Wylie Connection Magazine April/May 2012

Taylor & Son Builders

Building Your Dreams

Wonderful Women’s Issue!

Happy Mother’s Day April/May 2012

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Welcome to Wylie!

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Please contact the WEDC office to discuss how we can assist you in your business relocation/expansion.

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2 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

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www.wyliechamber.org • 3

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Wylie Eye Center (972)429-9090 www.TSO.com

Dr. Beth Anderson & Dr. Patrick Parks

• Comprehensive Eye Examination • Treatment of Eye Infections and Dry Eye • Diagnosis and Treatment of Glaucoma • LASIK Evaluations and Management • Contact Lens Fitting for All Ages • Gas Permeable Contact Lens Specialist

Growing to Serve Wylie

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t’s hard to believe our second anniversary is already here! We’re growing at an astounding rate – we’ve added and plan to add even more cutting edge equipment to provide first-class eye care. Each year, we aim to increase our frame selection by 20%. Our first year we added designer frame lines such as Gucci, Juicy Couture, and a dedicated titanium line. Last year we were excited to announce adding Oakley and Bebe, as well as expanding our more affordable frame lines. Stay tuned this summer as we bring in a new designer line and a new sporting line. Is there anything you want to see specifically? Please don’t hesitate to give us your recommendation. We want to carry what you like best!

As our office grows, so does our staff. Since last year, we’ve grown by five to help facilitate your care. Kasey is the new voice on the phone – she will greet you with a warm smile as she checks you in for your appointment. Rachel is our new medical technician and contact lens specialist - she’ll take excellent care of you as she gets you ready to see our doctors. Our new, highly energetic and enthusiastic optician is Christina – she has excellent taste in eyewear. Renira is our new insurance expert – she is on hand to help answer any benefits questions you may have. Finally, Dr. W. Patrick Parks has joined Dr. Anderson to help service the ever growing demand for eye care. He comes to our office with great ofexpertise and shares Rob Hunter Ballard School of Performing Arts.

4 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

Dr. Anderson’s passion for vision and will be sure to explain your eye care needs in depth. Our newest addition is the tiniest - we celebrated the arrival of Dr. Anderson’s first baby – a happy and healthy, baby boy!

A new benefit of our growing staff is the ability to have a “Staff Community Service and Team Bonding Day.” This last winter, we spent one morning volunteering at Dr. Anderson & Family the Wylie Christian Care Photo by Debra Helmberger Photography Center and that afternoon bowling in a friendly competition. Thank goodness we’re better at caring for your eyes than knocking down pins!

It is evident that our success as a business is highly due to the support from the Wylie community. Wylie and its’ surrounding areas continue to be a very unique and special place to live and work. We are very thankful to the community and our patients for voting us as Wylie’s Best Optometrist in the Wylie News. It is our commitment to help everyone see their best!

Please call to schedule your appointment at 972-429-9090.

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On The Cover

April/May 2012 • Volume 7 - Issue 2

PROFILE OF SUCCESS 8 |

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Photo by Anne Hiney.

8

TAYLOR & SON BUILDERS Building Your Dreams

4 | WYLIE EYE CENTER Dr. Beth Anderson & Dr. Patrick Parks

Taylor & Son Builders: Sam Taylor, Chris Funk and Gary Taylor

Wylie Eye Center

CONNECTIONS

FEATURES

30 |

YOU PLAY LIKE A GIRL

THE WOMEN IN BLUE

34 |

10 |

WELLNESS FOR WOMEN

12 |

JODIE LAUBENBERG

14 |

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY PHOTOS

16 |

MINDY MANSON

18 |

AUDREY LEGATOWICZ

20 |

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

24 |

FLOWER GALS

26 |

DESSIE HAKER

28 |

I LOVE MY MOM BECAUSE...

36 |

38 |

40 | 44 |

WELCOME NEW

CHAMBER MEMBERS

SUPPLEMENTAL RESEARCH AT COLLIN COLLEGE

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS HOW TO HELP YOUR PARENTS MANAGE

14

www.wyliechamber.org • 5

Welcome to a Celebration of Women!

As the only male on staff at the Wylie Chamber and the CONNECTION Magazine, I am truly happy to welcome you to another issue of the CONNECTION that highlights some of my favorite people…those who step forward to put the target on their back and lead this community in a positive direction.

This issue focuses on a few of the wonderful women in the area who represent us in Austin, manage our City, run our local businesses, and keep us safe.

Plus a couple who are just wonderful in general. They are part of the reason why our region is still moving forward in the most difficult headwinds and their positive impact on this community is felt daily.

They say in sports, the best referees are the ones you don’t notice. In terms of leadership, the best leaders are the ones you see simply as leaders, not male, female or otherwise. We are proud of the leaders in this area and appreciate their contributions to our overall comfort and success.

This being the April/May issue, there is a widely celebrated day in May in which we honor our Mothers for their love, sacrifice and commitment to making us better people. We had a few of our local school kids pay homage in a section titled “I love my mom because…” It is a great piece and gives an amazing insight to how our children see their mother’s and the impact they have on their lives.

Take some time to look through this issue and enjoy the smile it brings to your face. In the interest of celebrating Mother’s Day I have a few of my own: I love my Mom because… …she taught me to respect others as I would want them to respect me. In doing that she challenged me to be a better person to this day. …she never looked in my closet or under the bed when I said I had cleaned my room. …she showed me that strength was not about the size of a person, but the size of their heart and convictions …she was my most honest critic and favorite audience. If mom was happy then you had done something worth being happy about. … three words – Chocolate Chip Cookies!

We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together.

Thank you to all who work daily to make this a great place to live and thanks to all mother’s for caring and not looking under our beds.

Happy Mother’s Day Mom. I love you.

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6 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

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A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication 250 S. Hwy. 78 | Wylie, TX 75098 Telephone: 972-442-2804 Fax: 972-429-0139 www.wyliechamber.org • info@wyliechamber.org

CHAMBER PRESIDENT

ADVISORY BOARD

Marcia Coker

Aimee Nemer

Denise Vice

Tina Stelnicki

Craig Kelly

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

ART DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERs

Mike Agnew

Becky Lindstrom Anne Hiney Jamie Engle

Lori C. Villarreal

Craig Kelly

Brenda Byboth

Moria Walton

LaDawn Fletcher

Marcia Coker

Dr. Cheryl Cowan

Mark Robinson

For information about advertising in The CONNECTION Magazine please contact Becky Lindstrom at 214•228•5844 or blindstrom@wyliechamber.org.

Story ideas should be submitted to Anne Hiney at theconnection.anne@mac.com.

The CONNECTION is published bimonthly by the Wylie Chamber of Commerce.

It is mailed free of charge to over 31,000 households in the Wylie/Sachse/Murphy/ Lavon area and more than 1,000 copies are distributed to local businesses.

Contents of this magazine may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for content of all advertisements. Information published in The CONNECTION is the opinion of the sourced authors. The Wylie Chamber of Commerce does not necessarily share the editorial opinions expressed in The Connection magazine.

Personal decisions regarding health, finance and other matters should be made after consultation with the reader’s professional advisors.

The “Profile of Success” cover photograph and feature article, as well as the “Prefessional Profiles”, are paid advertisements.

Just for fun, find the butterfly! Last issue we hid the butterfly on page 12 in the Murphy Marketplace photo.

Occasionally we make a mistake. Let us know if you find one so we can correct it. We love your feedback - send comments to info@wyliechamber.org. Story ideas are always welcome and appreciated. Thanks for “Connecting” with us!

NO JOB’S TO SMALL!

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Wylie Chamber of Commerce • 250 S. Hwy. 78 • Wylie, TX 75098 Office: 972-442-2804 • Fax: 972-429-0139 info@wyliechamber.org • www.wyliechamber.org

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Dreams can come true!

They just need a little help!

Take a moment and think about those dreams you have for your home. What do you see? People gathered around the kitchen island. The family settling in to catch a movie in the media room.

Children frolicking on the plush carpet.

Those dreams are not about rooms — they are about living. Rooms are about stuff and storage.

Dreams are about people and life. At Taylor and Son, we don’t design rooms — we build living spaces because that is what dreams are made of!

Why Taylor and Son?

The Taylor and Son Story?

Taylor and Son is a third generation, family owned business dedicated to making your dreams a reality.

Our staff listens to your story and digs to discover what you really have in mind. They listen, think, imagine, and weave together pieces and colors, products and styles to make your dream a reality.

The closeness of this family is the secret to their success. The children grew up visiting their father’s job sites. They experienced the joy of watching dreams be realized.

8 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

Charity, daughter and lead designer, remembers: “Our dad was a builder, so we grew up watching projects develop.

It was exciting to see the changes. Those memories inspired me to major in design.

Because we have such fond memories of a loving home, we really enjoy helping people realize their dreams for their own home. We really put our hearts into the creation of living spaces. It’s something that we love to do because it’s always been such an important part of who we are.”

Finally, someone who gets it!

The Taylor and Son Difference?

We at Taylor and Son are committed to giving you the living space you’re dreaming of right now.

Whatever size project you have in mind — building a mansion or carpeting your den — Taylor and Son brings their unique blend of inspiration and experience to ensure that the end result surpasses your expectations.

Our team works together on every detail from start to finish. The three partners personally oversee every project to meet the needs of our clients in regards to quality, timeliness, and budget.

• Carpet

• Hardwoods

• Cabinets

• Granite & Silestone

• Media Rooms

• Room Make-overs

• Home Building

Stop by our showroom. Enjoy a cup of coffee. Take the first step in realizing your dream.

Expect to be Amazed!

1. Expect exactly what you had in mind when you dreamed of this living space.

2. Expect an easy process that helps you make the decisions that result in the outcome you desire.

3. Expect a team that is accessible, knowledgeable, and can deliver exactly what you had in mind.

4. Expect on-time delivery and complete satisfaction with your new living space.

Expect it to be Amazing!

214-919-3200 403 S. Hwy. 78 Wylie, TX 75098 www.TaylorAndSonDFW.com www.wyliechamber.org • 9

Lt. Adana Barber

Ofc. Crystal Morris

Sgt. Donna Valdepeña

The Women in Blue

By Jamie Engle

No higher calling for these Wylie, Sachse, Murphy police officers

S

ome people work at a job all their life, but the truly blessed can’t think of any other career they’d rather have.

That’s when a career has become a calling.

Although police officers Adana Barber (Murphy PD), Crystal Morris (Sachse PD) and Donna Valdepeña (Wylie PD), all came to their careers in different ways, they agree there’s no place else they’d rather be.

