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Allen Image INSIDE THIS ISSUE

January 2018

Vol. 28, Issue 1

FEATURES

DEEP ROOTS AND ANIMAL INSTINCTS

In January of 1972, Dr. Gary Hefner returned to his hometown of Allen and opened its first veterinary facility. On October 2, 2017, Gary sold Allen Animal Clinic and he is celebrating another new firstâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;his retirement.

ANSWERING THE CALL

Several Lucas firefighters spent three weeks in Fulton, Texas, helping to clear debris and restore some normality for the residents of the area in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.

SPECIAL SECTIONS

14 CALENDAR 34 KIDS KORNER

Super Winter Science

PET PAGE

Serenity

22 30 50

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE CIVIC FORUM

COOKING

HEALTH & FITNESS

Five Questions with Chief Harvey

Slowing the Aging Process

Allen Parks and Recreation Makes Getting Active Easy

How to Deal with Stubbornness in a Child

The Inaugural Collin County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Appreciation Day

Game Day Eats and Treats

EDUCATION 36

The Symbol of Hope

Allen Eagle Run Races Into 10th Anniversary

LIBRARY 12

Unlikely Connections

Bobby Giles and Music Mountain

Coffee with the Chief

36 PUBLISHER/EDITOR Barbara Peavy

ADVERTISING SALES Linda Ramirez

COVER PHOTO Larry Fleming

40 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chelsey Aprill Matt Cobb Heather Darrow Deborah Dove

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

David Hicks

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.

Dr. Jane Perry

ON THE COVER Dr. Gary Hefner

Peggy Helmick-Richardson Jennifer Slingerland-Ryan Simon Valentin

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CIVIC FORUM

Five Questions with Chief Harvey by Chelsey APRILL

Chief Brian Harvey will visit Allen Public Library this month for a special Q&A session dubbed “Coffee with the Chief.” Read the Chief’s words about crime trends, officer training and other topics, then prepare your own questions for January’s event. Details at AllenLibrary.org/ Calendar.F rom computer hackers to email scammers, criminals are more tech savvy than ever.

Q A

What are some of the most prevalent scams, and how can citizens avoid becoming a victim?

The most common scams are variations of the classic check deposit scam: a victim deposits a fraudulent check, then withdraws cash and wires it to an unknown destination.

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One cyber version uses fake emails from a company leader to request large sums of money to be transferred to a “new vendor.” Elderly victims are often targeted with “tech support” cyber scams, which give criminals remote access to their computer; scammers then lock the victim out of the computer and request thousands of dollars to “remotely repair” the machine. We also see “quick cash” loan scams, where a victim’s personal information is used to apply for a loan online. The victim generally finds out about this loan through a letter from a collections agency many months later. To avoid becoming a victim, keep social security numbers, account numbers and passwords private. Don’t give out specific information about yourself, such as your full name

or date of birth. Always use privacy settings on social networking websites. Don’t open unsolicited attachments or links in emails unless you know the sender, and be aware that free apps, games, ringtones and screen savers can hide viruses or spam. Limit online business to known, reputable retailers. Technology can also help fight crime.

Q A

What’s the biggest innovation impacting law enforcement right now?

Social media and other communication platforms make it easier than ever to distribute information from law enforcement, gather tips from citizens and cooperate with other agencies. Advancements in DNA testing and

“touch DNA” continue to emerge, leading to both new arrests and, in some cases, exonerations for innocent prisoners. Enhancements in facial recognition programs present opportunities to identify offenders more efficiently than ever before. And the emerging market for autonomous vehicles will challenge current policies of traffic management, enforcement and city planning.

Many emergency calls involve someone with a mental illness. How are Allen Police officers equipped to handle these challenging situations?

As national rates of mental crises increase, so do our interactions with individuals who experience it. The Allen Police Department exceeds statemandated training by participating in a 40-hour training course that

includes scripted role play; this gives officers a chance to practice verbal de-escalation skills which slow down an encounter and help avoid a catastrophic outcome with armed or suicidal suspects. We also work with our Collin County Mental Health Authority, LifePath Systems. One in five individuals experience a mental health condition every year. LifePath is a referral resource for treatment and support to individuals with mental illness, substance abuse, intellectual and developmental delays. LifePath’s 24-hour crisis hotline is 1.877.422.5939. Finally, our negotiation team routinely works a shift at the Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas. These professionally-trained personnel receive an average of 40,000 calls per year and assist individuals to work through their emotional crisis. If you know someone in need of help, encourage them to call the 24-hour hotline at 1.800.273.8255.

One of the best ways to learn about Allen Police is to enroll in the Citizens Police Academy. Can you explain what the class covers?

The academy is an excellent way for citizens to meet their police officers and learn about the department. It is a fastpaced program that meets one night per week for 12 weeks. Citizens meet over twenty officers and criminalists who teach them about crime scenes, SWAT, narcotic stings and criminal investigations. Participants also experience interactive use of force, tactical judgment training and many other areas of the Allen Police Department, including police driving and K9 demonstrations. Look for details at AllenPolice.org/CPA.

Q A

What’s the best advice you can give someone considering a career in law enforcement?

Whether young people are interested in law enforcement or not, my advice would be to make good decisions about their friends, social media usage and drug or alcohol use. Just like the police department, colleges and employers look at a candidate’s online presence to help make a hiring decision. Law enforcement is a service industry, so the most successful candidates are committed to serving their community. Because we provide the necessary training, previous criminal justice or law enforcement training isn’t required. We look for individuals who demonstrate ethical and professional responsibility, verbal and non-verbal communication skills, compassion and critical thinking. If you’re interested in joining the Allen Police Department, visit AllenPolice. org/JoinOurForce. v Chelsey Aprill is the Senior Marketing Specialist for the City of Allen. Allen Image | January 2018

Allen Parks and Recreation Makes Getting Active Easy by Matt COBB

Looking back over the past year, the Allen Parks and Recreation Department held a diverse range of exciting recreational programs and events for all ages and interests from Market Street Allen USA Celebration to fitness classes at Joe Farmer Recreation Center and even last month’s Rudolph Run 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run, providing countless opportunities to have fun, be active and get connected locally. For 2018, Allen Parks and Recreation is striving to make it even easier for the Allen community to get involved in local recreation programs. Allen Parks and Recreation is working to accomplish this mission through its new online registration system, seasonal activities guide and STEAM classes.

Registration System Allen Parks and Recreation is now utilizing a new online registration system called ACTIVE Net that makes it even easier to discover and sign up for local programs, classes and events at all of Allen’s recreation facilities. “Our department couldn’t be more excited about converting to the ACTIVE Net registration platform,” said Travis Cunniff, the Recreation Services Manager for Allen Parks and Recreation. “By providing a quick and

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user-friendly way to search and register for classes, we look forward to the new registration system making it even easier for members of our community to get involved in local recreational activities.” Allen Parks and Recreation’s new ACTIVE Net platform is now online and registration is open for classes, programs and events offered during the Winter/Spring 2018 session. Information about how to set up an account with the new registration platform is available on AllenParks.org.

LIFE Activities Guide Three times a year (Winter/ Spring, Summer and Fall), Allen Parks and Recreation publishes its seasonal LIFE activities guide, listing all of the upcoming recreational programs offered at Allen’s recreation facilities. The guide’s name, LIFE, stands for learning, interests, fitness and events, because the department serves the community by providing opportunities to learn, engage interests, improve health through fitness and wellness options, and entertain at events. The Winter/Spring 2018 edition of the LIFE activities guide is now available, containing descriptions for all of the upcoming programs that are currently open for registration through the new ACTIVE Net platform.

In addition to being mailed to local residents, the guide can be viewed online at AllenParks.org and picked up at all of Allen’s recreation facilities.

STEAM Programs In the LIFE guide, many activities listed under the Young Children, Youth and Camps sections have been designated with a brain icon, signifying that they are STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programs. Ranging from learning how to code computer games to improving art techniques, STEAM programming allows youth to discover their interests and strengthen their educational skillsets in fun and engaging group settings. “Promoting healthy lifestyles includes giving your brain a workout,” Cunniff said. “Through the STEAM program, participants can learn how to use math, science and other educational skills while recreating and playing and when solving real-world challenges and problems.” For more information about Allen’s recreational programming and how to get active in 2018, please visit AllenParks.org. v Matt Cobb is the senior marketing coordinator for the City of Allen.

Monday, January 15, marks the Inaugural Collin County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Appreciation Day. The event began with a dream to bring multiple ethnicities together in one location to not only honor the legacy of a great man and activist, but also to remember our responsibility to represent his values of love, equality and justice. Accordingly, community members, leaders and churches came together and have worked hard for almost a year to bring the celebration to Allen. The appreciation service will be hosted by First United Methodist Church of Allen and will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by a light lunch and reception. “With all that is going on in society that is divisive, the Inaugural MLK Appreciation Day is an effort to bring people from all walks of life together around a vision of unity, equality and justice for all,” says Todd Harris, pastor of First United Methodist Church of Allen. “It is a great privilege and honor for FUMC Allen to be able to host this event and welcome our neighbors from all over Collin County. It is truly an opportunity for the faith communities to be a unifying force in our cities.” The steering committee itself is a testament to the unifying nature of the event, listing among its members Dr. Charles Reese (president of the Collin County Southern Christian Leadership Conference), Dottie Gandy (a civil and women’s rights activist who witnessed Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech), key personnel from

the Allen Arts Alliance, Allen Community Outreach and Allen ISD, Collin County Judge Keith Self and pastors from numerous churches in the area. Leaders from Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Plano and Fairview, including the mayors of all five Collin County cities, will participate in the service. WFAA TV News Co-Anchor John McCaa will preside as the master of ceremonies, and the City of Allen Police and Fire Chiefs will be in attendance along with area Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops. Other key points of the service will include choir performances, a dance performance by Fellowship Christian Center Church, the announcement of the AISD Student Art Contest winners and the presentation of four drum major awards (an allusion to the “drum major instinct” referenced by Dr. King in his sermon on February 4, 1968) to four volunteers who have performed extraordinary acts of service with little recognition. All three co-chairmen of the event—Reverend

