706, Plano, thru the 21st. Based on Edgar Rice Burrough’s Tarzan of the Apes and the smash-hit 1999 Disney animated film, Tarzan tells the story of an infant boy orphaned on the shores of West Africa. Taken in and raised by a tribe of gorillas, the young boy strives for acceptance by his ape father while grappling with his uniqueness. For tickets and details, call 972.422.2575 or visit www.planochildrenstheatre.org.

Collin County Fall Home and Garden Show, Allen Event Center, thru the 15th. The show will feature several thousand square feet of exhibits highlighting the latest in home and garden products including: spectacular gardens, landscapes and plant sales as well as the latest trends in kitchens, baths, pools, spas, building and remodeling. Visit www.alleneventcenter. com for additional information.

Suncreek UMC Annual Garage Sale, thru the 21st. Friday, 7 am to 8 pm & Saturday, 7 am to 3 pm, 1517 W. McDermott Road, Allen. We are accepting gently used furniture and other items you wish to donate. If you are interested in making a donation to our garage sale, please contact: garagesale@suncreekumc.org and we will schedule a time to pick up your items. Visit http://www. suncreekumc.org for more information.

Guns and Hoses Boxing Tournament, Allen Event Center. Join us for a charity boxing match featuring North Texas’ finest police officers and firemen in friendly competition. All proceeds directly benefit the Guns and Hoses Foundation of North Texas. For more information, please visit www. gunsandhosesnorthtx.org. Plano Symphony Orchestra, 8:15 pm, Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson. The 2013–2014 season opens with Russian favorites, including the Orchestra’s first performance of Tchaikovsky’s powerful and moving Symphony No. 6. His Symphony No. 6, with its heart pounding third movement, has been made famous in part by a popular arrangement for symphonic bands. For tickets and information, visit www.planosymphony.org. Breakaway Music Festival—Dallas, noon, FC Dallas Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco. A huge showcase of the biggest names in music, don’t miss your chance to experience performances by Wu-Tang Clan, Empire of the Sun, Big Gigantic, Matt & Kim, Explosions in the Sky. Visit http://www.americantowns.com/tx/frisco/events/ for tickets and further details.

Dinosaurs Live! will return to the Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney, thru February 2nd. Encounter the 46-foot T-Rex and eight new life-size animatronic dinosaurs along the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary’s nature trails at the 8th Annual Dinosaurs Live! See the dinosaurs move and hear them roar! Photo op and play area dinosaurs. The dinosaur trail is jogging stroller friendly. Contact 972.562.5566 or info@heardmuseum.org for further details. Pack Automotive Museum Reception and Silent Auction, 7-10 pm, 2070 Diplomat Dr, Farmers Branch. Ticket includes entrance into the private Pack Automotive Museum, beverages and hors d’oeuvres. You are invited to this reception, silent auction, wine pull and viewing of more than 100 eclectic vehicles! All proceeds will benefit Extreme Build for Youth. For more information call 800.242-6415 x-5028 or 972.242.6415 x-5028. Second Saturdays Downtown McKinney, 7-10 pm, Historic Downtown McKinney. Enjoy an evening of art, music and wine! Explore the local art galleries, listen to great local and regional talent and taste cuisine from some of the area’s best eateries. To see all the happenings, please visit this monthly’s Second Saturday listing. Additional information is available at www.downtownmckinney.com.

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Annual Fundraising Dinner for HOPE Resource Center of McKinney 6:30 pm, Courtyard by Marriott, Allen. Keynote speaker is Melissa Ohden. Attendance is free but a reservation is required. Additional information is available at www. myhope.org.

McKinney Oktoberfest 2013, thru the 28th. Friday, 4-11 pm & Saturday, 10 am-11 pm, Historic Downtown McKinney. We invite you to join us for a fun, family-friendly event offering authentic German music, food and drink, traditional costumes, dancing, children’s activities and much more. Please call 972.547.2660 or visit www.downtownmckinney.com for more information.

