Allen Image September 2014

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Allen Image INSIDE THIS ISSUE

September 2014

Vol. 24, Issue 9

cover story

36 dedicated to beating breast cancer

April’s career as a professional drummer blossomed as a five-year-old with a pair of drumsticks. Her commitment to fundraising to eradicate breast cancer began in 2010 after she was diagnosed with high-grade triple-negative breast cancer. She has artfully blended these two passions into one very busy life.

feature

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collecting shoes is Maya’s thing Maya Bullock was in fourth grade when she saw a picture of a child in another country wearing her outgrown tennis shoes. The image has stuck with her and serves as a great reminder that the shoes collected every year during the Reuse-A-Shoe Contest are going somewhere they’re needed.

special sections

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KIDS KORNER The Best Playgrounds in Town

28 CALENDAR 42 PET PAGE

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Zeus

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42

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE civic forum

library

cooking

8 Allen Police Department

14 Allen Folk festival

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reaching out to the business community

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Happy Fall Fest

11 Get Up and Give Allen!

12 Global “Harmonize the World” Open House Boys & Girls Club 2014 Gala

Zack Patrol Zumbathon Charity Event

September is National Library Card Sign-up Month

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When Dallas rocked

Slow-cooked meals for fastpaced nights

Films—America’s national pastime

education 20

New AISD Superintendent Dr. Lance Hindt

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22 Getting back to the basics of emergency medical care

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14 publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

advertising sales

contributing writers Nicole Bywater Deborah Dove Melanie Hess Tom Keener Jeff Mues Peggy Helmick-Richardson

Kris Jones

Keith A. Taylor

Larry Fleming

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Sue Hardesty

cover photo

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Regina Taylor Kathleen Vaught

Allen Image © 2014 by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. Allen Image is published by Moonlight Graphics and individually mailed free of charge to the residents of the Allen area.

Subscriptions are available to residents outside the delivery area at a rate of $2.50 per issue—$30 per year.

Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to: Allen Image, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807 or visit our website at www.allenimage.com.

civic forum

Allen Police Department reaching out to the business community

by Kathleen VAUGHT

Even in the age of digital com­ munication and social media where contact and conversations are instant, you’ll find Officer Bob Seklecki of the Allen Police Department walking into a local business to say “hello” and sharing information about programs offered by the Community Relations Unit.

With three storefront locations, officers with the APD Community Relations Unit have always worked to build positive relationships with the business community and its em­ ­ ployees. As growth nears build-out and local merchants continue to expand, making connections becomes even more important.

“We’ve always had good relation­ ships with businesses in Allen,” said Seklecki. “And one of the best ways to maintain and grow that relationship is the old fashioned way—in person.”

Armed with a plan and the motivation to visit every business in Allen over the next year, Seklecki also works to verify or update all business contact information. Often, he answers questions about the police department or other city services. And, many times, visits turn into conversations that lead to participation, prevention or greater awareness.

“We want to be helpful—a resource. While I can’t answer every question, I can make sure they know whom to call. What I really enjoy is providing information about one of our programs and then seeing a manager or employee participating in it a month or so later,” said Seklecki.

Community Relations programs are designed to either create awareness about the scope of police operations

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or to teach how to respond to certain types of threats at a personal or business level.

Programs that specifically benefit businesses include Robbery Simulation Training and the financial crimes presentation.

Robbery Simulation Training pro­ vides real-time, true-to-life scenarios for employers and employees to experience a robbery in action while remaining completely safe.

The simulated robbery takes place when the business is closed to the public. Uniformed officers secure the scenario while officers in street clothes act as robbers. After the simulation, there is an evaluation and training on what to do and what not to do in the event of an actual robbery.

Seklecki said, “The time to decide on what to do is not during the course of a real robbery.”

Because identity theft, forgery and fraud are one of the greatest threats to

the financial security of a business, APD offers a one-hour presentation on financial crimes to teach businesses what criminals are doing and how they are doing it, which helps to prevent this type of criminal activity.

Two training programs that can be offered at any location to businesses or organizations are the Emergency Preparedness and Active Shooter train­ ­­ing courses. Emergency Preparedness is a one- to two-hour training that provides an overview of how to plan for a situation following a natural disaster or similar threat.

“This course is really good because it covers how to go about finding each other or establishing communication and getting help like temporary shelter,” explained Seklecki.

Active Shooter is a one-hour training that addresses the decisions made in a situation of open gunfire in a public place. The training is designed

to help individuals quickly assess what to do—escape, hide or fight.

Some of the Community Relations programs involve more comprehensive training that occurs through weekly class sessions at designated locations.

A popular training program for women is Rape Aggression Defense (RAD).

APD currently has six certified RAD instructors that teach self-defense basics designed to provide women with a tactical advantage over a stronger male aggressor. RAD parti­ cipants attend four evening sessions for a nominal fee of $25.

“We just added Advanced RAD, which is six four-hour classes that continue to build upon the basic techniques,” said Seklecki. “The great part about RAD is that once you’ve completed a course, you can come back to train and refresh your skills within the same course level for free at any location across the country. This is so important because these skills require practice.”

For residents and those working in Allen that want a behind-the-scenes look at police operations, the fall session of the Citizens Police Academy begins September 4. Taught in an open, honest and interactive way, the Citizens Police Academy gives participants a real perspective of police work, with topics on everything from evidence collection to suicide intervention and use of force. Shooting simulation, mock vehicle pursuits and observation of K9 training are just a few of the activities.

The class meets every Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. for 12 weeks.

“The Allen Police Department believes in an interactive and engaged community—in the real sense, neighbors watching out for neighbors and police officers out in the community, schools and businesses,” explained Seklecki.

Visit the Community Relations Unit web pages at AllenPolice.org to v learn more.

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

Allen Image | September 2014

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Happy Fall Fest

by Jeff MUES

Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 13 because 451 St. Mary Drive is the place to be! From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., more than 50 vendors and artisans will offer an assortment of wonderful and unique gifts to choose from.

With a classic car show, children’s activities, historic tours, music and food vendors, Happy Fall Fest offers something for everyone.

The Classic Car Show, an exhibit and competition hosted by the Morning Maniacs Classic Car Club, will be back again this year. Many different makes and models of antique, classic and custom cars and trucks will be parked at the side of the building. Those with classic automobiles 25 years or older are invited to be a part of the show and can register through the Morning Maniacs ($15 for early registration or day of show for $20).

Of course, what would the event be without delicious

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food choices? There will be a Pancake Breakfast that morning from 8 to 10 a.m., and concessionaires offering a variety of delicious food for sale after 10:30 a.m.

Representatives from the Allen Heritage Guild will provide tours of the historic Allen Heritage Village. Tour guides will take attendees through the St. Mary Church, which was donated to the Allen Heritage Guild in 1999 by the Reverend George Anderson. Through careful restoration, the church has been restored to what it may have looked like at the turn of the twentieth century, with the original hardwood floors, green ceiling boards and a blackboard on the back wall that was originally used during the days when the church served as a school.

For the kids, there will be fun carnivaltype activities: a dunking booth, bounce house, trampolines and games such as bean bag toss, balloon artists and crafts. Children can enjoy unlimited fun with a wristband that is just $3! An exciting new addition this year will be a hayride through downtown Allen. Tickets will be sold on site for just $1 each.

Allen Senior Recreation Center is conveniently located at 451 St. Mary Drive on the corner of St. Mary and Cedar Drives. Overflow parking will be available next door at The Edge Visitor Center and Skate Park and the First Baptist Church parking lot on Main Street.

Complimentary shuttles will be available.

For more information, please call Allen Senior Recreation Center at 214.509.4820. v Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen Event Center and Allen Parks and Recreation Department.

Get Up and Give!

by Regina TAYLOR

North Texas Giving Day is coming back—for 18 hours on Thursday, September 18! This online giving event provides local nonprofits the opportunity to raise funds, raise awareness and qualify for bonus funds and prize awards from the Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT), sponsor of this areawide special event. Over the past five years, North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $60 million into the North Texas non-profit community. Last September, more than 75,000 donations were made totaling $25.2 million and benefiting 1,350 nonprofits.

The local organizations that are participating in 2014 include: Allen Arts Alliance, Allen Community Outreach, Allen Parks Foundation, Connemara Conservancy, Foundation For Allen Schools, Foundation for Lovejoy Schools and Heroes on the Water. All are registered 501(c)3 nonprofits and are working together to promote Giving Day to the entire community, www.facebook.com/ GetUpAndGiveAllen. Several Allen businesses have joined in with special offers to support the event, including: MOOYAH Burgers, Thursday, September 11: The Village at Allen, 190 E Stacy Rd., will donate 15% of sales from 11 a.m. until close; mention North Texas Giving Day. CiCi’s Pizza, Wednesday, September 17: 204 N. Greenville Ave., Suite 120 in Allen will donate 10% of proceeds; mention North Texas Giving Day! And on Giving Day, Thursday, September 18: Chick-fil-A, both locations at 350 E. Stacy Road and 902 McDermott Drive,​ will offer THRIVE Farmers

Coffee free to breakfast guests from 6 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Free Wi-Fi is available to make online donations throughout the day.

Two Rows Classic Grill, 711 Central Expressway will donate 10% of proceeds from 4 p.m. until close; mention North Texas Giving Day! Frogg Coffee Bar in Watters Creek on Bethany and Hwy. 75 will offer special discounts to customers as an encouragement to support North Texas Giving Day. Donating is simple.

On September 18, from 6 a.m. until midnight, donors log onto www.

NorthTexasGivingDay.org and make a donation to one or multiple organizations; donors automatically receive an email tax receipt. For each donation of $25 or more, the nonprofit will receive a percentage of bonus funds already collected by CFT (maximum single donation which can receive bonus funds is $50,000.) And, non-profits are eligible for prize money from CFT by leading in their respective funding categories and random drawings conducted each hour.

So, plan to get up and give on Thursday, September 18 at www.