Todd Harris, Pastor Timothy Jones and Dr. Wayne Stafford—will each speak about what Dr. King means to them. But, after the service is over, Dr. King’s words—“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that”—will hopefully continue to resonate with everyone who attended. Those words, and the man who spoke them and changed the way a nation viewed equality, are worth remembering. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

Allen Image | January 2018

LIBRARY

The Library presents…

by Tom KEENER

Unlikely Connections

Years before the era of the great cattle drives, Texas was already rich with livestock and cattle trails. Stock raisers and drovers drove cattle to multiple markets in and out of Texas, where they were traded for enormous profits. As commercial interactions increased, the wealth attached to the business soared, as well as the riches of those men and women who participated in the industry. Several events made this possible, including the discovery of gold in California. With opportunities in California, migration from the

American South brought newcomers to Texas and rendered a series of unlikely connections to both the Old South and the New West. Before the Chisholm, the Eastern, the Western and the GoodnightLoving trails, there were the Opelousas, the Shawnee, the Southern and the Dawson. In Allen, the Shawnee trail was utilized by local ranchers. Although understanding of these early trails has been neglected due to the focus on the post-Civil War drives, they were the foundation for famous cattlemen, including Daniel

Waggoner, Oliver Loving, C. C. Slaughter, George R. Reynolds, John Simpson Chisum and John B. Dawson. Dr. Debbie Liles will present Unlikely Connections: Texas Cattle, California Gold, and Slavery in Antebellum Texas in a free program at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, January 25, at the library. A lecturer at the University of North Texas, Dr. Liles has presented conferences across Texas as well as other states. A recipient of the prestigious Liz Carpenter Award for the best book about Texas women’s history and the Ottis Lock Book of the Year award, she serves on numerous committees for historical associations, including the Executive Advisory Committee of the Handbook of Texas Women’s History Project. Dr. Richard McCaslin, author of Tainted Breeze: The Great Hanging at Gainesville, Texas, 1862, declares, “Dr. Liles’ forthcoming book on ranching in northwest Texas will provide important insights on antebellum Texas and the post-Civil War Cattle Kingdom, thus bridging the persistent gap in the historical literature between these two popular subjects.” v

Bobby Giles and Music Mountain Enjoy foot stomping bluegrass with Bobby Giles and Music Mountain in a free program at 7:30 p.m., Friday, January 19, at the library. Sharing bluegrass, bluegrass gospel and Americana, this unique group only performs original songs produced and arranged by its members. Bobby Giles is a passionate songwriter who sings lead vocals and

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plays the flat-pick guitar. His appreciation for the pure harmonies, faith-centered foundations and family-friendly venues inherent to the bluegrass music community are the inspirations for the band’s personality and presentation. Husband and wife members of the band, Tim and Becky McGaughy, hail from Amarillo. A multi-

instrumentalist, Becky plays the upright acoustic bass and sings high harmony. Tim plays guitar and mandolin, sings middle harmony and brings a selfless humor and unique interpretation of ascending fifths to the band. Playing and singing bluegrass music at age 12 while jamming with his father, Carl Josefy now plays

Coffee with the Chief

Share coffee with Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey in a free program at 1 p.m. Saturday, January 13, at the library. Chief Harvey will discuss challenges that confront Allen, the impact of national issues on local law enforcement and programs offered by the Allen Police Department. After this presentation, citizens can interact with Allen’s police chief by submitting questions, expressing concerns and making suggestions. If the issue is confidential, the Chief can arrange a private meeting afterward.

Allen’s police chief since 2012, he leads a department of 130 sworn and 57 civilian staff that includes Dispatch and the Animal Shelter. Committed to community policing and emphasizing citizen engagement and collaboration with other stakeholders to resolve neighborhood issues, Chief Harvey observes, “there is tremendous support here in Allen for our police, and I am proud to be part of the Allen team and serve the Allen community.” Also an ACO board member, Chief Harvey notes, “that even in

communities that have the appearance of affluence, some households are one paycheck away from financial crisis. So, the client applying for services today may have been a donor in the past. In those situations, shame and humiliation are big obstacles to getting help. Allen is fortunate to have the services of ACO that has grown, based on the needs that were seen in the community.” Prior to coming to Allen, Harvey had a distinguished 32-year career with the Dallas Police Department, with his last position being Deputy Chief of Police, assigned to Homeland Security and Strategic Deployment Division. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Western Illinois University, Chief Harvey is also a graduate of the Southwestern Law Enforcement Command College and the Police Executive Forum Senior Management Institute for Police. He currently serves as President of the North Texas Police Chief’s Association, liaison for the Allen Public Safety Recovery Fund and Regional Director for the Texas Police Chief’s Association. Food For Thought Café will provide fresh coffee, hot chocolate and cookies. 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.

mandolin and guitar and sings tenor, alto and occasionally bass vocals. A native of both country and contemporary Christian music, Carl freely admits bluegrass is his favorite, not only because of its honest and pure sound, but because “I just like to pick and sing.” A purveyor extraordinaire of the five-string banjo, Steve Loggie began performing in the early ‘70s and brings years of experience and impassioned, intricate musical detail to the stage. They have recorded three CDs and their fourth CD is being produced by veteran Nashville bluegrass musician/producer Jim Van Cleve, and will be available January of 2018. v Allen Image | October 2017

CALENDAR

JANUARY CITY OF ALLEN ALLEN EVENT CENTER Tickets on sale now through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster. com), charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at the Allen Event Center box office. For more information, visit www. alleneventcenter.com. 10 Allen Americans vs Utah Grizzlies 13 Allen Community Ice Rink Star Wars Skate 15 Allen Americans vs Tulsa Oilers 18-21 Dallas Cup 24 Allen Americans vs Rapid City Rush 26 Allen Americans vs Wichita Thunder 27 Allen Americans vs Wichita Thunder

PARKS AND REC EVENTS

become a volunteer, whether at a recreation center or park, an event or on-going activity, with a group or individually. There are many ways to get involved! Open volunteer enrollment is available in January and February. Free. 27 Swim Meet—Stroke Clinic/COAST Team, Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 8-11 am, ages 6-16. All Stroke Clinic/COAST Team members are invited to take place in this Swim Meet. Swimmers may choose up to four events to compete in. Meet events will be separated into age categories. This event will incorporate a real swim meet environment. Cost is $10.

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY YOUTH SERVICES Story Times are held in the Children’s Program Room. All story times are free and no registration is required to attend. For more information, call 214.509.4906. Baby and Me, for pre-walkers with caregiver, Wednesdays at 10:15 am. Fun Ones & Twos, for 1 & 2 year-olds with caregiver, Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays at 10:15 am.

For more information about Parks and Recreation events, visit AllenParks.org.

Together Time, for 3-5 year-olds with caregiver, Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays at 11:15 am.

12 SNAP Dance, Allen Senior Rec Center, 710 pm, ages 18+. Special Needs and Adapted Program! Enjoy music, a fun theme and snacks. This month’s theme is Disco! For info, contact Ryan Patterson at rmpatterson@cityofallen.org or 214.509.4753. Cost: $10 Pre-registration/$15 at 5 pm on Wednesday prior to dance.

All By Myself, for 4-5 year-olds without caregiver, Wednesdays at 11:15 am.

26 Volunteer Kick-Off Meeting, Allen Senior Rec Center, 10 am-noon, ages 50+. Learn how to

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Pajama Time, for 3-5 year-olds with caregiver, Tuesdays at 6:30 pm. 18 In-N-Out Cover-to-Cover Reading Club ends, ages 4-12 only. Register at the Library’s Children’s Desk. Children read five books to earn a coupon for a free In-N-Out treat.

Weekly Homework Help, 4:30-6 pm, on Wednesdays starting January 17. VolunTeens help in all subjects for K-6th grade students. Each child may spend 15 minutes working one-on-one with a VolunTeens.

EVENTS FOR FAMILIES & CHILDREN For more information about any of the events below, call 214.509.4906. All events are free and no pre-registration is required. Events are in the Children’s Program Room except where noted. 3

Will Baffle’s Magic Show, 2:30-3:15 pm, ages 5 and up in the auditorium. Join Will Baffle as he performs a family-friendly interactive magic and illusion show that will baffle children and parents.

Family Movie: The Boss Baby, 2:30-4:15 pm, ages 5 and up in the auditorium. Watch a matinee movie during the winter break. This movie is rated PG and the run time is 97 min.

Family Disney Sing-Along, 10:30-11 am, ages 2 and up with their families. Come sing and dance with us and we jam to classic Disney tunes!

Harry Potter Party, 2-4 pm, ages 5 and up in the Children’s Library. Return to the world of Harry Potter! Visit Diagon Alley for a special wand, hunt for the golden snitch, make your own enchanted quill pen and meet the sorting hat. Dress up as your favorite character for the costume contest. Winners receive prizes!

10 Bee-Bot Robot Fun, 4:30-5:30 pm, ages 5-8. Learn about Bee-Bots, the easy-to-operate and friendly robot that teaches counting, sequencing, estimation, and problem-solving. 13 Family Story Time, 10:30-11 am, all ages. Enjoy family time with stories, songs and fun activities.