Murphy PD “I can’t imagine doing anything else,” Murphy Lt. Adana Barber said. “I like everything about it.” Lt. Barber didn’t always know she wanted to be a police officer; in fact, her degree is in business. “I had a lot of things I wanted to do and being a police officer was one of them,” she said. “It wasn’t until after my sister’s suggestion that I decided to try it. After that, everything just fell into place.”

Lt. Barber’s law enforcement career started in Garland in 1987. Next she went to Rowlett before coming to the Murphy Police Department in 2004. She started as a patrol officer and in 2006 was promoted to sergeant, then lieutenant. She’s been with Murphy PD for eight years. As a lieutenant, Barber oversees operations. “What don’t I do?!? I do a bit of everything.” she said. “ I get things moving and get them done.”

She added, “I like that we’re a small department. It’s more fun, and more like a family. That means counseling and discipline are part of the job too. Plus, I get to listen to citizens –

10 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

sometimes they’re angry, but they can be happy too.”

Another thing Lt. Barber enjoys about being a police officer is that every day can be different. “You may be doing the same things, but every day is different too. You never know how a call or situation is going to work out; you never know what you’re going to encounter,” she explained. “I like dealing with people and I like going and doing, not sitting. Being a police officer is a perfect job to do just that.”

Sachse PD Being mobile is part of the draw for Sachse police officer Crystal Morris.

“What I love about Sachse is it’s small enough but big enough,” Officer Morris said. “You have a chance to get out and see the whole city; you’re not stuck in one area like in larger cities.”

Since she was about 16-years-old, Officer Morris knew she wanted to be in law enforcement. It wasn’t a career she pursued immediately, however. It was a mid-life career change.

Officer Morris attended the Collin County Sheriff Department’s police academy part time while working full time at another job.

She graduated in 2007, but it wasn’t easy to find a job.

In 2009, she was considering abandoning the idea of getting her shield when a friend told her the Sachse Police Department was hiring.

“I was about ready to give up because it was taking so long to find a job,” Officer Morris said. “But then I got the call from Sachse PD and everything fell into place. It’s been all downhill since then.”

Although Officer Morris wanted to be a police officer since high school, she said she probably got a lot more out of the career by waiting to pursue it later in life.

“Now that I’m older and have more life experiences, I realize how much more I can help people,” Officer Morris explained.

“Every call I think, ‘how can I fix it, how can I make it better?’ I know I can’t every time, but maybe I can change a life, or help someone become a better person, or help them understand something new.”

Wylie PD “It’s a tough job but extremely rewarding. I like the number of people that I can reach out and help. Some days it’s extremely hard because of all the things you see, but if you work hard and give 100 percent, you can make a difference,” Sgt. Donna Valdepeña said.

Sgt. Valdepeña is a shift patrol sergeant with the Wylie Police Department. She’s been with the Wylie PD for 8.5 years, first as a patrol officer then as a School Resource Officer (SRO).

Her next assignment was as a detective in the Crimes Against Persons unit before becoming a SRO Sergeant. As a SRO Sergeant, she started the Citizens Police Academy and the CPA Alumni Association. In addition, she was involved in the crime prevention and neighborhood watch programs and National Night Out for several years, as well as acting as Wylie PD’s Public Information Officer.

“The best thing about Wylie is always going to be the “family feel” of Wylie,” she said. “We have around 43,000 people now, yet Wylie can be that large and still have a small town feel. I know a lot of people and I really like that.”

Contributing to that small town feel is how people pull together in times of crisis, Sgt. Valdepeña added.

“I was here during Hurricane Katrina and that was a huge impact,” she said. “I saw the city, police department, fire department, public works – everyone! - come through to help people they didn’t know. When someone’s house burns down, or a child passes away or is killed, the community comes together to help. It’s a Wylie thing, and that’s really special to me.”

that and more at the Wylie PD. “We’re all close to each other. You lay your life on the line for another officer, so how can you not have camaraderie and closeness?” Sgt. Valdepeña said.

Lt. Barber added, “You take care of your own. Somehow this very eclectic mix of people comes together and rallies together; we complement each other, which makes you feel good. It’s really a culture, a way of life.”

For young people thinking of pursuing a career in law enforcement, the women highly recommend getting involved in Police Explorers, a program introducing teenagers to law enforcement careers. It’s offered by the Boy Scouts through Murphy PD and is open to males and females.

“The best thing is to get involved and see what it’s like. It can be boring, and it’s not exciting every day. But at the end of the day, if you can look forward to coming to work every day, and focus on the good you can do and the people you can help, it makes it all worth it,” Lt. Barber said.

When you see a police officer, be sure to thank them for all they do to protect and serve the community. • photos by Anne Hiney & Craig Kelly

All in the Family Department camaraderie and a family atmosphere were highly ranked by all three women.

“Murphy PD’s camaraderie makes it a fun place to work. It’s more enjoyable than anywhere else I’ve worked.” Lt. Barber said.

Being able to laugh is an important part of the job to Officer Morris. “Everyone gets along well,” Officer Morris said, “For all we do, it’s also laid back. It’s not like a typical job; we can cut up with people, do the job, then be yourself.”

Sgt. Valdepeña didn’t think she’d find the same close-knit family she had as an Alabama State Trooper, but said she’s found all

www.wyliechamber.org • 11

Jodie Laubenberg

By Lori C. Villarreal

W

hat does Texas House State Representative Jodie Laubenberg have in common with you and me? As a mom, a homemaker and a professional, Jodie has learned to juggle it all. Her political career started ten years ago while her two children, David and Liz, were in high school. She has made her family a priority, been an active member of her community, and managed to be involved in areas of her own personal interest.

Jodie and her husband, Bob, have been residents of Parker for 15 years. Their children remain in the area and are living independent lives having both graduated from university. The Laubenbergs have three…four… five…sometimes up to seven rescued dogs.

Jodie never expected to run for office. Politics was a passion for her and she helped organize a lot of campaigns. She was involved in local issues and became a member of the Parker City Council. When the population growth caused Collin and Rockwall Counties to acquire two new House seats Jodie encouraged a few others to run. She says, “When they did not express Jodie Laubenberg with her husband Bob. an interest I decided to give it a shot”. Jodie has been the Republican Texas House State Representative for the Northern and Eastern areas of Collin County and all of Rockwall County. She has served five, two-year terms and is unopposed in her upcoming election.

Being a mother, wife and politician got tough at times. “As a woman in politics, you don’t give up the mom and wife part.

You are still needed to wash the jeans – tonight. The house

still needs tending and the kids need their mom”. The juggling wasn’t always easy and life throws all kinds of unexpected messes in the way. She shares, “Don’t let perfection get in the way of living. Life is an adventure. Have fun and find that adventure for yourself.” Jodie has found her adventure in her family and by participating in government for the betterment of her community.

Getting involved at the State level has allowed Jodie to see issues from the State and Federal perspective. “Folks think government is the answer to every problem. When we turn things over to the government we allow them to take responsibility away from the residents”, states Jodie. She continues, “Community should take care of itself. At the end of the day, an individual has to take responsibility for his/her actions. Washington can’t help as effectively or as permanently. Our community has demonstrated that we can take care of our own during crisis. Our local notfor-profits serve our residents but also expect individual accountability”.

Jodie sits on the Public Health Committee and the Human Services Committee. She agrees the issues of heath care are a “big, scary, complicated mess”. With this mess taking up a third of the current budget and potentially growing she is determined to have a voice in the process.

Jodie shares, “I love what I do.” She plans to remain in politics as long as she is voted in by her constituents and while she feels she is making a difference. She expects to be active and involved and plans one day to be juggling grandbabies. • photos courtesy of Jodie Laubenberg

12 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

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www.wylieinsurance.com www.wyliechamber.org • 13

Happy Mother’s Day 1

2

3

4 7 6

5

8 10 9 14 • The CONNECTION • April/May 2012

11

15

12

14 13

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18 17

To celebrate Mothers Day we asked city and school leaders and staff to share a photo of themselves with their mom from their childhood.

Thank you so much to all who took the time to send us a photo and a special thank you to Aimee Nemer, Craig Kelly, Marcia Coker and Denise Vise for your assistance!

20

Recognize anyone? Just for fun, can you tell Who’s Who? Here’s a list of everyone pictured.

Aimee Nemer Barbara Goss Becky Ayers Billy George Brandy Schneider Carole Ehrlich Chief Randy Corbin

19

Craig Kelly Diane Culver Renee Truncale Jonathan Slater Kim Lenoir Kristen Roberts Linda Bantz

Lynn Fagerstrom Mark Timm Mike Felix Pat McMillan Stacie Gooch Stacy Buckley Susan Craig

You’ll find the answers on page 43!

21

www.wyliechamber.org • 15

Mindy Manson

by Craig Kelly

M

“

Mindy has grown with the City of Wylie over the past 17 ama Bear” in popular culture describes a loveable, years watching the population explode from 9,000 to more than caring and nurturing mother that is tough, aggres42,000 people. “From the very beginning I was impressed with sive and protective when needed. A mama bear takes how much the City had been engaged with long term planning,” responsibility, leading by example, teaching, mentoring and she said. “I have documents in my office from the early 60’s that encouraging. City of Wylie’s City Manager, Mindy Manson, outline the water, sewer and street needs to accommodate future demonstrates many of the traits and characteristics of a mama growth. And while there will always be critics, Wylie has done a bear in both her private and professional life. great job in planning for and delivering essential public services.”

Mindy joined the team in 1995 as Assistant to the City “It is tremendously rewarding to see the reality of a neighborManager. She currently serves as City Manager, and is often hood park filled with families that I can remember first seeing considered the CEO of Wylie. Just as the CEO of a corporaas a conceptual drawing; shopping locally for something that we tion manages the day to day operations of the business, she is previously had to travel to Plano or Garland to find; and seeing responsible for overseeing the day to day administrative operacommunity events like “Boo on Ballard” tions of the City of Wylie, including thrive. Wylie has managed to keep its staffing and preparation and execution character despite the growth and I of the budget. Mindy implements and believe this is attributable to the people administers the policies established by that are attracted to the quality of life the City Council and ensures the executhat is found here.” tion of their goals, mission, and vision, while making recommendations conWhile Mindy is dedicated to her procerning policies and programs. The City fession, her passion lies with her famManager is appointed by, and answers ily. “It’s a tough balance (work) and directly to, the Mayor and City Council, I have missed my fair share of family a seven member body. events over the years, but regardless, City Manager Mindy Manson is joined by Student Mayor for the my family’s happiness and well being is “Mindy is the ideal leader for the Day Brittanie Henry and Mayor Eric Hogue on the Dais. more important than any work event.”