September 8-9 Equest Auxilary Golf Classic honors ”Hooves for Heroes,” 6:30 pm, Pairings Dinner on the 8th & 1:30 pm shotgun start on the 9th, Las Colinas Country Club, 4400 N. O’Connor Rd., Irving. Benefiting Equest, a therapeutic riding center for children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities. They also assist veterans who are dealing with the stress of returning from combat. For more info: www. equestmauxgolfclassic.org. 14 Allen Senior Recreation Center’s Happy Fall Fest, 9 am3 pm, 451 St. Mary Dr., Allen. Vendors and artisans will offer an assortment of unique gifts. Classic car show, children’s activities, historic tours, celebrity appearances and food vendors will also be feature at this free event. For more info: 214.509.4820. 16 ACO Charity Golf Classic, 1 pm, Heritage Ranch Golf Club. With your participation you are providing shelter for a family, making sure a child doesn’t go

tumor childhood cancers. Wine guru David Pennachetti will be hosting the tasting and Albert Segui of Café Malaga will be catering the event. For more info: carsonscrusadersfoundation.org/2013brighten-the-night.

hungry and ensuring that lives will be rebuilt and transformed. All this with an all day buffet of food, drink and fun! Get shaken & stirred today! For more info: www.acocares.org. 19 North Texas Giving Day, 7 ammidnight. Annual fundraising event benefits these Allen nonprofits: Allen Arts Alliance, Allen Community Outreach, Allen Parks Foundation, Connemara Conservancy Foundation, Foundation for Allen Schools and Foundation for Lovejoy Schools. All donations must be made online at DonorBridgeTX.org. Donations may be made in any amount but donations of $25 or above qualifiy for bonus or partial matching funds. For more info: DonorBridgeTX.org or cfTexas.org.

Carson’s Crusaders Foundation will host the 2nd annual Brighten the Night Wine Tasting and Live Auction, Noah’s Event Center, The Village at Fairview. Raises funds to provide support and assistance to children and families battling solid

Allen Quilter’s Guild Mini Quilt Auction, 6:30-8:30 pm, First Presbyterian Church, 605 S. Greenville, Allen. Free refreshments provided along with an opportunity to purchase tickets for the guild’s 2013 raffle quilt, ”Show Me Your Boots.” The silent auction is a key fundraiser for the guild. For more info: www.allenquilters.org.

20 Masonic Lodge 5th Annual Community Golf Tournament, 11 am lunch; noon, shotgun start, Courses at Watters Creek, 7201 Chase Oaks Blvd., Plano. Benefits Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and Shiners Hospitals for Children. All playing spots include lunch. For more info: www.allenlodge1435. org or call 214.509.4653.

Allen Image x September 2013

21 Allen Coin Show, 10 am-4 pm, Allen Depot, 100 E. Main. Rare coins and currency, domestic and foreign on display. Eighteen dealers will be on hand to evaluate coins and currencies brought in and make offers. For more info: Stan Schwartz, SS124@sbcglobal.net.

4th Annual Into the Meadow, 5-11 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve (Montgomery Farm entrance), Brett Dr., Allen. Full dinner with drinks, live music, dancing and auction. Complimentary valet provided. Meadow elegant attire. For more info: www. connemaraconservancy.org/itm/2013.

28 2013 Walk to End Alzheimer’s, 9:30 am, Celebration Park, Allen. The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. This event calls on participants of all ages and abilities. For more info: www.alz.org.

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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. 7-8 North Texas Gun & Knife Show, this show caters to collectors and aficionados of firearms, knives, ammunition, militaria and outdoor shooting sports. The show offers the opportunity to buy, sell, trade and browse. 13-15 Collin County Fall Home and Garden Show. The show will feature several thousand square feet of exhibits highlighting the latest in home and garden products including: spectacular gardens, landscapes and plant sales as well as the latest trends in kitchens, baths, pools, spas, building and remodeling. 21 GUNS and HOSES Boxing Tournament. Join us for a charity boxing match featuring North Texas’ finest Police Officers and Firemen in friendly competition. All proceeds directly benefit the GUNS and HOSES Foundation of North Texas.

Parks and Recreation Events 13 SNAP Dance, 7-10 pm, Recreation Hall. Special needs adapted program! Dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and photo. For

information, email tharben@cityofallen. org or call 214.509.4707. 14 The Courses at Watters Creek Grand Opening and Customer Appreciation Day, A special event will commemorate the opening of all three courses at The Courses at Watters Creek—The Futures (6-Hole) Course, The Players (9-Hole) Course and The Traditions (18-Hole) Course. Play all 33 holes and of course visit the delicious Grill 33. Visit WattersCreekGolf.com to learn more.

Dog Days at Ford Pool, 11 am-1 pm. Come join us and have a swim with your four-legged companion. All owners with dogs living in Allen must have the dog registered with the City of Allen to attend.

BMX Rodeo at The Edge Skate Park. Get your young BMX rider ready to ride at The Edge @ Allen Station. Areas to be covered include bike maintenance, safety, park etiquette and beginner trick tips.

