Allen Image March 2017 by Allen Image

Postal Customer

STANDARD RATE U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Allen, TX Permit 178

Allen Image INSIDE THIS ISSUE

March 2017

Vol. 27, Issue 3

features

what’s in a name? David and Lynda Olson have had a great impact throughout Allen. Both worked in the Allen ISD— David as an administrator, Lynda as a counselor—for many years. They also helped establish the First Presbyteran Church and were key in the creation of the Allen Kiwanis Club.

special sections

22 CALENDAR 33 sports page 40 KIDS KORNER

Outdoor Adventures

PET PAGE

Cash

36 50

33 6

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

INSIDE THIS ISSUE civic forum

helping hands

education

Hop on Over to Allen’s Easter Events

The Zookeeper’s Wife Explores a Different Kind of Heroism

Showing Off with P.R.I.D.E.

library

A Heart for Kids

Allen ISD Nurses Meet the Challenges of Modern Health Care

The Garden Show

Celtic Night at the Library

Allen Community Outreach Hires New CEO to Lead Agency

Everyone Has a Story

16 Earthfest

Why Can’t We Be Friends

Stary Olsa Band

The Red River Bridge War: A Texas-Oklahoma Border Battle

John Liter Brown Homestead

19 Bravo!

Pirouettes for Pets

Allen Railroad Days Exhibit

finance 34

The Election and Your Retirement Plan

30 publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

advertising sales Liz DeBoe

cover photo Larry Fleming

32 contributing writers Chelsey Aprill Shelby Brooks Marjorie Vaneskahian Burr Matt Cobb

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

Deborah Dove

Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to:

Tom Keener

Allen Image, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807, visit our website at www. allenimage.com or email us at contact@allenimage.com.

Dawn Oldfield Peggy Helmick-Richardson Keith A. Taylor Simon Valentin

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

civic forum

Hop on Over to Allen’s Easter Events by Matt COBB

Hippity, hoppity, Easter’s on its way to Allen, and to celebrate, the Easter Bunny will be making appearances at several family-friendly events being held at City of Allen facilities. Four Easter-themed events are being hosted by the Allen Parks and Recreation Department, providing opportunities for the community to receive eggs, participate in festive activities and get pictures with the Easter Bunny. “Allen Parks and Recreation is excited to offer such a diverse range of Easter activities,” said Tim Dentler, Director of the Allen Parks and Recreation Department. “All of the events are different, fun ways to celebrate the Easter holiday.”

Eggcellent Family Adventure Kicking off the Easter festivities is the Eggcellent Family Adventure from 9 a.m.-noon on April 8, at Allen Civic Plaza, which is free to attend and open to all ages. This fun annual event is the Easter version of trick-ortreating. Local community organizations and businesses will set up tables throughout Allen Civic Plaza, and children can visit each table to collect eggs, candy and other goodies. There also will be games, crafts, face painters and a bounce house. The Easter Bunny will even be available for pictures.

Easter Open Skate Next is the Easter Open Skate from 1-3 p.m. on April 9, at Allen Community Ice Rink. The skate has a $5 entry and skate rentals are $3, but those who bring a non-perishable food item to donate to Allen Community Outreach will get a free skate rental. There will be fun activities during the skate and an opportunity to get a picture with the Easter Bunny.

Lunch with the Easter Bunny Children ages three to six can enjoy lunch with the Easter Bunny from 9:30-11 a.m. on April 12, at Joe Farmer Recreation Center. In addition to lunch, children can create fun spring crafts, socialize with friends and enjoy a story time with our furry friend! The cost is $10 to attend, and parents can register by calling Joe Farmer Recreation Center at 214.509.4750.

Under the Sea Easter Adventure Egg hunters can dive for eggs at the Under the Sea Easter Adventure on April 15, at Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium. It will give children ages 1-12 the chance to collect as many eggs as possible from the pool during the time allowed. Swim attire is required, and mesh bags will be provided to each participant. Children can get pictures with the Easter Bunny, and treats will be given to all egg hunters.The event costs $10, and registration can be done by calling Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium at 214.509.4770. For more information about Easter events, please visit AllenParks.org or call the Allen Parks and Recreation Department at 214.509.4700. v Matt Cobb is the senior marketing coordinator for the City of Allen.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

Showing Off

with

P.R.I.D.E. by Shelby BROOKS

Five employees received the City of Allen’s top honor during the annual P.R.I.D.E. awards, held February 23. The program rewards employees who put people first, treat others with respect, demonstrate integrity, deliver superior service and excel in their professions. Library regulars might recognize Librarian Debbie Vavra, the recipient of the “Respect” award. She is wellknown for her involvement in library programs. Coworkers also appreciate her initiative in seeing (and solving) potential problems. She thought to post signs informing patrons of road closures during the 2016 Christmas Parade and reminded each visitor about the upcoming detours during checkout. Library staff and patrons alike are grateful for her enthusiastic spirit and proactive attitude. Another familiar face at Allen Public Library received this year ’s “Excel” award. As her team of library pages have experienced firsthand, Library Associate Debra Preston knows how to exceed expectations. Last year, Debra and her team of teenage volunteers re-shelved more than 760,000 items. She is the person to talk to if you need materials via interlibrary loan, have a book that needs patching up, or have some artwork to display at the library. If you or your family had an emergency, you may have talked with Philip Hyde, a medical professional in the Allen Fire Department. Coworkers notice his great care and attention toward patients and their

families, and they marvel at his knack for explaining complex medical terminology. Many families and former patients have called or sent letters to thank this recipient of the “Integrity” award. In a disaster, you want Ronnie Bates, drainage foreman, by your side. He received the “Deliver” award this year. Ronnie coordinated disaster assistance with neighboring cities that were hit by severe weather, and he participated in the creation of the Public Works Emergency Response Team (PWERT). Additionally, you can thank him for great improvements to the City of Allen in both street and drainage field data collection. The final award recipient, Alison Schneck, does most of her work behind the scenes. However, her generosity and cheerful disposition is making a difference throughout the city. This recipient of the “People First” award serves as senior administrative assistant in the Community Services Department; she also organizes the City of Allen’s annual United Way Campaign. Thanks in part to her leadership, city employees contributed more than $13,750 and 1,100 lbs. of food to organizations that serve the Allen community. Each award winner received a trophy at the awards ceremony. These employees will be recognized in the “Employee Hall of P.R.I.D.E.” exhibit for the year. v

Debbie Vavra

Debra Preston

Phillip Hyde

Ronnie Bates

Shelby Brooks, an Austin College senior, is an intern for City of Allen Public Relations.

Alison Schneck Allen Image | March 2017

A Heart for Kids

Allen City Council appoints Judge Gore

When Allen Municipal Court Judge Linda Hopper retired after 24 years of service, a new star in the criminal justice realm rose to take her place. Cynthia Porter Gore, a trial attorney with experience in criminal and juvenile law, was appointed on January 10, by the Allen City Council as the next Municipal Court judge. “After 17 years in private practice, I am looking forward to a move to the judicial side,” says Gore. “In this move, I hope to incorporate current trends in judicial systems. For example, one of my objectives is to address the issues that defendants deal with on a regular basis.” Mental health defendants often frequent the court system as a result of behaviors caused by their disorders. Gore would like to implement programs in Allen that help to connect

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

by Shelby BROOKS

existing mental health resources with the defendants in her court. According to Gore, it would be similar to what drug offense courts are doing with sentences that involve mandatory treatment programs. This approach ultimately helps defendants regain stability and improved quality of life. “I really enjoy helping kids get from a bad place to a good place,” says Gore. “Often they do not know how to get help, and that is where the right program comes in and can really make a difference.” As one of 10 attorneys in the State of Texas to hold board certifications in both criminal and juvenile law, Gore has more than 22 years of experience. In her private practice, she personally manages each case with a caseload that averages 60 percent juvenile defense, 25 percent adult criminal

defense and 15 percent Child Protective Services cases. Gore’s practical and thorough understanding of the law comes through her participation in over 80 jury trials, 300 bench trials, 15 appeals and hundreds of pre-trial hearings. Although she grew up in Kansas and has worked throughout Collin County, Gore is hardly a newcomer to Allen. Her practice, Porter Gore Law Firm P.C., operates in Allen, and she has been serving as an alternate municipal judge for the City of Allen since 2010. Spending time in Judge Hopper’s court gave Gore an inside look before she began her position as the next judge for the City of Allen. “My vision is the same as hers. I can appreciate a well-run city, and I plan to continue the equal administration of justice that was

part of Judge Hopper ’s courtroom,” says Gore. She points out the great shape in which Judge Hopper left the City of Allen, and she looks forward to using her experience in the criminal justice world in presiding over cases. Gore received her Bachelor of Arts in communication studies (with a minor in technical writing) in 1989 from Texas Tech University, and she received her Juris Doctorate in 1994 from Texas Tech University School of Law. She has served as a prosecutor, a defense attorney and an alternate municipal judge in addition to managing and owning her own law firm. Her passion for helping kids get to where they need to be bleeds over into every aspect of her professional life. In 2010, she was part of the initial committee to put together Allen Teen Court, an educational program that helps teen defendants understand the judicial system. This program allows juvenile Class C misdemeanor defendants to handle their citation through community service and involvement in the judicial process. Teen volunteer participation expanded to the extent that two annual training sessions were offered in the months of January and September. “I would work with the teen volunteers to provide information about the judicial system and the various roles, and then we would have practice sessions for them to test out their knowledge,” says Gore. The experience was very beneficial to Gore and to her young students. She believes in the program’s ability to impact young people. As the new municipal court judge, Gore will have a limited role in the Teen Court process, as part of the training sessions. Even so, her heart to help children and teens will remain strong. v Shelby Brooks, an Austin College senior, is an intern for City of Allen Public Relations. Allen Image | March 2017