City of Wylie and continues to show Manson has been married to Bin for 30 years, and has two chilher unwavering commitment to our city’s success,” says Mayor dren, Andrew 25, and Kate 22.

Eric Hogue. “Reporting to seven different bosses is not an easy job, yet she continues to successfully lead our staff of 300 Her son Andrew recalls, “Since my sister and I were little kids, employees.” our mother took us to have donuts for breakfast every Friday morning. What started as a reward for good behavior, evolved One of the biggest challenges of her job is that every service into a tradition that lasted at least until I graduated from high the City provides is the number one priority of at least one citischool. It’s a simple metaphor: just like everything else in our zen, if not thousands. Meeting service expectations and manbeautiful mother’s life, her dedication was extraordinary, espeaging the budget has become even more difficult over the past cially when it came to something her family loved. What’s more, few years in light of the down economy. Mindy tries to ensure I’m not even sure she likes donuts that much. What a trooper!” that employees understand the challenges and goals, and works to equip staff with the knowledge, tools, and training they need Community Service is also an important part of Manson’s to carry out those goals, while striving to support her team in commitment to the community. She currently serves as every way she can.

President of the Board Directors for Habitat for Humanity of South Collin County; is a member of the Methodist Richardson “She nurtures and loves this City to the point of taking Medical Center Advisory Board; and is involved in the Wylie responsibility for the successes and failures of her cubs (staff),” Independent School District Mentoring Program. says Wylie Fire Rescue Chief Randy Corbin. “Manners, respect, discipline, telling you ‘no’ when you need to be stopped, a straChances are you won’t hear Manson roar, but more likely tegic throat-clearing in a touchy situation…that’s the way Mindy offering a word of encouragement, providing a needed nudge, leads Wylie…all the care of a doting mother, and the first to or bringing new thoughts and ideas to the table. • straighten you up when necessary.”

16 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

Photos by Craig Kelly

www.wyliechamber.org • 17

by Brenda Byboth

Audrey Legatowicz Hers is an Ancient Craft

V

isiting the home of Sachse resident Audrey Legatowicz is to enter into fabric and fiber nirvana!

Not only does Audrey often spin her own threads, she dyes her own yarns, weaves fabric and fashions beautiful clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

Audrey’s love of fiber art began by taking an adult education class. Beginning on a small table loom, she has not only taught herself more about this ancient craft, but taught others, shared her considerable abilities with school age children and takes her lovely products to area craft shows. Audrey recently helped her grandson weave a rag rug for his room!

Audrey moved to Texas in 1980. She became very active with the Friends of the Sachse Public Library and several spinning & weaving guilds. She taught Fiber Art for 8 years at the prestigious Booker T. Washington Arts Magnet High School, which she said was hugely rewarding! Audrey has done presentations for the Dallas Museum of Art, and for about 20 years she conducted educational presentations for the Plano Independent School District. She demonstrated primarily for 4th grade Texas history students, showing them how to make fabric from raw materials; first spinning the thread, then weaving the fabric.

Most children have never considered the amazing process of how early settler’s produced fabric.

Just back from the Chicken Farm Art Show in San Angel, Audrey unloads her Ashford Spinning wheel and demonstrates how to take raw wool – dyed herself – and spin it into either thick or thin threads, depending on tension and other factors.

Audrey has been weaving for her own business since 1981, and is still available for private lessons or demonstrations.

Her crafting area is bursting with beautiful colors, fabrics and fibers. Showing a bag of mohair and wool, she touches it 18 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

and describes it as her “fiber fix” for the day! Among the several looms she owns is a large Swedish model which currently sports a sea of blues and other colors waiting to be woven into a custom shawl for a website customer. Describing the process is complicated; actually seeing the loom with its myriad of beams, threads, wires and mechanics is mind-boggling. The long threads running along from the back beam to the front of the loom are the warp – and take considerable time to prepare. Once you are “warped to weave” – and Audrey is -- then the other direction, the weft, is readied. Hundreds of threads are carefully and artfully worked into the loom. Finally, once the loom is prepared, Audrey enjoys the thrill of actually creating projects.

She emphasizes the quiet feeling of spirit that hand-made things possess, and she enjoys making all kinds of projects.

Audrey’s wearable art includes a dazzling array of hand dyed and hand woven scarves, hats (“a hat for every head!”) shawls, purses, jewelry and wall-hangings. She uses recycled men’s ties, weaving them into purses – a favorite among customers.

Audrey also utilizes her own hand-felted wool for clothing, scarves and wall hangings. Touching the wool, Audrey notes that merino wool is best and softest for this type of project. She gets most of her mohair and wool from sheep and goats at a small farm in east Texas. Holding a beautiful smaller wall hanging, with wool, mohair details and threads running through it, Audrey describes it as a “Texas Lamb-scape”!

Equally impressive are the much larger unfinished pieces upstairs. She recently finished a huge commissioned piece for the Renaissance Hotel in Dallas.

If you want to see Audrey’s products in person, she will be attending the upcoming Bath House Cultural Arts Spring Art Mart, (521 East Lawther Drive, Dallas) April 27-29, 2012.

And if you are having trouble reading this article, go to Audrey’s website and order the “Baby Boomer” necklace. A beautiful beaded necklace, complete with its own magnifying glass!

Audrey currently promotes her art via art shows and her website at www.audreylegatowicz.com. •

.

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www.wyliechamber.org • 19

APRIL EVENTS

Apr. 13th - Murphy Moonlight Movies presents Furry Vengeance at 8 p.m. at the

Murphy Community Center, 205 N. Murphy Rd., Murphy, TX 75094. Free event sponsored by Murphy Community Development Corporation. For more info., please contact the Murphy Community Center at 972-468-4444 or email recinfo@murphytx.org.

Apr. 14th - Sachse’s Great American Cleanup/Arbor Day Celebration. Join other volunteers throughout Sachse to help out and give back to our community at 9 a.m. at the City Hall Amphitheater, 3815 B Sachse Road. Prior to the start of this event, Mayor Mike Felix will give an Arbor Day Proclamation. Free gift trees will be handed out on a first come - first served basis in celebration of Arbor Day. Call Parks & Recreation Dept. to sign up your group to volunteer at 469-429-0275. Volunteers will be provided with lunch afterwards and entertainment by the Daughter Judy Band. www.cityofsachse.com/parks Apr. 14th

- Celebrate Nature Spring Festival at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visit heardmuseum.org for event details.

Apr. 20th - Tri-Chamber Golf Tournament - see page 42 for details.

Apr. 20th & 21st - The Wylie Acting Group for Children presents Charlotte’s

Web in the auditorium at Wylie East High School. Friday, April 20th - 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 21st - 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. For ticket info. go to www.wagforchildren.org or contact info@wagforchildren.org.

Apr. 21st - Plano Symphony Orchestra 2011/2012 season will conclude with a

performance featuring “Finlandia” and international competition award-winning violinist, Mariusz Patyra at 8:15 p.m. at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 5801 West Plano Parkway in Plano. Reserved seating tickets start at $9; add $2 at the door. Group and student rates available. To order, call the Plano Symphony Orchestra Ticket Office at 972-473-7262 or visit www.planosymphony.org.

Apr. 22nd - Earth Day - do something good for our planet! www.earthday.org/2012 Apr. 23rd - The Taste of Wylie benefiting the Wylie Christian Care Center from

11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Wylie Baptist Church Special Events Center at 200 N. Ballard Avenue in downtown Wylie. Sample food from more than 25 restaurants! In addition to sampling scrumptious delicacies, “The Taste of Wylie” includes a live and silent auction of donated items. TITLE SPONSOR: Women’s Link Center of Wylie - A Medical Center of Plano Facility. Purchase tickets at the door or in advance at American National Bank Wylie & Sachse, Capital One Bank, Chase Bank - Wylie, ViewPoint Bank - Wylie, Inwood National Bank - Wylie. For more info. contact Sandy Nelson at 972-742-8999.

MAY EVENTS

May 6th - Pedal Car Races in Historic Downtown Wylie Sponsored by Ballard Street Cafe. Race day registration starts at 1 p.m. – races start at 2 p.m. Ages 2-5. $10 Entry Fee (includes T-shirt with registration) Winners will receive trophies in 2 age brackets (2-3 & 4-5). Proceeds to benefit Wylie Area Special Olympics and the promotion and beautification of Downtown Wylie.

May 10th - Sachse Sampler & Expo at the First United Methodist Church of Sachse from 5:30 - 8 p.m. The Sachse Sampler & Expo brings together the best offerings of area businesses and restaurants. Enjoy a great plate of food while shopping around with local business and retail vendors. $1 Admission, children 2 & under are free.

May 11th - Throwaway Ponies 3rd Annual Golf Tournament at Buffalo Creek

Golf Club, 624 Country Club Dr., Rockwall, TX. Sign in starts at Noon, shotgun start at 1 p.m. $100/golfer or $360 for team. Dinner & auction follows. Included for golfers, $25 of others. Info at www.throwawayponies.org.

May 12th - Sachse’s Movie in the Park. Come check out the NEW amphitheater and see Puss in Boots. Popcorn and drinks will be served. Dress up as your favorite fairy tale character and enter into the costume contest to win a prize. 8 p.m. at City Hall Amphitheater, 3815 B Sachse Road, Sachse. TX. www.cityofsachse.com/parks May 12th

- Ropes Course Tree Top Adventure Day - at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary. 1 - 5 p.m. Registration required - Visit heardmuseum.org for event details.

May 12th - Local Election Day (Early voting: April 30 - May 5) May 18th - Murphy Moonlight Movies presents The Karate Kid at 8:30 p.m. at the

Murphy Community Center, 205 N. Murphy Rd., Murphy, TX 75094. Free event sponsored by Murphy Community Development Corporation. For more info., please contact the Murphy Community Center at 972-468-4444 or email recinfo@murphytx.org.

May 19th - GOLF4KIDS Tournament benefiting the “Food4Kids” program with the North Texas Food Bank. 8 a.m. tee-time at Woodbridge Golf Course, 7400 Country Club Dr., Wylie, TX 75098. Sponsored by First United Methodist Church of Sachse. Go to www.sachsefirst.net/site/dbpage.asp?page_id=140004001&sec_id=140001121 for info.