NorthTexasGivingDay.org; follow the event on Twitter at @ NTXgivingday and you can use #ntxgivingday to help spread the word. For more information, contact one of the participating Allen organizations or you can visit w w w. N o r t h Te x a s G i v i n g D a y. o r g or go to www.facebook.com/ NorthTexasGivingDay. v Regina Taylor is the director for Foundation for Allen Schools.

Connemara Conservancy

Foundation for Allen Schools

Foundation for Lovejoy Schools

Allen Community Outreach Allen Image | September 2014

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Snippets Boys & Girls Club Global “Harmonize the 2014 Gala World” Open House Do you like music? Do you love to sing? We do. The Note-Ably North Texas Chorus is a member of Sweet Adelines International (SAI). Discover why thousands of women around the world are singing a cappella, four-part harmony music—the sound, style and technique of a sisterhood built on harmony.

There is unlimited training and educational opportunities, as well as spectacular performance and entertainment possibilities. Musical knowledge is not necessary to join.

Any woman of average singing ability will find a part that fits her voice range with the help of directors and leaders.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County (BGCCC), which has been meeting the needs of children in Collin County since 1968, will hold its annual Chrysalis Ball on Saturday, October 18, at the Frisco Embassy Suites Hotel & Convention Center. The public is invited to attend and show their support for the life-changing programs and services provided to thousands of Collin County children.

The theme for the 2014 Chrysalis Ball is Under the Big Top—Where Dreams Come True.

Join us on Thursday, September 18 and 25, 7:30 p.m., at our Open House at Grace Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy., in Allen (south entrance in back of the church) for a night of singing and fun!

Given Collin County’s population growth and the expansion of every school district, BGCCC expects continued membership growth and looks to provide its programs to even more Collin County youth each year.

Get your a cappella on! For more information, visit www. nntchorus.org, or check out our customized video greetings at http://www.nntchorus.org/customizedgreetings.html. v

For more information, contact Laura Bese at 214.544.8924 ext. 105 or LBese@bgccc.org. Additional information and pictures from last year’s event are available at the 2014 Chrysalis Ball website, www.bgccc.org/gala. v

Zack Patrol Zumbathon Charity Event Please join us on September 20, 2-4 p.m., at KidzRock, 3701 W. Spring Creek Pkwy. in Plano as we dance for Zack to help support the 2014 Buddy Walk hosted by Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas (DSDG).

Zack is just one of the more than 400,000 individuals in the U.S. living with Down syndrome. By supporting the 2014 Buddy Walk, you will help the DSDG continue to provide current information, resources and support for people with Down syndrome and their families. Tickets are $15 in advance; $16 PayPal—http://goo.gl/f3pyyp; or $20 at the door. For more information, visit http://downsyndromedallas.org. v

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Setting down roots

Allen Dentistry has been a part of the community since 2000. Dr. Justin Nylander began leading the practice in 2012 and comprehensive family-oriented dental care.

“At Allen Dentistry effective communication is our standard,” Dr. Nylander explains. “There are no hidden fees or tricks. Whether we are answering questions about topics such as treatment or insurance, we strive to communicate about what’s important to you.”

Quality dental work & service Dr. Nylander practices a full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry with expertise ranging from root canal and dental crowns to porcelain veneers, and bridges. He can correct a wide variety of so-called permanent cosmetic dental problems, and can redesign a person’s smile. The office treats both adults and children, making it convenient for families. They also offer same-day emergency services, Zoom whitening and sedation dentistry to allow for a more comfortable and complete treatment experience.

“I enjoy dentistry because it allows me to perform a quality driven task for someone,” Dr. Nylander says. “It’s especially rewarding to come to work each day and interact with our patients as we assist them with their various needs.”

Many patients have been with the office since it opened. Dental hygienist Rima Makki, R.D.H., B.S, has also been with the practice since it began and says that these patients have now become more like extended family. Dental assistant Nancy Saucedo, R.D.A., joined the staff in 2010 and office manager Debbie Surgenor joined last year.

Dr. Nylander has been around dentistry all of his life as his dad was a dentist in the United States military. Having grown up in a military family, he has had the opportunity to live in various locations outside the U.S. included Panama, Germany and Argentina, as well as many states across the country.

The staff shares Dr. Nylander’s multicultural background.

Rima is originally from Lebanon and speaks three languages.

Nancy is from Mexico, and both she and Dr. Nylander speak Spanish.

Dr. Nylander attended dental school at the Arizona School of Dentistry and afterward practiced dentistry in Salt Lake City, Utah for many years before moving to Texas. Today, he and his wife Megan are happy to call Allen home. They participate in various sporting events and festivals throughout the year and are particularly fond of the Allen USA fireworks display at Celebration Park.

Their son, Paxton, turns one in September and the couple is thoroughly enjoying their role as parents.

Allen Dentistry is located at 551 W. McDermott Dr. in Allen. For more information or to make an appointment, call 972.359.9950 or visit allendentistry.com.

library

The Allen Library presents…

by Tom KEENER

Allen Folk Festival

Twice As Far have performed in local coffee houses and other venues through­ ­­­­out the Metroplex.

Their audiences are treated to music that ranges from tradi­ tional moun­t ain dulcimer tunes to contem­­p o­­­­­r ary and original folk songs.

Judi Altstatt Allen’s Ozark heri­ tage exposed her to rich folk tra­ d itions.

Judi Altstatt Allen and Jeannie Clark Fisher Inspiring her father to build a dulcimer in high school, she now performs with Enjoy a free concert of folk music the Allen Symphony.

Formerly sponsored by Bach to Books at the 4th teaching band at Ereckson Middle Annual Allen Folk Festival, 7:30 p.m.

School, she currently teaches at Saturday, September 27. This year’s Wilson Middle School in Plano. program features Jeff Hewitt, Twice Jeannie Clark Fisher began her As Far’s Jeannie Clark Fisher and Judi career as a singer/songwriter in Red Altstatt Allen, and Cactus Jack and Bank, New Jersey, where she opened His Band of Outlaws. for Bruce Springsteen in his early Jeff Hewitt delights his listeners days, performing at the Off Broad with his unique finger-picking style Street Coffeehouse and the Upstage and rustic lyrics. He is a regular in Asbury Park.

When Jeannie joined performer at many Dallas venues Judi to form Twice As Far, her folk such as O’Riley’s, The Green Room roots reemerged, unearthing favorite and Lee Harveys. traditional tunes and writing songs Residents of Allen, Jeannie Clark about personal relationships.

Fisher and Judi Altstatt Allen of

Offering a different take on folk music. Cactus Jack and the Outlaws are featured on 95.9 FM The Ranch.

Singer, songwriter, guitar player and band leader Chris “Cactus Jack” Wood blends a little country, lots of humor and a twist of punk to create what he describes as country-folk.

Other band members include: on doghouse bass, Shawn “Ramblin” Rose played roots music with The Rock Bottom Ramblers, winners of a Woody Guthrie People’s Choice Award and runner-up in the 2010 Shiner Rising Star Competition.

Darrin Kobetich plays the dobro and mandolin at farmers’ markets. He played bluegrass and mountain music with the Blackland River Devils, selfreleased three CDs, and plays with the Boxcar Bandits.

Sean Stewart, on the fiddle and banjo, became well known in Kansas and Oklahoma for his banjo roll and great song writing skills. His song “Dang Girl” is a popular hit for the band Mountain Sprout.

On cajon/washboard, Derrick Harper has spent 25 years playing music and learning many instruments.

A custom-made cajon box, washboard and other percussion instruments create incredible sounds to accompany his superb vocal harmonies. v

September is National Library Card Sign-up Month Come to the library and sign up for a card, use your card or just show your card and get a raffle slip to enter one of our drawings. There will be a prize basket full of goodies for our lucky raffle winners.

You may enter throughout September, and drawing will be held on October 1. The lucky winners need not be present to win.

So, get out your cards and encourage your friends to come sign up, too!

Remember, your library card is the best card in your wallet— thank you for supporting our library! v

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When Dallas rocked During the golden era of rock n’ roll, Dallas was as a major epicenter for America’s music scene. Radio stations such as KZEW and large record publishing houses with mass distribution centers attracted legendary performers who gave live performances in sizzling venues such as Mother Blues, Travis Street Electric Company and Gertie’s. Surprise appearances by rock artists such as Thin Lizzy, Led Zeppelin, Rod Stewart, Runaways, Stephen Stills and Frank Zappa were not uncommon.

The film documentary When Dallas Rocked chronicles the events that took place in Dallas during this exciting period. Former Buddy Magazine editor Kirby Warnock compiled photos, interviews and film footage of legends such as Freddie King, Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, Elvis Costello, Delbert McClinton and many more.

Dallas’ answer to Rolling Stone, Buddy Magazine had eager readers who snatched issues from newsstands and music stores so they could learn more about Dallas’ hot spots. As editor, Kirby had front row access and great photography opportunities.

Kirby will intro­ duce his documentary at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, September 11, at the Allen Public Library.

After the film, he will be available for questions.

“It’s a look at when Dallas was the music center of Texas in the ’70s because of radio, records and the blues,” Warnock explains. “Big D was the record— vinyl of course— distribution center of the Southwest, giving it huge clout over record sales. That means every Bugs Henderson and Jimmie Vaughan act with an album out to Austin when the Armadillo World had to come to Dallas… and they did.

Headquarters and PBS’ Austin City That, combined with the dominance Limits became successful. The advent of KZEW-FM, meant we were the of satellite radio, digital production biggest rock and roll town in the and the Internet altered the dynamics state, and I’ve got the interviews and of music production and the live acts evidence to prove it.” by popular performers at small “Dallas has as rich a musical venues were over. history as Austin, we just never This free program is sponsored claimed it,” noted Kirby. However,

by Bach to Books. v Dallas began to lose its kingpin status

Films—America’s national pastime All films begin at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and are free.

September 2—Field of Dreams (1989) (PG) starring Kevin Costner, Burt Lancaster, Amy Madigan and James Earl Jones. An Iowa corn farmer hears voices and interprets them as a command to build a baseball diamond in his fields.