The Garden Show by Dawn OLDFIELD

Save the date for The Garden Show, presented by the Collin County Master Gardeners Association (CCMGA). The seventh annual event will be blooming with new and creative ideas, classes, vendors and activities for the whole family. Discover inspiration and learn more about North Texas gardening and Earth-Kind® gardening principles from some of the state’s top horticulture experts. The Garden Show will take place on March 18-19,

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

at beautiful Myers Park and Event Center in McKinney. The funfilled, two-day event will feature vendors offering garden wares that range from whimsical to practical, and engaging educational programs. Collin County Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and offer ideas for more successful gardening experiences. Demonstrations and presentations will run throughout the show on a variety of gardening topics. • Vegetable Gardening, presented by Linda Hornbaker • Monarchs to Mexico, presented by Steven Chamblee • Pollinator Garden Certification, presented by Nancy Payne • Indian Marker Trees, presented by Steve Houser • The History of Franconia Brewery, presented by Dennis Wehrmann • Panel discussion featuring renowned Chef Andrea Shakelford from Harvest and other local chefs on the important discussion of “What is Farm-to-Table?” Attendees will have an opportunity to tour the research and demonstration gardens at Myers. The international award-winning EarthKind® Perennial Research and

Demonstration Gardens will be featured along with the Earth-Kind® Potager and vegetable, vineyard, crape Myrtle, ornamental grasses and shrub research gardens CCMGA is an educational service organization of volunteers who are trained in horticulture, landscaping, soil improvement, water conservation and many other topics important to Collin County gardeners. The CCMGA volunteer program is administered by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service through the Horticulture Agent in Collin County. The Garden Show is an indoor event, so come rain or shine! Hours are from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, March 18, and from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday, March 19. Entry on both days is a donation of $2 per person. Parking is free. All proceeds will benefit Hope’s Door. Visit www.ccmgatx.org/ TheGardenShow, or call 972.548.4232 for up-to-date information. v Dawn Oldfield is the CCMGA Public Relations Chairperson.

rehabilitation of the mouth via crowns, replacing teeth, functionality and cosmetics. “Once you get a master’s, you acquire the knowledge to take on bigger challenges,” explains Dr. Parker. “It’s more in-depth so you can successfully treat more complex cases.” Allen Family Dental is excited to be moving into new, larger office space in the office complex at the northeast corner of Stacy and Watters, but their commitment to “giving you the personalized attention you deserve” remains the same. “It’s still going to be us,” says Dr. Geraldine Torrens Parker. “The same values, the same care and the same doctors and office staff. We’re not changing anything but our location.”

It had always been Dr. Parker’s goal to own her own dental practice, so when the opportunity arose to purchase the practice from Dr Lizardi, it was a good fit. Together they continue to focus on patient care as the priority, and it’s apparent that both the doctors and the office staff love what they do, and love taking care of their patients.

Those core values—providing quality, professional and friendly dental care; understanding their patients needs; presenting an honest diagnosis; giving thorough explanations about treatment; and creating a comfortable dental experience for the entire family—have contributed to the office’s steady growth and need for more space to better meet the needs of their patients. Together, Dr. Parker and Dr. Lizardi bring over 35 years of collective experience to their patients. They offer teeth cleanings, preventive care, general and cosmetic procedures including veneers and implants. They also see children, and provide nitrous on request to help patients relax. Dr. Parker, who worked for Allen Family Dental for a year and a half before purchasing the practice from Dr. Lizardi in February of 2016, graduated from dental college at La Universidad de Zulia in Maracaibo in 2002, then received her Master’s degree in Prosthodontics from Columbia University in New York in 2007. This specialty focuses on the

“I love being a dentist,” says Dr. Parker. “Over the years, I have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people. It has always been my focus to make each patient feel at home when they come to me for treatment. I work hard to give my patients the attention they deserve.”

Earthfest a Science Fair for All Ages

tanding in a sun-dappled field, a woman swirls a two-liter bottle. A group of children crane their heads as she explains how tornados form. She works as an insurance agent, but today she is also a science fair presenter of sorts, offering storm-readiness expertise (and getting face time with potential clients) at one of Allen’s most beloved events, Earthfest. The annual affair celebrates the arrival of spring in one of the city’s most picturesque settings—Dayspring Nature Preserve. Kids tromp along the creek, whip Frisbees and fly kites. Grown-ups dot the lawn, stretch out on blankets and

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

by Chelsey APRILL unpack picnic lunches. Infants hitch rides in strollers and slings, mesmerized by the sounds and colors emanating from educational booths. “We look for vendors who offer a unique take on health, the environment or improving community life,” says Josue Diaz, an educational specialist for the City of Allen who helps organize the event. “You’re not allowed to sell anything, and anything you give away must be useful.” For Debbie Congdon, Earthfest was a perfect fit. She helps run InSync Exotics, a big cat rescue facility in Wylie. The group hosted a booth at Earthfest for the first time in 2016; her granddaughter, dressed in a head-to-toe tiger costume, helped make it the scene of countless photo ops.

“People come to enjoy these beautiful surroundings,” Congdon remarked. “But it’s a great setup for vendors too.” Booths are scattered loosely across an open green space. Large trees provide ample shade. Held in early April, the weather is predictably perfect. Congdon says the setting encouraged unrushed conversations about the work of InSync. “We had quite a few people who visited us following the event,” she noted. It’s also an opportunity for students to show off their science smarts. Laurie Merrick, who leads the Ereckson Environmental Club, has asked students to create and display a working model of Allen’s wetlands. “It’s a great way to build their confidence,” says Merrick. “Adults are asking them questions because they’re the experts. It’s fun to see them grow more assertive as the day goes by.” Diaz is currently recruiting scout troops, teachers, non-profits and businesses to join the list of Earthfest vendors for 2017. Booths must provide something that benefits or improves the health of the

community—whether physical, social, environmental or financial—and all flyers, business cards and other paper materials are prohibited. (This practice not only cuts down on waste, it also helps keep the park looking pristine.) Businesses must submit a $50 fee to help cover rental costs; nonprofits can participate free of charge. Want to participate, but stumped for an idea? Diaz, a former teacher, is more than happy to help; in fact, the insurance agent’s tornado-in-a-bottle

display is one result of his brainstorming. Vendors can sign up until Friday, March 24. Contact jdiaz@ cityofallen for details. Earthfest will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 1, at Dayspring Nature Preserve. Parking is available at Boon Elementary (1050 Comanche Drive). The event is free and open to the public. v Chelsey Aprill is a marketing specialist at the City of Allen.

Allen Image | March 2017

John Liter Brown Homestead The Collin County Historical Commission and Allen Heritage Guild are presenting a county marker honoring the John Liter Brown Homestead at 2:30 p.m., on Saturday, March 25, at The Courses at Watters Creek, 7201 Chase Oaks Boulevard, Plano. In 1856, an orphaned 18-year-old, John Liter Brown (1838-1913), arrived in the Bethany/Rowlett Creek area of north Texas to live with his uncle, Captain Robert Washington Carpenter. Brown brought with him skills in woodworking acquired from his father. He learned the cattle business from his uncle. Dressed in buckskin pants, he made seven trips along Preston Trail driving cattle to market, mustang horses to the Indian Nation, and giving pursuit to Indians that attacked the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last 1868 cattle drive. John Liter Brown married Mary

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

Susannah Lunsford (1841-1917) on April 9, 1868, and they accumulated 981.6 acres of land along Rowlett and Cottonwood Creeks. Mary Susannah migrated to Texas with her family in 1857, and her diary remains a wonderful chronicle of the trip. The Browns exemplified early land traditions by giving 100-acre land tracts as marriage deeds to their eight living children. The Browns established their homestead on this site, and John Liter built a two-story home with gingerbread trim and a large unique barn. He used the hillside to drive a wagon and team of horses to the second floor loft and turn around inside. A windmill drove the corn-

sheller and gristmill and another provided water to the property. Brown was an organizer and elder of the Allen Christian Church, first meeting in July 1876. The Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children donated in memoriam the centerpiece stained glass window in the new prairie-style building in 1918. The couple opened Brown School District 93 and in 1891 donated it to the county. Call 972.727.2772 for more information. v

Snippets

Bravo! Allen Civic Ballet sets out to showcase the beauty and bravery of the performing arts in Allen. From classical and contemporary dance performances from Allen Civic Ballet to special guest appearances from other arts organizations and individuals in Allen, Bravo! is a celebration of arts. “This year we wanted to bring all of the arts together,” says Stefanie Best, President and Artistic Director of Allen Civic Ballet. “In addition to dance, there will be live music, a little bit of theatre fun and some visual art displays. It’s always our mission to celebrate the arts through performance and allow its positive impact to nurture our community. Plus, everyone has a great time doing it!” Make plans now for Bravo! at the Performing Arts Center at Allen High School on Saturday, April 1 at 7 p.m. Tickets available at AllenCivicBallet.org. v

Pirouettes for Pets Allen Civic Ballet presents its annual Pirouettes for Pets event on Saturday, March 24 at 2 p.m. at the Allen Public Library Civic Auditorium. This is the third annual free performance by the ballet to benefit the Allen Animal Shelter to raise awareness for animal adoption and responsible pet ownership. Plus, you get to vote on your favorite “Stupid Ballerina Tricks!” The ballet showcases a variety of performances and the shelter will have adorable animals onsite available for adoption. The shelter will be accepting donations to care for the animals who call their facility a temporary home. Items include Tidy Cat Non-clumping litter, leashes, collars, cat toys and Iams Minichunks food for either dogs, cats, puppies or kittens (unopened, please.) You can find out more at CityofAllen.org/AllenAnimalShelter. For more about the Pirouettes for Pets event, visit AllenCivicBallet.org. v

Allen Railroad Days Exhibit have a drawing for model train sets on March 19 and 26. You need not be present to win.