15 Community Story Time, 10:30-11:15 am, ages 3 and up. Enjoy a special story time with stories about kindness and friendship, songs, and a craft. 17 Homeschool ArtSparks: Five Senses in Art, 1:30-2:30 pm, ages 5 & up. Learn about the five senses in art with ArtSparks, an art appreciation and visual literacy program by Allen Arts Alliance. Students will leave with their own works of art. 19 Sensory Play Day, 10:30-11:30 am, ages 0-3 with caregivers. Join us for a relaxed morning of stimulating sensory play stations. 20 Lego Family Fun Day, 10:30-11:30 am, ages 5 & up with families. Build STEM skills and create with LEGO! Children under the age of 9 must be accompanied by an adult. 23 First Chapter Book Club, 4:30-5:30 pm, ages 5-8. Have you read every Magic Tree House book? Each month, we’ll read aloud the first chapter of a new series and enjoy a project inspired by what we read. 25 American Girl Club, 4:30-5:30 pm, ages 7-12. Join us every other month for this program celebrating American Girls! 26 Music and Movement, 10:30-11 am, ages 2 and up with caregivers. Join us as we sing, dance, and make music! Limited to 80. Free ticket, available 30 min. before the start of story time at the Children’s Desk, is required to attend. 27 Train Story Time at the Allen Heritage Center Depot, 10:30-11 am, ages 3 and up with caregivers at Allen Heritage Center Depot, 100 East Main Street. Enjoy a variety of books, songs and rhymes in this train-themed story time. Each attendee receives a take-home craft. 29 Winter Science, 4:30-5:30 pm, ages 8-12. Find out what melts ice the fastest, build an igloo and have an epic snowball fight!

TEENS (AGES 12-18) 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. Ages listed are firm. 11 Anime Evening, 6:30-8 pm, in the Upstairs Program Room. Come enjoy an evening of anime, Japanese snacks and crafts! 30 DIY Hot Cocoa Mix, 4:30-5:30 pm.

ADULTS Adult services programs are held in the 2nd Floor Program Room, free with no registration—ages 18+ unless otherwise indicated. Please call 214.509.4905 or 214.509.4913, or check AllenLibrary.org. 9

Talking History—Why Nukes Make Sense: The Historical Background of North Korea’s Nuclear Threats, 7-8:30 pm, ages 16+, younger children welcome with an adult. Gain a better understanding of the situation in North Korea. Dr. Harold Tanner, of University of North Texas, will discuss how events from the past century shaped the North Korean regime, and why they are posing a nuclear threat to the U.S. and its allies in the region.

10 Noontime Pageturners Book Club, News of the World by Paulette Jiles, 12-1 pm. Join us for a lively discussion! We offer a relaxed environment where you can share the joy of reading. New members welcome. 10 Twisted Threads—A Fiber Craft Circle, 6:308:30 pm. A social group for knitters, crocheters, quilters and any crafters who use thread or Allen Image | January 2018

yarn! All skill levels welcome! Work on your latest project in the company of other crafters. Ages 18+; no childcare provided. 16 Estate Planning for Your Special Needs Loved Ones: Avoid the Six Most Catastrophic Mistakes, 6:30-8 pm, 1st Floor Meeting Room. Attorney and CPA Bradley L. Bolinger will discuss how to prepare your estate with a Special Needs Trust to protect loved ones in the event of a caregiver’s death. Ages 18+; younger children welcome with an adult 17 DIY@APL—Keepsake Boxes, 10-11:30 am. Have fun decorating a keepsake box with scrapbook paper, washi tape, ribbon and more. All supplies provided. Ages 16+. 17 Ladies Night Out Book Club, 7-8:30 pm. Come join us in a discussion of The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict. 18 Winter Health Series—Fight Cancer with Exercise, 1-2 pm. Collin College professor, Jeff Monaco, M.S., discusses the role of exercise in prevention of cancer, as well the benefits of exercise for those already diagnosed. He will highlight the effects of an evidence-based exercise program in a recent study. Ages 16+. 23 Travel Like a Pro!, 7-8:30 pm. World travelers George and Denise Bouhasin will share tips and tricks they learned from many trips abroad. Get hints on general trip prep, what to take, keeping your money secure, the best ways to explore without a tour group and more. 25 Winter Health Series—The Art of Making Healthy Snacks, 1-2 pm. There is a misconception that snacking through the day is bad for one’s health. Collin College professor and dietitian, Kim Lower, M.S. RDN, discusses some of the nutritional benefits of snacks and ways to create healthy snacks that can be consumed at home or on-the-go. Ages 16+. 30 Armchair Travelers Visit Japan, 7-8:30 pm. Come explore the world, without ever leaving Texas! Journey to Japan with Anna Kostamo, as she shares stories and pictures from her travels through the Land of the Rising Sun. Japanese snacks will be available to sample. Ages 16+; younger children welcome with an 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.

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ALLen Reads meets the 2nd Monday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr. For more info, www.allenfriends.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. 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. 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 by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. For more info: 972.569.6909 or www.heardcraig.org. Bible Study, meets every Thursday, 9:30-11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Reg. req. For more info: katpf@att.net or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org. 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. Collin County Libertarian Party meets second Wednesday each month, at 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., Allen. For more info: collinlp.org or email collinlp.org@gmail.com. Collin County Master Gardeneers tour of Myers Park, meets first Wednesday each month, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Reservations required. 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. Dallas Dog Lovers, events for dogs and owners in the Dallas area. For more info: www.dallasdoglovers.com Department 56 Village Collectors Club meets second Saturday each month in Plano/North Dallas 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 the 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 third Wednesday each month, Board Room, Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Dr. For more info, www.allenfriends.org. Gaslighters Book Review Club meets the third Wednesday each month September thru May at Heard Craig House, 205 W. Hunt Street, McKinney, refreshments noon, speaker 1 pm. For more info: LaRue Whatley, 423.585.4983. Greater Collin County Kennel Club, meets third Wednesday each month, 7:30 pm, Joe Farmer Rec Center, 1201 E. Bethany, Allen. For more info: www.greatercollinkc.org. Legacy 4-H Club (Allen & Lucas), meets first & third Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460. Lone Star Parliamentary Unit, meets 2nd Monday of each month September thru May, 10:30 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 & speakers. Free lunch; babysitting available for nominal fee. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/LovejoyPreschool-PTA/.

McKinney Amateur Radio Club, meets second Tuesday each month, 7 pm, Spring Creek Bar B Que 1993 North Central Expressway, McKinney. For more information: 972.814.4190. McKinney Newcomers’ Club, meets third Tuesday each month, 9:30 am, social; 10 am meeting, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.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 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, 1:30 pm, Village of Stonebridge Assisted Living, 3300 S. Stonebridge Drive, McKinney. All current government employees and retirees invited. Nar-Anon Family Group, meets every Wednesday, 7:30-8:30 pm, at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. Fellowship for those affected by someone else’s addiction. For more info: Jerry or Carla, 972.837.6558 or pony100k@icloud.com. Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, meets second Tuesday each month, SMU in Plano, 5228 Tennyson Pkwy, Plano. All are welcome to join. 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 each 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. 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. 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. Prelude Clubhouse, a community center for adults living with a mental illness meets at Vintage Church on E. Lamar Street, McKinney. Open Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10 am-4 pm. For more information, please call 469.301.6639 or www. preludeclubhouse.org. Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, meets every Monday, 7:15 pm, Champions School of Real Estate in the Rangers Room at 3721 Mapleshade Ln, Plano. 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.

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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.

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.

ART/MUSIC/THEATRE

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.

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/news.

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!

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

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 am4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney. For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460.

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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-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group meets 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 every Tuesday 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. 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.

National Alliance of Mental Illness Collin County Support Groups meet every Thursday evening, 6:30-8 pm at Custer Road United Methodist Church in the basement, 6601 Custer Road, Plano. There is one support group for persons with a mental illness and another group further down the hall for friends and/or family. 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. Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, meets second Monday each month, 6:30 pm, Collin College, Central Park Campus Conference Center, 2200 W. University Dr., McKinney. For more info: www.cchba.org. Fit and Funky Fit Club, meets every Monday, 7:30 pm, & every Sunday, 7 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. 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.

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Stroller Strides Classes. For class information, check out Fairview.fit4mom.com. First class Free. For more info: Fairview.fit4mom.com, email Lolo@fit4mom. com. The Experiment Aircraft Association, Chapter 1246, meets first Saturday each month, McKinney National Airport. Everyone interested in aviation is invited. For times and directions: eaa1246.org. 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..

MOM’S CLUBS Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents and caregivers of kids age 0-5. Fun activities. Play groups, park days, lunch w/friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids, etc. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com. Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new and expectant moms’ forum, meets third 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 2nd 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. 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. For more info: 972.727.8241. 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. 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 and 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.

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

HEARD MUSEUM Saturday Bird Walk Educational Program, 8 am. Learn more about birding! These walks are intended to help beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, meets 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 Native Plant Society, meets first Tuesday each month, 7:30 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Heard Museum Nature Photography Club, meets the second Saturday each month, 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

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, 11:30 am, Sept. thru May, First UMC Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch ($5), fellowship, speakers and entertainers. For more info: jgarling@swbell.net.

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS ALLEN/FAIRVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Eggs & Issues Breakfast meets quarterly at Hilton Garden Inn, 8 am. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce MOB (Men of Business), meets 2nd Monday every other month, 11:30 am-1 pm, Kelly’s at the Village at Allen, for networking. $20 mem; $25 non-mems/general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society, meets fourth Tuesday each month, 7 pm, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566.

Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, every Tuesday, 7:30 am, Fairview Town Center, 311 Town Place, Fairview (formerly Wyland’s Ocean Blue restaurant). $1 member/$5 non-member 1st visit free. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Third Saturday Nature Talks: Nature Journaling. Learn new ways to experience nature through nature journaling! An intro to journaling techniques thru hands-on activities.

Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Luncheon, meets fourth Tuesday, 11:30 am-1 pm, Hilton Garden Inn, Allen. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

SENIORS

Active Agers 55+ meets 2nd Saturday, 10 am, upstairs at Market Street in McKinney (Eldorado at Ridge). Pre-travel meeting monthly to plan activities 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. 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 Pkwy, McKinney. Provides a social forum for active men and women singles who enjoy meeting new people and like getting

Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), meets 2nd Thursday every other month, 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking and discussion of women’s issues. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Breakfast, meets monthly at Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q, 1790 N. Central Expwy., Allen, 8 am. $15 members/$20 non-members. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com. Allen High Noon Lions Club, meets 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, Bonefish Grill, 190 E Stacy Rd #100. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.allenkiwanis.org. Allen Lions Club, meets first and third Tuesday each month, 7pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen. For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982. Allen Masonic Lodge No. 1435, meets second Tuesday each month, 7:30 pm at 101 North Allen Drive. Dinner is served at 6:30 pm. For more info: www:allenlodge1435.org. 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 Cir., Allen. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.allensunriserotary.com. Assistance League® of Greater Collin County, meets third Wednesday, 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 third Tuesday each month. For more info:GenBernadoDeGalvez@gmail.com. Fairview Rotary Club, meets second and fourth Thursday each month, Stacy Rd, Fairview. For more info: 214.893.5360. FUMC Legal Aid Clinic meets second Thursday each month, 6-8 pm, First UMC, 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. Knights of Columbus, meets third 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 fourth Thursday each month, 7:30 pm, Our Lady of Angels, 1914 Ridgeview Drive, Allen. For more information contact Jason at jason.beckett.1@ gmail.com, or visit us at https://kofcknights.org/ CouncilSite/?CNO=13044. Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, meets the second 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 second Monday each month, 1710 N. Church St, McKinney. Post Members, 6:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary at 5:45 pm; Men’s Auxiliary at 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 first 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 second 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. Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, teaches children to serve their community, meets second Saturday each month. For more info: 972.396.8010.

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.

Allen Image | January 2018

FEATURE

by Peggy Helmick-RICHARDSON

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n the early 1970s the rural community of Allen was in need of a veterinarian, especially one who could treat livestock and horses. So in January of 1972, Dr. Gary Hefner returned to his hometown and opened its first veterinary facility. On October 2, 2017, Gary sold Allen Animal Clinic to his trusted eight-year associate Dr. Balie White. Today, Gary is celebrating another new first—his retirement. A fourth generation Allenite, Gary’s paternal great-grandparents moved from Tennessee to Allen around 1880, making their home near the railroad tracks. His grandfather, John Cy Hefner, whom Gary recalls a close childhood relationship with, was born in 1886. Gary’s parents Hense Edgar “Hef” and Marie Cundiff Hefner lived and farmed on John Green’s property, located at what is now the McDermott and Alma Road intersection. His maternal grandfather Welby Cundiff had Allen’s first drug store, but

Allen High School 1964 graduating class

passed away before Gary was born. His uncle Henry Cundiff had a grocery store in Allen for many years. “I’m pretty well-rooted in Allen,” he laughs. A 1964 graduate of Allen High School, Gary recalls there were 18 seniors that year. During his third semester as Texas Tech, “Hef” died and Gary returned to Allen to help his mother. While running the farm, he took classes at what is now the University of North Texas in Denton. By 1966, the family’s farm equipment was sold and Gary went on to Texas A&M University to complete his senior year. The following year, he was accepted into A&M’s veterinary school and earned his doctorate in veterinary medicine in 1970. After graduating, Gary went to work for a Houston equine clinic. In 1972, Gary returned to Allen to open his own clinic. The first office was located in an old scale house off McDermott Drive near the railroad tracks, with his wife, Michelle, serving as his first secretary. Business boomed. Although the majority of his service was mobile, Gary quickly outgrew his space. By August of 1973,

Gary had built the current Allen Animal Clinic on Main Street, east of Greenville Avenue. Initially hiring high school students to help, demand soon allowed Gary to hire veterinary technicians. Over the years, Allen Animal Clinic also brought in new veterinary school graduates whom Gary mentored. “I was more oriented toward large animals, but I did everything,” he recalls. “Over the years it pretty much stayed a mixed animal practice. There were three years when we only did large animals and we sold the small animal practice to Dr. Mike Overton, who was an associate of mine at the time.” When a recession resulted in horse ownership in the area becoming a luxury many were forced to forgo, Gary opted to return to treating smaller pets as well. He estimates that by the time he sold his clinic, the treatment of large versus small animal was divided equally. “The large animals used to include a lot more cows, but today there are not many cows in the area,” he explains. “We are still set up for cows, but now it’s Allen Image | January 2018

mainly horses, and there are also goats, llamas and alpacas.” Although Allen’s farm town roots have long since vanished and livestock have been moved elsewhere, there are still a number of horse owners and a few cattle raisers in surrounding communities. “We still do Lucas, Plano, Farmersville, Van Alstyne, McKinney, Wylie…probably a 30-mile territory, but most of my cow herds are further out, east and north of McKinney,” Gary points out. He then laughs and reminds himself that he is now retired. “Dr. White bought it out, and they take care of that area!”

Road on west side of Allen around the same time the first scale house clinic opened. Originally Gary treated Jack’s handful of racing-bred quarter horses, his daughter’s riding horse and the family dog. After retiring from Tom Thumb, Jack decided to “get into race horses in a big way!” They moved to Celina and began their racing-bred quarter horse enterprise. Jack and his wife had a few personal successes with one horse qualifying for the AllAmerican Futurity at Ruidoso Downs, and another winning the Ruidoso Downs Futurity. One of their breeding mares also produced several winners. “We were in it for 18 years and

Gary Hefner and family in 1986 Averaging a 70-hour work week taking care of Collin County critters, he recalls the many hours devoted to researching those occasional rare problems that came in. “We were rocking along years ago and never heard of the disease parvo,” he recalls of the now-well known canine virus that most pets receive a vaccine for today. “And with horses, in the 70s, there was Venezuelan encephalitis,” he continues. “It took a big toll, and the vaccine was good, but also caused a lot of reactions.” One of Gary’s first clients, Jack Evans, had moved his family to 26 acres on, the then rural, McDermott

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had between 30 to 35 brood mares at any one time—and Dr. Hefner continued to be our vet,” Jack emphasizes. “He was not only my veterinarian, I consider him a good friend. There were a lot of instances when I would call him in the middle of the night and he would come out— in Allen and Celina!” Frisco native Bill Rasor has known Gary since high school and the two were roommates their freshman year at Texas Tech. He later established a ranch in Van Alstyne breeding shorthorn cattle. He recounts the numerous times his friend came to his ranch not only for routine

maintenance with his 300-350 head of cattle, but also for calving problems, injuries and freak situations like one of the stock getting his head caught in a hay rack. Another service unique to this area that Gary provided was dehorning. “That takes an unusual person to do that job,” Bill asserts. “A lot of cattle end up becoming show cattle so we try to make them as presentable as possible. So typically, we take the horns off of all of them.” “Gary certainly made a difference in my ability to raise cattle,” Bill concludes. “He was always honest and forthright in his assessments, and took the time to find the right resources.” Although Dr. Hefner still catches himself referring to his work at Allen Animal Clinic in present tense, he praises the work of Dr. Balie White and associates, Dr. Byron Norton and Dr. Sandra Martin, and feels good about leaving the clinic “in good hands.” From Vernon, Texas, Balie White, DVM, was taught from childhood how to work around large animals from her cowboy father. After graduating from Texas A&M’s veterinary school, she took an internship with the 6666 Ranch’s equine clinic, where she worked with not only horses, but also cattle, goats, sheep and dogs. Eight years ago, Balie learned from a Vernon veterinarian and classmate of Gary’s that he was looking to bring on another veterinarian for the Allen Animal Clinic. She applied immediately because of the clinic’s “small town feel.” Another plus for her was the quality of mentoring Gary provided. “That man has more knowledge than I’ll ever have,” she declares. “He is not only smart, but he has kept up with the times. When he graduated from A&M they were still re-sharpening, re-sterilizing and reusing needles and scalpels. He has gone from that to digital x-rays

because he wanted what was good medicine.” Balie laughs about a time the two of them were in a “knock down drag out because both of us were bullheaded.” “A dog came in with a pretty rare disease that causes wasting of the head muscles,” she recounts. “It’s rare, but recognizable when you see it.” So she was surprised when Gary immediately dismissed her diagnosis with a “Nope, you’re wrong. Go back and look it up.” She continues, “I stomped out to find my internal medicine books and he stomped back to get his internal medicine books.” “It turns out that it was the exact same disease, but in the last 40 years they had changed the name of the disease,” she laughs. “But, he had still remembered it from 40 years ago! He is just brilliant.” Knowing the clinic is running smoothly, Gary is now looking forward to spending time pursuing favorite pastimes he had few opportunities to enjoy before. Gary and Michelle raised three children on their land at the once

rural area of Alma Road and Highway 121. Today, Whitney is a stay-at-home mom with two children; Hank works as a veterinary tech with Allen Animal Clinic and has two children; and Melissa recently moved to Arizona. The couple now resides on 50 acres in far north McKinney. This acreage also serves as home for a set of cows and calves, a retired horse of Gary’s as well as another being boarded for a friend, and seven canine companions—a German shorthaired pointer, English pointer, golden retriever, Welsh corgi, Labrador retriever, a mixed breed and a border collie belonging to a tenant on his property that Gary laughs has

pretty much taken up residence with the rest of the dogs. And how is Gary spending is long-deserved retirement? “I told them (Allen Animal Clinic) not to call me for a month, and I’m trying to get things done that I’ve put off for years,” he declares. In treatment for a back injury, he asserts that once he is more mobile, “I will hunt a lot this winter and hope to do some traveling next year. I’ll probably go to Alaska first. I’ve been to Australia twice, but I may go back there, and maybe New Zealand. And, I want to go to Maine.” And how did a small town farm boy come to choose a career in veterinary medicine? “My dad always wondered why I wanted to do that!” he laughs. “But, I always wanted to be my own boss and work mainly outside, and I enjoyed animals, so I thought that would be a good way to make a living.” v Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.

Allen Image | January 2018

COOKING

Game Day Eats and Treats by Deborah DOVE

The Christmas tree is packed away and the New Year’s Eve noisemakers and confetti have been swept away. That means it’s time to switch your focus to the “holiday” every man (and almost as many women) have really been waiting for—the 52nd Super Bowl! Held on February 4 at the new U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis this year, the Super Bowl is more than just a football game. It’s the over-the-top half time show (Justin Timberlake will perform this year), clever and innovative commercials and most importantly, a chance to get together with friends and enjoy good food and drinks. It’s the perfect antidote to winter and a welcome reason to celebrate in the long, gray period between the holidays and the advent of spring. Hosting a Super Bowl party couldn’t be easier. The Super Bowl is all about finger food in front of the TV and paper plates and napkins in your team’s colors. Of course, you can go all out if you want, with football-

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themed food and decorations. Pinterest has a wealth of ideas, from all kinds of food made to look like footballs (from dips to ice cream sandwiches piped with frosting “laces”) to Bingo printables and game day betting squares. But, all you really need are the mouth-watering dips and game day snacks below to score a win! We’ve put together a menu that includes a mix of make ahead dishes, crock pot recipes and hot food straight out of the oven, so you can enjoy the game as much as your guests.