September 9—42 (2013) (PG-13) starring Chadwick Boseman, Harrison Ford and Nicole Beharie. The story of Jackie Robinson from his signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1945 to his historic 1947 rookie season.

September 16—A League of Their Own (1992) (PG) starring Tom Hanks, Geena Davis and Lori Petty. Two sisters join the first female professional baseball league and struggle to help it succeed amidst their own growing rivalry.

September 23—Eight Men Out (1988) (PG) starring John Cusack, Clifton James and Michael Lerner. A dramatization of the Black Sox scandal when the underpaid Chicago White Sox accepted bribes to deliberately lose the 1919 World Series.

September 30—The Natural (1984) (PG) starring Robert Redford, Robert Duvall, Glenn Close and Kim Basinger. An unknown comes out of seemingly nowhere to become a legendary player with almost divine talent. v The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive. Call 214.509.4911 for more information.

Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

Allen Image | September 2014

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feature

Collecting shoes is Maya’s thing

by Nicole BYWATER Maya Bullock was in fourth grade when she saw a picture of a child in another country wearing her outgrown tennis shoes. The image has stuck with her and serves as a great reminder that the shoes collected every year during the Reuse-A-Shoe Contest are going somewhere they’re needed.

“I remember seeing that photo and thinking, ‘Wow, that’s so cool that they’re wearing my old tennis shoes.’ I knew they made that child happy. That’s when I really began setting the bigger goals for collecting,” says Maya, who just completed eighth grade at Ereckson Middle School.

Last year, Maya hit a record high number by collecting 525 pairs of shoes. This year, she was busier with sports, but still collected 244 pairs of shoes—bringing her total to 2,293 pairs since second grade.

Contest winner

Maya first began collecting shoes as a kindergartener at Kerr Elementary. During the Reuse-A-Shoe Contest, which is hosted every spring by Keep Allen Beautiful, Allen ISD campuses compete to see which school can bring in the most gently used shoes. They are given to The Shoe Bank, a nonprofit that distributes shoes to those in need locally, as well as worldwide. Many schools also award prizes to individual grades or classes who bring in the most shoes.

“I remember that our prize in kindergarten was a globe and I really wanted it,” says Maya, who collected 35 pairs of shoes that year.

She continued to get involved in the contest and in second grade, individually collected 80 pairs of shoes. That year, the Keep Allen Beautiful support staff decided that in addition to awarding the top school and classroom, they needed to create an individual award, which has been earned by Maya every year since then.

“I first met Maya and her parents when she was in second grade and was immediately impressed with what a feisty tyke she was,” says Kathy Keller-Mielke, an education specialist with Keep Allen Beautiful. “But I just thought it was a one-shot deal—that she was a great kid who got excited about the cause and that would be the end of it.

Then, the next year, she wowed us again. And by the fourth or fifth year, I knew she was always going to come through.”

When she was younger, Maya says that her participation was primarily based on winning contest prizes. “But now I do it just because I know it helps people,” she adds. “And I like to keep my reputation.”

Maya’s reputation as the Reuse-A-Shoe champion is well deserved, says The Shoe Bank founder Mike Barringer.

“Maya is such a good kid and we know we can count on her every year,” he adds. “Honestly, I’m not even surprised when she turns in big numbers because she’s so consistent. And, I’m very thankful that she’s continued with collecting even as she’s gotten older.”

Always collecting

L to R: Kathy Keller-Mielke of KAB, Maya and her mother, Diane

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In fourth grade, Maya and her mother, Diane, visited The Shoe Bank’s warehouse to see the sorting process first-hand. “We got to see all of the shoes being shipped out and learned that the ones that aren’t still in good shape get turned into material for playgrounds,” Maya says. “I thought that was really cool.”

Maya gets her shoes from a variety of places.

Even though the contest takes place just once a year, Maya collects year-round. “As soon as one ends, we start collecting for the next year,” she says.

In the past, her older sisters Sarah and Epley, both of whom were college athlete,s would donate their athletic shoes, as well as many from their teammates. Maya usually spends summers with her

Maya (in fourth grade) with Mike Barringer at The Shoe Bank’s warehouse grandmother in Nebraska, where they visit garage sales and ask that any leftover shoes be donated to the program.

And thanks to Maya’s reputation, many people know that when they have outgrown or unwanted shoes, they can go to the Bullocks. “In fact, I have a bag of shoes in the car right now that someone just gave us,” Diane says with a laugh. “Occasionally, we get home to find a pair of shoes on the front porch, which we always appreciate.”

Diane is happy to help her daughter’s efforts—she even built out their home’s attic space to have room to store the shoes. But it’s clear that Maya is extremely self-motivated and that shoe collecting is ‘her thing,’ not her mother’s.

Before the numbers got to be too much and Diane began delivering the shoes directly to The Shoe Bank, she remembers how Maya would carry them on her walk to school, 10 pairs at a time. “We always tried to balance it out in weight so that if she had one or two big, heavy pairs, the others would be smaller ones. This has always been her project.”

Every year, after Maya is honored as the individual Reuse-A-Shoe winner, Diane asks her daughter if she’s done, or if she’s ready to start collecting for the next year.

And every year, Maya says, she wants to keep going.

“I do volleyball, basketball and track so I am busy, but this is something that’s important to me,” Maya says.

“Sometimes it’s just about the good of whomever I can help, but other times I just like the competition.”

And of course, there’s that reputation to keep going.

“When the school starts talking about the shoe contest, I like it because my class always says ‘Yes, we’re going to win because we’ve got Maya,’” she says. “I’m pretty sure I’ll keep going even in high school because I like doing it.

It’s a good way to spend my time and it makes me feel good. And I know it makes others feel good.

Community support

There are many benefits to the Reuse-A-Shoe program, Kathy says. In addition to the school contest held by Keep Allen Beautiful, the City of Allen participates by placing community collection bins at buildings such as the City Hall, the library, the senior center, Joe Farmer Recreation Center and the natatorium. This spring, the schools and the community collected nearly 4,000 pairs for The Shoe Bank.

“As a whole, Allen residents are very generous and have really stepped forward to support this cause by donating gently-used, and even new, athletic shoes for this program.”

Since it began in 1989, with the goal of putting shoes on a few hundred homeless men in downtown Dallas, The Shoe Bank today provides shoes for 25,000 people every year—primarily children, both here and abroad.

“Reusing is even greater than recycling as far as the environmental impact goes, so this is a really wonderful program to be promoting,” Kathy says. “It’s something that I know does good in the world.” v Nicole Bywater is a freelance writer from Allen.

Allen Image | September 2014

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kids korner

The Best Playgrounds in Town

By Deborah DOVE With cooler weather around the corner, fall is the perfect time to enjoy the benefits of Allen’s numerous parks and playgrounds. I took my youngest daughter to research playgrounds with me (it was a tough job but someone had to do it), and the following were her top picks.

Spring Meadow, 1405 Summerplace Drive (Spring Meadow subdivision off Hwy. 5 south of Stacy)

A super tall, three-story play structure for older kids that includes a one-story steep slide, a two-and-a-half-story spiral slide and a threestory tube slide that’s only accessible by a ladder. There’s also a twostory rock wall, fireman’s pole, separate rock to climb, swings, a twirling post powered by body weight and a separate toddler play structure. It also has a covered pavilion with picnic tables, basketball court and grills. The playground is surrounded by huge evergreen trees that create small “groves” perfect for exploring, playing hide and seek or having a tea party. A concrete path circles the park, making it perfect for bike or scooter riding.

Waterford Park (aka Rocket Park), 1225 Hueco Drive (in the Waterford Parks subdivision north of Exchange off Bray Central)

A giant rocketship play structure with two really long enclosed tube slides coming off the third story level, three different climbing walls and a steep straight slide. There’s also a separate play structure for smaller children with its own mini rock wall, swings and rocket-themed rideons. Across the bridge and behind the playground is a creek area that’s perfect for exploring and rock skipping.

Bethany Lakes, 745 South Allen Heights (NE corner of Allen Heights and Bethany)

A big kid play structure with lots of slides, bridges and climbing features, and a toddler play structure that is bigger than most. There are also swings and a huge boulder-like rock to climb. It also has a covered pavilion with picnic tables, picnic tables near playground, restrooms and a water fountain.

Bring food to feed the ducks that populate the lakes or a fishing rod to fish the stocked lakes (catch and release). There’s also plenty of sidewalk winding around the lakes for bike or scooter riding, and a wooded path behind the playground that’s great for exploring.

Celebration, Malone and Angel Parkway

The biggest and most colorful playground, with a sprawling, multicolored play structure with a variety of slides, climbing features, tunnels, bridges and fire poles. There are also swings (including swings for children with disabilities) and ride-on rockers. It has handicapaccessible, covered pavilion with picnic tables, restrooms, water fountains and ponds. Wide open spaces for flying kites, plus the adjacent sprayground with lots of fun water features for water play May through December.

Allen Station Park, 1100 North Cedar Drive

There are two kid-worthy components to this city park: a mid-sized shaded playground with separate toddler and big kid play structures, and the Edge Skate Park. Although in my experience the skate park is

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best left to the middle school and high school aged kids in the evenings, mornings and during school hours are the perfect time to let younger kids take advantage of the concrete skate park for riding scooters or roller skating, while bike riding kids of all ages can enjoy the BMX track. The outdoor facilities are open daily beginning at 8 a.m. It has picnic tables, restrooms (by baseball fields and at the Edge Skate Park) and there is a fun zip line on the big kid play structure and plenty of shady trails for biking or exploring.