14 Saturday Night Rec and Roll, Joe & Farmer Rec Center offers this 28 fun and safe social program for students grades 3-6. Activities include gym games and dancing with music provided by a DJ, dodge ball, pool, table tennis, theme nights and contests with prize giveaways. Supervision is provided and concessions are available. Party Packs are available for $12 that includes a $5 concession credit for only $4 (20% savings). An identification card

(one-time $5 fee) is required to participate and must be purchased at JFRC anytime before 5:30 p.m. on the day of the event. Walk up admission available ($10 admission or $14 party pack). 28 ASRC Quarterly Dance, the Allen Senior Center welcomes the Dallas City Limits Band for its next quarterly dance. Refreshments will be provided by Toyota of McKinney and McDermott Crossing. . For more info: 972.912.1097 or www. AllenParks.org.

Adult Athletic Leagues For more info: www.AllenParks.org or call the Athletic Information Hotline: 214.509.4810. For Allen Community Ice Rink programs, call 972.912.1097. Men’s Basketball—Reg. thru Sept. 10; cost: $425; format: 8 Games + singleelimination tournament. Play begins Oct. 1. Volleyball—Reg. thru Sept. 10; cost: $235; format: 8 Games + single-elimination tournament. Play begins Sept. 30. Rudolph Run Registration—Reg. is now open. Cost: Elf Run (1 Mile) $15; Rudolph Run (5K) $20 pre-registered or $25 day of race. Event Date: December 1.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Children’s Programs story times begin September 9 Baby & Me—For pre-walkers with an adult Tues. & Thurs., 10:15 am Fun Ones—For 1 year-olds with an adult Mon., 10:15 am, Wed. , 10 am Family Together Time—For children 2-6 years and their family Mon., Tues. & Thurs., 11:15 am, Wed., 10:45 am All By Myself—For 4 & 5 year-olds ready to attend independently, Wed., 11:30 am. Pajama Story Time—For children 2-6 years and their family, Tues., 6:30 pm, Thurs., 7 pm.

Adults 4

Noontime Pageturners, noon, 2nd floor program room. Where’d You Go Bernadette by Maria Semple. Bring a lunch and a friend and join us for a lively discussion! Free. No registration.

11 Twisted Threads Fiber Craft Circle, 6:30-8:30 pm, 2nd floor Adult Program Room. Do you knit? Or crochet? Or make spectacular things with thread and yarn? If so, Twisted Threads is for you! Twisted Threads is a social group for crocheters, knitters, felters, quilters and any type of craft done with thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome! Bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. 12 Backyard Farming in the City, 7 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. Come learn about Jacob’s Reward Farm, a working homestead in Parker where Cindy Telisak raises chickens for eggs, and Allen Image x September 2013

sheep and alpacas for their fiber. Learn how you can benefit from the products of suburban farming, and see the “lost” craft of spinning in action. See how getting back to nature can help the environment, and make suburban life more fun! 18 DIY@APL—Paper Craft, 10:30 am, 2nd floor program room. Repurpose old books to make a craft in a fun environment with other adults. All materials will be supplied. Adults age 16+. Register online at allenlibrary.org, or call 214-509-4913. Walk-ins welcome as space permits. 21 Rocks For Breakfast, 3 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. Did you eat rocks for breakfast this morning? While you are probably inclined to say “no”, don’t be so sure! Join us for an entertaining exploration of the many surprising ways every person uses rock products during an average day, starting with breakfast. Free. For ages 16+. Registration is required, as space is limited. 24 Armchair Travelers Visit Greece, 7 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. Join us for an adventure in Greece. Anna Kostamo will shares stories, pictures, and anecdotes from her travels through Greece. Enjoy a taste of Greece by sampling some Greek foods! Free. Registration is required. Register online or contact the Reference Desk.

MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op, etc. Monthly bus. meeting. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo. com.

Cover Down, cover band Jazz Quartet from UNT, Jazz Don’t Tell Mama Band, Variety White Noise, Classic rock & 80’s Coby McDonald, Country

Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days & locations vary. For more info: www.75013. theheartlinknetwork.com.

Connemara Conservancy

Baylor Health Care System offers support groups, medical information and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com.

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

21 Guided Meadow Walk, 9-11 am. Join Rich Jaynes for a Guided Walk. 22 Open House, 1 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join us to wander (and wonder) at the meadow hiking the trails, watching flora and fauna. Enter at Wooded Gate on East side of Alma, south of Bethany.

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MOMS Club of Allen, group for moms and children who live in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips and business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more. For more info: http://momsclubofallentx. weekly.com or momsclubofallentx@gmail. com

Concerts by the Creek, 7 pm.