The Allen Heritage Guild presents a free train exhibit at the Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main. Over 100 models of freight, passenger and work trains drawn by steam and diesel engines, representing various southwestern railroads will be featured. The Allen Train Depot, a typical Houston and Texas Central station, is represented in miniature as it appeared in 1942 before it was destroyed by fire. The Dallas Forth Worth O-scale Model Railroad Club will be joined by modular layouts in N-scale by Roy Durell, HO-scale by Jack Rettig and Jeff Phelps and three-rail O-scale by the Lionel Modular Group. Local Allen resident Stan Schwartz, organizer of the Allen exhibit, has been collecting model trains for over 60 years. Model train experts will be available for a free model train road show, free appraisals and identification. For youngsters, there will be wooden railways they can operate, and the Allen Senior Center “Train Guys” will

Exhibit hours: Saturdays, March 18 and 25, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sundays, March 19 and 26, noon to 3 p.m. For more details contact Stan Schwartz at ss124@ sbcglobal.net. v Allen Image | March 2017

helping hands

LAST CALL

Allen Community Outreach Hires New CEO To Lead Agency by Marjorie Vaneskahian BURR

Wine Masters Food & Drink Experience, Friday, March 31, at Heritage Ranch Country Club in Fairview. After 15 years of wining, dining and socializing, ACO’s Wine Masters event comes to a close with one LAST CALL in 2017. Sponsorships and tickets are available at www.acocares.org. All proceeds go to ACO programs to prevent hunger and homelessness. For more information contact Debbie Stout 972.727.9131, ext. 4269 or dstout@ acocares.org.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

s long time leader Glenda May exited her post of 21 years as the Executive Director of Allen Community Outreach at the end of 2016, a new face with a passion for service took over to guide agency into 2017 and beyond. Beginning January 3, Monty Moore took over the position of chief executive officer and will lead a staff of 40+ full-time and part-time employees. With over ten years of nonprofit experience accompanying a strong business background, Monty has a passion for helping people in need. Monty earned his CPA license after graduating from West Texas A&M University with a double major in accounting and finance. After several years honing his business skills, he felt drawn to fully pursue his passion

of assisting others through the nonprofit sector. He attended Perkins School of Theology at SMU, obtained a Master of Divinity degree and began working in local churches. Monty’s experience in churches led him to obtain a greater understanding of poverty and an increasing desire to help those who are struggling to overcome it. He worked with local communities to fight poverty by establishing two nonprofit charities focused on relieving hunger—Feed Lake Highlands in Dallas and Feed My Sheep in Howe, Texas. With visionary leadership, experience in fund development and strong financial management skills, Monty views his selection as CEO of Allen Community Outreach as a great opportunity to use his strength and abilities to help ACO fulfill its mission of transforming lives. “The board is excited about the leadership and vision Monty brings to Allen Community Outreach. Throughout his professional career, Monty has demonstrated a passion for serving others. It is that passion coupled with his financial acumen that makes him a great fit for leading ACO. With Monty’s guidance, ACO will transform lives in Allen and the surrounding area,” said ACO Board President, Chris Schulmeister. Moore lives in Frisco with his wife, Kristi, and together they have three children. v Marjorie Vaneskahian Burr is the deputy executive director of ACO.

calendar

march events 11 Allen Depot Coffeehouse Concert, 7 pm, Allen Heritage Museum, 100 East Main St. Join us for live entertainment, singers/songwriters in a relaxed listening venue. $5 suggested donation, coffee, tea and desserts. Allen Depot Coffeehouse Concert is a non-profit, community-based event sponsored by Like Minded Friends. Come on out—you’ll like it!

For more info: visit Like Minded Friends community Facebook page.

CITY OF ALLEN

18 Allen 5-Star Competition, multiple PARD facilities, 2-6 pm. Will be held at multiple Allen Parks & Rec facilities. This fun-filled competition includes archery, Canoe Battleship, chair volleyball, dodgeball and fowling. All equipment will be provided. Prizes will be awarded. Age: 21+. Cost: $75 per team (5-6 members). 25 Outdoor Adventure Fest, Bethany Lakes Park/ Joe Farmer Rec Center, 9 am-3 pm. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or novice, this day is for you! You and your family will learn and enjoy new ways to experience the great outdoors right here at Bethany Lakes Park. Age: 5+. Cost: $10 per individual/$35 for a group of four. 25 Dive-In Movie, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 6:30-9 pm. Grab your friends, swimsuit and towel, and join us! Enjoy a great movie experience while you swim and float in the pool. Concessions, noodles and tubes are available for an additional cost. Attendees may bring their own tubes and noodles. Age: 3+ Cost: $5 (3-17); $6 (18+).

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

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. 2-5 Lone Star Conference Basketball Championship 9-11 NCWA National Wrestling Championships* 12 MyHouse Nationals Presented by REACHES* 17 Allen Americans v. Wichita Thunder 18 Allen Americans v. Wichita Thunder 23 Texas Revolution v. Dallas Marshalls 24 Allen Americans v. Tulsa Oilers 25 Allen Americans v. Tulsa Oilers 29 Allen Americans v. Missouri Mavericks 30 Allen Americans v. Missouri Mavericks 31 Panic! At The Disco *Tickets are general admission at the door.

parks and rec events For more information about Parks and Recreation events, visit AllenParks.org. 6,8 Spring Break Introduction to Ice Skating, & Allen Community Ice Rink, noon-2 pm. Learn to 11 ice skate. Participants receive 30 minutes of instruction followed by 90-minute open skate. Pre-registration is required. For more information, call 972.912.1097 or stop by during customer service hours. Age: 3-15. Cost: $15. 10 SNAP Dance (Mardi Gras Theme), Allen Senior Recreation Center, 7-10 pm. SNAP your fingers and shuffle your feet at this Special Needs and Adapted Program! Enjoy music, a fun theme and snacks. This month’s theme is Mardi Gras! Register early, fee increases to $15 at 5 pm the Wed. prior to each dance. For more information, contact Lisa Potvin at lpotvin@cityofallen.org or 214.509.4707. Age: 18+. Cost: $10. 11 Saturday Night Rec ‘N’ Roll, Joe Farmer & Recreation Center, 7-11 pm. Students in 3rd–6th 25 grade enjoy music, dodgeball, gym games, theme nights, prizes and more! Supervision provided and concessions available. An SNRNR membership (one-time, annual $5 fee) is required. For more information, call 214.509.4750. Age: 8-13 Cost: $8 pre-registered/$10 at the door.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

Youth Services Baby and Me—Pre-walkers w/caregiver, Thur., 10:15 am. Fun Ones & Twos—1 & 2 year-olds w/caregiver, Mon., Tue. & Thur., 10:15 am. Together Time—3-5 year-olds w/caregiver. Mon., Tue. & Thur., 11:15 am. All By Myself—4-5 year-olds without a caregiver. Wed., 11:15 am Pajama Story Time—3-5 year-olds & family. Tue. & Thur., 6:30 pm.

familes/children/tweens For more information about any of the events below, call 214.509.4906. All events are free and no pre-registration is required to attend. 2 Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! 4-5 pm. Ages 5-8 in the Children’s Program Room. Celebrate 113th birthday of Dr. Seuss! We’ll share some of our favorite stories from Seussville, try a silly version of green eggs and ham, play fun games! 6 Art in Action! 4-5 pm, Children’s Program Room. Ages 7-12. Create your own work of art using fun techniques! 7

Drive-In Movie, 2-3:30 pm. Ages 3 and up with their families in the Children’s Program Room. Decorate your own car and and enjoy a fun movie! All supplies provided. Space limited to 80; tickets available at the Children’s Desk at 1:30 pm.

9 Springtime Make and Take, 2-3:30 pm. Ages 3 and up with an adult in the Children’s Program Room. Create spring-themed crafts to take home! Parent or caregiver must stay with kids under 9. 11 Family Story Time, 10:30-11:15 am. Ages 3-7 and their families in the Children’s Program Room. Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, and crafts. Each month features one of our favorite storybook characters or authors! Children under age 9 must be accompanied by an adult. 14 Homeschool Nonfiction Club, 1:30-3 pm. Recommended for ages 8-10, all ages welcome. In the Children’s Program Room. Join us each month as we share a nonfiction story together and create a project. After our project, families can enjoy social time. This month’s book: Soar, Elinor! by Tami Lewis Brown. 18 Lego Family Fun Day, 10:30-11:30 am. Ages 5 and up with their families in the Children’s

Program Room. Build STEM skills and create with LEGO at the library! This month’s theme: superheroes! Children under age 9 must be accompanied by adult. 20 Build It! Foil Marble Mazes, 4-5 pm. Ages 7-12 in the Children’s Program Room. Design and build your own marble maze. 21 How-To Draw, 4-4:30 pm. Ages 5-8 in the Children’s Program Room. Learn a new technique and create a new character every month! 24 Sensory Play Day, 10:30-11:30 am. Ages 0-3 with an adult in the Children’s Program Room. Join us for a relaxed morning of stimulating sensory play stations. 25 Family Game Day, 10:30-11:30 am. All ages in the Children’s Program Room. Have fun playing games with friends and family while gaining problem-solving skills and increasing your creativity. All games provided. Children under age 9 must be accompanied by adult.

TEENS 9 Teen Anime Evening, 6:30-8 pm, 2nd Floor Program Room. For teens 12-18. Join us as we watch anime, eat Japanese snacks and have fun! 10 Escape the Room, 6:30-9 pm. Ages 12-18 in the Library. Use your puzzle-solving skills to lead the rebellion and overthrow the emperor in our afterhours escape room. Parental consent form is required. Space is limited to 50. Cafe will be open for business, so bring money for snacks!