Twin Creeks Park, 803 Shallowater Drive (east of Custer and north of McDermott in the Twin Creeks neighborhood)

This pretty neighborhood park with picnic tables and a pavilion is surrounded by rolling hills, covers a generous 11 acres and features a tall play structure for older kids and a covered play structure for toddlers, making it a great place to take the little ones. Swings, ride-on spring toys and a large hike and bike trail that winds around the park round out the fun. There is lots of space to run, a hill that is roll worthy and a fun spinning pole

Reed Parks East and West, Rivercrest west of Allen Heights

If you go during non-school hours, kids have four playgrounds to play on (including two by the elementary school) as well as a wooded area to explore. The Reed playground includes a sprawling play structure connected by two types of monkey bars, slides and a fire pole as well as a smaller one with a high fire pole and suspended posts that move as you cross them. Across the baseball field is a public playground with swings, slides, vertical monkey bars to climb and a unique bouncing bar. It has picnic tables, water fountain, baseball field and a tennis court.

And there is a pretty landscaped path with six stations telling about the history of the flags over Texas.

The Village at Fairview Beach and Fountain, NE corner of Stacy Road and Highway 75 The Village Beach offers a fenced area with four volleyball courts, horseshoes, a small tiki-themed play structure and lots and lots of sand, so bring plenty of shovels and buckets. Across the parking lot is the Village Fountain, where kids can cool off and play in the interactive fountains. Check out the community garden behind the beach to spy some funny scarecrows.

The Depot at The Village Of Allen, The Grove at the Village of Allen (SE corner of Stacy Road and Hwy. 75)

This fully fenced-in area features four kid-sized playhouses that make up a town for pretend play, an authentic red caboose and a Texasshaped hedge maze that’s just right for toddlers and preschoolers.

Tables, benches and restrooms are available. A variety of restaurants and Cold Stone are there if you want to grab lunch or a sweet treat.

You can play hide and seek in the maze or hide coins in the maze for your older child to find.

education

New AISD Superintendent Dr. Lance Hindt

by Keith A. TAYLOR

Dr. Lance Hindt enjoys meeting people and he is never short of conversation. These skills have served him extremely well in his first five months as Superintendent of Schools for Allen ISD. The Katy, Texas, native came to Allen from Stafford where he served as superintendent of schools for the Stafford Municipal School District since May 2011. He previously served as assistant superintendent of schools for Fort Bend ISD in Sugar Land. He also held other administrative posts including director of the FBISD Technical Education Center and principal of Dulles High School.

Dr. Hindt moved to Allen this spring with his wife Kathryn and their two children ages 18 and 15.

In a recent interview, Hindt shared his influences and ideas about education and his goals for leading Allen ISD:

What was your first teaching job?

I was hired as teacher and coach at Dulles Middle School in the Fort Bend ISD in 1991. I taught physical education, health and Texas history. I was also assigned to coaching duties of football, basketball and track. I was extremely busy during that first year and I enjoyed the kids immensely. I ended up working in Fort Bend ISD for 20 years.

What led you to become an educator?

I knew early on that I wanted to be an educator. I had some great educators in my life that influenced me—both teachers and coaches. I knew in high school—my junior year—that this was a profession I wanted to pursue. I wanted to be able to give back and I felt like I was a natural at it.

I intended to be a teacher and a coach. I was involved in extracurricular activities all through high school and I was fortunate enough to receive an athletic scholarship to the University of Oklahoma. I had a great time there, but I recognized it was not the perfect fit for me. I transferred to a smaller liberal arts college (William Penn College in Iowa) with smaller class sizes. I was also involved in athletics there and that’s where I received my degree.

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Is there an educator or administrator who influenced your decision to pursue a career in school administration?

While working at Dulles High School, I was influenced by the principal to go back to school and earn my midmanagement certification and master’s degree. That same administrator, Lynn Marshall, later hired me to be an assistant principal and I served in that capacity for five years. When he retired, I was hired as the principal. He pushed me to do more and I did.

Another influence was Betty Baitland, the Fort Bend ISD superintendent when I started working there. Later, Tim Jenny replaced Betty as superintendent and I will never forget that when he had been there for about six months, he came to my office at Dulles High School and asked me if I had aspirations to work in central administration. I told him I had been at Dulles for 16 years and it was my home. He came back several weeks later and asked me again. I knew then that you couldn’t tell your boss no two times. He asked if I would serve as assistant superintendent. I took the position and later served as associate superintendent with Tim.

What was it that attracted you to apply for the Allen ISD Superintendent’s post?

When the position became open, another superintendent called me and said I should take a look at the job. I knew a few things about Allen. I knew it was a very progressive school district and I had seen reports about the facilities the district was building. So, I spent some time on the Internet

and recognized it was a quality school district in a quality community.

I also was very impressed during my interviews with the Board of Trustees. Allen ISD is extremely fortunate to have a powerful school board. As we come together as a “Team of Eight,” we can provide opportunities and resources for our staff and students in an efficient and effective manner.

The board also has done a great job with financial oversight of the district. They had been very diligent with expenditures and have put the district in a very positive position. Our position is good enough that we recently passed a budget that reduces the district tax rate by three cents.

You visited all of the campuses this spring. What are your impressions of the district’s faculty and staff?

Allen ISD has a quality staff. We have great teachers, great principals and great students. We also have a very supportive community; I’ve never seen a more supportive community that rallies behind its schools. Allen is a community that is not afraid to pass bonds to offer the best opportunities for kids.

I was able to visit every school and every department and there was not an area I had a concern about. However, we always have to look for areas to improve, otherwise we become stagnant. There are things we are doing

exceptionally well and there are things we are doing well, l but I think we can find ways to improve. That’s what we are going to work on moving forward.

What do you see as the school district’s main priority in the coming year?

We have a strategic plan with goals set for the school year. One of most important of those goals is to reconvene Project Kids, a communitybased organization that takes a look at the future needs of the district and the possibility of a future bond. I will be working to make sure that project is given the attention it deserves for making sure our students have an exemplary learning environment for years to come.

We just went through a financial audit by a company contracted by the board of trustees. Audit is not a bad word or a bad thing, they tell us where our strengths are and where we can improve. My focus will be to look at the results, and the management recommendations, and make sure we implement processes and procedures that will prevent the district from being vulnerable in any area.

Another goal is to provide for our staff. We are one of the highest performing districts in the State of Texas, and if you look at our graduation rate and standardized scores, we do extremely well. That is because of the

quality instruction and curriculum that we provide our kids. I want to make sure we can compensate our staff fairly.

I would like for the district to be a leader in compensation for our region.

The stadium has required a great deal of your attention since you came in March. Do you think we are turning a corner now that will lead to getting things right?

I accepted the position knowing that we were going to have hard work ahead of us regarding the stadium.

It is important we return the stadium to a community that overwhelmingly passed the bonds for its construction. We want the community to feel that Allen sense of pride in the stadium once again. It takes time, though. When you are working with insurance companies, a contractor, an architect and legal representation all at the same time, it can be challenging to keep them on the same track.

The ultimate goal is repairing the stadium in a timely manner to the expectations of the community, the administration and our school board. I am working to make sure the repairs are made without costing taxpayers in the end.

I also want to avoid litigation as much as possible. I understand some things may be litigated, but I want to make sure we explore all alternatives before going to court.

We will be welcoming more than 200 new teachers to Allen this year. What is your message to those new teachers?

L to R: Trustees Carl Clemencich, Amy Gnadt, Susan Olinger, Kathryn Hindt, Dr. Hindt, Trustee Jason Shepard, Board President Louise Master, former Trustee Mark Jones and Trustee Dr. Mike Myers.

They are coming into a great school district with a very supportive school board and administration. We will provide them the physical and human resources so they can do their jobs effectively and creatively. I also will tell them to enjoy their first year.

They will always remember it. They have become part of a great team and family. I can’t wait to meet them. v Keith Taylor is a public relations specialist for Allen ISD.

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Getting back to the basics of emergency medical care

by Melanie HESS

visit a physician, many patients find themselves in situations where 9-1-1 appears to be their only avenue for seeking care.

Concerned with this issue in local communities, Collin College, in conjunction with the McKinney Fire Department and Dr. Malone, created a unique program, Advanced Practice Paramedic (APP). APP helps cut down on unnecessary 9-1-1 calls by providing experienced paramedics with the in-depth medical knowledge to evaluate and treat these patients in their homes.

In turn, these trained APPs, or community paramedics, educate, investigate and aid frequent 9-1-1 callers in ways that allow them to maintain full and healthy lives, keeping them off the caller list and out of the hospital.

How It Works

Dallas Fire Department Lt. Montreves Wesley “9-1-1” It is the first phone number most parents teach their children and an avenue to life-saving medical care during crisis. Unfortunately, in recent years, the healthcare community has seen a spike in what it commonly refers to as chronic users, individuals who may call 9-1-1 hundreds of times a year with non-emergency complaints.

“When 9-1-1 systems are utilized in a chronic way for episodic healthcare, the entire system suffers,” explained Dr. Sharon Malone, an emergency medical services (EMS) physician.

EMS response times for life-

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threatening situations increase and hospitals experience a shortage of doctors and beds. Combined with recent legislation, which requires hospitals to pay a fine for individuals admitted and discharged for the same cause within 30 days, the result is an increase in the overall cost of care for everyone.

Advanced Practice Paramedic

Whether a patient is embarrassed by illiteracy, unaware of social services to help with healthy meals for a heart condition or lacking the financial or transportation resources to routinely

“What we found in analyzing these frequent calls was a distinctly common problem of patients with unmet needs,” Dr. Malone said.

Through addressing patients’ needs, the team aimed to accomplish three goals: healthier, happier patients; avoidance of unnecessary emergency room visits; and increased availability of ambulances for true emergencies.

When a patient is identified as a candidate for the program, they are visited at home by an APP and receive a full evaluation. Following this, the APP provides the patient with the education necessary to care for him or herself and connects them with social services, such as Meals on Wheels, community activities, transportation services and a host of other services.

“With the privacy of APPs visiting patients in their own environment,

walls come down and we can identify and aid people with those non-medical issues that keep them calling 9-1-1,” Dr. Malone said.

Through this, they develop relationships that Dr. Malone notes may be difficult for physicians to establish.

Why Paramedics?

Trained in medicine and experts in the local population and geographic area, paramedics are the medical industry’s first link to the community and a natural fit for the APP role.

