Allen, TX October 2022

LI F E + C U LTU R E

FIRE SAFET Y M O NTH CAN CER AWAREN ESS M O NTH H O M ETOWN H ERO ES O C TO B E R 2 022

Let Us Bring Your Vision To Life

Social & Corporate Meetings & Events 972.332.5284 · www.accasiaevents.com info@accasiaevents.com 351 Southwind Lane Fairview, Texas 75069

2

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Food for Thought

October 2022 PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Katelyn Reed | katelyn.reed@citylifestyle.com

Hey Foodies—I hope you're hungry!

October is our tastiest issue of the year, chock-full of the most delectable dishes, clink-worthy cocktails, and lively local spots that Allen and Fairview have to offer. The photos alone are enough to have you licking your chops or toasting with your favorite drink! Food brings us all together, and we couldn't be luckier when it comes to the dining choices in our area.

From farm-to-table options to incredible international cuisine, Allen and Fairview have it all!

October is also Pediatric and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We are honored to feature great stories of local community members who have selflessly served to help ensure the health and safety of others, along with details on how citizens can get involved in their efforts. We also have a special spotlight with our debut First Responder of the Month feature!

This issue is sure to fill your belly and warm your heart. As always, thank you for reading and I will see you around town.

STAFF PHOTOGR APHER S

Rebekah Ussery, Amy Wales STAFF WR ITER S

Alisa Hauser, Katelyn Reed AD DESIGNER

Chad Jensen LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Ambitious Kitchen CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Jill Hernandez, Duke Morse

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @ALLENCIT YLIFEST YLE

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/ALLENT X |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Allen City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Allen area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Allen City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

4

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Thank you to all of my Founding Partners.

Angi Burns City Lifestyle Allen, Publisher

Accasia’s Event Venue accasiaevents.com Allen Dental Center allendentist.com Angela Tucker, Coldwell Banker Apex, Realtors atucker.cbapex.com

Kelly Pearson Realty Group luxepremierrealtygroup.com Memro Music memromusic.com Optavia Health Coach, Kathy Todryk coach.optavia.com/todryk

The Dinosaur Company billingsproductions.com

Palmer Law Group softdivorce.com

Blue Orchid Aesthetics & Wellness Spa blueorchidaesthetics.com

Phillips Home Improvements phillipshomeimprovements.com

Cyclebar Allen cyclebar.com/location/allen Credit Union of Texas Event Center cutxeventcenter.com Fairview EyeCare, P.A. fairvieweye.com Griffin Jewelry griffinjewelry.com Melissa Miller Insurance Agency agents.farmers.com/tx/allen/ melissa-miller

ProNail Roofing & Solar pronailroofing.com RaChic Boutique rachicboutique.com Stretch Zone Allen stretchzone.com/locations/allen The Franchise Consulting Company, Rudy Frederico thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com

O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Food & Drink Issue

18

16

32

14

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Forty Years Fighting Fires

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

12

Local Experiences

14

Our Town

16

Giving Back

18

Local’s Choice

22

Locals Only

24

Hometown Hero

26

Culinary Creations

28

Events

30

Realty Report

32

Education Corner

Dee Miller Reflects on His Time With the Allen Fire Department

16 Damn Cancer!

R'Achelle Phillips Has an Expletive to Give

18 Y'all Had Me at Brunch

The Mixha Family Serves Up Fresh Food with Flair

32 Gearing Up for Fire Safety Month

Allen Fire Department Offers Free Educational Courses to Community

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Duke Morse Photography Advertising | Fashion | Beauty | Food | Product | Editorial | Headshot | Portraiture | Seniors | Weddings | Events Dukemorse.com, Duke@Dukemorse.com, 214-901-6907

6

LI FE + C U LT U R E HEA LT H + WELL N E SS FO O D + B EV E R AG E

FO O D + B EV ER AG E LI FE + C U LTU R E FO O D + B E V E R AG E

R EA L ESTAT E EDU CAT ION

Piano/Voice Lessons and Performance

Join with Fairview EyeCare in the

World Sight Day Challenge!

World Sight Day is Thursday, October 13, 2022

Help Yourself + Help Others Do something good for your health by getting your eyes checked – PLUS, all eye exam fees collected on this date will be paid forward to bring the gift of sight to another person.

(214) 383-5400 | FairviewEye.com 1546 E. Stacy Rd., Allen, TX 75002

IF YOU A RE RE A DING TH IS . . .