Orangey Chicken Wings 3 lb. chicken wings 1/2 c. orange juice 1 Tbs. vegetable oil 1/2 tsp. chili powder Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 1-1/2 c. orange soda (like Sunkist or Crush) 1/2 c. hot sauce 1/4 c. brown sugar 1/4 c. butter 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbs. orange zest 1 tsp. red pepper flakes Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, combine wings with orange juice, oil and chili powder and season with salt and pepper. Using tongs, toss to combine. Place onto a large baking sheet fitted with a cooling rack in a single layer. Roast 30-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden and crisp. In a small sauce pan, combine soda, hot sauce, sugar, butter, garlic, orange zest and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and bring to a boil, whisking until all ingredients are fully combined. Bring to a simmer and let reduce by half, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. In a large clean bowl, toss wings in sauce. Garnish with chives and serve with blue cheese and/or ranch dressing.

Cowboy Caviar (Make Ahead) 2/3 c. diced onion 2/3 c. chopped cilantro 10 oz. can diced tomatoes with green chilies 15 oz. can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed 15 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed 15 oz. can whole kernel corn, drained and rinsed

1/4 c. red wine vinegar 2 tsp. lime juice 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 3/4 tsp. salt 1 tsp. cumin 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced In a large bowl combine all ingredients. Cover and cool in refrigerator. Served cold with tortilla chips or Fritos scoops.

Bacon-wrapped Water Chestnuts 8 oz. can water chestnuts, drained 1/4 c. soy sauce 1/4 c. brown sugar 8 slices bacon, cut in half Marinate the water chestnuts in soy sauce for 1 hour. Drain and roll each chestnut in the brown sugar. Wrap each chestnut with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Arrange on a cake rack in a shallow

baking pan. Bake at 400º for minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. This can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Allen Image | January 2018

Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip

Super Bowl Cookies 1 c. brown sugar 1 c. sugar 1/2 c. butter (softened in the microwave) 3 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 1 tsp. light corn syrup 1 c. creamy peanut butter 2 tsp. baking soda 4 c. oatmeal 1/2 c. chocolate chips 6 oz. M&Ms plain chocolate candies Mix all ingredients in a food processor or mixer, except for chocolate chips and M&Ms. Stir in the chocolate chips by hand. Drop by tablespoon on an ungreased cookie sheet. Press 4-6 M&Ms on the top of each cookie. Bake at 350ยบ F for 12-15 minutes or until just starting to turn brown; cool for 5-10 minutes. v Deborah Dove is a freelance writer from Allen.

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2 (14-oz.) cans artichoke hearts, drained and chopped 1 (10-oz.) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 8 oz. sour cream 1 small onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, crushed 3/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese 3/4 c. milk 1/2 c. crumbled feta cheese 1/3 c. mayonnaise 1 Tbs. red wine vinegar 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 8 oz. cream cheese, cubed Place artichoke hearts, spinach, sour cream, onion, garlic, Parmesan, milk, feta, mayonnaise, vinegar and pepper into a slow cooker. Stir until well combined. Top with cream cheese. Cover and cook on low heat for two hours. Uncover and stir until cream cheese is well combined. Cover and cook on high heat for an additional 15 minutes. Serve with pita chips or toasted French bread rounds.

MARKET PLACE

Allen Image | October 2017

FEATURE

by Simon VALENTIN

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Lucas firefighters spent three weeks in Fulton, Texas, helping to clear debris and restore some normality for the residents of the area.

The school groaned as Hurricane Harvey did its best to pummel Fulton Elementary into a brick pile. Main power lines had snapped hours earlier and dozens of people seeking shelter in the school used mobile phones and a handful of flashlights to produce a low glow that was consumed by growing darkness. Some folks huddled together, families holding hands and having mumbled conversations, others sat silently watching the roof, waiting for sustained 130-mile-per-hour winds to tear it off. Most folks were praying. Among the prayerful crowd were people who usually protected and guided the city. Mayor Jimmy Kendrick seemed to pace a groove in the floor, thinking of how he would help his town. And the firefighters, the rescuers who volunteer to ride in with lights flashing and sirens screaming to save the day—they sat helpless. “We evacuated the fire department when an eight-foot pipe, three inches around, was blown through a wall during the first part of the hurricane,” Fire Chief Ricky McLester said. The backup plan was to shelter in a new hotel designed to withstand winds of more than one hundred miles an hour. “We’d lost most communication. When I got a hold of someone there, they warned us not to come,” he recalled. “The hurricane had ripped the back wall off the hotel.” The only spot left standing was the elementary school and it filled with people when the eye of the hurricane was above the small coastal town of 1500. Then the storm launched another attack. “It was eerie. The building was groaning; the entire structurallyreinforced brick school was groaning,” he said. “The sound I remember is debris—metal, concrete, glass—hitting the outside so hard it sounded like someone was shooting at us. That last hour was hell.”

That hell of nearly six hours of up to 150-mile-per-hour winds didn’t end when Hurricane Harvey lost its punch. “I walked outside, looked around and got sick to my stomach. I thought, ‘Where’s my town? Where’s Fulton?’” Mayor Kendrick said. Chief McLester was equally stunned. “All I kept thinking was ‘Oh my God, the devastation. This isn’t a drill, the town’s gone…flattened.’” That situation is what Lucas Fire Department chose to ride into just days after the hurricane. Lucas Fire Department is part of the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System. They received grants to help purchase their brush truck and in return volunteer to help in crisis situations throughout Texas. Fulton’s was the worst by far. “Its hard to describe,” Lucas Fire Chief Ted Stephens said. “You’d see trees stripped bare, no leaves or bark. A couple houses in a row were destroyed, but the next one would be absolutely fine, and the next one would be destroyed.” But, it was more than ruin that greeted them. There was hope—a virtual army of people came to help. “As far as you could see, it was utility trucks and fire trucks,” said Lucas Fire Department Captain Jonathan Haynes. “There was Texas Department of Public Safety, hundreds of Federal Emergency Management Agency trailers, thousands of power trucks (6500), even the Army Reserve was there. Everywhere you looked, every power pole in every neighborhood had its own utility truck working on it, putting lines back up” Captain Haynes said. But even among the thousands of people who came to help, Lucas Fire Department stood out. “The guys from Lucas came down, stood next to complete strangers, side-by-side, and tarped roofs that had been torn apart; picked up brush from senior citizens yards; moved fences that had been damaged; Allen Image | October 2017

Firefighters Jason Bender and Victor Jones

cut down trees; ran emergency calls. Its what kept us going day to day—that brotherhood,” said Fulton’s Chief McLester. Lucas was originally slated to spend a week helping. That grew to three weeks. Captain Haynes said the kindness of a town that had lost so much kept them there. “We’re total strangers, but Captain Jonathan Haynes they treated us like we lived there all our lives,” he said. “Chief McLester told us, ‘This fire “We’d say ‘lets work on your station is your home. Everything in house’ and they’d say, ‘Take care of the this place is yours. You don’t have to town first, come back to us later.’ Some ask, just take.’” of them didn’t get home for weeks— The giving nature of people in they were helping everyone else.” Fulton surprised the Lucas first Fulton’s Chief McLesh said responders. townspeople have always been there “There was destruction for the volunteer department, helping everywhere. We’d offer to help people them raise money to buy equipment and they’d say, ‘We’re good, but our and buildings they use daily. neighbor needs a hand,’” said Lucas “We wanted people to know we Firefighter Victor Jones. “It wasn’t were there for them, no matter what. ‘me, me, me,’ it was all about helping Lucas helped make that happen,” he others.” said. The tiny town’s 20 volunteer Surrounding towns responded firefighters had that same “everyone the same way. A quick drive north else first” spirit. puts you in Rockport, Texas, another “Their homes were damaged or Gulf Coast town nearly made nothing destroyed but they refused to work but a memory by the hurricane. on them,” said Lucas Fire Fighter “The people in both towns were Jason Bender. so incredibly giving. We’d eat at this

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great barbecue place in Rockport and they’d never let us pay, no matter how many of us were there,” said Lucas Firefighter Jones. “They had an RV park behind the restaurant and they let us use their showers and made sure we were fed. They even offered to do our laundry for 50 cents a load,” said Fire Fighter Bender. The Meinhausen family owns Stevie Lew BBQ, Rockport Coffee Roasting Company and a small RV park on the same property. “When it got too woolly, I pulled my family out, we left town—my wife and my four kids, ages 14 through 20,” said Stevie Meinhausen. “When Harvey finally died down, we saw news reports saying everything had been destroyed.” They traveled back expecting to find wreckage where businesses had been. “We pulled up and were speechless,” Stevie said. “The restaurant and coffee roasting company didn’t have a scratch—not a thing wrong,” he said. High winds had pushed RVs around, but for the most part, the RV park was okay. “My kids have a dynamic relationship with the Lord, so they went into a room and prayed,” he said. “When they came out they told me, ‘Dad, God spared us, we need to serve others, to help everyone else in any way we can.’” So, using their food stock, as well as massive amounts of donations from the community, Stevie Lews BBQ served more than 12,000 meals— gratis—and fed anyone who needed to eat, expecting nothing in return. “That degree of kindness had a deep effect on us,” Victor Jones said. Lucas, in turn, had a tremendous effect on those towns. “They’re a stellar bunch of people that we loved to tears. They took care of our community when the Fulton Fire Department was exhausted,” Stevie Meinhausen said. It was far more than Lucas

firefighters taking chainsaws to towering trees felled by Hurricane Harvey. More than going house to house to be sure every person was accounted for. Their higher purpose may have been simply to be there. “A lot of people wanted to tell their stories,” said Captain Haynes. “One man invited us in to look at a collection of fire trucks he’d carved. He just wanted to talk. Another lost everything—had nothing but a water cooler left. He offered us the water inside it and asked to talk awhile.” Survival stories abounded. One man told Lucas firefighters how he sat on his friend’s couch and they watched the hurricane roll in. He felt he’d lived life to the fullest and if it was his time to go, it was his time to go. The Lucas crew said it apparently wasn’t his time yet. Fulton rescue crews spent plenty of time chatting with Lucas’ team too. “Our families were gone, we had no one to talk to. At the end of a shift we’d head to the station and the Lucas firefighters became our sounding boards, our families. They understood. They kept our morale up,” Chief McLester said.