Unfortunately, as Dallas Fire Department Lt. Montreves Wesley, an APP course student, explained, there is a deficit between a paramedic’s emergency skills and the abilities involved in long-term health care.

“They understand an emergent setting, but that’s not the physician perspective or patient interviewing skills they need,” said James Shiplet, Collin College EMS Education Coordinator.

Paramedic and APPs have different objectives. EMS responders are expected to move from the scene to the ambulance in 10-15 minutes, evaluating quickly for the specific complaint reported.

“As an APP, the goal is to make the patients’ overall lives better,” Dr. Malone said.

Students in the APP course spend nine weeks learning techniques from Dr. Malone, Shiplet and Fire Science/EMS Director Pat McAuliff. In the course, students learn to critically think on a new level, which Dr. Malone describes as comparable to that of a physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner.

Congestive heart failure, diabetes, lung diseases, kidney failure and psychosocial problems, such as monetary issues or loneliness are the top five, often interrelated, causes for 9-1-1 repeats, so instructors emphasize information specific to those issues.

Students become experts in how to apply their knowledge of medical system, social service and patho­ physiology in order to properly evaluate and examine patients at home and in a holistic manner. They also develop an understanding, that in the eyes of the patients they touch, they

are becoming a medical provider.

Collin College’s simulation laboratory is used to master specific patient-APP paramedic interactions.

“With our high-fidelity manikins, we can simulate almost any health condition that we, as humans, may possibly experience in real life,” said Jackie Langford, Collin College Director of Healthcare Simulation.

“When necessary, we can address specific issues and go back and re-run scenarios for clarification and reinforcement purposes.”

Community, National and Economic Impact

Danny Martin, another APP student, who readily shares his experience observing the start of the first-ever APP program in Red River, New Mexico, is part of the Arlington Fire Department’s Emerging Issues Committee. With the committee’s recommendation, Arlington Fire Department is now pursuing the implementation of its own program.

Martin said freeing up the time of

emergency services by providing community programs like APPs is extremely important.

“Ambulances for emergencies aren’t available, and they should be,” Martin said. “The program also gets us out in the community, getting to know people, and that’s an important part of our job.”

“To our knowledge, this is the only course that provides the critical pathophysiology education to the paramedic that enables the paramedic to function as a physician extender in the field.” Dr. Malone goes on to say “the Collin College APP education program has been sought out by many other departments across Texas and the nation.”

For more information about the Advanced Practice Paramedic course, contact James Shiplet at jshiplet@ collin.edu or 972.548.6848. v Melanie Hess is a public relations associate at Collin College.

Photo: Nick Young, Collin College.

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MARKET PLACE

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HOME PLACE

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cooking

Slow-cooked meals for fastpaced nights

by Deborah DOVE

September seems to mark the end of the lazy days of summer whether you have children in school or not. For most families that means activities ramp up, evenings are busier and time becomes a priceless commodity. It becomes difficult to get everyone at the dinner table at the same time, much less have time to cook a meal.

Luckily, with a little planning, your slow cooker and a few quick and easy go-to recipes in your arsenal, you can still manage a home-cooked, healthy meal even on busy nights. Not only will you save money and calories, you’ll help preserve the family dinner hour (or fifteen minutes), which may be more

important than you think. Studies show that kids and teens who share family dinners at least three times a week are less likely to be overweight, perform better aca­ demically and have better relationships with their parents.

How to work this dinnertime magic? Just put the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning and dinner is ready by evening. You can also assemble crockpot meals ahead of time and freeze in gallon-sized bags. When you’re ready to cook them, either defrost the day before or just dump the entire contents of the bag in the crock pot frozen; just be sure to add an extra hour to the cooking time.

Make Ahead Chicken Cacciatore

1 lb. chicken breasts or thighs 1 (26 oz.) jar of chunky vegetablestyle spaghetti sauce 1 zucchini, chopped 1 green pepper, chopped 1 sweet onion, chopped 1/2 c. sliced mushrooms Kalamata olives for garnish Place all ingredients in a re-sealable gallon-sized freezer bag and mix together. Freeze. When ready to eat, remove from freezer and thaw in fridge for 24 hours. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with cooked spaghetti noodles and garnish with olives and grated parmesan cheese.

Make Ahead Teriyaki Chicken

Bag of baby carrots 1/2 red onion cut into large chunks 1 20-oz. can pineapple (undrained) 2- 3 chicken breasts 3/4 c. brown sugar 3/4 c. low-sodium soy sauce 1/3 c. cider vinegar 1 clove garlic, minced 3/4 tsp. ground ginger 1/4 tsp. pepper In a small bowl, combine sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger and pepper. Combine carrots, onion, chicken and pineapple in a gallon size zip lock. Add sauce. Freeze until ready to use. To cook, spray a slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Empty the contents of freezer bag into slow cooker. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours. Serve over rice.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Make Ahead Chicken Cacciatore

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1 2-4 lb. pork tenderloin, pork butt or shoulder (most cuts will work) 1 12-oz. can or bottle of root beer 1 18-oz. bottle barbecue sauce Hamburger buns

Place pork in slow cooker and pour root beer over the pork. Cover and cook on low approximately 6 hours or until done. Remove from crockpot and shred with a fork. Drain liquid from crockpot. Return shredded pork to crockpot and add barbecue sauce. Cook an additional 1 to 1-1/2 hours. Serve on buns with coleslaw.

Taco Soup 1 1 1 1

lb. ground beef or turkey onion, chopped 16-oz. can chili beans, undrained 15-oz. can whole kernel corn, undrained 1 8-oz. can enchilada sauce 1 12-oz. can or bottle of beer 2 14.5-oz. cans diced tomatoes 1 pkg. taco seasoning mix 1 pkg. of Ranch dressing mix Cook the ground beef/turkey with the onion in a skillet until browned over medium heat. Drain, and set aside. Place the ground beef/ turkey and onion, chili beans, black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, beer, diced tomatoes, green chile peppers and taco seasoning mix in a slow cooker. Stir to blend. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Serve with tortilla chips, shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream.

Whisk evaporated milk and eggs together in a bowl until smooth; stir into pasta mixture. Whisk milk and Cheddar cheese soup together in a bowl until smooth; stir into pasta mixture.

Sprinkle remaining cheese over the pasta mixture and cook on low for three hours.

My kids love when I make a Mac and Cheese bar with the Mac and Cheese served in wine glasses with a variety of toppings to add such as bacon bits, salsa, sour cream and diced tomatoes.

Crock Pot Ravioli

5 oz. bag of frozen ravioli 1 jar of spaghetti sauce 1 c. mozzarella cheese Place frozen ravioli in a slow cooker sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Add sauce and stir gently to mix. Cover and cook on high for 2.5 to 3 hours. About 20 minutes before you are ready to serve, sprinkle with mozzarella. Cover and cook an additional 20 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve with a side salad.

Beef Stroganoff

2 lb. cubed beef stew meat 2 cans condensed golden mushroom soup 1/2 c. diced onion 1 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 c. water 1 beef bouillan cube 1/2 pkg. dry onion soup mix 8 oz. pkg. sliced mushrooms 4 oz. cream cheese 1/3 c. sour cream Salt and pepper to taste Sprinkle beef with salt and pepper to taste. In a slow cooker combine the beef, mushroom soup, onion, Worcestershire, water, soup mix and bouillon. Cook on low 5-6 hours. Add mushrooms during last half hour of cook time (sautĂŠ in about 2-4 tablespoons of butter before adding for extra flavor). Stir in cream cheese and sour cream just before serving. Serve over hot, buttered egg noodles. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

1 16-oz. package of elbow or shell macaroni 1/2 c. butter 8 oz. pkg. shredded Sharp cheddar cheese 8 oz. pkg. shredded mild cheddar cheese 1 5-oz. can evaporated milk 2 eggs, beaten 2 c. milk 1 can condensed Cheddar cheese soup Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite, 8 minutes. Drain and transfer pasta to slow cooker.

Add butter to pasta and stir until melted; season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle one package of shredded cheddar over pasta and stir.

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calendar hosted by Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas (DSDG).

SEPTEMBER 5-7 St. Jude Catholic Church Annual Carnival, 5-11 pm, Fri.; 11 am-11 pm, Sat.; and 11 am-7 pm, Sun., 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. The Talley Amusements midway, kiddie and thrill rides and St. Jude’s traditional Courtyard Carnival offer a family carnival experience! Family fun for all ages. Attractions including giant inflatable rides, carnival games and musical entertainment! Food galore at the Talley Midway and by the SJCC Knights of Columbus.

For more info: stjudeparish.com.

18 North Texas Giving Day, 6 am- midnight.

Log on to www.NorthTexasGivingDay.org to make a donation. The non-profits will receive a percentage of bonus funds for donations over $25.

For more info: www.NorthTexasGivignDay. org.

18/25 Note-Ably North Texas Chorus Open House, 7:30 pm, Grace Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy., Allen. Join us for a night of singing and fun!

For more info: www.nntchorus.org, or check out our customized video greetings at http:// www.nntchorus.org/customized-greetings. html.

20 Zack Patrol Zumbathon Charity Event, 2-4 pm, KidzRock, 3701 W. Spring Creek Pkwy. Please join us as we dance for Zack Help support the 2014 Buddy Walk

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For more information, visit http:// downsyndromedallas.org.

26-28 McKinney Oktoberfest, 4-11 pm, Fri., 10 am-11 pm, Sat., noon-5 Sun., Downtown McKinney. Dust off your lederhosen and tune up your yodel for Oktoberfest.

McKinney Oktoberfest is a family favorite, offering authentic German music, food and drink, traditional costumes, dancing, children’s activities and much more.

For more info: mckinneytexas.org.

CITY OF ALLEN Allen Event Center

Tickets on sale now through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at the Allen Event Center box office. For more information, visit www.alleneventcenter.com.