Connemara Meadow Preserve

Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers of preschoolers. Each month has fun activities for all. Activities—play groups, park days, lunch with friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids and other events. Come play with us. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com.

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.

Watters Creek

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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.

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. Urban Explorers, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups throughout Dallas area. Something for everyone! For more info: www.meetup.com/ getoutandabout. Texas Health Presbyterian, a variety of events. For more info: www.texashealth.org. Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www.planobicycle.org. Kids Helping Kids, bring new or gentlyused toys to Kids Pediatric Dentistry, donate to kids in the area. Receive chance to win prize. For more info: 972.727.0011 or www. kidspediatricdentistry.com.

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.

Every Monday-Sunday

Allen AA meets, 601 S. Greenville. Mon.-Fri., 7 pm; Sat., 9 am; Sun., 7:30 pm. For more info: Joe, 214.564.9403 & Tina, 214.566.7561.

Every Monday

Allen Toastmasters’ Club, 6:30 pm, Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100.

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

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.

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.

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

Second Monday

The MOB (Men of Business), 11:30 am-1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen for male bonding and networking over lunch. $20 chamber members; $25 nonmembers/general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber. com.

Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566 or www. northtexasbeekeepers.org.

McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm. Various locations and service projects monthly. For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org.

Veterans of Foreign Wars “Lone Star Post 2150”, 1710 N. Church Street, McKinney.Post Members, 6:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary, 5:45 pm; Men’s Auxiliary, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972-542-9119, gmlsp2150@ gmail.com or visit on web: www. vfwpost2150.org.

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. Allen Image x September 2013

American Association of University Women-Plano/Collin County Branch, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior Living Center, 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with assoc. or bachelors degree interested in helping women. For more info: Carol, 972.862.3460 or www.aauwplanocollin.org. 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.

Fourth Monday

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

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

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.

Third Monday

Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net.

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.

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.

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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.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www. tops.org.

Every Tuesday & Thursday

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

Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping & gardening advice, 9 am-4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney. For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460.

Every Tuesday

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

First Tuesday

Heard Museum Native Plant Society, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, 9:30 am refreshments, 10 am program, SMU Plano Campus, 5228 Tennyson Pkwy., Plano. Guests are welcome! For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org.

2ChangeU Toastmasters, 7-8:45 pm, Custer Rd. United Methodist Church, Rm B5, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.2changeu.org.

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

First and Third Tuesday

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

Common Threads of Allen, 7 pm, Saxby’s, 150 E. Stacy Road, Villages at Allen. Share needlework projects, learn new techniques, make friends. For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net.

Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen. For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982.

Second Tuesday

Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. For more info: 214.509.4820. Allen Democrats, 6:30 pm, Reel Thing Catfish Cafe, 600 E. Main St., Allen. For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214.893.3643. Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, 7 to 9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.bptmn.org or email info@bptmn.org. Collin County 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. Collin County Archaeology Society, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney. For more info: archaeology@netzero.net.

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

Fourth Tuesday

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

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

Porcelain Art Guild of North Texas, 9:30 am, Carriage House, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Open to anyone, beginner to expert For more info: Gayle Harry 214.509.0787.

Third Tuesday

Plano Republican Women’s Club, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expwy., Plano. For more info: www. planorepublicanwomen.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.

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. After the meeting, members will enjoy a fashion show and luncheon, featuring new clothing lines from our local Stein Mart department store, held at the Eldorado Country Club. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers. com.

Every Wednesday

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

Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, “Become the Speaker and Leader you can be”, 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expy,Allen. For more info: Daniel Dodd, 972.571.7527.

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

McKinney Chess on the Square, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. Promotes creativity, imagination & strategic thinking. For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org.

Allen Image x September 2013

First Wednesday

Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:301:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage Hosue, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. For more info: 972.569.6909 or www. headcraig.org. Collin County Master Gardeners Assoc. guided tour of Myers Park, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Res. requested. For more info: 972.548.4232 or go to mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu. Allen Heritage Guild, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main St, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www. allenheritageguild.org.

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.

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. For more info: www.allenchamber.com

Collin County Genealogical Society, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com. VFW Post 2195, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www.vfw2195.org.

Every Thursday

Allen Kiwanis Club, Noon, Twin Creeks Clubhouse, 501 Twin Creeks Blvd. Visitors welcome. For more info: Sandy McNair, 214.548.5483 or www.allenkiwanis.org.

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.

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.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness of Collin County), Recovery support for adults living with mental illness. Led by trained individuals. Free, 6:30-8:30 pm, Custer Road UMC, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. For more info: 214.509.0085 or www. namicco.org.