May 19th - Bird of Prey Photography Day at the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center

– A rare opportunity to photograph hawks, falcons and owls up close while positioned/ perched in natural settings. 7:30 - 11 a.m. for best light and minimum heat at Brockdale Park at Lavon Lake (Lucas, Texas) cross streets: Lucas Road (FM 3286) & Brockdale Park Road. Registration is open now. Space is limited to the first 200 registrants at $20 per person. Go to www.bpraptorcenter.org and use the Donation Page for payment.

Registration closes 5/16/12. Please type “BPRC Photo Day” in the Comments Section.

May 28th - Memorial Day School Holiday May 29th - Texas Primary Election Day 20 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

WYLIE’S RITA AND TRUETT SMITH PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS Located at 300 Country Club Rd., Bldg. 300, Wylie, TX For additional information on any of these programs, please check our website www.wylietexas.gov>Departments>Library or call 972-516-6250

Storytimes: Family Storytime (all ages): Tues. at 6:00 p.m.

Toddler Time (ages 1-2): Wed. at 9:00 & 9:45 a.m.; Fri. at 11:30 a.m.

Big Kid Storytime (ages 3-5): Wed. at 10:30 & 11:15 a.m. & Thur. at 1:30 p.m.

Babies & Books (ages 0-1): Fri. at 11:00 a.m.

Storytime Themes:

Week of April 2 Silly Stories-S Week of April 9 Yummy for my Tummy-Y Week of April 16 Quiet & Loud-Q Week of April 23 Umbrella-U Week of April 30 Cows-C Week of May 7 Mom, Mommy, Mother-M NOTE: There are no storytimes from May 12, 2012 through June 2, 2012 as we prepare for summer reading club. Storytimes will resume the week of June 4, 2012.

Computer Classes: Held Weekly

Computer classes that include Word, Excel, Basics of Computers and more are offered weekly in the Computer Lab. All classes are free and registration is required. Registration opens two weeks prior to the start of each class. For more info. and/or to register visit the Help Desk, call 972-516-6250 option 3 or email libraryclasses@wylietexas.gov.

English Conversation Club

Practice speaking English in a casual, small group setting. Participants must already read and write English. Spring session registration is closed. The fall session will start in September. Contact the Adult Services Department for more details.

Wagging Tales: Apr. 3, 10, 17, 24 & May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - 3:30 - 4:15 p.m.

Beginning readers are invited to practice their reading skills with Abby the Collie. Abby is a Delta Society trained pet partner and will be in the Storytime Room. Tickets are required and are given out free on a first come, first served basis on the afternoon of the program.

Friends of the Library Meeting: Apr. 19 & May 17 at 6 p.m.

The Friends of the Smith Public Library meet in the Conference Room.

4th Monday Book Club: Apr. 23 & May 21 at 6:30 p.m.

The 4th Monday Book Club (ages 18 and up) meets at 6:30 p.m. in the Conference Room to discuss this month’s book selection.

Apr. 23rd - Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier.

May 21st - The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain.

BeTween Book Club: Apr. 26 & May 24 at 6 p.m.

Never judge a book by its movie. 4th and 5th graders are invited to discuss different books that have movie adaptations. The first 25 kids to sign up will get a free copy of the book courtesy of the Friends of the Library.

Apr. 26th - Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules by Jeff Kinney May 24th - Mr. Popper’s Penguins by Richard & Florence Atwater

Booked on Fridays: Apr. 13 & May 11 from Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Second Friday each month (ages 18 and up) Bring your lunch and drop in between noon and 1:30 p.m. for fun reads and light conversation.

Apr. 13th - Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie May 11th - Portrait of a Spy by Daniel Silva GED Classes: Apr. 3, 10, 17, 24 & M ay 1, 8 15 from 5 - 8 p.m.

Classes will meet every Tuesday through May, following the same holiday schedule as Wylie ISD. All classes will be held in the Conference Room and no registration is required.

NOTE: May 15 is the last day for GED classes until school starts back in the fall.

My Very Own Book Club: Apr. 18 & May 16 from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Meets every 3rd Wednesday. 1st, 2nd & 3rd graders are encouraged to read the book on their own time and then come to the meeting for discussion and a craft. The first 20 kids to sign up at the Children’s Desk will get a free copy of this month’s book selection.

Apr. 18th - Bringing the Rain to Kapiti Plain by Verna Aardema May 16th - The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant

Teen Career Fair: Apr. 14 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Looking for a summer job? Out of School and need money? Join local businesses at The Smith Public Library April 14th from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Businesses will be giving out information to working age teens about their company. All teens 16-18 welcome. Come dressed in interview attire and bring a resume.

Crafter’s Swap: Apr. 16 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Do you have any left over craft items? Bring your items and swap for some new ones.

Items may not be sold. Vendors are not allowed.

Zombie Prom: Apr. 28 from 8 - 11 p.m.

The Smith Public Library is hosting its first ever Zombie Prom for 6th-12th graders--the living dead never looked so good! Dancing, DJ, Crafts & prizes! Tickets available at the door: Zombies (come in costume & makeup) $3.00/Humans (come as your “undead” self) $5.00. Snacks available for $1 a piece.

Comic Book Day: May 5 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Join us for a fun-filled day celebrating American and Japanese graphic novels and animation. Special guests include Viper Comics and Sonny Strait, illustrator and voice actor best known as Krillin from Dragon Ball Z.

CHAMBER of COMMERCE EVENTS WYLIE

www.wyliechamber.org

972-442-2804

Monthly Luncheons: 4th Tues. of the month at 11:30. Check the chamber website for details on location. Make reservations online at www.wyliechamber.org.

Apr. 24th - State of the District presentation by Dr. David Vinson, WISD Superintendent.

May. 22nd - State of the Chamber presentation by Mike Agnew, Chamber President.

Every Wednesday Business Card Exchange: Network and promote your business from 8 - 9 a.m. at Woodbridge Golf Course club house, 7400 Country Club Dr., Wylie. Chamber members and non-members welcome.

Apr. 20th - Tri-Chamber Golf Tournament - see page 42 for details.

SACHSE

www.sachsechamber.com

972-496-1212

Monthly Luncheons: 2nd Tues. of the month from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Northplace Church, 2709 3rd Street, Sachse. $15 - Members, $20 - Non-members. Register & pay online.

Apr. 10th - Networking Luncheon sponsored by Searching for a Star Foundation.

May 8th - Networking Luncheon - check the chamber website for details.

MURPHY

murphychamber.org

972-805-3749

Monthly Luncheons: 3rd Tues. of the month. NEW LOCATION: Murphy Activity

Center, 201 North Murphy Rd. (across from City Hall, in the former Murphy Fitness Center building). Doors open at 11:30 a.m., buffet line opens at 11:45 a.m., speakers present at noon & meeting adjourns at 1 p.m. R.S.V.P. by 11:59 a.m. the Friday before the luncheon to receive the special member rate of $15. After noon on Friday, cost is $20 for everyone. Go to www.murphychamber.org/payment.php to prepay or call 972-805-3749 for reservations.

Apr. 17th & May 15th - Monthly Luncheon

Every Thursday Business Card Exchange:

Join the Murphy Chamber of Commerce for a Business Card Exchange from 8 - 9 a.m. at Elke’s Market Cafe in at 158 FM 544, Suite 118. Open to members and non-members. •

FREE Ladies Self Defense Class Saturday, April 21st & May 19th 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.

A Community Service offered by Wylie Karate 1234 Parker Rd., Wylie

214-293-8057 wyliekarate.com Call to reserve a spot, space is limited.

Submit Your Event to the Calendar!

To submit your community event to the JUNE/JULY calendar send an e-mail to theconnection.anne@mac.com no later than May 15th. Please include contact name, date(s), time(s), location, a publishable phone number, e-mail and/or web site for information. Only events that are open to the public (no “members only” events) are eligible, as space permits. THANKS!

www.wyliechamber.org • 21 www.wyliechamber.org • 21

WHY JEANIE? Her Proven Sales Success #1 in pre-owned home sales in Sachse 3 years running!

•

On average, my listings sell for 98% of list price.

•

2008 Realtor of the Year at Lake Cities Association of REALTORS

•

2008 Spirit of Sachse Award Recipient

•

Graduate of Real Estate Institute

•

2009 Coldwell Banker International Diamond Society Production Award

•

#9 in individual production out of 375 at Coldwell Banker Apex, REALTORS

•

Certified Home Marketing Specialist

•

Accredited Buyers Representative

Your “Out-the-Door” Checklist

Spring is undoubtedly the prettiest time of the year to be in real estate! Green grass, spring flowers and pleasant temperatures all make home shopping a pleasure. Inventory is rising, and buyer activity has been rising to match, so we have been showing and showing and showing!

How should a Seller prepare for showings? First and foremost, be ready all the time. This isn’t as hard as you think. Once you have completed the initial curb check: neutralizing, de-cluttering and staging; then it is just the maintenance cleaning and the “out-the-door checklist”.

Below is an out-the-door checklist that I discuss with all my Clients.

• Cookies hot out of the oven, and on the counter with a note to the Buyers to enjoy! This is only on the weekend or evenings when the Seller’s have time and plenty of warning. This makes the house smell amazing and keeps the Buyers in your kitchen longer.

• If cookies can’t be baked, then Stop and Sniff! What does the house smell like? This is a gut check so be as unbiased as you can. Clean and baking scents are best; no floral or perfume-y scents. And don’t use the puffer things … they freak out the Buyers and Agents.

• Strategic lighting. You don’t need to light up the house like a Christmas tree, but make sure the kitchen and baths are bright. Use lamps in the other rooms to create warmth.

• Blinds are open.

• Beds are made and laundry is put away.

• Dishes are put away and kitchen is clean.

• Background music is on.

• Storm doors are unlocked.

• Toilet lids are closed.

• Animals are crated/secured or better yet, loaded in the car with you.

• Animal bowls and paraphernalia are put away.

• Carry the trash out with you as you go.

If you are still asking why should we do all this, let me show you a house that is ready and one that is not. You can see, hear, smell and feel the difference.

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

JEANIE MARTEN Coldwell Banker Apex Realtors 4908 Maple Shade Ave. • Sachse, TX 75048

972-588-8363 • www.jeaniemarten.com

www.wyliechamber.org • 23

Flower Gals

by Moriah Walton

O

n one corner of ever-busy Ballard Street stands a familiar sight: the Wylie Flower and Gift Shop. This staple of Wylie life is a veritable forest of lush greenery, fragrant blooms, and stunning handmade arrangements.

However, founder Martha King recalls, it wasn’t always that way. Over half a century ago, the sprawling store local girls wandered through for homecoming corsages was at the opposite end of the street in what even the owners referred to as a “cramped little half-store”. Their first Valentine’s Day, they sold only one dozen roses. Compare that with today’s store.