People in Lucas have long known what great folks they’ve got in their fire department, whether they’re answering emergency calls or offering a shoulder to cry on when someone responds to the bright pink shirts they sometimes wear to support breast cancer awareness. Now a town four hundred miles away knows it too. “It takes quite a group of

courageous men give up part of their lives, pack up and go somewhere where there may be nothing—no food, no beds, only problems,” said Mayor Kendrick. “They’re the cream of the crop and you’re lucky to have them, you’re very lucky to have them.” v Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen.

Allen Image | October 2017

KIDS KORNER

Super Winter Science by Deborah DOVE

Explore

The Heard Museum

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, 214.428.5555 or www.perotmuseum.org There’s never a dull moment at the Perot, with eleven permanent exhibit halls to explore that include an interactive children’s museum, sports hall (testing your speed against various creatures is a kid favorite), discovering life hall, being human hall, engineering and innovation, dynamic earth hall, energy, gems and minerals, expanding universe, life then and now hall and a bird hall. There’s also a 3D movie theater and the cool external escalator. Through May 6, the Perot hosts a special interactive exhibit—the Journey Through Space—where you’ll experience the sights, sounds, and smells on board an orbiting space station, and find out firsthand what it takes to be an astronaut working in the hostile environment of space.

Sci-Tech Discovery Center

8004 N. Dallas Pkwy, Frisco, 972.546.3050 or www. mindstretchingfun.org This small interactive museum is perfect for younger science explorers. Permanent exhibits include bodies in balance, Nano science, coordination station, and other assorted exhibits such as a widget wall, bubble station, weather station, Lego tracks and a preschool station. The museum’s current special exhibit— sportsology—feature interactive exhibits exploring the science behind sports, including testing your pitching speed and wheelchair racers.

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

1600 Gendy St., Fort Worth, 817.255.9300 or http://www. fwmuseum.org This science museum is worth the drive! There are exhibits galore including energy blast, a cattle raiser’s museum, a 9/11 tribute, a DinoDig, a great children’s museum for preschoolers and special exhibits such as Curious George (through January 14) and a guitar exhibit opening in February. There’s also an IMAX dome theater with a variety of shows, and a planetarium.

UTA Planetarium at University of Texas at Arlington 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington, 817.272.1183 or www.uta.edu/ planetarium One of the three largest planetariums in the state of Texas, UTA’s planetarium provides its visitors views of a realistic night sky, the Solar System, stars and distance galaxies complemented with Dolby surround sound. Shows include a live night sky tour, presentation of the Solar System and other point-of-interest objects, and trending Astronomy topics, followed by a Q&A and a pre-recorded program. Show options include Astronaut; One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Big Adventure; Pink Floyd; Secret of the Cardboard Rocket; Spacepark 360 (a full dome show with amusement park rides); and Stars of the Pharaohs.

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1 Nature Place, McKinney, 972.562.5566 or www.heardmuseum.org While a good part of the Heard Museum is outdoors (the trails, Dinosaur Live!, butterfly garden, and the live animal exhibits), the indoor museum offers a wealth of hands-on science in a small, easyto-manage environment. See the bones of the Mosasaur (often called the T-Rex of the ocean), view the vast collection of shells and explore the Living Lab, complete with specimens to manipulate, measure and observe. Three dioramas provide a glimpse into the major ecosystems found at The Heard. Seasonal features include a working observation beehive and native fish.

Create

Kinetic Sand 1 c. sand 1/2 Tbs. cornstarch 1 tsp. dish soap water Food coloring In a bowl, mix fine sand and cornstarch together. Add dish soap and water, and combine thoroughly until well mixed. Add food coloring. Let dry for 1-2 hours before playing.

Make A Bouncy Ball 1/2 c. Warm Water 1 Tbs. Borax 1 Tbs. of Cornstarch 2 Tbs. White Liquid Glue Food coloring Mix the warm water and the borax in a cup. In another cup, mix the glue, cornstarch, and food coloring. Pour the glue mixture into the water-borax cup. The glue mixture will harden after 10 seconds; use a fork to take it out of the water. If the glue mixture is still sticky, squish it with your hands and dip it back in the water. Roll the mixture in your hands to make a ball. The more you handle the mixture the firmer it will become.

Make Your Own Rock Crystal Candy A wooden skewer or clean wooden chopstick A clothespin 1 c. of water 2-3 c. of sugar Food coloring A tall narrow glass or jar Clip the middle of the wooden skewer with the clothespin so that it hangs down inside the glass and is supported by the clothespin, and is about 1 inch from the bottom of the glass. Remove and set aside. Bring the water to a boil (adult job). Pour 1/4 cup of sugar into the water and stir until it dissolves. Continue adding sugar a little at a time, stirring after each addition, until no more will dissolve. Add food coloring (more is better). Remove from heat and cool for 20 minutes. Pour the sugar solution into the jar, almost to the top (adult job). Submerge the skewer, making sure it doesn’t touch the sides. Leave in an undisturbed place and wait for the sugar crystals to form (about 3-7 days). v

EDUCATION

Tiny Symbol of Hope Undergraduate Research Propels Student into Science

Lydia Flores

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by Heather DARROW

he background image on Lydia Flores’ phone is a symbol of hope. It has a large head and a short, contracting tail, and it kills bacteria. The treasured photo is a bacteriophage virus, which Flores hopes may one day play a role in the cure for tuberculosis. She and two classmates discovered the bacteriophage, and she named it “NoodleTree” because they found it under a “tree” at Collin College where she grows her brain or “noodle.” They may be microscopic, but bacteriophages pack a powerful punch. In a world of superbugs, which are resistant to traditional antibiotics, phage therapy can be the difference between life and death. NoodleTree has already made an impact in Flores’ life by leading her step by step into the exciting world of science.

“It’s one thing to learn about what other people have done, but discovering something on your own is really a cool experience,” Flores said. “NoodleTree’s capsid, or head, is where the DNA is stored. Its short tail attaches to bacteria, and it contracts and pumps its DNA into the bacteria. The phage DNA takes over the bacteria to produce more viruses, and that is how the cycle keeps going,” she explains.

Hands-on Experimentation Flores was planning to earn a psychology degree when she opted to take a biotechnology class for her required biology credit. Scarred from just scraping by in high school science, Flores had no interest in pursuing a biology degree before discovering NoodleTree. Today, however, she plans to earn her associate degree, a bachelor’s in

biology with a chemistry minor, and she hopes to study phages and virology in graduate school. Flores’ discovery is part of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science Education Alliance Phage Hunters Advancing Genomic and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) project. Students are not the only ones that are excited about this endeavor. Collin College Professors Donna Cain, Bridgette Kirkpatrick, Jonathan Lawson and Carole Twichell discovered their own phages and worked with students on the phage project in microbiology and biotechnology classes and as part of the college’s Center for the Advanced Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences undergraduate research program. “In response to the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s Vision and Change in Undergraduate Biology Education Chronicling Change, Inspiring the

BioTech students

Allen Image | October 2017

The Third Time’s a Charm

BioTech professors

Future report, we are developing teaching technologies and strategies to engage students at Collin College,” said Kirkpatrick, who named her phage Bonstermonster after her horse, Bonnie. According to Lawson, tuberculosis kills more people than any other infectious disease. “One SEA-PHAGES program goal is to better understand viral evolution by sequencing the genomes

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of students’ phages. Having students analyze the genes and predict protein functions allows them to contribute to these important steps within this massive scientific study. The success of this program demonstrates the need to adopt this approach for all Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) labs,” said Lawson, who named his phage Phannahbanana after his daughter, Hannah.

The phage discovery process was not easy for Flores and her team. On two separate occasions, they dug up soil samples, diluted them, filtered out the bacteria and plated the samples, hoping to see the Swisscheese design of success on their petri dishes. “They look like Swiss cheese holes when the phage is killing the bacteria,” Flores said. Flores and her team selected their final soil sample from a tree that had been freshly mulched and finally hit pay dirt. Looking back, she remembers the moment she began to envision herself as a scientist. “We used a spectrometer to test absorbance, and if the concentration is not high enough you have to do it again. It got to the point that I didn’t have to look at the protocols anymore. I was sure of myself.” Flores was hooked. “I fell in love with research. I thought, ‘this doesn’t have to stop. It is not just a once in a lifetime process.’ I switched to biology because I enjoyed it so much.” Flores took the next biotechnology class so she could learn more about NoodleTree. She used software and databases to discover the phage’s genes and probable gene functions. She submitted this information to The Actinobacteriophage Database for other researchers to use. During the annotation process, Flores learned that her phage has novel genes that code for toxin and antitoxin which typically only show up in bacteria. She wrote a phage announcement which her professors will submit for publishing. Flores also had the opportunity to present her poster at the SEA symposium in Washington D.C. “My boyfriend told me he was

proud of me, but he didn’t understand what I was doing. Being able to talk to other students, just like me, about the research and what worked for them was great,” she said. Flores met Dr. Lee Hughes at the symposium. He invited her to visit his bacteriophage lab at the University of North Texas (UNT). Today, Flores is taking classes at Collin College and UNT and performing experiments in Dr. Hughes’ lab. “I plan to annotate the phages they found and sequenced. I know how to do that because of Collin College. I am ahead of the curve on that. I wouldn’t have had that opportunity at all if I hadn’t done it at Collin first. I am really glad I came to Collin. They care as much about education as you do, and you save so much money. My books cost more than my tuition at Collin,” she said. One tiny virus changed Flores’ career trajectory. “It is special to me because it is mine, and it is a symbol of what this research could accomplish. It is almost like NoodleTree is my child. I discovered it and am now sending it out into the world to help in the tuberculosis efforts. You really can help change the world if you try hard enough.” For more information about classes at Collin College visit https://www.collin.edu. Heather Darrow is a public relations writer at Collin College. Photos by Nick Young, Collin College photographer.