Weight Watchers, 12:15 and 6 pm, First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Enter at the south entrance, second floor.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

Breast Cancer Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, 1105 Central Expwy. N., Community Education Room-Med.Office Bldg. 2. For more info: 972.747.6036.

Second Thursday

Second Wednesday

Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch and fellowship. Speakers and entertainers. For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net.

First Thursday

First and Third Wednesday

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.

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. 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.

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 general 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/.

Second and Fourth Thursday

Allen High Noon Lions Club, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952.

Allen Area Patriots, 7-8:45 pm, Failth Fellowship Church, 415 West Lucas Road, Lucas. Local Tea Party presents speakers, enlightening and motivating citizens to participate in the political process. For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots. com.

Third Thursday

Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, noon, First United Methodist Church

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). For more info: www.ntrg.info.

Every Friday

Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Members free/Nonmember 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, 9:3011:45 am, First Baptist Church in Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241.

First Friday

North Dallas Newcomers, 11 am., Prestonwood Country Club, The Hills, 6600 Columbine Way, Plano. Social time followed by a luncheon and

activity fair. Please call Linda at 682203-1979 for a lunch reservation before Sept. 2nd.

For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers. net.

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.

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.

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.

First Saturday

VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, 10 am, 1710 N. Church Street, McKinney. For more info: “Driveway John” 971-8224483, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org. Open Forum, meaningful discussions, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004.

Second Saturday

Heard Museum Nature Photography Club meeting. 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

Department 56 Village Collectors Club meets in the Plano/North Dallas area to share ideas. For more info: www.bigd56ers.com.

Third Saturday

Every Saturday

Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, service organization to teach children to serve their local community. For more info: 972.396.8010.

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.

Every Sunday

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

First Sunday

United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, 2 pm, First Methodist Church of Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Church Parlor. Join us for book discussion and refreshments. Book selections are determined at the January meeting. We do encourage women of all faiths to participate. For more info: cynannrobinson@gmail. com.

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

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.

For a chance to win a $50 dining card

Allen Image x September 2013

For Your Health

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For Your Health

Allen Image x July 2013

by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

Is the alto saxophone you played in your high school band languishing in the back of a closet? Pull it out and polish it up. Has it been twenty years since you picked up your trumpet? Then it’s time to start working on your embouchure. Un-pickle your piccolo and flout your flute. The Allen Community Band needs you—and it’s not too late to be a charter member.

Allen Community Band hosts its first rehearsal 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 10, at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 821 South Greenville Ave. in Allen. Set aside any concerns about how long it has been since you last played. Director Craig Logan emphasizes, “My goal is to get people together who want to have fun playing their instruments again. Dust off those instruments and let’s have fun playing music!”

raig credits Denise Webre for initiating the formation of the organization. A flutist since fifth grade, Denise played in the Allen High School Band all four years. “My first three years, Charles Barton was the band director. Craig came along my junior year as the assistant director, and when Mr. Barton retired, Craig took over my senior year.” Denise later found an outlet for her talent by playing the flute for her church, now at Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church in Allen, but found she really longed to play a wider array of songs. “I missed playing the variety of music you can play in a community band kind of setting,” she explains. “I started looking around and found that Frisco has a band, McKinney has a band, Plano has a band…. All these other towns around us have community bands but Allen doesn’t? So I thought, ‘Why not!’” Inquiries about Allen ISD bandleaders met with enthusiastic support but negative responses. All were too busy to take on the responsi bility of directing a community band. That’s when Denise thought of Craig. A trumpet player since junior high school, Craig graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Dallas and then Southern Methodist University. His first teaching position was with Dallas Independent School District’s Walker Middle School for five years. This was followed by three years at Highland Park Middle School before coming on board with Allen High School. By the time Craig came to Allen High School, the first year as the assistant director, his wife Pat had already been working there for five years as the Tallenette director. Craig eventually worked with the Allen High School Band for 19 years, 18 as director. While working with the Allen Eagle Band, Craig also taught band for Lovejoy Elementary School sixth graders.