ADULTS Adult services programs are held in the 2nd Floor Program Room unless otherwise indicated. All events are free, and there is no registration unless noted. Please call 214.509.4905 or 214.509.4913. 1 Noontime Pageturners—The House at Riverton by Kate Morton, noon. 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. 8

Twisted Threads—A Fiber Craft Circle, 6:30 pm. Twisted Threads is a social group for knitters, crocheters, cross stitchers, quilters and any other crafters who use thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome! So, bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. Twisted Threads meets monthly on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Ages 16+

14 Talking History—Women of the Civil War, 7 pm. The Civil War is often the story of men on the battlefield or in the halls of government. However, the story of women behind these men is fascinating and important t. Join Dr. Kristen Streater, of Collin College, as she explores the roles women played during the Civil War. Ages 16+; younger children welcome with an adult. 15 DIY@APL—Folded Paper Stars, 10 am. Create decorative stars using spring-themed craft paper. All supplies provided. Ages 12+ 16 Trivia Night @ Nine Band Brewing Co., 6 pm. Off site at Nine Band Brewing Co., 9 Prestige Circle, Allen. Team up with your friends to compete at Allen’s own brewery—test your knowledge of beer, literature, history, science and more! The tap room has draft beer for purchase; the library will not be providing alcohol. Age 21+ 18 Learn to Knit, 2:30 pm. Learn the basics of knitting. Supplies are limited. For best selection, please bring a pair of bamboo needles (size 13 or larger) and a skein of Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick

and Quick yarn. (The yarn can usually be found at any craft store.) Ages 12+. 21 Let’s Talk Dewey: Nonfiction Books Made Into Movies, 7 pm. Nonfiction readers! Join us for our choose-your-own-nonfiction book club. We pick the topic, you pick the book. For March, read any nonfiction book that’s been made into a movie. There’s a list on our website, AllenLibrary. org, or ask a reference librarian. You’re welcome to attend even if you haven’t read a book. 28 Armchair Travelers Visit Provence, 7 pm. Explore the world without leaving Texas! Escape to Provence, as Ryan Fletcher shares stories and pictures from his travels through the south of France. French snacks will be available to sample. Ages 16+; younger children welcome with adult.

CLUBS 2ChangeU Toastmasters, meets every Tuesday, 7 pm, Plano Family YMCA, 3300 McDermott Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.2changeu.org. Allen Area Patriots, meets the 4th Thursday each month, 7-8:45 pm, Allen Municipal Building, 301 Century Pkwy. Allen. Local Tea Party presents speakers, encourages citizens to participate. For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots.com. Allen Garden Club, meets the first Thursday each month, 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.

Allen Heritage Guild, meets the first Wednesday each month, 6:30 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. Programs feature guest speakers on topics of historical significance. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www.allenheritageguild.org.

Art History Brown Bag Series, meets first Wednesday each month, 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.heardcraig.org.

ALLen Reads meets the 2nd Monday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr. For more info, www.allenfriends.org.

Bible Study, meets every Thursday, 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.

Allen Retired Educators meet the third Monday each month, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. RSVP: Sondra Long, billysondralong@tx.rr.com. Allen Toastmasters’ Club, meets every Monday, 6:30 pm, Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, every Tuesday, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/$10 non-members 1st visit free. For more info: 972.727.5585.

Collin County Aggie Moms, meets 3rd Monday each month, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, 17360 Coit Rd. For more info: 972.382.3124 or www.collincountymoms. aggienetwork.com. Collin County Archaeology Society, meets second Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney. For more info: archaeology@netzero.net. Collin County Genealogical Society, meets the second Wednesday each month, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com.

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

Collin County Libertarian Party meets every second Wednesday, most often at 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., Allen. For more info: collinlp.org or email collinlp.org@gmail.com.

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

Collin County Master Gardeners tour of Myers Park, meets the first Wednesday each month, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Reservations req. For more info: 972.548.4232 or mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu. Collin County Republican Men’s Club, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, locations vary. For more info: www.ccrmc.org.

Allen Image | March 2017

Dallas Dog Lovers, events for dogs and owners in the Dallas area. For more info: www.dallasdoglovers.com Department 56 Village Collectors Club second Saturday each month, in the Plano/North Dallas area to share ideas. For more info: www.bigd56ers.com. Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, meets every Monday, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome. For more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per.treven@ ericsson.com. First Nighter African Violet Society, meets third Monday each month, 7-9 pm, Collin Higher Education Center, 3452 Spur 399, McKinney. Promotes interest in African violets and study of growth habits. For more info: 972.398.3478. Friends of the Allen Public Library meets the third Wednesday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr. for more info, www.allenfriends.org Greater Collin County Kennel Club, meets the third Wednesday of each month, 7 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Ctr, 1201 E. Bethany, Allen. For more info: www.greatercollinkc.org. Legacy 4-H Club (Allen & Lucas), meets first and third Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460. Live @ 5 Business After Hours, meets the third Thursday each month, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Lone Star Parliamentary Unit, meets 2nd Monday of each month September thru May10:30 am, Allen Public Library. Promotes parliamentary education. For more info: 972.727.3090, Mae Shaw, Pres. Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly meetings at Creekwood UMC, 2nd Thursday each month, 261 Country Club Rd, Fairview. Different topic and speakers. Free lunch; babysitting avail. for nominal fee. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/LovejoyPreschool-PTA/.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

McKinney Amateur Radio Club, meets the 2nd Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Spring Creek Bar B Que 1993 North Central Expressway, McKinney. For more information: 972.814.4190.

Plano Photography Club, meets the 3rd Thursday each month, 7 pm, W. Plano Presbyterian Church, 2709 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.planophotographyclub.com.

McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, meets 3rd Tuesday, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. Program: Jim Anderson, a Dallas Historian gives presentation on historic preservation in Dallas, how it wa as created and became the catalyst for today’s successful downtown. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com.

Plano Republican Women’s Club, meets 3rd Tuesday each month, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expy., Plano. For more info: www.planorepublicanwomen.com.

McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, meets second Thursday each month, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Hdqts., 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location varies. For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com. Moms in Prayer, join worldwide prayer movement— bringing mothers together and seeing God change children through prayer. For more info: MomsInPrayer.org or Amy Guthrie at amyguthrie@verizon.net. NARFE Chapter 559, meets third Monday each month at 1:30 pm, Village of Stonebridge Assisted Living, 3300 S. Stonebridge Drive, McKinney. All current government employees and retirees invited. Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, meets 2nd Tue. each month, SMU in Plano, 5228 Tennyson Pkwy, Plano. Join Newcomer Friends to hear Ms. Rena Pederson, a trail blazer for women in journalism and a faculty member at SMU where she teaches persuasive writing. All are welcome to join us. For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org. North Dallas Newcomers, meets first Thursday each month, 11 am, various country clubs. For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net. Open Forum, meaningful discussions, meets first Saturday every month, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004. Plano Amateur Radio Klub, meets the third Monday each month, 7 pm, FUMC of Plano, 3160 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net.

Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, meets every Monday, 7:15 pm, Champions School of Real Estate in the Rangers Room at 3721 Mapleshade Ln, Plano. For more info: Ed Meissner, 469.323.0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www.prestonpersuaders.org. Random Events Dallas, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups in Dallas area. For more info: RandomEventsDallas.com. Reasonable Faith Discussion Group, meets every Tuesday, 11am-12:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Church Rm B1116. For more info: www.RFCCTX.org. Reasonable Faith Collin County Chapter, meets 2nd and 4th Thursday, 6:45-8:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Church Rm B202. For more info: www.RFCCTX.org and email: ReasonableFaithCollinCO@gmail.com Single Side Up, meets the third Saturday each month, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. Low cost childcare. For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@ thissideupfamily.org. Singles Mingle 60 +, meets first Monday each month at Delaney’s Irish Pub, 6150 ElDorado Parkway, McKinney. Social forum for men and women singles who are active, enjoy meeting new people and like getting together. Various social activities. For more info: For meeting information on the third Monday of the month at 5:30 pm, call Bill, 214.544.5835. The MOB (Men of Business), meets 2nd Monday each month, 11:30 am-1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen, for networking. $20 mem; $25 non-mems/general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Texas Nationalist Movement-Collin County Chapter, meets 1st Tuesday each month, 6:30 pm at Scotty P’s restaurant in Allen, 109 Central Expy N # 501, Allen. If you love Texas and value our independent spirit, come join us! Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, meets every Wednesday, “Become the Speaker and Leader You Can Be,” 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expwy, Allen. For more info: Bill Peterson, 972.523.9425. United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, meets 1st Sunday each month, 2 pm, FUMC, 601 S. Greenville. Book discussion & refreshments. We encourage women of all faiths to participate. For more info: http://www.fumcallen.org. Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping and gardening advice, every Tuesday and Thursday, 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. Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, meets 4th Thursday each month, 10 am, Eldorado Country Club, 2604 Country Club, McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas. For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail.com. W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), meets 2nd Thursday each month, 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking and discussion of women’s issues. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

ART/MUSIC/THEATRE Allen Folk Music Society, meets 3rd Saturday each month, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Dr. Bring snacks to share. For more info: www.twiceasfar.com. Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, every Monday, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC. For more info: Henry@WealthManagementGroupLLC.com Note-Ably North Texas Women’s Chorus—All Lady Singers—Get your A Cappella On! “Sweet! Harmony Voice Workshops” 7 pm, every Monday, April 17-May 26, Watters Creek, Blue House Too Gallery across from DSW Shoes. Participate in local performances at the end of workshop training! Sign up today @ NNTchorus.org.