6-7

Tier 1 Gun Show

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Guns and Hoses Boxing Tournament

13/27 Saturday Night Rec n Roll, Joe Farmer Rec Center. Fun, safe social program for students in 3rd-6th grade. Gym games, dancing, music, dodge ball, pool, table tennis, theme nights, contests and prizes. Supervision provided, concessions available. An ID card (annual $5 fee) is required. Walk up admission available for $10 at the doorues!

20 Dog Days at Ford Pool, 11 am-1 pm, Ford Pool. Cost is $5 per dog and all dogs must have current shot records. All owners with dogs living in the City of Allen must present a current COA registration. If you live in the City of Allen and your dog is not COA registered, on-site registration will be available. There is no charge for people wanting to swim at this event, just for dogs!

25 Lego Workshop Power up your engineering skills with Play-Well TEKnologies and tens of thousands of LEGOs! Apply real-world concepts in physics, engineering and architecture through engineer-designed projects at The Edge Visitor Center.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Children’s Programs 6

Shark Week Celebration, 3-4 pm. For ages 5 and up with an adult in the Children’s Program Room. Celebrate dangerous sharks with crafts and games!

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Shrinky Dinks, 2- 3:30 pm, Upstairs Program Room. For age 9-18 .Turn your miniature works of art into wearables.

12-14 Collin County Home and Garden Show 28

Allen Bridal Show

Parks and Recreation Events 13 Happy Fall Fest, fun for the entire family at Allen Senior Rec Center. A Classic Car Show and a craft and specialty gift market with over 50 vendors. Kids will have a good time with the outdoor activities and crafts. The Allen Heritage Guild will offer tours of the St. Mary Church.

Walk with a Doc, 9 :30 am, Allen Station Park. A free, non-profit program for anyone interested in taking steps for their health. Bring friends and loved ones or come alone and enjoy a walk in the park. Physicians and healthcare professionals provide support & answer questions.

Tween & Teen Programs Teen Programs

All programs are for ages 12-18 in the Upstairs Program Room unless noted otherwise.

1 5 8

T-Shirt Design, 2-3:30 pm. Bring a white shirt to Sharpie tie-dye and/or another shirt to paint!

Interactive Labyrinth Showing, 2-3:30 pm. Come for the food, stay to poke fun at a great old movie.

An Anime Afternoon, 2-3:30 pm. Join us for anime, Japanese sweets, crafts and more!

Adults 3

Noontime Pageturners, noon,The All-Girl Filling Station’s Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg. Bring a lunch and a friend and join us for a lively discussion! We offer a relaxed environment where you can share the joy of reading.

10 Twisted Threads—A Fiber Craft Circle, 6:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. A social group for knitters, crocheters, felters, quilters and other crafts with thread or yarn! All skill levels welcome! Bring your project.

11 “Discover a Healthier You”, Quick and Easy Meals, Carrie Brazeal, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, 12-1 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. Learn how to prepare quick, nutritious meals that are easy on your budget. The presentation will include ways to cut minutes off of preparation, some basic supplies to keep on hand and food safety tips. Age 18+. Registration requested, www. allenlibrary.org, walk-ins welcome as space permits.

Contact Debbie Vavra, 214-509-4913 dvavra@cityofallen.org.

Trivia Night, 7-8:30 pm, 2nd floor program room. Test your knowledge in literature, history, science and more! Ages 18+. Limit teams to 4 members. Free; register online at www.allenlibrary.org or call 214-506-4905 or 214-506-4913.

Contact Emily Plagens at eplagens@cityofallen.org.

13 Bollywood Day! 2-4 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. Explore a bit of Indian popular culture. Clips of Bollywood movies, Indian music and dance. You’ll also get to sample Indian food and have a chance to win door prizes! 2nd floor program room, Age 18+, Free, Registration requested www. allenlibrary.org, contact Debbie Vavra, 214.509.4913, dvavra@cityofallen.org.

17 DIY @ APL—Spa Day Revisited,10-11:30 am, 2nd Floor Program Room. New crafts sure to relax you after a busy summer—candles, shower loofahs, scented body wash and Epsom bath salts. Sample chocolate as you create items to pamper yourself. 2Ages 18+, free, Call 214.509.4905 to register; walk-ins welcome as space permits.

Ladies Night Out Game Night, 7 pm, 2nd Floor program room. Fun night of games! Refreshments provided.

Registration required. Register online or contact the Reference Desk at 214.509.4905.

18 Talking History, 7 pm, 2nd Floor program room. A onehour historical lecture presented by a faculty member from a local university. Topic TBA. Please visit www.allenlibrary. org for more information.

30 Armchair Travelers Visit Persia (Iran), 7 pm, 2nd Floor program room. Mojdeh Lakani and Parviz Shakeri share pictures, stories and anecdotes from their time in Persia.

Persian culture, from its beautiful artwork and architecture to its cuisine, with snacks from, and inspired by, Persia.

Registration is required. Register online or contact the Reference Desk at 214.509.4905.

Watters Creek Concerts by the Creek, 7 pm 5 Gloria D’Arezzo & Friends 6 Rob Holbert Band 13 Kassy Levels 20 Texas Gypsies 27 Southern Chrome

Connemara Conservancy Connemara Meadow Preserve

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Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 8-11 am, Allen. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them; learn what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. All ages welcome. We recommend wearing long pants, closed-toed shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent.

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

Heard Museum

For more info: www.heardmuseum.org.

1-31 Project Passenger Pigeon Exhibit. A nationwide program to bring conservation to the forefront through informative and interactive exhibit installations and presentations. One of the few educational facilities in the state of Texas with a

specimen in its collection, and the only one of such locations to display it during this national event.

12 “A Feathered River Across the Sky,” 7 pm, at Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary. Author Joel Greenberg will bring the story of the passenger pigeon to life and speak about his new book. Limited tickets will be available to the public for $10 each, beginning August 4.

This presentation is sponsored by the Blackland Prairie Master Naturalists and Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

City of Allen offers a variety of affordable recreational classes and programs. Register at Joe Farmer Rec Center, 214.509.4750 or Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 214.509.4770.

For more info: www.allenparks.org.

Texas Health Presbyterian, a variety of events.

For more info: www.texashealth.org.

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

For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711.

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

For more info: 972.727.0011 or www.kidspediatricdentistry.com.

MOMS Club of Allen, group for moms and children who live in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips and business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more.

For more info: http://momsclubofallentx.weekly.com or momsclubofallentx@gmail.com.

Urban Explorers, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups throughout Dallas area.

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

Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers of kids age 0-5. Each month has fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch with friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids and other events. Come play with us.

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

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Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days and locations vary.

For more info: www.75013.theheartlinknetwork.com.

Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters.

For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www. planobicycle.org.

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

For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com.

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

For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.com.

Every Monday-Friday

The Shores AA Group, noon, Raceway Profesional Bldg., 200 W. Boyd, Suite C (Adjacent to Dayrise Recovery), Allen.

Open AA discussion group. Everyone welcome.

For more info: 469.854.9593.

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

For more info: Kim Tedford: 214.544.8050 ext. 109, ktedford@ creekwoodumc.org or www.creekwoodumc.org.

Every Monday-Sunday

Allen AA meets, 601 S. Greenville. Mon.-Fri., 7 pm; Sat., 9 am; Sun., 7:30 pm.

For more info: Joe, 214.564.9403 & Tina, 214.566.7561.

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Every Monday

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

For more info: Ed Meissner, 469.323.0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www.prestonpersuaders.org.

Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome For more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per.treven@ericsson. com.

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

For more info: fitandfunky@att.net.

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

Allen Toastmasters’ Club, 6:30 pm, Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome.

For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100.

First and Third Monday

Singles Mingle 60+, 5:30 pm, Zin Zen Wine & Bistro, 6841 Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. A group for single men and women 60+ living in McKinney and surrounding areas who are active and enjoy meeting new people.

For more info: Bill, 214.544.5835.

Second Monday

American Association of University Women-Plano/Collin County Branch, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior

Living Center, 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with assoc. or bachelors degree interested in helping women.

For more info: Carol, 972.862.3460 or www.aauwplanocollin.org.

The MOB (Men of Business), 11:30 am-1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen for male bonding and networking over lunch. $20 chamber mem; $25 non-mems/general public.

For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm. Various locations and service projects monthly.

For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org.

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

For more info: 972.562.5566 or www.northtexasbeekeepers.org.

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

Speakers, programs, etc. Open to anyone interested.

For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982.

Veterans of Foreign Wars “Lone Star Post 2150”, 1710 N. Church Street, McKinney. Post Members, 6:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary, 5:45 pm; Men’s Auxiliary, 6:30 pm.

For more info: 972.542.9119, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org.

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

For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634.

Third Monday

Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome.

For more info: www.K5PRK.net.

Allen Retired Educators, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview.

RSVP: Janeen Chattaway@ janeen03j@yahoo.com.

Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family & friends, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney.

For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984.

Collin County Aggie Moms, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, Coit between Bush Tollway & Campbell.

For more info: 972.382.3124 or www.collincountymoms. aggienetwork.com NARFE Chapter 559, 2 pm at Golden Corral, 475 S. Central Expressway (75 & Virginia Pkwy), McKinney. All current government employees and retirees are invited.

Fourth Monday

Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center.

Must be a member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402.

Plano Photography Club, 7 pm, Grace Presbyterian Church, 4300 W. Park Blvd., Plano. Visitors welcome.

For more info: www.planophotographyclub.com.

Every Tuesday

Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/$10 non-mem. 1st visit free.

For more info: 972.727.5585.

2ChangeU Toastmasters, 7-8:45 pm, Plano Family YMCA, 3300 McDermott Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome.

For more info: www.2changeu.org.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas.

For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org.

Toastmasters Creative Expressions, 11:15 am- 12:30 pm.

Raytheon, McKinney. Guests welcome.

Every Tuesday & Thursday

Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 7 pm, 1st UMC, Wesley House, 601 S Greenville. Offers strength & hope to friends & family of alcoholics.

For more info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon.alateen.org.