cover story After leaving Allen High School, Pat went to work for All World Travel in Allen and Craig returned to DISD, teaching at DeGolyer and Withers Elementary Schools. Five years later, he retired after 32 years of teaching. Under Craig’s direction, the Allen High School Band racked up an impressive number of awards and accolades over the years. Along with numerous prestigious recognitions from the University Interscholastic League, the group also earned Grand Champion status from Marching Auxiliaries of America and two consecutive first place awards at the State Marching Contest, Conference AAAA competition. In addition, his bands marched in the 1997 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and earned Winner and Grand Champion designation at the 1994 Dublin international Concert Band Festival and Youth Large Band/Brass and Reed and Overall Winner for the 1994 Dublin International Band Competition. Craig has also played trumpet professionally with the Dallas Symphony and Dallas Opera and for 10 years with the Richardson Symphony. Although he still plays the trumpet, Craig admits, “Not like I used to.” He still occasionally performs with the SMU Alumni Band. After being away from band directing for a few years, Craig found himself missing working with music and musicians. So, when Denise raised the possibility of directing the Allen Community Band to him, he readily accepted the challenge. “The reality is that I’ve been wanting to do this since back when I was still teaching here,” Craig points out. “When Denise sent me the note right after the first of the year to ask if I was interested in starting it, my answer was yes because the time was finally right.” Craig’s primary goal for the Allen Community Band is to see it develop into a “fully instrumented ensemble with all the instruments covered.”

Noting that about 30 participants showed up for the initial meeting of interested musicians, he estimates that it will take several years for the group to build up a good complement of instruments to perform the music he aspires to present. “You can’t go in, especially at the beginning, and think you are going to have a major university ensemble,” he’s quick to point out. “We have a lot of people who haven’t played their instrument in 20 years. They’ll have to practice. We want to have a good time and make the kind of music for what ever level they come up to.” Craig’s plans are to start the band out playing what he calls “classic concert band” music, such as marches and medleys from musicals. Eventually he hopes to lead the band in one day performing Percy Grainger’s “Lincolnshire Posy.” “I just wanted to throw that out because I want folks to know that I’m not going to do highlights from The Sound of Music for six years!” Craig asserts. “We might do it once, or Star Wars or Superman….” Denise tosses in, “John Williams’s music is always good,” to which Craig responds with a grin, “You could make a career out of just playing John Williams’ music!” There is one song that both Denise and Craig stand firm on. “All our concerts will start out with the ‘National Anthem’ and then we will play whatever,” Denise emphasizes. Craig continues, “My pet peeve is when people butcher the ‘National Anthem,’ so we will use the one used by the United States Department of Defense. It’s the official version all the military bands use.” He also points out that the pleasure and camaraderie that comes from from playing in a band is the primary goal, and as the band gets established, tryouts will not be required. “At some point, once the band develops, we might have auditions, but I don’t envision turning someone away. The auditions would Allen Image x September 2013

Wayne Terrell and his son at Tuba Christmas be to settle them into their sections on their skill level.” Among the Allen Community Band’s original two-dozen recruits are

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Warren Brooks, Marie Rosenbaum, and Craig’s daughter Cara Philips. Now living in McKinney, Cara played the French horn for the

Rockwall Community Band and Rockwall Brass during the five years she taught chemistry at Rockwall High School. Today she teaches classes for Kindermusik, an early childhood music education program. Cara states that she started piano lessons at age five and began playing the French horn in the sixth grade. At Allen High School she played under her father’s direction. At Missouri State University, Cara received a band grant and played all four years in both the marching and concert bands. Cara is thrilled to have the opportunity to again play in a community band. “It’s fun to play music as a group,” she explains. “When you are used to doing that and don’t get to do it, you miss it. It’s fun to work with like-minded people who have music in common. And I’m excited to work with my dad because he is so talented.” A clarinet player, Marie often performs along with Denise at Our Lady of Angels. Marie started playing in the fifth grade in Lafayette, Louisiana. By high school, she rose to second chair clarinet and earned regional band honors. But after her first semester of college marching band, she put her instrument away to concentrate on her studies. After college, Marie played in the Lafayette Community Band until her family moved to Plano. Twenty years later, she tried out and was chosen to be one of the choir accompanists for Our Lady of Angels, which she has now been doing for three years—and how she came to meet Denise and learn about Allen’s new band. Because her mother-in-law and another friend now reside in Allen assisted living facilities, Marie hopes that the Allen Community Band will provide look-forward-to concerts for those who no longer have the opportunity to travel out of town for entertainment. “I have several friends who play in the Plano Community Band and I wondered why Allen didn’t have one,”

Warren Brooks muses. He first played the trombone for his high school band in Marietta, Georgia, and then for the West Point Cadet Band, where he also served as the director his senior year. Following graduation from West Point, Warren was stationed at Ft. Carson, Ft. Hood, in Korea, as well as at several schools, and his trombone was put out of sight. Now the manager of a computerbased program with the Frisco Independent School District, Warren provides high school students with insufficient credits to graduate approved coursework that will allow them to catch up with their classmates. After he and his family moved to Fairview in 1985, Warren helped start a small orchestra at First Baptist Church of Allen. The group performs during Sunday morning services as well as at Christmas and after Easter. He also plays the euphonium (a baby tuba for all intents and purposes) with Tuba Christmas over the holidays.