CRAFTS Allen Quilters’ Guild, meets the third Thursday each month, 7 pm, 1st Presbyterian Church, 605 S Greenville. For more info: www.allenquilters.org. Common Threads of Allen, meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays each month, 7 pm, Whole Foods Market Café, Stacy Rd. Share needle-work projects, learn techniques, etc. For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net.

HEALTH Allen AA meets every Monday-Sunday, 601 S. Greenville. Mon.-Fri., 7 pm; Sat., 9 am; Sun., 7:30 pm. For more info: Joe, 214.564.9403 & Tina, 214.566.7561. Allen Image | March 2017

Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group meets the third Tuesday each month. Offers support and resources for parents of children with autism and other related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ autismparentsupport. Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, meets everyTuesday and Thursday, 7 pm, 1st UMC, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. For friends and family of alcoholics. More info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon.alateen.org. American Cancer Society Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appts. If you have a car and have time 9 am-5 pm, you can help. For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711. Baylor Health Care System support groups, medical info and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com. Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family and friends, meets the third Monday of every month, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney. For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984. Cancer Support Ministry, meets second Sunday each month, 4 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. For more info: Jimmy Smith, 972.727.8241. Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days and locations vary. For more info: www.75013.theheartlinknetwork.com.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

Take Off Pounds Sensibly, meets every Tuesday, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd UMC, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org. Texas Health Presbyterian, variety of events. For more info: www.texashealth.org. The Shores AA Group, every Monday-Friday, noon, Raceway Prof. Bldg., 200 W. Boyd, Suite C, Allen. Open AA discussion group. All welcome. For more info: 469.854.9593. Weight Watchers, meets every Thursday, 12:15 and 6 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. South entrance, 2nd floor.

HOBBIES SPORTS/FITNESS Allen Classic Cars, meets every Thursday, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Stacy Furniture. The Experiment Aircraft Association, Chapter 1246, meets first Saturday of each month, McKinney National Airport. Everyone interested in aviation is invited to our First Saturday Coffee and Donuts. For times and directions: eaa1246.org. Fit and Funky Fit Club, meets every Monday, 7:30 pm, and every Sunday, 7 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net.

Infinity Personal Fitness Charity Workout, meets every other Saturday at 9 am, 1201 W. McDermott, Suite 106, Allen. Min. donation $5. Proceeds donated to local charities. For more info: email cattaneo.ray@gmail.com. McKinney Chess on the Square, meets every Wednesday, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org. McKinney Chess Club, every Saturday, 10:30 am1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Free. And every Friday, 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney. Adults 50+(Free). For more info: 972.547.7491. Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www. planobicycle.org. Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, second Tuesday each month, 5024 Custer, Plano, 7 pm., and at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, the last Saturday every month, 8 am. For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www. planopacers.org. Skilled Motorcycle Riders Association promotes motorcycle safety through rider training. Monthly practice courses, social activities, etc. For more info: www.skilledmotorcycleriderassociation.com. Stroller Strides Classes. For class information, check out Fairview.fit4mom.com. First Class FREE, email Lolo@fit4mom.com” For more info: Fairview.fit4mom.com

Zumba/Cardio Dance Fitness, every Tues., 10:3011:30 am, and every Thurs., 9:30-10:30 am, USA Martial Arts, 505 W. McDermott. 1st class free. For more info: 469.854.6872 or Facebook.com/ TrueBlueDanceCrew.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), support group for moms with kids 0-5 years, meets every other Friday, 9:30-11:45 am, First Baptist Church, Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241.

MOM’S CLUBS

MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday each month, 9:3011:30 am, 3405 Custer, #200, Plano. For more info: 214.762.0037.

Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers of kids age 0-5. Fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch w/friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids, etc. Come play with us. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com. Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new and expectant moms’ forum, meets the 3rd Thursday each month, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330. Collin County Early Childhood PTA, meets second Monday each month, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery res. req. For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. MOMS Club of Allen, for moms and children in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips, business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more. For more info: momsclubofallentx@gmail.com. MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op, etc. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo.com.

Walking by Faith, offers prayer and practical support for mothers of children with special needs. Meets third Wednesday of each month (during the school year), at 6 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm B214. Childcare is provided with advance reservations. For more info: Stacie Smith, staciesmithslp@gmail.com

mUSEUMS/preserves allen heritage guild museum

Open 2nd & 4th Saturdays, 10 am-2 pm, 100 E. Main Street, Allen. Permanent and rotating exhibits, historic photo collages and DVD programs on Allen history. For more info: www.allenheritageguild.org.

Connemara Meadow Preserve Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, monthly alternating first Saturday and the first Sunday, 8-10 am, Allen. Bring binoculars and field guides; learn habits, calls and characteristics from Gailon and Rodney, Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society. All ages. For more info: www.connemaraconservancy.org.

HEARD MUSEUM 2nd Saturday Bird Walk Educational Program, 8 a.m. Learn more about birding! These walks are intended to help beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. 3rd Saturday Nature Talks: Nature Journaling. Learn new ways to experience nature through nature journaling! An intro to journaling techniques thru hands-on activities. Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, meets the second Tuesday each month, 7-9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.bptmn.org or email info@bptmn.org. Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, meets second Monday each month, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566 or www. northtexasbeekeepers.org. Heard Museum Native Plant Society, meets the first Tuesday each month, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Heard Museum Nature Photography Club, meets the second Saturday every month, 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society, meets the fourth Tuesday each month, 7 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

Allen Image | March 2017

SENIORS Active Agers 55+ meets the second Saturday, 10 am, upstairs at Market Street in McKinney (corner of Eldorado and Ridge). We have a pre-travel meeting monthly to allow members to plan activities that range from day trips, weekend getaways to fun local events providing the chance to experience new places, to meet new people, and the opportunity to make new lasting friendships. For more information contact Sharon at rettmeier@ sbcglobal.net or Pat at PatVanDyke@sbcglobal.net Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, meets second Tuesday each month, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. For more info: 214.509.4820. Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, meets 4th Monday each month, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402. Classic 55+ Game Night, 1st and 3rd Friday each month, 6:30 pm, 1st Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games. For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com. Singles Mingle 60 +, meets first Monday each month at Delaney’s Irish Pub, 6150 ElDorado Parkway, McKinney. This group is to provide a social forum for men and women singles who are active, enjoy meeting new people and like getting together twice a month. We have various social activities throughout the month. For more info: For meeting information on the third Monday of the month at 5:30 pm, call Bill, 214.544.5835. Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, meets the third Thursday each month, noon, First UMC Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch, fellowship, speakers and entertainers. For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS Allen High Noon Lions Club, meets the second and fourth Thursday each month, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952. Allen Kiwanis Club, meets every Thursday, noon, Café Del Rio, on 75 just south of McDermott. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org. Allen Lions Club, meets 1st and 3rd Tues. each month, 7 pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen. For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982. Allen Rotary Club meets every Wednesday, noon, 1st United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville, Allen. For more info: www.allenrotary.org. Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, meets every Wednesday, 7 am, Warm Springs Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle, Allen. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.allensunriserotary. com. Assistance League® of Greater Collin County, meets 3rd Wednesday at 10 am at Stonebriar County Club, Frisco. Guests welcome. For more info: www.algcc.org or call 972.769.2299. Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter, meets 3rd Tuesday each month. For more info:txshawm@sbcglobal.net.

Knights of Columbus, meets the 3rd Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www. stjudekofc.org. Knights of Columbus Council 13044 meets 4th Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, Our Lady of Angels, 1914 Ridgeview Drive, Allen. For more information contact Jason Beckett,Jason. beckett.1@gmail.com, or visit us at https://kofcknights.org/ CouncilSite/?CNO=13044. Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, meets the 2nd Monday each month, 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. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150,” meets the 2nd Monday each month, 1710 N. Church St, 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. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, meets 1st Saturday each month, 10 am, 1710 N. Church St., McKinney. For more info: “Driveway John” 971.822.4483, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit www.vfwpost2150.org. VFW Post 2195, meets 2nd Wednesday each month, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www. vfw2195.org.

Fairview Rotary Club, meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays each month, Stacy Rd, Fairview. For more info: 214.893.5360.

Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, teaches children to serve their community, meets 2nd Saturday each month. For more info: 972.396.8010.

FUMC Legal Aid Clinic meets the 2nd Thursday each month, 6-8 pm, First United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Provides legal assistance for civil matters to low income individuals in partnership with Legal Aid of NW Texas. No reservation required. Food & fellowship provided. For more info: kim.klieger@gmail.com or www.lanwt.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.