When one sees that they sold 130 dozen roses this V-day alone, one can only guess there’s something magic in the water for Martha’s daughter and current owner Pam Wells.

When Pam bought the store from mom back in 1994, she became only the latest in a long line of lady florists. The family traces flowering work back at least five generations of moms, and their roots in Wylie are just as deep. Considering that their ancestors helped found the city, it’s really no wonder that as a child, Pam had the run of the town. “I was a clean little street urchin,” Pam laughed in an interview. “But they were different streets back then.”

When Pam was born, the family already owned their “halfstore”, and as a little girl, Pam reportedly spent a great deal of time wandering the shop and the streets of Wylie. “Everyone knew everyone then,” she explained. “It was a different world.”

Both the city and the family business were in her blood, and at the tender age of 12, she took the reins of a new gift shop her parents founded on the other side of Wylie.

Pam’s mother Martha proudly claims that her daughter ran the store expertly, though like any mother would, she made certain that the next-door business owners checked in on the store prodigy now and again. It was here that Pam began learning the

24 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

photo by Anne Hiney

Generations of Florists Keep Wylie Blooming

Martha King and Pam Wells

skills that would eventually lead her into a career as an expert florist and entrepreneur. Yet for a while, this did not seem likely to happen. Taking over the family business was not what a college-aged Pam had in mind.

“I went to school to be a lawyer,” Pam recalls with a laugh. “I studied marketing and practiced law…I didn’t think I wanted to work with flowers.” Locals can thank their lucky stars that Pam found arrangements and not arraignments a better career in which to raise her son Cole. He now works in the shop alongside mom, adding yet another generation to the tradition.

Today, everything from weddings to school functions dot the calendar at the shop.

Though Pam no longer needs nearby store owners checking in on her, when the store expanded, they included a large selection of gifts very reminiscent of the little shop young Pam used to run. But while the traditions of the generations are evident, they are masterfully offset by a keen forward-thinking sense of what lies ahead. Pam constantly reminds customers that special orders are not an issue. If she does not have what they need, she will find it for them.

So what is that something in the water that leads to such success? The answer comes when I ask Pam why she cares so much about her customers. “This isn’t just a job,” she says with a smile. “This is home. That’s what it’s about.” Love just grows abundantly for these flower gals, and will apparently continue to do so. •

WYLIE KARATE

Summer Martial Arts Day Camp Great Constructive Alternative to Summer Daycare • Make your child’s summer a combination of fun and learning while learning the ABC’s of life: Attitude - Behavior - Character.

• Daily Activities: Martial Arts Classes, Original Martial Arts Games, Martial Arts Skill Enhancement Activities, Outdoor Martial Art Classes and Stranger Danger Awareness • 12 Week Program: Monday - Friday, June 4 thru August 24 • Limited enrollment, sign up early to reserve your place • Contact us for more details

Evening Classes Now Open!

• One Month FREE Trial Class for First Time Students • Receive a FREE Karate Uniform when you pay for your 2nd month for First Time Students

1234 E. Parker Rd., Wylie, TX 75098

WYLIEKARATE.COM

214-293-8057

info@wyliekarate.com

Searching for a Star

AUDITIONS April 28, May 5 & May 12

To audition, singers must be lined up before 5 p.m. Auditions begin at noon and continue until all singers perform.

Auditions are First Come - First Served.

Ballard School of the Performing Arts 130 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098

9 $10 nonrefundable audition fee.

9 Sing a cappella or bring a music track to sing along with for audition.

9 24 contestants in each age group will advance to the competition rounds.

Open Competition Age Groups: 8 - 10 11 - 14 15 - 18

972-429-0047

Visit the Searching for a Star website, www.searchingforastar.org and click on Contest Info for a downloadable registration form.

Fill it out, and bring it to the audition!

searchingforastar.org

Computer Repair: All Brands & Models!

• Apple and PC Service • Networking and WiFi • Printers and Copiers • iPhone/iPod/iPad Repair • Audio/Video for Home or Business • Video Surveillance and Monitoring • Home Theatre Systems • Telephone Systems • Gaming Systems • And so much more!

972-855-8776

dallas@jonespros.com

www.JonesPros.com Dallas Jones

www.wyliechamber.org • 25

Thelma O’Dessa Haker Her friends call her Dessie!

by LaDawn Fletcher

If there is another resident of Murphy who has lived here for more than 50 years, that will be surprising news to Dessie Haker and her family.

Mrs. Haker still calls the house she moved into with her late husband and teenage daughter in 1962, home, even though her view from it now is markedly different. As evidence that Murphy is no longer the sleepy town it was then, across from her homestead there is now a six-lane highway that transports the thousands of newer residents to places within the city that did not exist 50 years ago, and to destinations beyond.

Haker family arrived, the population of Murphy was less than Business is thriving in Murphy and Mrs. Haker is a part of a 200 people. Her husband Otto, who died in 1994, made his livshrinking population of residents who can actually recall when ing farming the 100 acres they lived on. it was not so robust.

The Haker’s daughter Margaret, graduated from Plano high “We only had one little store at the corner of Murphy Road school and has made her home here as well. Margaret and her and 544,” says Dessie. “And there was the Baptist church,” she husband, share her mother’s amazeadded. She is amazed at ment at the change to their adopted the shopping now just hometown. Their front-row seat to the minutes away. population explosion has allowed them to see their sleepy town of 200, they At 90, Mrs. Haker is moved to so many years ago, evolve spirited and indepeninto a major economic engine—the dent. Her friends and current population exceeds 18,000. loved ones know her for her delicious carrot Growth and change keep coming to cakes and Italian cream Murphy, and Dessie Haker takes it all cakes, which Mrs. Haker in. For her 90th birthday, the city of still bakes on occasion.

Murphy honored her with a proclamaHer skill in the kitchen tion and her family threw her a party. has always been sought The accolades are not easy for her to after. She worked in the accept, but everyone appreciates the school cafeteria for a perspective of the small fraternity of while, and she also preresidents who “remember when--.” pared food for Dr. (Ted) Mrs. Dessie Haker with daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Jim Smith.

The sweet life of a smaller, simpler Trimble’s patients at his Murphy is now experienced through the recollections of the few hospital in Wylie. Until a few years ago, it wasn’t unusual for remaining long-time residents like Dessie Haker—and captured Mrs. Haker to make multiple cakes to share. in bites of homemade cake made by her hands. • The Murphy Mrs. Haker remembers best, and most fondly, photos provided by Margaret Smith can be described as quiet and simple. In the 60s, when the 26 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

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I love my mom because...

We asked a few fantastic kids to complete the following sentence!

Wylie Preparatory Academy 1st grade

...she is fun to play with. ...she is nice and great. ...she is sweet and loveubll. ...shes nise. ...she is smart. ...she tacks care of me. ...she does dishis and she is sweet. ...she does fun stuff for me. ...she beleves in elfs! ...she cooks the best food. ...she is kind and cute. ...she is nise and she is pritte, she vetastik, she is cool. ...she lets me do fun stuff like eat snaks and go to partys. ...she is caring and loving and is always hugging me and kissing me when Im sad. She is very kind and beatuful on the inside and outside.

Drawing by Ali, Wylie Preparatory ...she is amazing and she is nice to me!

Wylie Preparatory Academy 5th grade

Academy, 1st Grade.

...I have a close relationship with my mother. Even though she has passed away I still love her no matter what. She was very kind and sweet. She was a joy to be around. Whenever I need to talk to her she always listens. Everyday we always had fun. I love her with all my heart. She will always be there for me in good times and bad. I love her and I know she does too. ...she is very kind. She is also great at home schooling me. My mom also is awesome at cooking. ...she helps everybody with needs. She cooks and she takes care of everybody.

She helps me with my homework and she is loving and kind. She is fun to mess around with. She is truthful. She shows the fruit of the spirit. ...she is a great cook, loving, kind, nice, and there are many other things to list but it would take up many pages. ...she is awesome, she is nice. (I really love my mom more than anyone could imagine.) But most of all she loves me no matter what. ...she loves me and cares for me. I love my mom very much. ...she helps me with homework. When I get sad she always comes and talks to me. If I need to go see or ride my horse she will drive me there. Always helps me if I need help. If I get sick she will help me feel better. ...she adopted me. She went through all the trouble to get me and my brother. ...she is always helping me, and encouraging me to do my best in everything.

She always gives her all into everything. She always finds a way to cheer me up and loves me unconditionally. ...she takes care of me, and she has always tried to teach me right from wrong.

She has been the best mom I could ever have. She takes me to very fun things and that is awesome. She is the greatest mom a kid could have. ...she is one of a kind. She is like no other and has the spirit of a rainbow. She is always there for me and does everything she can to keep us a loving Christlike family. She’s always there when I go to bed and wake me up in the morning. When she sings on Sundays and makes us dinner every night it always warms my heart. ...she cooks, cleans, and gives me hugs. She keeps me laughing. ...she provides me a good Christian based home that loves me. She also married a good husband so I also have an excellent dad. Both my mom and my dad really support me and encourage me to do my best in sports, life, and even help me strengthen my relationship with God. ...she supports me in my many dreams and sacrifices her time to help others. ...she always helps me. I will never forget how my mom is always there for me. I love my mom so much because she will not be mad at me too much. ...she loves me no matter what, and does things for me and she cares for me.

When I am sick she is there, when I am hurt she is there. She comes to all my sports games and works hard around the house.

28 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

...she cares about my feelings if I am sad, she can feel that, and she tries to cheer me up, by asking what’s wrong, talking it out, and giving me a pedicure or taking me to my favorite restaurant. ...she takes care of me and gives me food. She feeds me and she’s just an awesome mom. ...she cooks, helps with homework, cleans the house, and loves me. She is very very very nice and funny. She keeps me accountable. She helps me and loves me and will never stop. ...she is caring and helpful. She has gone through a lot but she is still strong. She is thoughtful and pretty and I love her a lot! ...she gives me many blessings, and she loves me. ...she raised me in Christ. She is really understanding, we share many characteristics including: my short temper, my determination, and loyalty. The problem in my family is almost all of us have a short temper and determination.

(So maybe I got it from both parents?!) My mom works really hard and that is one of the most important reasons I love her.