Cara Phillips Warren points out that choral accompaniment music is very differ ent than that of band music. “Choral pieces will change keys quite often, but more than two key changes in an instrumental arrangement is odd,” he explains. After playing for his church

a number of years, Warren admits, “I’m looking forward to playing some pieces you wouldn’t play in church. My preference would be Dixieland jazz and I like classical and Big Band Era music.” Cara’s choice of band music

Allen Image x September 2013

includes patriotic and holiday music, but she emphasizes, “But any kind of music is fine because Dad will pick out neat stuff.” Noting that she doesn’t have a strong preference other than playing a variety of musical styles, Marie admits to a partiality for songs that offer “richer harmonies.” Denise points out that one of the most significant challenges of starting a community band was solved when Christ the Servant Lutheran Church offered their facility for the band to rehearse. “They are allowing us Warren Brooks to use their place for rehearsals and we will be a part of their monthly at the church,” Craig notes. “He’s an concert series, doing one or two outstanding organist and well concerts at their church,” she states. regarded in the church music area. Craig credits the support from Their sanctuary will be the hall for Christ the Servant’s music director our performances.” Jordan Smith as a vital part of Allen In addition to being Christ the Community Band’s startup. “He’s Servant’s minister of music and been a tremendous help and a liaison organist, Jordan also sings in the

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Dallas Symphony Chorus. He declares, “We are really happy to host them and their home; it’s going to be exciting for both parties. We want to help them every way we can because we want this to be a good thing for them and the city and the church. We are here for the community.”

Jordan also notes that he is considering lending his musical talents to the band when needed, adding that he also plays percussion instruments like the marimba. As to what music he hopes they will play for the Christ the Servant concert series, Jordan replies, “That’s up to them and what they can do their first year.” Encouraged by the response and support even before the band’s first rehearsal, Denise has already lined up the group’s first performance. “With my involvement with the Allen Garden Club, we are always involved with the city’s Arbor Day Celebration and it’s been moved to the fall,” she recounts. “This year it will be on October 26, so I asked the city if we could play the ‘National Anthem.’” Admitting that at first he cringed at this announcement, Craig adds with a laugh, “The joke around here is that we have a band manager and a band leader and a concert date, but no band. When

Denise Webre and Marie Rosenbaum we talked about it at the orientation meeting everybody had a big chuckle over it. But we are pretty excited that it will get us going and hopefully, we will have five weeks of practice.”

Although directing the Allen Community Band will be a timeconsuming process for Craig, he’s already laying the groundwork to simplify the process and see to it that

Allen Image x September 2013

the activity does not interfere with his responsibilities with All World Travel. “Pat’s going to help me keep up with what I can’t do, so when I’m busy with the band, she’ll spend more time here,” he acknowledges. To make things even easier, at the beginning of June, Denise offered to take the recently vacated position of office manager/bookkeeper for Craig and Pat at All World Travel. Craig shrugs, “All three of us have jumped into this together.” The band currently has a good number of flute players, which came as no surprise to either him or Denise, as well as an ample supply of low bass, such as baritones and tubas, which was unexpected. The group also has several saxophones and French horns. “What surprised me even more is that we don’t have very many trumpets or clarinets,” Craig points out. “We also don’t have any double reeds which is oboe and bassoon, but those are pretty slim pickings anyway. I feel that by the end of the first year, we will have those holes filled.”

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Other instrument possibilities would be the piano and string bass. “Most of the music published in the last 15 years I was teaching in high school had a string bass part,” Craig notes. “A lot also had a piano part. That helps us fill in for the instrument voices we don’t have. “ For those interested in partici pating, but feel some catch-up lessons might be in order, Craig has a list of music teachers in the area. “I feel that what some of them will need to do is just hide in the back bedroom and practice when the kids are not at home,” he adds with a smile. In addition to newcomers to the area who once played in their high school or college bands, Craig also hopes that some of his old students will come out to perform under his direction again. And in at least one case, it’s the parent of band students who has signed up. “I’ve known Warren Brooks for a long time because I had both of his children in the band. He was one of the first ones I thought about when it

all started to come together, and he jumped right on it! Craig also emphasizes that band members do not have to live in Allen or limit themselves to one community band. Denise confirms, “We have a man from Anna who plays one instrument for the McKinney band and will play another instrument for ours.” “I would encourage anybody who might be interested to come out,” Warren emphasizes. “Even for those who haven’t played in a while, they would be very surprised at how easily they can pick it back up. It may take a little while to get it back, but eventually you will. Don’t stay away because it’s been too long. Come and get your lip back and have some fun!” Go to the Allen Community Band’s Facebook page to keep up with their rehearsal and performance schedule. If you have questions, contact Denise Webre at webred3@ gmail.com or Craig Logan at craigl@ allworldtravel.com. v Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.