For Your Health

Allen Image | March 2017

library

The Library presents…

by Tom KEENER

Everyone Has a Story

Celtic Night at the Library

Hear exciting stories from Allen citizens who immigrated to America from India and Jamaica with Farida Shipchandler and Jacques Medina Jean at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 16 at the library. Come and share your story, too. Born in Mumbai, India, Farida immigrated to Farida Shipchandler America in 1968 to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a college in Missouri. Instrumental to her transition to a new country and culture was her host family. Farida married her fiancé who had also emigrated from India for graduate studies in engineering. They had two sons and elected to make America their permanent home. Receiving a master’s degree and working in the field of social services, Farida will share her stories of blending two cultures and pursuing the American dream. Farida and her husband reside in Allen. Jacques Medina Jean is a social entrepreneur and founder of Universal Learning Centre, a U.S.-based, not-forprofit organization focused on providing educational resources and learning opportunities for people in developing countries. He has built three public libraries across Haiti with a catalogue of fifty thousand books and a computer lab of 17 workstations, serving a population of half a million. Jacques earned a Master of Science in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and completed an Executive Program in Business Marketing Strategy at Harvard Business School. He currently resides in Allen with his family. v

Lift your spirits with harpist and vocalist Sarah Copus, Welsh performer Chris Grooms and Irish dancer Jason Purcell at 7:30 p.m., Friday, March 17, at the library. Bagpiper Wayne Terrell opens this free program with a lively processional. Wayne is also a member of the Allen Community Band. Irish dancer Jason Purcell takes the stage with rocket-speed leg and foot movements. A former AHS student, Jason was the Irish Regional Dancing Competition champion for 2012 and 2013. A professor of English at Collin College, Dr. Chris Grooms contributed the song “Blodeuwedd: Song of the Flowers” to a new archive of traditional Welsh music for Smithsonian Folkways. Grooms was the only American invited to contribute to this anthology of native Welsh music.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

Sarah Copus has been featured as a soloist in concerts through the Gaelic Youth Chorus with major touring artists like Celtic Woman. Sarah’s latest CD is Celtic Fairy Lullaby, a collection of timeless songs from ancient lands. In May 2015, Sarah accepted the award for “Best Vocal Album” at the Zone Music Awards Show in New Orleans for 2002’s album Trail Of Dreams. v

Why Can’t We Be Friends? Film Series All films are free and begin at 7 p.m. March 7—Akeelah and the Bee (2006) (PG), starring Angela Bassett, Laurence Fishburne and Keke Palmer. Akeelah participated in a spelling bee to avoid detention for her many absences. Much to her surprise and embarrassment, she wins, with the possibility of making it all the way to the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

March 14—Spare Parts (2015) (PG-13), starring George Lopez, Jamie Lee Curtis and Marisa Tomei. Four Hispanic high school students form a robotics club and go up against the country’s reigning robotics champion, MIT. March 21—Ruby Bridges (1997) (Not Rated), starring Michael Beach, Lela Rochon and Penelope Ann Miller. A six-year old African-American girl scores well on early scholastics tests and is chosen by the New Orleans school district to be the first of her race to be integrated into that city’s public school system. March 28—Selma (2014) (PG-13), starring David Oyelowo, Carmen Ejogo and Tim Roth. Awardwinning chronicle of Martin Luther King’s campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965. v

Stary Olsa Band Performing the medieval music of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the Belarusian folk band Stary Olsa will be featured at the Allen Public Library 7:30 p.m., Friday, March 24. Founded in 1999 by Zmicier Sasnouski, the group is named for a brook in the western part of Mahilou Region of Belarus. The band’s repertoire includes Belarusian folk balladry, martial songs and national dances, works of Belarusian Renaissance composers, compositions from Belarusian aulic music collections, Belarusian canticles of the 16th-early 17th centuries, as well as popular European melodies of the Middle and Renaissance Ages. Utilizing period Belarusian costuming, technology and instruments handmade in painstaking detail, Stary Olsa’s shows include Belarusian instruments such as lyre, bagpipe, psaltery, pipe, Jew’s harp, ocarina, trumpet, birch bark trumpet, rebec and drums. The purpose is to reconstruct completely the musical traditions of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania where Belarus was the basic cultural and geopolitic influence in the 13th-18th centuries, and where there was a unique synthesis of Belarusian folk and aulic music with the European musical achievements of that time. Performing in Belarus and Europe, Stary Olsa is a master of early instruments and offers solo performers using old instruments. The band’s music makes it possible to restore the sounds of many forgotten instruments. Having produced 12 albums of historic music from the 13th-17th centuries, these include a wonderful cultural collection of ancient Belarusian tunes such as ballads about knights and victory and even a Romanian dance to ward off vampires! This free concert is sponsored by the Allen Public Library. v

Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library. The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive. Call 214.509.4911 for more information. Allen Image | March 2017

The Red River Bridge War: A TexasOklahoma Border Battle

Learn about the only time in Texas history when Texas Rangers were summoned for an armed interdiction against another American state. Rusty Williams, author of The Red River Bridge War: A TexasOklahoma Border Battle, will share this account at 7:30 p.m., March 23, at the library. This conflict does not refer to the annual football rivalry, but about the time Texas and Oklahoma almost went to war over an old toll bridge north of Denison that connected the states across the Red River in 1931. This two-week affair was marked by the presence of National Guardsmen with field artillery, Texas Rangers with itchy trigger fingers, angry mobs, Model T blockade-runners, and even a Native American peace delegation. Traffic backed up for miles, blocking travel between the states.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

This conflict entertained newspaper readers nationwide during the summer of 1931, but the Red River Bridge War was a deadly serious affair for many rural Americans at a time when free bridges and passable roads could mean the difference between survival

and starvation. The confrontation had national consequences, tooâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;marking an end to one governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s political career and sending another governor down the road toward the White House. Rusty Williams is a writerhistorian who recounts history through the stories of the people who lived it. A former journalist, Rusty has written for The Dallas Morning News, Fort Worth Star-Telegram and the Associated Press. He is also the author of My Old Confederate Home: A Respectable Place for Civil War Veterans (University Press of Kentucky) and Historic Photographs of Dallas, 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s (Turner). This free program is sponsored by the library. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.

sportS page

ASA 10th Annual Volunteer Awards Dinner 950 E. Main • Allen • 972.727.9565

www.allensports.org

ASA Vendor of the Year—Sportspilot, Inc. R to L: Ronnie Toupal, Suzzane Toupal, Ron Toupal, Sudheer Chimbli and Pablo Vial

ASA Coach of the Year— Lawrence “Buddy” Liles and ASA Court Sport Director Charlie Brill

ASA Volunteer of the Year— Tom Cowart and Tim Bray

Allen Image | March 2017

finance

The Election and Your Retirement Plan

The U.S. presidential election is arguably the world’s most important political event with implications for global peace, economic stability and prosperity. Voters chose to shake up Washington and bring big change to the White House. As citizens, voters or interested bystanders, most of us had firm beliefs about which candidate best suited our personal interest, beliefs and principles. Experience has taught us that it’s probably best if we keep our voting and investing decisions separate. However, I understand for many people that can be a very challenging task. As a result, there are many people who, after each election, are either extremely elated or concerned, but asking the same questions. What do we do now? Should we change our strategy? How will the recent geopolitical changes affect my portfolio? The honest answer is it depends on the person. Before one goes on to make any drastic moves within their retirement accounts, consider some relevant

by Steven DAWSON

information. Annual stock returns going back to 1853 have been virtually identical, regardless of which party sits in the Oval Office— at roughly 11 percent—according to

the investment strategy group at the mutual fund company Vanguard. The U.S. president may be the leader of the free world, but even that much power doesn’t allow for singlehanded control of the economy or interest rates. History has shown that a presidential election doesn’t, by itself, alter the stock market over the long term. Other factors, such as how expensive stocks are relative to their earnings, and what the Federal Reserve is doing with interest rates, are more important factors than who sits in the White House. One, if not the most important, thing to consider is your personal retirement circumstance. Elections are held every four years and one shouldn’t base their long-term retirement plans on an ever-changing political climate. Successful investment is often achieved when emotions are ignored. Our emotions lead to what we think is informed action, when the action is simply emotionally tainted reaction. The great thing about the market is you don’t need a crystal ball to be successful. You simply need a sound and disciplined strategy to align with your goals. Take time to evaluate your specific situation and long-term goals for your family to determine what is best for you. You should consult with your tax or financial advisor to determine whether your plan should be updated as a result of changes to the law or changes in your circumstances, and for reasons that may not have been identified or discussed here. v Steven Dawson, CFP®, is president of Dawson & Assoc. and an Ameriprise Financial franchisee.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

MARKET PLACE

Allen Image | March 2017

feature

What’s In a

Name? by Simon VALENTIN

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

The gap-toothed boy sat staring at his tennis shoes in the lobby of Olson Elementary School as he and his mom waited for their meeting. Everyone walking through the front doors drew a look of terminal boredom from him until he saw them. A handsome couple breezed in as the morning school bell rang. They gave the boy a smile and a quick “hello!” as they headed to the gym. The boy’s eyebrows scrunched, he tilted his head, and you could see the gears turning as he figured out how he knew them. Then it clicked. He looked at the portrait of Lynda and David Olson hanging in the lobby, then at the Olsons, then at the portrait. He let out a quick “Hey!” while tugging on mom’s sleeve, pointing at the Olsons, saying, “It’s them! This is their school!” In the gym, the couple got rock star welcomes— hundreds of kids roaring as they prepared to read to the entire school. The greeting left them feeling like… “Well, like rock stars,” David Olson says with a smile. “That part is such a surprise and delight,” Lynda says. “Not only do they treat us like that here, sometimes we’re running errands and a student runs up and hugs us, or they stand off to the side and smile and we know that’s an ‘Olson Kid’!”

they’re educators; they’re leaders in the community; they do so much community service; and they have a heart for children, they want to help any way they can,” Anita says.