S O IS YOU R BE ST C L IE N T.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH ALLEN CITY LIFESTYLE™

L E A R N M O R E AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / A L L E N T X

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

7

O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1

4

6

ALLEN FAIRVIEW CHAMBER ALLEN FAIRVIEW CHAMBER

2

ALLEN CONTEMPORARY THEATRE

5 ALLEN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

7 3

ACADEMY OF DANCE ARTS

ALLEN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

LOVEJOY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

1: Past Chamber Chairs in attendance at Allen Fairview Chamber's 40th Anniversary Celebration 2: GASP and Better Bodies meet-up at Destination to celebrate 40 years 3: Nutcracker auditions were held at Academy of Dance Arts, home of the Dallas Repertoire Ballet 4: Allen Contemporary Theatre's critically acclaimed hit, Light Up the Sky, directed by Carol Rice 5: Friday Night Lights have begun and the student section was full of energy and spirit 6: The Allen Eagles kick off another great season 7: Students and parents celebrated their seniors' last first day at Lovejoy High School

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @allencitylifestyle

8

C I T Y SC E N E

O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Custom Cake Studio specializing in designing award-winning wedding cakes and fabulous party cakes for every occasion!

Udele Pandya

Owner/Passionate Cake Artist

Follow us on social media!

Allen Fairview Chamber Celebrates 40 Years The Allen Fairview Chamber celebrated 40 years in August.

The Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit association that strives to be an indispensable resource for area businesses. "The Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce has had a tremendous, positive impact on my business and personal development. For me, the connections that I have made with other members are invaluable and made Chamber Membership a no-brainer. I cannot encourage it enough!" – Mark Friedman, FriedoNation Productions Photography by Star Local Media - Allen American

B Sweet Art Custom Cake Studio V sweet_art_bakery

Located inside the McKinney Flour Mill

407 East Louisiana Street, Suite 104, McKinney, TX 75069 469-563-9471 | www.sweetartbakery.com 10

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/AllenTX

Medical City McKinney, 5-Star Recipient in the 2022 Ob-Gyn Awards Medical City McKinney is a 5-star recipient in the 2022 OB-Gyn awards

by Healthgrades, a leading resource that connects consumers, physicians, and health systems. The 5-star rating indicates that Medical City McKinney’s clinical outcomes are statistically significantly better than expected and places Medical City McKinney among the national leaders in labor and delivery. In 2023, Medical City McKinney will begin a multi-phase expansion project to enhance women’s services.

Photography by Allen Fairview Chamber

Premier Martial Arts Ribbon Cutting Premier Martial Arts specializes in teaching children character development through the study of martial arts. Their unique curriculum combines the styles of Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Krav Maga, and Kickboxing to develop students into well-rounded martial artists. Self-defense, fitness, and character development are the goals to better empower children to grow confidence in themselves, self-discipline, focus and concentration, and the perseverance to never give up when things become difficult.

Blue Orchid Aesthetics & Wellness Spa

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

11

O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Fall is here and we are ready for a foodie experience to usher in the new season. We are sharing some of the most unique spots around town with great atmosphere, seasonal menus, outdoor seating, and an elevated experience. Treat your taste buds this month and get out and experience what our area has to offer.

St ylish & Upscale Foodie Establishments R OMAN CUCINA: Family-run restaurant ready to host your next special event. Drop in for a cocktail at the bar and stay for dinner. 201 E. Bethany Drive #1, Allen, TX 75002 VINUM 5 5 : Vinum 55 is a membership experience crafted by wine lovers, for wine lovers. You’ll relish savoring wine among friends and enthusiasts alike.

13 Prestige Circle, Suite 140, Allen, TX 75002 MUTT'S CANTINA: Mutt's strives to foster a community of like-minded people that can come together and socialize with their pups and each other.

1070 Watters Creek Blvd., Allen, TX 75013 BEAUBEAUX'S BOUR BON & BISCUITS: Family Restaurant & Bar featuring biscuits as a primary menu option with a great selection of bourbon.

MIMOSAS & BRUNCH: BISCUIT SANDWICHES ALL DAY, EVERY DAY! 965 Garden Park Drive, Allen, TX 75013 LA SHISH: La Shish has all your favorite Greek dishes — from falafels to Baba Ghannouj. Enjoy a meal at our family-friendly restaurant or try our carry-out.

600 E. Main St. Allen, TX 75002

La Shish

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

12

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

Paint Dreams

Your home to the color of your

Services

Exterior Painting | Interior Painting Roofing | Gutters | Siding | Windows

Get 50% Off on select paints.

Call us and get a Free Estimate today!

Valid till September 30, 2022

(972) 867-9792

www.phillipshomeimprovements.com

Forty Years Fighting Fires

Dee Miller Reflects on His Time With the Allen Fire Department ARTICLE BY KATELYN REED | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY WALES

14

O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

In the late 1970s, Allen’s population was around 2,000. The old high school housed middle schoolers and high schoolers alike, and the scent of freshly baked brownies wafting through the halls lured hungry teens towards the home economics classroom. Dee Miller was one of them.

But brownies weren’t the only lure for Dee. When a buddy told him about the Teenage Auxiliary, a program that allowed teenagers to volunteer at one of the town’s two fire stations, Dee signed up.