Sachse’s Armstrong Elementary - 4th grade

...if it weren’t for her I wouldn’t be here. ...she is amazing, she cooks, she cleans, she gets me out of trouble, she has great feelings, she has great ideas like let’s go to Six Flags on school days. ...she cleans the house, does the laundry, and cooks food. ...when she makes hamburgers they are really good. She makes an amazing breakfast. ...she helps me with problems, cooks my dinner, she has funny jokes, she has always kept me happy, and she is always in a great mood. ...she works hard for our family, caring, kind, and never gives up. And I love her more than anything, and she brightens up my day with her smile. She makes me happy and that is a fact. ...she’s honest, lovable, sweet, caring and loves her whole family as much as she loves me. ...she is the coolest, funniest, most helpful mom anyone could ever have. She helps me with homework. ...she took care of me when I was an infant. She changed my clothes. She fed me. She got things for me. Most of all she had love for me. ...she helps me through my life and my problems. My mom also gave birth to me and spoils me. ...she is thoughtful and always puts me and my brother first before herself. ...she cares about me, she buys me cool things, she kisses me good night. ...she cares about others. She is the best person you could ever know. ...she gives me hugs and lots of kisses. She cooks my dinner too. One thing that is the best about her is because she makes my day happier! ...she does so much for me and my sister. ...she does everything for me, when I am scared she comforts me, she loves me and I love her because she is my mom and she always will be. ...she is one of a kind and she does my chores, lets me play, and loves me so much. I would never wish for another one. She glows like an angel and shines like the sun. Best mom ever. ...when I want something she always gets it even when my dad says no so now I have a lot of toys. …she makes me feel safe at night. …she takes me to baseball. …she gave me life and makes my life “good”. …she lets me bake cookies and cake with her. …she’s been by my side, raises money and doesn’t mind taking care of me. …she is the only one of her human kind. …she put me in soccer and let me in football.

Murphy’s Miller Elementary - 3rd grade

Thanks kids - we love you too!

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…she always perseveres…and sometimes does my chores… but not my sisters. She scratches my back because she has long nails. …she makes me feel in heaven all the time. …she gets my clothes out for school and plays games with me and my sister, like CandyLand, Yatzy, and Kizmet. …when I make her a card she says “ohh this is so good!!!” and when we go to the Boiling Crab she lets us pick what we want. …she teaches me Vietnamese language and gives me a red envelope on New Year’s Day with money in it and doesn’t let the dragons eat it. …she calls me mini me, loves to play kickball and she is a lawyer…she has won every case! …she gives me medicine when I need it, makes sure I am not bored and has a salon. …she has an open mind, is humble, trustworthy and funny. She is ready to help, descriptive (when she goes deep into some subject) and cool. …she cooks really good food (that is a fact!) and tries to spend as much time with me as a home mom would. …she is very good at homework and helps me when I get stuck. …she is very generous and drives me to school every day. …she is one smart cookie! …she lets me get toys, have friends over, get Pokemon cards, water guns, tucks me in bed and lets me buy water blades. …in sick or in health, in bad or worse, I will always love my mom because how she loves me first. …she teaches me new stuff like math, reading, grammar, science and cursive. …she takes me to her work and makes me feel better when I have a really bad day. …she is so kind and even bought me a $60 lego set. She also taught me to speak Hebrew. …she never gets mad at me when I make mistakes. …she buys me good clothes, cooks good food…and the BEST of all is because

972-442-6495

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…she sings me a special song at night “as long as I’m living my daughter you’ll be”. …she provides me shelter so my family can live. …she leaves her job just to see me do something. …she gives me food so I can eat. …she is respectful with me. …she helps me through rough times and gives me company when she sticks close. …she makes me feel comfortable wherever I go. …when nobody is around she helps me with my homework. …she is the only one who hugs me tight. …she is the one that practically makes my life go on. …she’s energetic and a good cook. …without her I would be lost. …she teaches me about God. …she gives me everything. …she cares, not just for me but for everyone. …she is sweet and loving and always cares about me and my sister. …she is crazy, funny, cool and weird. …she never discourages me. …she is helpful and protects me. …she always has time for me. …she protects me, loves me and talks to me. …she helps me with the problems I have. …she is beautiful and helpful. …she always listens to me. …she is sweet to me. …she makes good dinner. …she takes me everywhere I want to go. …she is kind and sweet and would do anything to make me smile. …she loves me even when she is mad. …she is always helping me with my chores. …she lets me do a lot of fun things and got me a membership on roblox. …if I am ill or something is wrong she is there. …she is loyal and honest and buys me skylanders. …she works 2 jobs and sacrifices so much for me.

ve We serhy healt st, breakfa & lunch s! snack

8

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Hw

120 S. Birmingham - Wylie www.TheCornerstonePrivateSchool.com www.wyliechamber.org • 29

Education CONNECTION

You Play Like a Girl!

Female Athletes in Wylie ISD Strut Their Stuff on the Track, Court and Field of Battle

by Marcia Coker

F

or more than a century The proof of the District’s Wylie ISD has encouraged commitment to the girls’ and supported girls athletathletic program lies in the ics. Whether it was through results of several teams at a physical education class or both Wylie High School and an organized sport, the disWylie East High School. trict has continued to foster Since 1995, the Wylie High an environment of fun and fitSchool Lady Pirate Softball ness for aspiring female athteam has made it to postletes. The type of activity may season play, including going have changed over the years, three rounds deep in the but not the attitude for success State Playoffs in 2011. The and hunger to be a champion.

Lady Pirate Volleyball team Prior to Wylie ISD’s establishalso went to the State Playoffs ment in 1901, many female athin 2011 and the Lady Pirate letes played “lifetime sports” or Basketball team advanced to individual sports such as tenpost season play in both 2011 nis, golf and croquet. Organized and 2012. The school’s girls 1910 Wylie Women’s Basketball Team team competition was not availtrack team captured the disable in the District until 1910 when Wylie women became intertrict championship in 2009 and finished as runner-up in 2010, ested in a newly developed recreational sport called basketball. sending several individuals on to the State Track Meet in Austin, The District still proudly displays a photograph of the female Texas. In addition, several female lifters, on the Wylie High students of 1910 posing School Powerlifting team, advanced to the State Meet in Austin with a basketball. In the this year, a major accomplishment for females competing in a eyes of those pictured, male oriented sport. you can see the joy of Wylie East High School is also cultivating success in just its participation and a glint fourth year of existence. The school has three outstanding of competitive spirit. female athletes in Sarah Scott, Maddie McCrary and Marissa Today, girls still enjoy Gentry. basketball, golf and tenScott, a sophomore, nis, but the opportunity has advanced to the State for additional competiCross Country Meet for tive activities to chalthe past two years finishlenge them both physiing in the Top 25 in 2012. cally and mentally is McCrary, also a sophomuch broader. Softball, more, qualified for the volleyball, soccer, golf, Regional Meet in golf cross country, powerliftlast year and is on pace ing and track have proto contend for a repeat vided new venues for regional trip this year. girls to express themGentry placed third at selves as athletes and the Region 6, Division I establish teams spirited Powerlifting meet, missAlisa Hamilton for winning. ing a shot at state by one “We have great coaches throughout the district who place. care very much about making our girls’ athletics program However, success doesn’t extremely successful,” said Jennifer Roland, Wylie ISD come without challenges.

Assistant Athletic Director. “We are constantly looking at ways Low participation due to to grow the program and attract more female athletes.” co-curricular conflicts or Taylor Bowers 30 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

club sports often pulls potential female athletes away from high school sports.

“We sometimes see a drop in participation of female athletes in eighth grade, and again in grades 11 and 12, due to their interest in other activities and organizations,” commented WISD Athletic Director Kyle Craighead. “This is due in part to the amount of time co-curricular activities such as band, drill team, school clubs and organizations require.

Coupled with the increasing academic rigor expected of students, it doesn’t leave much time in the day to participate in a sport.”

Club sports, such as soccer, Kylie Nodorft conflict with current University Interscholastic League (UIL) scheduled sports making it difficult for a female athletic to participate in both club and UIL sanctioned sports. Athletes who are skilled at the sport are often asked to choose between club sports and UIL sanctioned school sports with many opting for club sports because college recruiters often scout club teams for potential college athletes.

Another obstacle may be the competition Wylie ISD athletes face throughout the year. The District competes against Districts and athletes that have professional one-on-one training in the “lifetime sports” such as golf and tennis. In addition, city recreation departments, junior youth leagues and country clubs offer developmental and competitive programs which greatly enhance not only the skill level but the exposure to competition. ”Our girls, who may have just picked up a racket, will face opponents who have had years of training,” Roland noted.

Despite all this, Wylie ISD remains positive and proud of its girls athletic program and pledges to continue to develop and train aspiring athletes. This is evident in the District’s commitment to introducing sports to female athletes in middle school. Currently Wylie ISD offers volleyball, basketball, cross country, track at the junior high level. •

Andrea Nwachukwu

Photos by Sheila Haynes, freelance photographer, - courtesy of Wylie ISD.

www.wyliechamber.org • 31

32 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

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Health CONNECTION

Wellness for Women

by Sheryl Cowan, MD

W

e women are often pulled in many directions. Aging parents, work, children, and home responsibilities take away from finding time to take care of ourselves.

While it is easy to put everyone else’s needs before your own, it’s time to take charge of your health and follow these steps to live a happier, healthier life.

Get an annual exam. Having an annual exam is a good

time to get back in touch with yourself and prioritize what is important. This is a time to screen for high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, anxiety and depression, addictions, skin cancer, breast cancer, and other health conditions. Early detection is the key to treatment.

Exercise. Exercise helps reduce your risk of heart attack,

stroke, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis. It reduces stress and depression, increases energy, and helps you attain and maintain a healthy body weight. If you don’t exercise now, put on a pair of sneakers and take a short walk down the street and back today. The American Heart Association recommends that women exercise for 30 minutes five or more days a week, but doing something — anything — is better than doing nothing. Train for a 5K run or other community event. Walk around the building while kids participate in their activities. You are the one setting the example for your family and those are the lessons they will take with them for their lifetime.

Eat healthy. Eat a well-balanced diet and forget about the

latest and greatest fad diet or supplement. The calories you take in (eat) versus the calories you burn off (exercise) equals your weight. It’s a simple equation. Many women say “But I don’t eat that much.” Did you know that eating just 100 extra calories a day will cause you to gain 10 pounds in a year? One pound is 3,500 calories. Use a smart phone app like Lose It! or web pages like myfitnesspal. com and Livestrong.com to find out how many calories you should consume. Then track your progress.

Learn to say “no.” Prioritize. Make time for what is important. Avoid a frenetic, over-committed schedule.