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

For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460.

First Tuesday

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

For more info: 972.562.5566.

First and Third Tuesday

Common Threads of Allen, 7 pm, Whole Foods Market Café, Stacy Rd., Fairview. Share needle-work projects, learn new techniques, make friends.

For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@ verizon.net.

Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen.

For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982.

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

For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460.

Second Tuesday

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

For more info: 214.509.4820.

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

For more info: archaeology@netzero.net.

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

For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214.893.3643.

Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, 9:30 am, SMU in Plano, 5236 Tennyson Parkway, Plano. Program: “Girl

Scouts, The Second Century.” Jennifer Bartkowski, the recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas, will share her vision for the future of Girl Scouts as the organization begins its second century.

Visitors and their guests are welcome.

For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org.

McKinney Amateur Radio Club, 7 pm, Spring Creek Bar B Que 1993 North Central Expressway, McKinney.

For more information: 972.814.4190.

Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group, 7-9 pm, parlor, 1st UMC, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen.

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

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

For more info: www.planopacers.org.

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

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

Third Tuesday

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

Plano Republican Women’s Club, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expy., Plano.

For more info: www.planorepublicanwomen.com.

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

McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney.

For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com.

Fourth Tuesday

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

For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

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Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society meets at 7 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney.

For more info: 972.562.5566..

Every Wednesday Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, “Become the Speaker and Leader you can be”, 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expy,Allen.

For more info: Daniel Dodd, 972.571.7527.

Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, 7 am, Savour Tasting Room and Social Club, 968 Village Green Dr, Allen..

For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.allensunriserotary.com/ Allen Rotary Club, noon, Courtyard by Marriot, 210 East Stacy Rd. For more info: www.allenrotary.org.

McKinney Chess on the Square, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons.

Promotes creativity, imagination & strategic thinking.

For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org.

First Wednesday

Collin County Master Gardeners guided tour of Myers Park, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Res. req.

For more info: 972.548.4232 or go to mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu.

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

For more info: 972.740.8017 or www.allenheritageguild.org.

Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:30-1:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage House, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch.

For more info: 972.569.6909 or www.headcraig.org.

First and Third Wednesday MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, 9:3011:30, 3405 Custer, Ste. 200, Plano.

For more info: 214.762.0037 or www.mopsofhope.com.

Second Wednesday

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

For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com.

VFW Post 2195, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen.

For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www.vfw2195. org.

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Third Wednesday

Greater Collin County Kennel Club, 7 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Center, 1201 E. Bethany, Allen.

For more info: www.greatercollinkc.org.

Every Thursday

Allen Kiwanis Club, Noon, Café Del Rio, on 75 just south of McDermott. Visitors welcome.

For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org.

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

Sweet Adelines, NoteAbly North Texas Chorus, 7 pm, Grace Evangelical Free Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy, Allen.

Women of Allen & surrounding area invited.

For more info: nntsing4fun@yahoo.com.

Speak Up! Frisco Toastmasters Club, 7-7:30 pm social, 7:308:30 meeting. U of D-Frisco campus, 6843 W. Main.

For more info: http://speakupfrisco.freetoasthost.ws.

Bible Study, 9:30–11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Reg. req.

For more info: katpf@att.nett or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org.

Weight Watchers, 12:15 and 6 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Enter south entrance, 2nd floor.

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

For more info: 214.509.0085 or www.namicco.org.

First Thursday Allen Garden Club, meets 7 pm, gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main.

For more info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www. allengardenclub.org.

North Dallas Newcomers, 11 am., social time followed by a luncheon and activity fair. Prestonwood Country Club, 15909 Preston Road, Dallas.

For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net.

Second Thursday

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

Location varies. Networking & discussion of women’s issues. Fun & informative meeting for women in Allen & surrounding areas. $20 member/$25 guest.

For more info: www.allenchamber.com McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Headquarters, 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location sometimes varies.

For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com.

Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly general meetings at Creekwood UUMC, 261 Country Club Road, Fairview.

Different topic and guest speakers each month. Lunch provided free; babysitting available for nominal fee.

For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/LovejoyPreschool-PTA/.

PSA:NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness] of Collin County, 7:30 pm, Custer Road UMC, 6601 Custer Road, Plano. Enter at the SE end, room B2. Peer support group, B6 and Family support group, B1, meet from 6:30-7:20 pm.

For more info: www.namicco.org.

Second and Fourth Thursday

Allen Area Patriots, 7-8:45 pm, Failth Fellowship Church, 415 West Lucas Road, Lucas. Local Tea Party presents speakers, encouraging citizens to participate in the political process.

For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots.com.

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

Third Thursday

Knights of Columbus, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen.

For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc.org.

Live @ 5 Business After Hours, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free.

For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Allen Quilters’ Guild, 6:30 pm, 1st Presbyterian Church, 605 S Greenville.

For more info: www.allenquilters.org.

Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, noon, First United Methodist Church Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall.

Lunch, fellowship, speakers & entertainers.

For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net.

Cancer Support Ministry, 7 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101.

For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241.

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

For more info: www.ccrmc.org.

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

For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330.

Fourth Thursday

Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, 10 am, Heard-Craig Hall Gallery, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas.

For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail.com.

Every Other Thursday North Texas Referral Group, 11:45 am, Friday’s (121 & Preston).

For more info: www.ntrg.info.

Every Friday

Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Mem. free/Non-mem. Allen resident $3.

For more info: 214.509.4820.

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

For more info: 972.547.7491.

Every Other Friday

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), non-denominational support group for moms with kids 0-5 years, 9:30-11:45 am, First Baptist Church in Allen. Childcare provided.

For more info: 972.727.8241.

First Friday

Third Saturday

First & Third Friday

Italian Lovers of North Dallas (ITALOVERS), 7 pm, Italian Villa, 121 N Greenville Ave, Ste B, Allen. Do you like Italy?

Many bilingual Italian-Americans meet here every month to chat in Italian and find new friends.

For more info: email ITALOVERS@tx.rr.com.

Classic 55+ Game Night, 6:30 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games. Open to community, no res. required.

For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@ hotmail.com.

Last Saturday

VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, 10 am, 1710 N. Church St., McKinney.

For more info: “Driveway John” 971.822.4483, gmlsp2150@ gmail.com or visit www.vfwpost2150.org.

Every Sunday

Open Forum, meaningful discussions, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney.

For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004.

Second Saturday

American Sewing Guild, 10 am-noon, Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Rd (at Parker), in Plano.

For more info: Jane Johnson, 972.841.6854 or www.planoasg.org.

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

For more info: 972.547.7491.

First Saturday

Allen Folk Music Society, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Dr., Allen. Musicians 15-100. Bring snacks to share.

For more info: www.twiceasfar.com.

Fourth Saturday

Every Saturday

Single Side Up, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. No charge to attend. Low cost child care is available.

For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@thissideupfamily. org.

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

For more info: 972.562.5566.

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

For more info: 972.396.8010.

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

For more info: www.bigd56ers.com.

Plano Pacers run at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, 8 am.

For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www.planopacers.org.

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

For more info: fitandfunky@att.net.

First Sunday

United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, 2 pm, FUMC, 601 S. Greenville, Parlor. Join us for book discussion and refreshments. Book selections are determined at the January meeting. We encourage women of all faiths to participate.

For more info: http://www.fumcallen.org.

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

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For Your Health

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For Your Health

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by Peggy Helmick-RICHARDSON

When April Samuels peppers her life story with the phrase “Good times!” you know she means it. In the persona of Crash Gordon, April drums for the popular 80s hair metal rock band Metal Shop. This Fairview go-getter also founded the not-for-profit Breast Cancer Can Stick It Foundation, Inc. after she was diagnosed with high-grade triple negative breast cancer in 2010, and today she serves as its executive director.

Born in Amarillo, April moved to Plano with her parents Ron and Jan and older brother Todd before she turned one. When five years old, she accompanied her mother and brother to what is now Nadine’s Music Manor in Plano, where Todd took guitar lessons.

She recounts, “I found a pair of drumsticks and was like, ‘Mo-ommm, please buy me these!’

So she bought them for me.” Not long after, a toy drum set arrived.

Although April began drum lessons at Music Manor and received her first real drum set at age 11, an opportunity to be in a band didn’t come until after high school.

“A friend of mine introduced me to some guys looking for a drummer, so we started a band,” April recalls.

“I was 19 and we played at Thunderbird Roller Rink in Plano for a battle of the bands. We didn’t win but we did good!” It was not long before her group did win a band competition and April still has the $20 bill she won that day.

The following year, April played her first club gig at The Library in Denton, where she was also studying music at the University of North Texas. Shortly after that, she had her first Dallas engagement at On the Rocks in Deep Ellum.

Although she worked other jobs to make ends meet, April’s music career took off.

“I figured out one time that I

cover story either played with or recorded with or sat in with over 30 different bands,” she points out. Until just a few years ago, the bands April played with performed original music, including some that she wrote.

These include Frognot from 1996 to 2000 and Baby Jane Hudson from 2000-2003. There was also 49th Vibration, Aschere, Rocket Girl… and many times she played with more than one band during the same period. To keep her calendar straight she would often handle the bookings—for her groups as well as others.

April relishes the playfulness that comes with being in Metal Shop.

“We’re an 80s tribute band, and it’s kind of a spoof, so we all wear spandex and have big hair, headbands, bandanas, eyeliner and everything.”

They perform regularly around the Metroplex as well as the state.

Averaging around 120 gigs a year with Metal Shop, April also has a work-from-home corporate job that she admits is a bit incongruous with her musical career.

The traditional job also proved her salvation when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “Because of the insurance I had the best possible doctors,” she explains.

April’s breast cancer journey began 12 years ago when she was diagnosed with fibrocystic breasts. At that time, there was no cause for alarm; April just got breast screenings every six months.

“I’ve always been one of those people who, if the doctor says ‘Do it,’ I do it.” April recalls. “There were a few times they had to do biopsies… and everything would be fine. Then in 2010 I found a cyst in my left breast.”