Allen Image | October 2017

Allen Eagle Run Races Into 10th Anniversary by David HICKS The Allen Eagle Run will celebrate its 10th anniversary when runners line up for the starting gun on Saturday, March 3, at Eagle Stadium. “It’s hard to believe this is the 10th year of this fantastic family event,” said race organizer Julie Gaines. “When we started, we had a few hundred runners and now the race has grown with thousands of participants. We couldn’t be more excited for the 2018 race.” As with previous years, the event features a 1-mile Fun Run and a certified 5K Run. Hosted by the Foundation For Allen Schools and the Allen Council of PTAs, the event is expected to draw more than 3,800 runners in 2018. “It’s been very gratifying to see the enthusiasm for the Eagle Run

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build over the last ten years,” said Foundation Director Regina Taylor. “Besides the participants, we have hundreds of volunteers, sponsors and spectators that make the event one of the most fun, exciting and successful runs in the area.” The start/finish line and all other activities will take place outside Eagle Stadium in the East parking lot. Designed for families and serious runners alike, the Allen Eagle Run also includes an activity area with merchant booths offering food and drink samples, games, prizes, photo opportunities and giveaways. The title sponsor is Park Place Lexus, Plano. Visit www.AllenEagleRun.org to register for the race, which is only $20 per runner. The price will increase to $25 on February 10, so be sure to register now.

Proceeds from the Allen Eagle Run directly benefit Allen teachers and students in various ways. Run proceeds fund multiple scholarships for AHS seniors and support the district’s Teacher Tuition Reimbursement Program for staff working on graduate degrees or special certifications. The Run also helps fund the Foundation’s Educational Grant program. These classroom grants allow teachers to bring extra resources and innovative learning experiences into their classrooms. To find out more about the Foundation For Allen Schools, visit www.AISDfoundation.org and www. facebook.com/AISDfoundation. v David Hicks is the Director of Communications for Allen ISD.

Allen Pediatric Dentistry Jessie Hunter, DDS • Karen Coe, DDS 201 North Alma Drive, Suite 100 • Allen • 972.727.0737 • www.allenpediatricdentistry.com Allen Pediatric Dentistry is proud to serve the children and families of Allen, Plano, Frisco and the surrounding areas. Our dentists are committed to providing a kid-friendly atmosphere that makes all of our patients feel welcome and excited about visiting the dentist! Making sure your children visit the dentist consistently is important to ensure they have a happy and healthy smile for their entire lives. Our dental services for kids encompass everything necessary from regular cleanings and preventative care to restorations and emergency care. We specialize in sedation dentistry so our dental team is always available to tend to your child’s unique needs. Our doctors are board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. They are experts in the growth and development of the oral structures of infants, children and adolescents and are specially trained in behavior management and sedation techniques for apprehensive or special needs patients. Dr. Jessie Hunter was raised in Oklahoma, did her undergraduate studies at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater and received her dental degree from the University of Oklahoma Dental School. Jessie earned her Pediatric Certificate from Louisiana State University. She lives in Frisco with her husband, Brandon, and their three children. Dr. Karen Coe grew up in Venezuela and speaks fluent Spanish. She completed her Pediatric Dental residency program in Massachusetts with the Lutheran Medical Center of New York. She lives in McKinney with her husband, Josh, and their two daughters. “Our office is committed to making every visit a fun and positive, yet educational, visit for the children.” The office provides its young patients plenty of fun with a video arcade for their enjoyment before and after their appointment. The doctors and staff provide the highest quality of dentistry through continuing education on new procedures, products and equipment.

Maryam Mojdehi-Barnes, DDS, MS

604 S. Watters Road • Suite 150 • Allen • 972.390.1100 • www.AllenOrthodontist.com Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes and her team have been specializing in creating healthy and beautiful smiles for patients of all ages since 1999. They provide their patients and their families with the highest quality of orthodontic treatment in a friendly and professional environment. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes uses the latest technologies and involves other specialists, as needed, to customize unique treatment plans that address each patient’s specific needs. They focus on patient education and personalized care while emphasizing comprehensive, preventative and interceptive therapy. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes received her bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Texas A&M University with summa cum laude honors. She was the valedictorian of her dental class at Baylor College of Dentistry and went on to complete her orthodontic residency and master’s degree at the world-renowned program of Baylor with top honors. She is also certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes is active in her community and numerous national and local organizations.

Bethany Heights Dental

1208 E. Bethany Drive, Suite 7 • Allen • 972.390.8500 • www.bethanyheights.com Dr. Carla Spann earned her Dental degree from the Texas A & M College of Dentistry in Dallas. Before attending dental school, she graduated from Duke University in 1992 with a Bachelor in Electrical Engineering. She has completed numerous continuing education courses and incorporates all aspects of patients’ oral health, nutrition and medical systemic conditions in her practice philosophy. With a compassionate and conservative approach to dentistry, she believes that patient education is paramount to success in resolving and preventing oral health issues. She is particularly skilled in helping fearful patients relax during their dental care and is certified to provide sedation for these patients when necessary. She is a longtime Allen resident. Her children attend Lucas Christian Academy and the family worships at One Community Church in Plano.

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Ross J. Miller, DDS, PA 915B W. Exchange Pkwy., Suite 200 • Allen 972.727.1200 • www.2thboy.com Delivering reasonable, rational dentistry to the northern suburbs for 28 years, Ross Miller has found his niche: patients who are swayed not by gimmicks or coupons, but by a desire for an honest assessment of their dental needs. Let’s face it, most dentists have the tools to communicate with a patient using intraoral cameras and digital x-rays, but not all dentists take the time to use these tools effectively. Dr. Miller and his staff pride themselves on listening to patients and not rushing them through a process designed to extract as much cash as possible. If treatment is required, we approach the problem with a combination of technology, compassion and conservatism. Taking time and moving slowly in the immediate patient environment keeps us from being the fastest operators in town, but makes for a much less stressful experience for all. Cerec CAD/CAM restorations can be fabricated on site, cutting down time and visits, and TV monitors in every room help to pass the time during treatment. Dr. Miller is a lifelong resident of the Dallas area. Having grown up in Richardson, he graduated from JJ Pearce High School, Texas A&M University and Baylor College of Dentistry. He opened his practice in Plano in 1989 and moved it to Allen in 2007. Please visit our website at www.2thboy.com to learn more. Also check us out on Facebook!

Vision Source Fairview

1546 E. Stacy Road, Suite100 • Allen • 214.383.5400 • www.visionsource-fairview.com Dr. Carey Patrick and Dr. Paul Sietmann, Board Certified Therapeutic Optometrists & Optometric Glaucoma Specialists are the best combination of training, knowledge and skill. They use state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to provide Complete Eye Health Examinations, Vision Assessments, Pediatric Vision Evaluations, Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Injuries, Eye Diseases, Allergies, Dry Eye, Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, LASIK and cosmetic eye surgery consultations. Eyes are the most complex organ in your body after your brain. Caring for eye health requires individual attention. Drs. Patrick & Sietmann take time to listen and address each of your needs. We prescribe many types of specialty and regular contact lenses. Easy online reorders, plus convenient direct home shipping available. We offer a wide selection of eyeglasses to fit every family’s budget. Open Monday-Saturday. Schedule by calling, visiting our website or Facebook page http://www. facebook.com/visionsourcefairview. We accept medical insurance and most vision plans.

Allen Dental Center, PC 300 West Boyd • Allen • 972.727.3941 • www.allendentist.com Allen Dental Center is a family and cosmetic dental practice that offers state-of-the-art dental services. Patients enjoy receiving regular check-ups with as much quality and care as crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, root canals or cosmetic dentistry services. Whether it is a smile makeover or restorative work, we offer sedation dentistry for those apprehensive about dental treatment. Bringing over 65 years of combined experience to Allen, Dr. Jeff Williams, Dr. Steve Williams and Dr. Brad Wyatt provide a special brand of quality care. “The people who come to see me are more than just patients,” says Dr. Jeff Williams. “For me, practicing dentistry has always been about connecting with the patient,” adds Dr. Steve Williams. Allen Dental Center strives to consistently provide a superior level of treatment and comfort with state-of-the-art dental products and services at affordable prices. Call for an appointment today and see how Allen Dental Center is helping to make Allen more beautiful, one smile at a time. Allen Image | January 2016

Allen Ophthalmology 400 N. Allen Drive, Suite 108 • Allen • 972.727.7477 • www.heritageeyecenter.com Heritage Eye Center • 1501 N. Redbud Blvd. • McKinney • 972.548.0771  Allen’s premier ophthalmology center is in the expert hands of Dr. James Norbury who provides state-of-the-art treatment while maintaining the personalized service of a small town practice. An avid hockey fan, Dr. Norbury was recently selected to be the team ophthalmologist for the Allen Americans, caring for team players and attending to any game injuries. By partnering with his associates at Heritage Eye and Surgery Center—Drs. Rudolf Churner, Sanjay Patel, Joe Constable, Grant Gilliland (oculoplastics), Henry Choi (retina) and Santosh Patel (retina)—he can ensure quality care in all facets of eye care. For patients who require surgery, the Heritage Surgery Center team specializes in the treatment of cataracts offering Crystalens and ReSTOR lens implants, as well as LASIK, laser treatments for a variety of eye conditions and oculoplastic surgery. For the best sight of your life, make an appointment with Dr. Norbury.