Say “yes” to what you want to do and “no” to what you’d rather avoid. No need to make excuses or explain why you can’t or don’t want to do something. Be grateful you have been asked to participate and don’t feel guilty about your response. For every time you say “yes” to a committee or project, you are saying “no” to family, exercise, or downtime to renew.

34 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

Avoid risky behaviors. Stop smoking. Stop smoking.

Stop smoking. Lung cancer kills more people in the U.S. than any other cancer. It is a horrible disease that robs your body of oxygen and life. Smoking a pack of cigarettes a day doubles your risk of heart attack and doubles your risk of stroke. I often tell patients “It’s not dying of a heart attack or stroke I worry about, it’s living with one.” If you choose to drink alcohol, women should limit their intake to seven alcoholic equivalents per week or less. An alcoholic equivalent is one 12-ounce can of beer, one 4-ounce glass of wine, or one shot of liquor. Anything more than seven in a week is considered at-risk drinking. Most women in my office choose to cut back their alcohol intake if they know they are at risk for alcoholism and other adverse effects from alcohol consumption. Get professional help if you or a loved one is an at-risk drinker. And buckle up. No matter how short the drive, wear your seat belt.

Pay attention to your mental health. Good men-

tal hygiene is an important part of a woman’s overall health.

Stress, anger, and other emotions can affect your body physically. Recurrent headaches, fatigue, heart palpitations, stiff neck and shoulders, irregular bowel habits, and frequent pain or illnesses may be a sign. Be candid with your physician if you think anxiety or depression may be contributing to your symptoms. These emotions can deplete vital neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine in our body. It can be treated with medications that are nonaddictive and non-habit forming. A low serotonin or norepinephrine level is no different than, for example, iron-deficiency anemia. We need to replete our body of these substances to restore us to maximal health.

Make a promise to yourself and your family to take steps toward a healthier life today. It’s your time. •

Sheryl Cowan, MD, is an independently practicing, board-certified family medicine physician on the medical staff at Methodist Richardson Medical Center. She attended the University of Tennessee in Memphis and completed her residency at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center in South Carolina. Her office is located at 403 W. Campbell Road, Suite 103, in Richardson. To find a physician on the Methodist Richardson Medical Staff, call 972-4 DR LINE (972-437-5463).

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Richardson Medical Center medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Richardson Medical Center.

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Chamber of Commerce CONNECTION

Welcome New Chamber Members!

www.wyliechamber.org 250 S. Hwy. 78 Wylie, TX 75098 972-442-2804

Slacker’s Grill Craig Cosgrove 972-571-6246 Clark Bookkeeping and Tax Service Dan Clark 469-814-0080 www.clarkbkt.com First Light Home Care Kevin Stewart 972-863-2273 northdallas.firstlighthomecare.com EMS Barcode Solutions Eric Sutter 972-535-5555 www.emsbarcode.com

Bearfoot Lodge Private School Jeanne Estes 972-429-1100 www.bearfootschools.com

DeMAXio Merchant Services, Inc. Craig Crawford 214-228-0892 www.demaxio.com

Dempsey Photography Kathleen Dempsey 214-837-4125 www.dempseyphotography.net

Made to Last Home Inspections Jim Adams 469-441-4001 www.madetolastinspections.com

Whitney Solutions LLC William Whitney III 1-866-923-1942 www.whitneysolutions.com

Russell Cellular, Inc. Cassie Jenkins 972-442-1140 www.russellcellular.com

Trinity Merchant Group Josh Rangel 214-708-4164 www.trinitymerchantgroup.com

The Summit Church Pastor Randy Hill 972-578-9999 www.summitchurchwylie.org

OmniKey Realty LLC Leah Slaughter 972-480-8280 www.omnikeyrealty.com River Oaks Apartments Niki Davis 972-442-1800 riveroaksapt.com

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Best Quality Plumbing Chuck Ononogbu 214-664-8090 www.bestqualityplumbing.net

North Pointe Church of Christ Tom Withrow (972) 675-8500 northpointecofc.org

Meritage Homes - Heritage Park Suzanne Via (469) 286-6353 www.meritagehomes.com

Lange Audio Don Lange 214-232-9662 don@donlangeaudio.com

Nationwide Insurance Jeff Bickerstaff (972) 231-6903 x115 www.nationwide.com

Prosperity Bank Yolanda Martinez (972) 530-7999 www.prosperitybanktx.com

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College CONNECTION

Supplemental Research at Collin College a Center for Math and Natural Sciences (CASMNS) project

S

By Mark Robinson

pirulina is a dietary supplement made from blue green As there are a number of variables, the research project gave algae found in lakes and claims have stated that it could preliminary results. In fact, spirulina had no direct antimicrobial end world hunger and possibly be used to treat everyeffect on all strains. However, the olive leaf had an antimicrobial thing from HIV/AIDS, cancer and just about every ailment effect on staphylococcus. Finally, Oregano oil prevented staphyunder the sun. lococcus and streptococcus from growing.

According to Dr. Amina Tassa, professor “Anyone can claim nutritional suppleof biology at Collin College, there are tribes ments have antimicrobial effects and can in Africa that grow and cultivate spirulina in boost your immune system,” Schreck said. lakes. They use spirulina for their primary “It was interesting to see how it does work source of sustenance. It keeps them alive and and seeing which supplements worked and it keeps them healthy. It is chockfull of vitawhich ones didn’t. It’s funny the most expenmins, electrolytes and nutrients. It is called a sive one didn’t affect any of the bacteria.” “superfood” and “the food of the future.”

Although the results were preliminary, it Dr. Tassa was culling through vitamin options doesn’t mean that the experience was withfor her children when she noticed how many out merit. Most undergraduates do not get consumers were spending an extraordinary the opportunity to do research. Depending amount of money on supplements, many of on the college or university, a student might which claim a variety of healthy benefits and not meet their professor at all. just as many are not approved by the Food and “Frankly, it was the opportunity to do Drug Administration. independent research and work closely Dr. Tassa wondered: “Do these supplewith one of the professors,” Shanks said. ments do what they claim?”

“At Collin College, you get the benefit of small classes anyway. My biggest class right Through a Center for Math and Natural now is 20 people as opposed to a univerSciences (CASMNS) project, maybe she could sity where it could be several hundred, and find out.

Kaela Schreck (left) and Marcus Shanks put several you might not talk to the professor, instead “People spend millions and billions of dietary supplements to the test recently seeing if they dealing with teaching assistants.” stopped or slowed the growth of bacteria.

The research these supplements worldwide. Who knows Schreck is an 18-year-old psychology what, if any, effect they might have,” said was at Collin College through the Center for Math and Natural Sciences (CASMNS). student with plans on transferring to the Dr. Tassa.

University of Texas in the fall to pursue her “We wanted to see if supplements can keep you well, preadvanced degrees. vent illness or shorten the length of an illness. One way it might “I thought it was a great experience,” she said of the CASMNS do this is the inhibition of pathogenic bacteria in the body,” project.

“I love science even though I’m not going into a natusaid Marcus Shanks, the 34-year-old Collin College student. He ral science field. It was a learning experience to be involved in plans to transfer to The University of Texas at Dallas in the fall this research project. What 18-year-old gets to do that? Not to and eventually be a researcher in biomedical field specializing in exaggerate, but the amount of knowledge that Dr. Tassa has on neuroscience. these concepts is overwhelming. Just to keep up with the conRecently, Shanks was chosen for one of the Summer versation, you had to read 10 journal articles.”

Undergraduate Research Fellowships at UT Southwestern Medical The concepts and skills learned by Schreck and Shanks will Center. He will work in a research lab for 10 weeks during the prove valuable as they transfer and achieve masters and docsummer. toral degrees. That was part of the appeal of the project for Dr. The stage was set for students, Shanks, Kaela Schreck and Dr. Tassa. The experiment was “easy and fast” and it allowed her to Tassa to put supplements to the test, including spirulina. introduce biotechnological concepts to the students, but also According to Shanks, they plated different bacterial strains. how to approach a scientific problem, to plan experiments, to Then they applied filters soaked in a solution containing groundpresent and defend the results. up pills of spirulina, olive leaf, oregano oil and echinacea to the “I learn with my students every day,” Dr. Tassa said. “In class bacteria. they have questions that challenge me. It keeps my brain alive.

Over the next couple of days, the research group looked for Doing research with bright students keeps me going. I was a zones of inhibition around the different bacterial strains – a researcher for many years and I miss it. I’m glad I can do it at clear zone in the petri dishes where no bacteria had grown thus Collin College.” • Photo by Nick Young/Collin College indicating the supplement had a direct antimicrobial effect.

38 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

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Community CONNECTION

Community Organizations American Legion Hale-Combest Post #315 Wylie, Texas meets the 2nd Saturday of

every month at 10 a.m. at East Fork Masonic Lodge, 508 Parker Rd., Wylie, Texas. For more info. contact Don Lange at 214-232-9662 or find us on Facebook at American Legion Post 315.

Christian Care Center helps those in need by

providing temporary help with food, clothes, rent, utilities, school supplies and household items. The Center receives no government assistance, is run by volunteer workers and is supported by local churches, businesses, schools, civic organizations and individuals. It’s always in need of canned meats, peanut butter, jelly, cereal, fruit and tomato products, and monetary donations. To donate or volunteer, contact the Christian Care Center at 972-442-4341.

Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. Boys 6-17

can join a pack or troop, chartered by a local organization. Groups meet at various times for campouts, sports activities, community involvement and many other exciting adventures. Contact Jeanine Stevens at 972-442-6963 or tardam@aol.com for more info.

Dyslexia Advocates of Wylie

is a Parent Support Group for parents of dyslexic children. Go to www.dyslexiaadvocatesofwylie.com for more info.

Equest provides therapeutic sports riding classes and hippotherapy to over 200 children and adults with all types of physical, mental and emotional disabilities. For more info. call (972)412-1099 or visit www.equest.org.

Exchange Club of Murphy is a volunteer service organization for people who want to serve their community, develop leadership skills and enjoy new friendships. Programs include: Child Abuse Prevention, Americanism, Community Service and Youth Activities. We meet the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Country Burger, 104 N. Murphy Rd., Ste. 210, Murphy, TX 75094. www.exchangeclubofmurphytexas.org Friends of the Sachse Library

meets the 4th Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Sachse Library, 3815 Sachse Road. Contact the Sachse Public Library for more details at 972-530-8966.

Garland Quilt Guild meets the 1st Tuesday of

each month at First Presbyterian Church, 930 West Avenue B, in Garland at 7 p.m. (except December) Located at the corner of 9th Street and Avenue B in Garland. For more info visit www.garlandquiltguild.com.