A lot of children look at the Olsons as family and speak to them like grandparents. “Early on a little girl came up and said we really needed to add playground equipment, she had in mind how she would get us to do it, she was ready to start a petition,” Lynda says. David recalls one question that makes them laugh. “The young ones want to know how much rent we charge the school to use our building!” Dr. David E. and Lynda F. Olson Elementary opened in 2009 and its naming follows an Allen Independent School District tradition. According to AISD spokesman Tim Carroll, the city’s schools are named for people deeply involved with Allen. “The Olsons are great examples of someone who adopted a community, their involvement goes far beyond just living here,” he says. “They’ve had a significant impact throughout the city.” When AISD put the call out in 2008 for nominations for whose name would grace the school, Anita Rushing, a former student counselor at Allen High School, put the Olsons name on the list. “They’re wonderful people;

“They’r e won derful people …they ’re leader s in th e commu nity…a nd they h ave a h eart for chi ldren… ”

The couple with a heart for kids grew up working hard in a one-trafficlight-town in West Texas. Lynda’s mom was a teacher, her dad a school administrator. David’s dad was a bookkeeper and his mom taught preschool at home. David and Lynda met as the second half of a double date, the ones who grudgingly tagged along so friends could go to the movies. The teens hit it off, becoming high school sweethearts. They married after they both earned bachelor’s degrees, then

shipped out to Germany while David did a tour with the U. S. Army in 1961. First daughter Kim was born there, and when they came back to the U. S., David earned a master’s degree and doctorate in education. Lynda earned a master’s degree in education and eventually a counselor’s certification. As the Olsons speak about their education, you can see an insatiable hunger to learn; they can’t get enough. Those who know them say this is why they travel so often— they’ve visited all seven continents— they embrace new experiences. Their youngest daughter says they’ve always been that way. “They’re life-long learners,” says daughter Terry, an educator in Frisco. “They do things differently. In high school I didn’t have designer clothes, but I traveled to Europe several times before

graduation. “That’s why I teach the way I do, I learned to do things differently.” Though David taught, his strength was in administration, a skill shaped in Richardson, then honed in Allen. Anita Rushing met him in 1990 when he was in charge of state testing for AISD. “He was very strict, he made sure Allen Image | March 2017

we followed all the rules, kept up with every piece of paper, filled out all the forms, kept the tests well secured,” she recalls. Lynda, on the other hand, was more of a soft touch. She started working as an Allen school counselor in 1983 and recalls one boy in particular. He was angry all the time, acting up, distracting others. “It was a real mess,” Lynda says. She worked with him using play therapy and one day they had a break-through. With gentle prodding he revealed that his grandmother lived with the family, had been ill and in a lot of pain. That turned his world upside down. “At one point he’d wished her dead. Not long after, she died,” Lynda says. “I caused my grandmother to

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

die,” the guilt-ridden boy confessed to her. After counseling, the student realized his thoughts didn’t harm his grandmother and his behavior changed radically. “She’s a good listener,” David says of his wife of 56 years. “She asks meaningful questions, helps you work around things to solve your problem.” As for how he handles things? “I’m the administrator; bring me a problem, let’s solve it and move on to the next one.” The pair spent nearly 30 years combined guiding students and teachers in AISD. They saw Allen grow from scenic pastures and onelane roads to the booming town it is today. During their early years here,

they helped establish the Presbyterian Church. That’s where they met Ernie Pero. The tiny Presbyterian congregation was spiritually fed there while plans were made to build the current church on Greenville. “David led the building committee, he’s very detail-oriented, very process-oriented,” says Ernie. “The joke is if you ask him what time it is, he’ll tell you how to build a watch.” A project as complex as building a new house of worship required that guidance. But, working on the church wasn’t enough. When David and Lynda first came to Allen, there was no Kiwanis Club, a world-renowned organization that helps kids. That wouldn’t do, so David helped establish one. Nearly three decades later he’s still working with Kiwanis and helping kids in the community. “One of our big events during the year is the dictionary drive,” fellow Kiwanian Ernie says. “We raise about $8,000 yearly and buy dictionaries for every third grader in Allen and some surrounding cities.” In an era of web surfing, a lot of people might think a hand-held dictionary is as relevant as a public pay phone. “I asked teachers at Norton Elementary if this was still important, with iPhones, computers…they said absolutely because it’s the kid’s dictionary,” Ernie says. One Olson second grader agrees. “I’m excited about getting to third grade to get my own dictionary, being able to look things up without staring at a computer,” she says. “It will make me more responsible, my first dictionary will be like getting to take home my first pet. It’s mine; I have to take care of it.” The young lady was surprised when she heard the Olsons were involved in gifting the books. “That’s very generous,” she says. “But, I wish

they’d come see us more often, they don’t have to bring anything to give us, just a book to read.” That excitement fills Olson Elementary when David and Lynda arrive. “It’s always an honor to have Mr. and Mrs. Olson here, to take part in everything we do—it’s something special and not every school gets to have that honor,” says Principal Amanda Reyes, who along with her faculty, guides students to emulate the Olson’s giving spirit. “We’re appreciative they love our school and want to be here and contribute. They’re champions of literacy and a big part of our community, period.” School counselor Nicole Oliver is impressed by their visits as well. “I love that they’re so involved, they take time and talk to our kids about

everything,” Nicole says. “They’re setting such great examples, it’s wonderful!” When summing up the Olsons, a handful of words say it best. “They’re good, solid people and I’m glad I’ve had as much time with them as I have,” Ernie says. “They’re great parents, I couldn’t have asked for better, I’m blessed to have them,” says oldest daughter Kim, a pharmacist. “They lead by example and give to the community.” That’s the lesson kids learn each day at Olson Elementary— one that lasts long after the final bell rings. v Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen.

Allen Image | March 2017

kids korner

Outdoor Adventures by Deborah DOVE

Heard Natural Science Museum and Nature Sanctuary 1 Nature Place, McKinney, www.heardmuseum.org Admission: $10/adults; $7/kids (3-12) The Heard Museum offers all kinds of springtime fun, beginning with a three-hour wetland canoe trip for kids seven and older (with an adult) on March 1 and March 18, 1-4 p.m. The zip line is open March 1 and March 11 from 1-3 p.m. for $12/ride, and the nature museum offers several guided hikes—the second Saturday bird hike from 8-9 a.m. and the Owl Prowl Night Hike on March 11. The Heard will also be hosting mini camps for kids during the week of spring break. Of course, the Heard is fun for families any time, with six-and-a-half miles of self-guided trails through the wildlife sanctuary; a native butterfly garden; a pioneer village featuring eight buildings in playhouse scale that emulate structures that would have been typical in prairie settlements in the late 1800s; the Animals of the World exhibit featuring live animals; and interesting nature exhibits such as an observation beehive.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, www.dallasarboretum.org It’s just not spring without a visit to the Dallas Arboretum during Dallas Blooms, which takes place February 25-April 9. This year’s theme, “Peace, Love and Flower Power,” highlights a different 1960s theme each weekend and incorporates headlines, music, TV, fads and fashion from the swinging ‘60s. Some of these weekend themes include music, reenacted celebrity appearances and creative activities such as making flower wreaths, dressing paper dolls and getting henna tattoos. And as always, Dallas Blooms features tulips, daffodils, Dutch Iris and hyacinths, pansies, violas, poppies and thousands of other spring-blooms—a beautiful display of blooming annuals and perennials. The finale of this spring celebration is the mass flowering of the garden’s collection of 3,000 azaleas that bloom during the end of April.

Marshall Creek Ranch 4401 T W King Road, Southlake, www.marshallcreekranch.com Cost: $65/person for a 1-1/2 hour excursion (ride-alongs for kids 4-6 are $50) Situated in Southlake on 12,000 wooded acres surrounding Lake Grapevine, Marshall Creek Ranch offers horseback riding for all levels, from beginners to advanced riders. This isn’t the type of ride where you follow twenty other horses through a pasture. As you make your way to the lake, you’ll cross creeks, traverse changing terrain and maneuver through heavily wooded hills. Along the way, you can expect to see coyotes, deer, herons and turkey vultures.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

Go Ape at Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve 5901 Los Rios Blvd., Plano, www.goape.com Admission: $38/kids ages 10-15 and $58/age 16+ This brand new outdoor adventure venue offers a fully immersive forest experience—a 2-3-hour journey through the forest canopy as you take on suspended obstacles, Tarzan swings and breathtaking zip lines—all with an incredible view. Adventures are suitable for ages 10 and up.

Canyons of Frisco 7164 Technology Drive, Frisco, www.canyonsclimbinggym.com It’s not technically outdoors, but this rock climbing gym offers the best of both worlds—an outdoor activity in the comfort of the indoors. There are numerous different levels, from easy to very difficult, as well as course designed to teach beginners the basics of climbing and belaying. There’s an arch where you can go upside down (more for the pros) and the whole place is very cool looking. National teams train here, so it’s not usual to see a few climbing, which is fun to watch. The gym is suitable for all ages, but climbers must weigh at least 30 pounds.

Trinity River Audubon Center 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, http://trinityriver.audubon. org Located on the banks of the Trinity River, the Trinity River Audubon Center gives visitors of all ages the opportunity to explore miles of trails filled with local birds, wildlife and vegetation. Visitors can explore the Children’s Discovery Garden, take a one-hour guided hike or a self-guided tour or explore a side of Dallas few get to enjoy as they learn about the history of the Trinity River while cruising past herons, egrets, beavers, turtles, river otters and more during a two-hour guided canoe and/or kayak float trip.

Towne Lake Recreation Center 1405 Wilson Creek Pkwy., McKinney, Kids will love paddling around this 22-acre lake in a duck or swan paddleboat. While you’re there, enjoy fishing, hiking or biking along the trail, horseshoes, sand volleyball and two playgrounds.