This cyst proved to be harmless, but an ultrasound on the right breast showed something that didn’t look right. Because it was small, the doctor asked her to get another screening in three months. When she did, they discovered the growth had doubled in size and a core needle biopsy was performed.

April got the call from her doctor at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2010,

(“because that’s one of those things you never forget!”). The biopsy showed she had a highly aggressive triple negative breast cancer. “All the bad stuff you don’t want to hear,” she asserts. On her doctor’s advice, April reviewed reputable websites, like those of the American Cancer Society and Susan G. Komen, to learn more.

After a CT and bone scan showed the cancer had not spread, surgery was scheduled for November 10, 2010.

“The next thing to decide was do I want a lumpectomy, partial mastec­ tomy or bilateral mastectomy,” April continues. “I didn’t want to worry about it; I just wanted to live! So I said I want a double mastectomy and I don’t want reconstruction. Since that time, it’s been confirmed for me that I did the right thing.”

In preparation for her chemo­ therapy set to begin that December 27, April had her port installed December 10. Despite breathing difficulties following this simple surgery, April was sent home assured her chest x-rays showed everything was fine.

When her breathing grew more labored that evening, her doctor sent her to the closest hospital, Methodist Mansfield. There it was discovered that during the port installation her lung was punctured and had collapsed.

A tube had to be inserted into April’s chest cavity while she held her breath—which meant she had to be awake. Because the first tube proved too small, a few days later she had to repeat the painful process again.

During those five days in the hospital she lost 15 pounds—weight she couldn’t afford to lose.

Describing that period as “dark and depressing,” April declares, “Those were the worst days of my breast cancer!”

Despite the set back, April started her eight rounds of every-other-week chemotherapy on time. She quickly discovered the shot given to keep her white blood cell count up proved more difficult than the chemotherapy drugs.

Diet was also a challenge. She had to give up favorites like coffee and Mexican food because of severe

heartburn. In addition, her iron dropped so low this long-time vegetarian followed her doctor ’s orders and downed two hamburgers.

An optimistic April even lauds Taxol, the drug administered the second half of her chemotherapy treatment. Although not as hard on her body, it resulted in losing all of her body hair.

“It was awesome to not have to shave and my legs and my arms were so soft!” she chortles. “And I found out I have a birthmark right here,” she grins while pointing to the back of her head.”

April bought three wigs but preferred going without. “I found that walking around bald started a lot of conversations,” she explains. “People wanted to talk about it and I thought that was a good thing.”

One experience that helped April come to terms with her cancer was a session with phototherapist Debra Gloria two days after being released from the hospital following her collapsed lung repair. These photos are now part of Debra’s “Underneath My Clothes” exhibit.

“I think those photos, while shocking maybe, really gives me some insight,” April emphasizes of the pictures—some that reveal her mastectomy scars. Noting that she has been thanked and called an inspiration by other cancer survivors for sharing the photos, April adds, “Something about it helps them, and if it does, then that’s awesome.”

April finished her chemotherapy on April 27, 2011, and two weeks later, she celebrated by treating herself to Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp in Hollywood, California.

“Growing up, I was in love with Van Halen, and Sammy Hagar was going to be the main guy at the camp.

This was my chance to meet him and jam with him!” she declares. This event included shows at The House of Blues on Sunset Strip and the Gibson Guitar Showroom in Beverly Hills as well as working with drummers Fred Coury (Cinderella) and Sandy Gennaro (Joan Jett, Cyndi Lauper and Pat Travers among others).

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While at the camp April also played on stage with rock musician Kip Winger. The two not only continue to keep in contact but Kip has also been a big supporter of Breast Cancer Can Stick It. Last June, performing at Trees in Deep Ellum, Kip called April on stage to play drums. Her performance was later praised by Amps and Green Screens reviewer Damian: “But the real highlight came when the band got April Samuels…up there to take over the kit for a smoking version of Van Halen’s “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love” with John Roth taking lead vocals….

She had to play Roth’s left-handed kit and killed it.”

On the day of her last chemo­ therapy treatment, April celebrated by going to hear a group three of her friends performed with—Metal Shop.

At that show, the guys invited April to play a song with them. A year later, the group’s drummer quit and April was asked to join them.

“Metal Shop is special to me for a lot of reasons,” April concludes. “My band mates are the best you could ever want, and having that history is pretty cool.”

When diagnosed with breast cancer, April took a proactive course of action to heal her body, but didn’t stop with her own healing. She also asked a graphic artist to create “a cool rocker chick behind a drum set” design and suggested it include something like “Beat It Breast Cancer” or “Breast Cancer Can Stick It.” The artist chose

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the latter and designed the logo now seen on many of April’s non-profit organization’s products.

April first started selling t-shirts sporting this logo, with profits going to Susan G. Komen, and sales took off.

In October of 2012, April began piggybacking Breast Cancer Can Stick It fund-raisers with Metal Shop shows.

Hosted at Wizards in Richardson, the first event included a kissing booth, games, raffles and silent auction. With better than expected results, she decided to host another at a Corpus Christi venue. For the 2013 fundraisers, April had two old-fashioned kissing booths made—one for Crash Gordon and another for Metal Shop’s lead singer Michael Diamond—and invested in merchandise displays. That year, the organization celebrated its application for 501(c)3 status as well as a net of $7,000 after expenses were paid.

April also expanded her fundraising means, venues and recipients. On March 3 of this year her organization held a two-hour fundraising webcast to benefit the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation. Through merchandise sales and raffles, April was able to meet her $2,000 goal.

Eight weeks later, April hosted a Swim Across America fundraiser in her home to benefit the Baylor Sammons Cancer Center where she received her treatment. That afternoon, $3,500 was raised. On her birthday three days later, she posted on Facebook that, in lieu of birthday gifts, she wanted to increase

this total to $5,000. A friend gave her a football autographed by Tony Romo, and April started selling $5 tickets for a chance to win it. By midnight, her goal was reached.

Support for her organization is also growing in the rock world. Poison lead singer and reality television star Bret Michaels was given a Breast Cancer Can Stick It t-shirt that he chose to wear at his birthday meet and greet.

“All these pictures started popping up on the internet where people posted their pictures with Bret and he was wearing the shirt!” April crows.

Poison drummer and Rockett Drum Works owner Rikki Rockett donated a black drum set with pink hardware. Smitten with the idea of using the drums for promotional events, April ordered a second set.

Drum Talk TV executive producer Dan Shinder emcees some of the organization’s fund-raisers in Corpus Christi. And the Plano music store where April took lessons as a kid?

Today Nadine’s Music Manor donates guitars, sells Breast Cancer Can Stick It merchandise, and provides a mailing address for the organization.

With a corporate day job, a demanding professional music career, a burgeoning non-profit and recover­ ing from cancer treatment, April recognized she would need help keeping everything running smoothly.

One solution was buying a home in Fairview. “For 10 years I’ve been wanting to live by my parents (who live in Heritage Ranch in Fairview) and I thought, what have I been waiting for? This house had everything I wanted.”

April transformed the second floor into a music studio adorned with rock photos and memorabilia from her years in the business as well as more recent shots of Breast Cancer Can Stick It events.

In addition, Halley Roberson was hired two years ago to be the organization’s director of operations, working out of an office created for her in April’s home. After reciting a long list of responsibilities Halley handles, a grateful April concludes,

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“She does everything, and she helps motivate me too!”

Describing her oncologist Dr. Joyce O’Shaughnessy as “a huge blessing,” April asserts that she provided her the confidence in feeling certain her cancer was eradicated. “When you pass that eight-year mark, you’re just as likely to get cancer as anyone else, so your risk isn’t any higher.”

April hesitates thoughtfully before continuing. “Maybe I should plan a celebratory trip for that time. I’ve always wanted to go to Canada…or I’d love to go on a Monsters of Rock Cruise…or maybe Cabo San Lucas where Sammy Hagar has a bar and go for his birthday bash….”

“I want people to know that I don’t just look at this stuff and go, ‘Oh, it’s an accident or it’s all me,’” April emphasizes.

“Obviously for anybody who’s going through a life-changing experience it’s either going to bring you closer to God or take you farther. It definitely brought me closer.” v Peggy Helmick Richardson is a freelance writer.

Want to know more?

To keep up with April’s latest fundraising efforts and events, go to www. breastcancercanstickit.org.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month special events and fundraisers planned for North Texas: Saturday, 1 p.m., Sept. 27—Brighton Collectibles at Stonebriar Centre in Frisco, with 49th Vibration; Friday, 6-10 p.m., Oct 3—Classic Rock Night at Heritage Ranch in Fairview with ZuZu Peddals playing. Tickets for non-HR homeowners available at heritageranchtickets.com or by calling Eric Hoyle at 972-886-4700 ext.101; Saturday 10 p.m., Oct 11—with Metal Shop at Eagles Nest, 8455 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth; Friday 10 p.m,. Oct 24—with Metal Shop at Wizard’s, 747 S. Central Expwy., Dallas To learn more about April and the songs she’s recorded, go to www.aprilsamuels.com.

For information on Metal Shop, go to www.metalshopdallas.com.

Allen Image | September 2014

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pet page

“Zeus” Zeus is a 5-year-old, 45-pound guy who is looking for his forever home. He is gentle with other dogs and good with kids, too. In fact, he loves people and dogs in all shapes and sizes.

He loves to play with cats as well, but unfortunately, they don’t share the same sentiment so, he might be best in a home with no cats.

Zeus loves to go on walks and play, but he is content just snoozing at your feet or with you on the couch. Zeus is the most easy-going guy you’ll ever meet!

Zeus is looking for his forever home. Is it with you?

He is housetrained and has been neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and heartworm tested. Unfortunately, he did test positive for heartworms, but treatment has been covered and he is now on a rest period gearing up for his new home.

To know him is to love him, so go on and fill out an application for him to join your family.

Here’s the link to the CCHS website http:// collincountyhumanesociety.org/adoptionapplication.html.

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