Genealogy Friends of Plano Libraries, Inc. presents a Free Genealogy Seminar

on the 3rd Saturday of each month from 10:15 a.m. 12:30 p.m. at the W.O. Haggard Library Program Room, 2501 Coit Road, Plano. Public is welcome. For info. visit www.GenealogyFriends.org,

In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue & Educational Center is a non-profit organization

dedicated to the rescue of exotic felines. Visit www.insyncexotics.com for more info. Open Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 972-442-6888.

Habitat for Humanity of South Collin County,

Texas works to create partnerships to provide decent, affordable homes for deserving families while building foundations for community. For info. about how to get involved go to www.habitat-scc.org.

40 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

MOMS Club of Murphy/ Sachse is a non-profit support group

for stay-at-home moms and their children. Activities include monthly meetings with guest speakers, play groups, park days, MOMS Night Out, field trips and more. We participate in service projects to benefit children in the community. Please visit murphysachsemomsclub.webs.com for further info.

Moms & More all caretakers, whether you are a Mom, Dad, Aunt, Uncle, Grandparent or Nanny are welcome. We accept members from Wylie and the surrounding communities and have many activities for children and their caretakers. We meet the 1st Thursday of the month. Contact us at Diva@wyliemomsandmore.org or for more info. go to www.wyliemomsandmore.org.

N Cupids Defense NCD (a 501(c)(3))is designed

to help married couples deal with various issues that arise throughout their marriage. E=MC² - Encourage and Mentor Married Couples through Christ. Visit ncupidsdefense.org or contact Teniqua Williams at info@ncupidsdefense.org for more info. and a schedule of events.

Relay for Life - Wylie/Sachse/Murphy

is the local event supporting the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer. April 27, 2012 at Shaffer Stadium in Wylie. Go to www.relayforlife.org /wylietx or on Facebook at Relay For Life of Wylie/Sachse/Murphy for more info.

Sachse Historical Society meets the 3rd Saturday of the month, 9:30 a.m., Sachse Historical Museum, 3033 6th Street. Museum is open for visitors every Tuesday from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. and by appointment for visitors and tours, 972-495-1231. Visit www.sachsehistoricalsociety.org for more info.

Sachse Lion’s Club

meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Steak Kountry, 7010 Highway 78 in Sachse. The Lion’s Club participates in several fundraisers throughout the year, including the Sewell Elementary pancake breakfast, where half of the proceeds go back to the Sewell PTA, and the turkey leg food booth at the Sachse Fallfest. The funds raised benefit several organizations including the Blind Leader Dog program and Air Challenge, a program that takes disabled children for airplane rides. They also support the Vision Impaired Olympics summer camp for kids and assist with building Habitat for Humanity homes.

Sachse Pet Pals volunteer organization works with

Sachse Animal Control to enhance adoption rates and help with pet medical expenses on a financial need basis.

Contact Peggy Strong at 972-495-9645 for more info.

Tr ini t y Trai l Prese r vat ion Association (TTPA) is an all-volunteer organiza-

tion that maintains the 26 mile long equestrian and hiking trail on the Corps of Engineers land along Lavon Lake.

TTPA networks with other trail riders, sponsors trail rides and cookouts, hosts quarterly meetings with speakers on horse-related issues, holds family type activities such as scavenger hunts on horseback, fun poker rides and educational clinics. www.trinitytrailriders.org

WASA (Wylie Advocates for Senior Activities, Inc.) Join us to promote and support the

growth of senior activities in the Wylie area. We work to raise funds to outfit the Senior Center, provide a safe and senior-friendly environment and home base for classes, meetings, lessons, fellowship and community-beneficial activities. WASA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Contact us at 972-442-1971 or wasainc34@gmail.com.

Wylie Friends of the Library meets the 3rd

Thursday of each month, 6 p.m. at the Rita and Truett Smith Public Library, 800 Thomas, in the Bluebonnet Room, 972-442-7566.

Wylie Is H.O.P.E (Helping Other People Everyday)

works to make a difference in our community by helping other people. We support the Wylie ISD school supply drive, Reach for a Star Christmas gift drive, Relay for Life of Wylie/Sachse/Murphy and other local efforts to help others. Contact us at wylieishope@yahoo.com and find us online at www.WylieIsHope.com and on Facebook at Wylie Is H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Everyday).

Wylie Lions Club meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at American National Bank in Wylie at noon.

Anyone interested in becoming a Lion is welcome to join the group for lunch. Call Ada Mooney for more info. at 972-7715551. http://thewylielionsclub.org Wylie Evening Lions Club meets the 1st & 3rd Thursdays of the month at American National Bank in Wylie at 7 p.m. Contact Carl Bodine at 469-951-4344 for info. wylieeveninglionsclub.org Wylie Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at 12 noon at the Woodbridge Country Club. Contact Bryan Brokaw: bryan.brokaw@edwardjones.com for more info.

Wylie Tea Party meets the last Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at Taste of Home, 302 N. Ballard, in historic downtown Wylie. http://75098.commonsensetexans.net Wylie Wisecrackers is a Toastmasters club serving Wylie, Sachse, Murphy, and Lavon, meets every Wednesday from 6:45 p.m. - 8 p.m. at American National Bank in Wylie: 301 S. Hwy. 78. All are welcome. Members practice effective public speaking techniques, gain valuable leadership experience, and, thus, gain personal confidence. www.wylie.freetoasthost.com.

Wylie Women’s League Meets the 1st Thursday of each month. Contact Cathy Hanson at 972-442-7495 or wyliewl@ymail.com for more info. www.wyliewl.org.

Wylie Woodworkers Club meets the 4th Thursday of every month from 7:30 - Whenever! p.m. at 2814 W. FM 544, one block east of Target. Open to all skill levels of woodworkers, come share and learn about woodworking. Bring your projects for SHOW & TELL or just show up and have fun talking about sawdust - No membership required!! Contact Scott Goldberg at (972)4424878 or email pegg@onebox.com. •

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www.wyliechamber.org • 41

Tri-Chamber Golf Tournament Friday, April 20, 2012 1 p.m. Shotgun Start Woodbridge Golf Club

7400 Country Club Dr. • Wylie, TX 75098

Register online at www.sachsechamber.com Individual: $125 or Foursome: $400 Includes greens fees, lunch, dinner, golf cart & range balls Four Person Scramble Format

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Contact Mike Agnew at magnew@wyliechamber.org or 972-442-2804 for general information.

42 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

Who’s Who from page 14 & 15 1 - Wylie Fire Rescue Chief Randy Corbin with his mom Dorothy Brand 2 - City of Murphy HR Director Stacy Buckley with her mom Diana Ramsower 3 - Whitt Elementary Principal Jonathan Slaten with his mom Joyce Slaten 4 - Armstrong Elementary Principal Becky Ayers with her mom Grace Burkarth 5 - Wylie City Secretary Carole Ehrlich with her mom Jean Marie Gallagher Smith 6 - Murphy Parks & Public Works Director Kim Lenoir with her mom Shirley Ann Sproul McAdams 7 - City of Sachse City Manager Billy George with his mom Barbara Russell 8 - City of Sachse Mayor Mike Felix with his mom Joan Loicano 9 - Murphy Community & Economic Development Director Kristen Roberts with her mom Teri Roberts 10 - City of Wylie Finance Director Linda Bantz with her mom Mabel Greb 11 - Sewell Elementary Principal Susan Craig with her mom Rose Kistler 12 - City of Sachse Councilwoman Pat McMillan with her mom Kathryn McMillan 13 - Wylie ISD School Board President Stacie Gooch with her mom Ann Williams 14 - City of Sachse Councilman Mark Timm with his mom Gail Timm 15 - City of Wylie HR Manager Lynn Fagerstrom with her mom Sydne Ferrara 16 - Sachse High School Assistant Principal Brandy Schneider with her mom Linda Meek 17 - Cox Elementary Principal Renee Truncale with her mom Jacquelyn Instine

H AV E YO U T R I E D U S Y E T ?

7

18 - City of Wylie Councilwoman Diane Culver with her mom Sandra Daniel 19 - City of Wylie Public Information Officer Craig Kelly with his mom Esther Kelly 20 - Wylie ISD School Board Trustee Barbara Goss with her mom Pat Cherry and brothers, Calvin & Roger

2009 We Gladly Accept

21 - Murphy City Secretary Aimee Nemer with her mom Venus Espindola www.wyliechamber.org • 43

Money CONNECTION

How to Help Your Parents Manage provided by Jal Dennis Group

I

t’s a decision most adults dread: having to take over the financial and day-to-day living decisions for parents who can no longer manage on their own. When caring for your parents, you may need to plan on three levels: managing finances, making health care decisions, and making sure their daily household needs are met. Finding qualified experts who can advise you in these areas may make it easier to manage the situation.

Managing Finances

If your parents currently are able to communicate, try to initiate a conversation about how they would like their money to be managed. Rather than telling them what to do, be clear that you would like to help and to make sure that their wishes are met.

Access to bank and brokerage statements, insurance policies, and other financial documents may help you to safeguard your parents’ assets.

If your parents work with a financial advisor, try to arrange a joint meeting where all parties can review the situation.

If you pay your parents’ bills and manage their checkbook, arranging for direct deposit of Social Security or pension benefits, as well as electronic delivery of recurring bills, could expedite the process.

Arranging for Health Care

If your parents are mentally competent, ask them about consulting a lawyer who can draft a health care proxy, a legal document designating you (or another person) to make decisions

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about medical care when they are no longer able to do so. If your parents have opinions about end-of-life care, their wishes can be incorporated into a living will, another legal document.

Even without these documents, the medical establishment is likely to look to you or other siblings to make decisions about health care, which could include arranging for long-term care or making end-of-life decisions. As part of this process, determine the type of medical insurance that your parents have and what it covers.

Overseeing Daily Living Activities

If your parents are able to remain in their home, you may need to consider helping them to manage medication, to conduct daily tasks such as bathing or meal preparation, and to make arrangements for assistance with household chores. A visiting nurse and home care agency may provide assistance in these areas.

You may want to consider consulting a Professional Geriatric Care Manager, a professional who may help arrange for home care, provide crisis intervention, and help you identify solutions to potential problems. You can learn more at www.caremanager.org.

Managing a parent’s affairs can be complicated, but arranging for support from qualified people may help you care for parents in a way that meets their needs and does not create too much stress on you. •

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www.ArtNailsWylie.com 44 • The CONNECTION •April/May 2012

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