Trinity Forest Adventure Park 1820 Dowdy Ferry Road, Dallas, www.trinitytreetops.com Get outdoors to recharge and reconnect at this combination of a canopy tour, challenge course and zip line adventure. Courses are color-coded by degree of difficulty, gradually becoming higher and more difficult (the easiest course is suitable for ages 4-7). All together, the park has over 70 elements and over 20 zip lines.

education

The Zookeeper’s Wife Explores a Different Kind of Heroism by Kirk DICKEY

The Russian soldiers barged into Antonina Zabinska’s house, darting about “like hyenas” and grabbing anything they could steal. In the closing days of Germany’s World War II occupation of Warsaw, Poland, even the enemies of her enemies were not friends. One wrong move, or possibly no move at all, might set the soldiers off. The group’s leader smiled at Antonina unsettlingly and grabbed a small golden medallion she always wore around her neck. Photo: Bill Green

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

She didn’t look away. Instead, she pointed at her youngest child lying in a wicker cradle nearby and, dusting off some Russian she’d learned in her youth, Antonina told the man “Not allowed! Your mother! Your wife! Your sister! Do you understand?” The man’s face softened and some of the manic fury that had possessed him drained from his eyes. He ordered his men to put down the things they’d stolen and leave the house at once. Antonina said the men seemed to “shrink in size as they left one at a time like muzzled dogs.” She would later write that “I felt words like mother, wife, sister, have the power to change a bastard’s spirit and conquer his murderous instincts, maybe there’s some hope for the future of humanity after all.” As the tense scene plays out in the pages of Diane Ackerman’s The Zookeeper’s Wife: A War Story—this year’s Collin College “Book in Common” selection—the reader is reminded again that courage isn’t solely a trait of the men who go off to fight in war. It is also a facet of the people who quietly resist and those who care for others—both physically and emotionally—in times of conflict. Antonina’s tale, as well as that of her husband Jan and her son Rys, is the true story of a Polish family which secretly took in about 300 refugees over three years of Germany’s occupation of Poland and the Nazi’s attempted extermination of the Jewish people. The Zabinskis hid friends and strangers alike in their tiny villa and in the Warsaw Zoo’s animal habitats, which had largely been destroyed in Germany’s initial assault on the country. Jan’s reaction to the invasion was to join the Polish underground resistance, helping to derail trains and slow the Germans’ initiatives. He smuggled many people out of the Jewish ghetto and was ultimately taken prisoner in the Warsaw Uprising. Antonina, meanwhile, used her Allen Image | March 2017

intuition and insight into human nature to deflect the Nazis’ suspicions, while providing as much of a home as possible for her “guests,” even after Jan was captured. To that end, she would bring the refugees together with her family after nightfall. There would be music, dinner and conversation. She listened to them and was almost like a therapist at times. “The humanity that (Antonina and Jan) brought to the people in their care was extraordinary,” Ackerman said of the Zabinskis. “As a result, all but two (of the refugees) survived the entire war. This remains one of the most successful rescues during that time.” Throughout the book, the Zabinskis are confronted with the horrors of war, from the construction of the ghettos and the oppression of their countrymen to the theft or wholesale slaughter of their beloved zoo animals. Antonina’s reaction to all

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

of this tragedy may be one of the reasons her spirit shines through so strongly throughout the book, which was shaped by Antonina’s memoirs, interviews she and Jan did later in life and autobio graphical children’s books which she wrote about life at the zoo. “Her attitude was so heroic, so soulful, so spiritual, so brave and so uncommon that I really couldn’t let her disappear through the seams of history,” Ackerman said. “She wasn’t content to just have the people under her care just survive. She wanted them to survive the war with their humanity intact.” Ackerman believes that showcasing Antonina’s struggle sheds light on a deeper truth about heroes in our world. “There are extraordinary acts of mercy and heroism that people perform everyday on our war-torn planet,” she said. “There are different forms of heroism. It is not always ‘shoot-em-up’ heroism. Sometimes it is about compassionate heroism. It’s very important that those people are role models too.” Written primarily in a narrative nonfiction style, The Zookeeper’s Wife: A War Story was the winner of the

Photo: W.W. Norton & Co. Orion Book Award and has been made into a movie of the same name. The movie is scheduled to premier at the end of March. Ackerman will talk about her work and writing process in a series of “Book in Common” lectures at Collin College, April 5-7. The lecture series is the culmination of a yearlong program in which students throughout the college are encouraged to read the same book and discuss its themes. The lectures are free and open to the public. For more information about the lectures, including times and location, or to learn more about “Book in Common,” visit https://www.collin.edu/ academics/bookincommon/. v Kirk Dickey is a public relations writer for Collin College.

MARKET PLACE

Allen Image | March 2017

Allen ISD Nurses Meet the Challenges of Modern Health Care by Keith A. TAYLOR

chool nursing is more than booboos and bandages in today’s school environment. It’s a common misperception but in reality, school nurses address problems as varied as allergies and tracheotomies. Just ask Cindy Harvey, the Norton Elementary school nurse; or

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

Valerie Schwegmann, the nurse at Ford Middle School. Both would say that there is more to their profession than meets the eye. For example, Norton’s Cindy Harvey said school nursing differs from other specialties because it is basically a solo job.

“It’s an autonomous practice. I had to get used to that when I first came here,” she said. Before joining Allen ISD, she was a veteran of intensive care units at Baylor University Medical Center and emergency rooms at Plano Medical Center. “Your assessments are your own and you have to be really good at them,” she said. “It would be extremely difficult to become a school nurse right out of college. You have to have a lot of experience in a wide variety of medical situations.” Ford’s Valerie Shwegmann, a veteran of clinical rotations at Parkland Hospitial, agreed that being the lone medical expert in a building full of kids can be intimidating—at least at first. “I had never worked where there wasn’t a floor full of nurses all around and doctors nearby. When I started here, I was all by myself,” she said. “Then I realized, I was only a phone call or an email away from a colleague who was ready to help.” Both nurses said experience helps them deal with problems beyond medical assessments. You have some kids who may come in often, and you have to be

listening for what is not being said,” Cindy said. “You assess whether the problem is academic, social or perhaps family. Then, when you find the answer, you can find the resources to help solve the problem.” Nurses in the district always aim to look beyond the simple symptoms to make sure students have access to the care they really need. “The most common problems I see are headaches and stomachaches,” Valerie said. “I used to think I had to give them medications. Now, I realize I have to dig deeper to find out what is causing those headaches and stomachaches. At this age, they often don’t drink enough water or eat

enough healthy food. Sometimes, though, it is stress.” As district nurse, Bayer coordinates the nurses and nurse’s aides working in the district. Every Allen ISD elementary and middle

“Allen is really committed to putting an RN on every campus and two at the high school,” she said. “A lot of districts don’t have that benefit. However, having a campus nurse is important to maintain the health and wellness of students and staff.” Bayer also makes sure the district is in compliance with local, state and federal regulations and recommends medical policy to the district and board of trustees. She said nurses have to be prepared to looking beyond health issues to assure student well-being. “A top challenge is meeting the needs of kids who don’t have the resources or coping mechanisms to deal with the problems and issues in their lives,” she said. When considering the changes in school nursing since beginning their careers, all three agreed that there has been a significant rise in food-related allergies with the cause remaining a mystery. “We’ve seen big increases in food allergies. Fifteen years ago, we used to see a few, but now, it has gone through the roof,” Vicky said. It’s very frightening for parents. However, we work to set up a safe environment when they go to school. We develop a comprehensive plan and cooperate throughout the district, from transportation to student nutrition to administration, to keep these kids safe.” All nurses in the district network with one another and make sure they have strong connections to school counselors and administrators at the campus and district levels. They also

School nursing is more than boo-boos and bandages in today’s school environment. It’s a common misperception but in reality, school nurses address problems as varied as allergies and tracheotomies. school campus as well as the Lowery Freshmen Center has a nurse on site. The high school has two nurses and two nurse’s aides.

Allen Image | March 2017

develop long relationships with students and their families. “You have to network and know what your community resources are,” Cindy said. “I have to know how I can assist a family that has no vision insurance, but their student needs glasses. You network with the other nurses to find out what is out there for the kids.” She said her practice also extends to the staff.

“At Norton, we work as a team,” she said. “I go into the classroom and teach hand-washing to kindergarten and first grade. I teach fifth graders about growth and development as well as hygiene. “I also help staff by doing blood pressure checks or listen to their lungs or look into their ears and check their hearing. Some staff have their own kids here and they will ask me to take a look at a problem. It’s

important to them that they feel like they have someone to discuss issues or symptoms.” Valerie said the networking and comradery makes her job easier. “I know I have a wonderful support system in this building, working with support, administrators and counselors” she said. “I think Allen is an amazing district and we have a great group of people in a very supportive nursing staff.” Bayer said the nurses have to be prepared to treat any emergency that might arise. “They practice a wide variety of treatments and procedures, everything from Band-Aids to tracheotomies,” she said. “They have to be prepared for emergencies and life-threatening situations—not only for students, but also the staff and visitors. Some days are calm and some are just chaos. You have to stay cool in that situation, decide priorities and treat appropriately.” Regardless of misconceptions, ultimately, all three said their goal is to make sure students are healthy and ready for school. “In the future, I expect our roles in the schools will expand both medically and educationally,” Bayer said. “We all strongly believe in education and that healthy students learn better. Nurses work in partnership with educators to provide the best possible environment for learning.” Cindy Harvey agreed. “It’s great to see what you can do to help a student function well in the classroom. That’s really our ultimate goal: Not to send them home, but to shore them up and get them right back in the classroom.” v Keith Taylor is a public relations specialist for Allen ISD.

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m

pet page

“Cash” Cash was found stray and brought into a Texas shelter where he waited for someone to save him. After his foster mom saw his picture, he was quickly brought into the LHS adoption program. Cash is a one-year-old, 70-pound Lab mix with a sweet, loving disposition. He’s a big, goofy boy with a heart of gold! He is currently in a home with two personal dogs, other foster dogs and a cat. He would do great with older kids as he still has a lot of puppy energy. He also loves to play with toys. He does really well on walks and absolutely loves them. He is such a great boy and is eager to please!

Cash is neutered, microchipped, current on vaccines and is heartworm negative. He is also crate and house trained. If you are interested in meeting this handsome, lovable guy, please complete an online application at http://www. legacyhumanesociety.org/adoptionapplication/ and we will contact you ASAP about the status of your application. v

w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m