He was all of 16.

At the time, the only paid employee was a parttime fire chief. Everyone else was strictly volunteer.

After graduation and a stint at Collin College, Dee joined the Allen Parks and Recreation department but continued as a volunteer firefighter.

When a notice went out that the fire department would be hiring its first paid firefighters in 1982, Dee was the second person hired. Dee makes it clear he would have been first, but was second only because “a good friend of mine, Captain Paul Duckworth (retired now), elbowed me out of the way to get into the chief’s office.”

Listening to Dee talk about his 40+ years with the Allen Fire Department, nearly every story includes some phrase like this. Dee doesn’t talk about coworkers or bosses. His stories are about a buddy.

A good friend. A brother. His crew. His family.

During Dee’s tenure, Allen’s population grew from a couple of thousand to well over 100,000. As it grew, so did the fire department. Three fire stations were added over the years. Dee worked at every single one.

Dee has dedicated his life to helping others. He’s delivered babies. Put out countless fires. Trained community members through the Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT). Saved more than a few lives.

When I ask him about a memory that stands out to him, I’m expecting an epic tale of a raging fire or something involving a kitten in a tree, but the story Dee tells me happened off the clock.

Taking his son to school one day, a man on a walk dropped dead outside the school. Dee started CPR and brought the man back; he saved his life. Telling the story, Dee mentions a surprising detail: “I was supposed to be working that day. So tell me someone didn’t bring me there.”

Dee’s full of stories. Everything from firehouse pranks involving shaving cream on phone receivers to delicious meals to the day his crew helped him propose to his wife, Melissa.

Reflecting on his time with the Allen Fire Department, Dee recalls all that he and his crew went through together: “You go through so many emotions when you work with a group of people for such a long time. You see the birth of children. You see the loss of parents. You see the loss of spouses.

Being there for them is what will stick with me.”

Dee retired in 2020, having served our community for 44 years. These days, he can be found at work with his wife, Melissa Miller, of Farmers Insurance. He may not have a hose in hand, but Dee’s still doing what he does best – helping others. He spends his days by Melissa’s side, promoting her agency and connecting with members of our community.

Dee’s love for Allen runs deep. He’s helped his neighbors in emergencies, and encourages everyone to “learn basic maintenance for your house – how to turn your water, electricity, and gas off.”

Dee remembers the days when everyone knew their neighbors, and hopes we can return to that level of connection with one another.

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

15

Damn Cancer jetsetters

Damn Cancer!

ARTICLE BY KATELYN REED | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY R'ACHELLE PHILLIPS

R'Achelle Phillips Has an Expletive to Give

R'Achelle amongst shoes donated to benefit Damn Cancer

16

G IV IN G BAC K | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

A young cancer patient suits up for his first flight

R’Achelle Phillips is no stranger to cancer. She’s lost friends and relatives to it. She’s fought it herself. Twice.

Her first fight began 24 years ago when she squared up against thyroid cancer. She defeated it soundly and won herself two decades of remission. But in 2018 she was diagnosed again, this time with HER2-positive breast cancer. 2019 brought R’Achelle five surgeries, six rounds of chemotherapy, and a year’s worth of herceptin to keep the HER2-positive cells from spreading.

It was in the hospital one day that R’Achelle realized she wanted to help others fighting alongside her: “I was 82 pounds and sick as a dog and had no hair and was walking the hallways. I met so many people that were hurting and didn’t have insurance and were just in tough spots. I was like, ‘Oh my gosh. I want to help people.’”

And that’s just what R’Achelle is doing.

Her organization, Damn Cancer, gets its name from her grandmother, a woman who fought cancer herself.

R’Achelle remembers her grandmother as someone who never cussed. She describes her as a woman who got up every day and said, “This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.” But in the midst of her fight against liver cancer – a fight she knew she wasn’t winning – R’Achelle’s grandmother let out a frustrated whisper under her breath: “Damn cancer.”

As R’Achelle puts it, “When I wanted to make something that was a legacy, I grabbed from Grandma to move forward.”

Moving forward for R’Achelle looks a lot like helping others in any way she can. Damn Cancer has allowed

families to go on one last vacation together, arranged for a boy to take his first flight, and even helped cover funeral costs. To pay for these expenses, R’Achelle has done everything from hosting yard sales to selling custom birdhouses built by her dad.

She’s asked Facebook friends to donate unused airline miles and points. She’s even held shoe drives, gathering countless donated shoes and handing them off to Funds2Orgs, an organization that pays for shoes by the pound before delivering them to other countries for resale. The money she raises goes directly to those fighting cancer.

She does more than raise money, though. On a recent road trip with her mom, the pair stopped in Oklahoma in the middle of the night to talk with a mother of three who recently learned she has a tumor. R’Achelle was able to share about her own experiences and pray over the young mom.