B U S I N E S S

Allen Image x September 2013

C A R D S 65

business seen by Nicole Bywater

Glourious Domestic Services

The Boardroom Salon for Men

Sandy M. Liu, Atty. at Law, PLLC

Iris Bonilla, owner of Glourious Domestic Services, teaches her team that when they’re cleaning a client’s home, they shouldn’t just be earning a paycheck—they should be taking pride in making that house look glorious for God. “The best part of my job is seeing our client’s face when we’re done, and hearing them say that their house hasn’t looked that good in years,” Iris says. “Seeing that satisfaction is what makes it all worthwhile.” Prior to starting her business one year ago, Iris worked for 16 years as a chef. Before that, she was employed as a cleaner for five years. The commitment and dedication of Iris and her team, all of whom are church friends—and now like family—is evident in the quality of their work. Iris also prides herself in offering competitive rates. “We charge by the job and not by the hour,” she explains. “Clients can know that the work is going to be completely done to a high standard, and not just for however many hours they’ve paid for. We also have a great referral program, which is where most of our business comes from.” Glourious Domestic Services offers weekly, bi-weekly and monthly schedules and can accommodate special requests such as one-time cleanings. “I’m very honored to be in this business,” Iris says. “It’s not just a job, but as if we’re cleaning our own homes.” For more information or a quote, call Carla Viera at 214.960.7993, e-mail glouriousservices@yahoo.com or visit glouriousservices.com.

The Boardroom Salon for Men offers the ultimate relaxed grooming experience for men. Salon services— haircuts, hot later shaves, facials, massages, hair coloring, hand and foot grooming and facial and body waxing are provided in an elegant and relaxing atmosphere, helping men look great and feel confident. “The Boardroom combines the community and nostalgia of an old time barbershop, outstanding client service and professionalism, and a 1920’s country club,” says owner and general manager Tom Schoeve. “This creates a masculine salon where men can relax, unwind and confidently enjoy the highest quality haircut, shave or spa service in town. Like a sophisticated men’s club, The Boardroom sends you back to an earlier, elegant era with its dark wood paneling, pool table, plush leather chairs, complimentary beverage and great vibes.” The salon employs only very experienced stylists, which can be booked by appointment or walk-in availability. Their signature service is the Benchmark Haircut, which includes a personal consultation, rejuvenating paraffin hand dip, energizing shampoo and conditioning, scalp massage, moisturizing facial, hand and forearm massage and finish styling. The Boardroom is the perfect place to unwind. Tom says, “Our clients are able to relax from the daily trials and tribulations and confidently enjoy a relaxed grooming experience designed specifically for men.” Gift certificates and salon memberships are available. The Boardroom is located in Watters Creek at 976 Village Green Drive in Allen. For more information, call 972.649.6945 or visit theboardroomsalon.com.

The law firm of Sandy M. Liu, Attorney at Law, PLLC, focuses its practice exclusively in areas of family law and immigration law. Sandy Liu, the firm’s director, is dedicated to providing honest advice and comprehensive information to her clients. “The legal process can be stressful or confusing, and I aim to help clients navigate their course wisely,” she says. “Each client is not just a case to me—I hope to help clients achieve their life goals, beyond what their legal goals are.” As an immigrant herself, Sandy understands the myriad of challenges immigrant families face and realizes firsthand how complex the immigration process can be. “At my core, I am a creative problem solver,” she says. “I strive to help people resolve conflicts constructively without destroying their wealth, businesses or families and to protect what matters most to them.” She also volunteers for Allen ISD and local domestic violence organizations. Sandy endeavors to create opportunities for amicable resolutions, while simultaneously standing ready and prepared to go to court to fight for the client’s cause. “Unfortunately, the legal process can sometimes bring out the worst in people,” she explains. “The most rewarding part of my work is to see my clients move on with their lives once that burden is lifted.” Sandy M. Liu, Attorney at Law, PLLC, provides legal services in Collin, Denton and surrounding counties and is located at 825 Market Street, Building M, Suite 250 in Allen. Call 972.322.6576 or visit sandyliulaw.com.

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