Twin Creeks Dentistry 906 W. McDermott Drive, Suite 112 • Allen • 877.902.8946 • twincreeksdentistry.com Twin Creeks Dentistry is your hometown cozy family dental practice headed by Dr. Sangita Chandran and Dr. Audrey Miles. Their friendly team is dedicated to deliver personalized care at a relaxed pace. Services offered are preventive, cosmetic, crowns, root canals, extractions, dentures, implants, Invisalign and second opinions. In addition, Dr. Chandran also offers cost effective myofunctional treatment options to children 5-15 years of age for optimal jaw development and retraining of poor muscle habits. She also offers advanced technology for custom dental devices for snoring and sleep apnea.

Craig Ranch OB-GYN

7900 Henneman Way, Suite 100 • McKinney • 214.544.6600 • www.craigranchobgyn.com Conveniently located off of the Sam Rayburn Tollway between Alma and Custer, Craig Ranch OB-GYN provides OB-GYN services to the north Collin County area including Frisco, Plano, Allen and McKinney. We offer complete obstetrical care with management of both high-risk and low-risk pregnancies with deliveries at Baylor Medical Center of McKinney and Centennial. Midwife services are also available. We are one of the leaders in all of Texas for in-office procedures such as endometrial ablation and Essure for permanent sterilization. For the convenience of our patients, we offer in-office mammograms and are excited to be adding 3D mammography in 2018, making us the first and only OB-GYN group in the area to do this. Please call for a consultation.

Creekview Orthodontics

1780 W. McDermott Drive, Suite 100 • Allen • 214.547.0001 At Creekview Orthodontics, Dr. Jay Ghosh, Dr. Trent Lofgren and their team strongly believe in preventive care with a conservative treatment philosophy. In addition to practice experience, both doctors have taught orthodontics at the university level—Dr. Ghosh full-time for many years. While creating beautiful smiles is their goal for each patient, the most satisfying part of orthodontics is the relationships created with patients and their families. Orthodontics provides beautiful smiles that improve self-esteem while contributing to overall health. Other benefits include better function, ease of cleaning and greater longevity of teeth. Since newer materials—like tooth-colored “invisible” braces and special alloyed wires—have made treatment more cosmetically appealing and comfortable and have shortened treatment time, more adults are accepting orthodontic treatment as well.

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FOR YOUR HEALTH

Allen Image | October 2017

HEALTH & FITNESS

Slowing the aging process by Dr. Jane PERRY

True or false: aches, pains, slow reflexes and reduced mobility are all part of the aging process. There’s nothing anyone can do to change the inevitable. False! If you answered “true,” don’t feel bad. In the majority of the world’s cultures, aging is viewed as a time of degradation—both physical and mental. This belief has become ingrained in our collective minds and shaped our negative attitudes about aging. But, you can fight back the years and not age gracefully with a chiropractic lifestyle—focusing on spinal health, stress reduction, nutrition and disease prevention.

Get Adjusted Regular chiropractic adjustments are vital to spinal health. When the

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bones (vertebrae) of the spine become misaligned, a condition known as vertebral subluxation can occur. Results include the aches and pains traditionally associated with the aging process. Vertebral subluxations are also linked with a myriad of other health concerns, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, backaches and ear infections. These subluxations are corrected with safe and gentle maneuvers called chiropractic adjustments.

Lose Weight Losing weight is one of the best ways to beat the clock. A latebreaking study, conducted in Japan, indicated that dietary restrictions late in life are a classic example of “better late than never.” The study indicated

that dietary restrictions can be beneficial in retarding age-related functional decline.

Savor Salmon Reducing calories is just part of the story, you need the right kind of calories. Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon make this delicious fish the wonder food of Neptune’s lair. Omega-3 is linked to supple skin, reduction of wrinkles and improved cholesterol levels. In addition, omega3 wards off obesity, breast and colon cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Clinical trials also reveal that omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduce the risk of cardiac arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death, along with modest reduction of atherosclerotic plaque formation and hypertension.

are one of several factors that make coffee so addictive and make kicking a coffee habit so nerve wracking. In contrast, tea, especially the green variety, is a powerful antioxident, working to keep the body disease-free and the skin smooth and youthful.

Stop Stressing

Embrace Exercise Resistance exercise, such as walking uphill and weight training, increase metabolism and slow the decline of bone density and muscle mass, both of which lead to osteoporosis.

Trade Coffee for Tea Tea, specifically the caffeine-free herbal and green varieties, brews up a wealth of healthy benefits. Coffee, on the other hand, taxes the kidneys and has few redeeming health qualities. Coffee promotes changes in blood flow associated with several types of headaches such as migraines and tension headaches. According to scientific studies, coffee boosts blood flow by dilating the arteries that supply the brain. These arteries become accustomed to caffeineinduced fluctuations and adjust for them, in advance, by contracting and restricting blood flow. When a regular coffee drinker skips his or her daily caffeine fix, the arteries continue to adjust for the expected caffeine rush, restrict blood flow and trigger a headache. This phenomenon is known as a “drugrebound headache” (the drug is caffeine). Drug-rebound headaches

Nurturing your spiritual side is a powerful stress-reduction strategy, which inhibits the aging process. A growing body of research reveals that spiritual endeavors ward off many of the diseases common in elderly individuals. Worry lines were named for their root cause—worry. No worries, no lines. All of the face creams in the world won’t do a bit of good if you consistently “sweat the small stuff.” Meditation, prayer, yoga and silent reflection can calm even the most stressed-out soul. Finding the time to pursue stress relievers isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. The more hectic your lifestyle, the more difficult it may be to find a few quiet moments alone. But, likewise, the more hectic your lifestyle, the more you must find and set aside that time.

Go Nuts Okays, so eating walnuts won’t make you look like a fashionmagazine cover model, but it can keep your heart young. In the May 2002 issue of the Journal of Nutrition, researchers report that the consumption of walnuts lowers cholesterol. Investigators analyzed five controlled, peer-reviewed trials involving approximately 200 subjects. The experiments found that walnuts lower blood concentrations of lipids associated with heart disease.

Value Vitamins If you are like most people, meals are often eaten “on the run.” When

that happens, nutrition is sacrificed. In older people, the result is a lack of the nutrients associated with longevity. Nutritional supplementation strategies can reduce this risk and reverse some of the immune dysfunction associated with advanced age. Talk with your doctor before purchasing vitamins. Some vitamins, consumed in excess, may be toxic.

Consult Your Chiropractor Aging is inevitable. Aging poorly isn’t. Your chiropractor will help you establish a lifestyle plan that includes strategies for healthy aging. The saying, “beauty is on the inside,” is correct. If you’re healthy on the inside it will show on the outside. Start by choosing the right foods, exercising and reducing stress. And, most importantly, schedule an appointment with your chiropractor. After all, if the spine isn’t healthy, the rest of the body will suffer proportionately. v Jane Perry, D.C., is a chiropractor at Allen Chiropractic in Allen. Allen Image | October 2017

How to Deal with Stubbornness in a Child

by Jennifer Slingerland-RYAN Stubbornness is a common complaint from parents, especially those with children either in middle or high school. For these parents, it may seem like the defiance they face from their children is designed simply to push their buttons. This can lead to a shut-down in communication, which only worsens the issue. How can parents with stubborn children deal with their oppositional behavior? What are some ways to keep that opposition from becoming a problem in school? How does dealing with that youthful stubbornness affect their development as an adult? You might be able to get a few pointers from a classic short story by renowned author Dr. Seuss.

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The Story of The Zax The fictitious tale of The Zax focuses on two unrepentantly stubborn creatures—a north-going Zax and a south-going Zax—that collide and both refuse to move a single step sideways to allow the other to pass. They even go as far as swearing to remain unmoved indefinitely even if their inflexibility makes “the whole world stand still.” Of course, not even a character from the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss can make the world stand still. Eventually, the seasons change and the open desert area around the two creatures becomes a bustling city with a road built directly over their heads.

Life moves on without them, because they refuse to move on with it. Without communication, life can and will move on without you. This is true of our familial relationships, marriages, careers and nearly every other aspect of our lives. The rest of the world will not refuse to participate simply because we do. How often are we stubborn in our own lives? While it’s important to teach our children to respect authority, it’s equally important that we give them—and other adults—our ear during arguments and provide a path for that communication. Otherwise, we’ll soon have a figurative Zax bypass built directly over our own heads!

Real World Impact The effect of unaddressed stubbornness is greater than what we see in the classroom and playground of childhood. While many parents may worry that their stubborn child won’t make friends in school or perform poorly at work, current events tell us that there can be even more dangerous drawbacks to refusing open communication with others. The “traditions and history” upon which many people base their views of the world can be hurtful and offensive to others. There is no way to empathize with the feelings of others without being willing to take a single step sideways in favor of other viewpoints and beliefs. This type of stubbornness usually begins in childhood, but there are many opportunities to address it throughout life. Ultimately, the most important factor in overcoming a lack of communication is making the effort to do so. When you are willing to take a step to one side for your child, spouse or family member, you prove to them that you are ready to compromise and come up with a resolution together. Don’t let yourself or your loved one become a Zax. Open the door to communication and take the first steps through it. v Jennifer Slingerland Ryan, M.Ed., LPC-S is the founder and director of I Choose Change in Allen. Allen Image | October 2017

PET PAGE

“Serenity” Serenity is a 6-to 8-year-old, 11-pound schnauzer/yorkie mix who was found as a stray in the woods close to Commerce, Texas, following three very cold nights. Who knows how long she had been out in the elements. She was cold, hungry, flea infested and covered in wood chips and burrs. Serenity was picked up by ACO and taken to the shelter. As days passed it was discovered that Serenity is blind and partially deaf. She will need a very special family.

Serenity is working on getting to know her foster family’s home. She loves to go on walks, and she is crate trained and house trained. She will bark when she is hungry, thirsty or needs to potty. She is very smart. Serenity has a great “sniffer” and can find her food bowl without much difficulty. Her adoption fee includes her spay, vaccines and microchip. If you would like to meet this sweet gentle soul, please fill out an application online at http://legacyhumanesociety.org/ adoptfoster/adoption-application/.

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