According to R’Achelle, “It’s not just about money and things. It’s about the support and the love and the community and the hugs. There are no words sometimes.” R’Achelle knows that as well as anyone, and sees it as her mission to use her experiences – and her survival – to bless others.

This month, R’Achelle is selling handmade pink pumpkins to raise money for Damn Cancer. You can pick one up at Phillips Home Improvements at 204 S. Ash Drive, Allen, TX 75002. For more information or to partner with Damn Cancer, email R’Achelle at damncancerfight@gmail.com.

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

17

ARTICLE BY ALISA HAUSER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBEKAH USSERY

Y 'A L L H A D M E AT B R U N C H

The Mixha Family Serves Up Fresh Food with Flair 18

LOCA L’S CH OICE | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

“There’s no such thing as bad luck in a building,” Fati Mixha says, smiling good-naturedly with a twinkle in his eye and a bit of mischief that only a seasoned restaurateur with a history of success stories could say with any confidence. We’re chatting on the covered outdoor patio of Fairview Farmers, nestled to the side of the building, away from the main road and tucked comfortably into shady trees.

When the Mixha family purchased the building located at the corner of Stacy and Greenville in Fairview, it had previously housed a series of failed dive bars.

But the Mixha family saw more.

And it’s a good thing they had vision because if the temptation to give up didn’t hit them when they first saw the building, it sure would’ve once renovations started. They discovered mold in the walls, rusting appliances, and deteriorating walk-in freezers. Nothing was salvageable, so they gutted the restaurant down to the frame.

Yet they pressed on — undaunted.

Today the building is an earthy, modern, and welcoming spot that serves an incredible brunch and lunch menu.

This story begins, however, thousands of miles away and several years ago in Albania. It was in the small county of Albania that

two teens, Agim and Linda, lived in neighboring villages. Both lived and worked on small, family-owned farms. They moved to the small town of Roscoe, Illinois to join their family that owned a restaurant there. They worked hard, bussing tables and cooking on the line, learning the business for over a decade before taking over ownership in 2005.

When they visited family in the DFW area, they fell in love with Fairview’s similar small-town feel and relocated to the area. They are proud to be the only Fairview restaurant owned by city residents, but Fairview Farmers is first and foremost a family-owned and family-operated business. Their son, Fati, and daughter, Besa, help while attending college.

They call themselves the Fairview Farmers Family. Their name honors the family’s background growing up on a farm, as well as their goal to provide the highest quality food and drinks. The menu includes a greatest-hits list of brunch classics with ingredients sourced primarily from either organic or local farms, with a wide assortment of gluten-free options.

Upon entering Fairview Farms, the first thing you notice is the ambiance: upscale yet simple, filled to the brim with patrons, while still feeling inviting. The tables are full — some with families CONTINUED > OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

19

enjoying quality time together, others with girlfriends catching up on each other’s lives, and others with co-workers meeting for lunch and trying to decide between the Baja Breakfast Tacos and the Ribeye Steak and Eggs.

We were served a ridiculously good assortment of the house specials. When the first dish arrived, we were wowed by the presentation of Croissant Beignets topped with powdered sugar and served with Nutella and lingonberry butter, whose distinctive sweetness perfectly complements the dish.

Next came the exceptional Banana Split Brioche French Toast with sweet mascarpone layered between fluffy slices of bread and topped with caramelized bananas, warm salted caramel drizzle and walnuts, with a mascarpone-filled ice cream cone holding it all together, just for fun. It was a masterpiece.

20

LOCA L’S CH OICE | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

We loved absolutely everything about the last dish, one of the best meals I’ve had in ages: the Farmer’s Spinach Quiche with fresh fruit and a homemade poppyseed muffin that steamed when we opened it.

The portions are generous and the presentation is a work of art. Every dish is plated with delectable edibles: orchids, flowered strawberries, sunflowers grown in a nearby field. No detail is overlooked.

It’s clear that the restaurant business runs in the Mixha family blood because they’ve thought of every detail. Not only are the dishes extraordinary, there are cozy little spots to commemorate your visit with a posed picture. And as we left, so full it almost hurt, we stopped at the selfie spot. I couldn’t help myself because truly, y’all had me at brunch.

Contact Randell Holmes today at 972.912.1077 | 214.931.6057 RHolmes@CUTXEventCenter.com

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Good news happening right in your neighborhood.

Inspiration for your best local life.

Exclusive giveaways.

Hidden gem alert!

Local content by local creators.

What is keeping you from achieving your financial goals?

Time? Your boss? Inflation?

A global pandemic?

BUSINESS OWNERSHIP CAN CHANGE THAT. ALL OF THAT. I’m a 32-year veteran of franchising and I help people assess themselves, their goals, their capacities and guide them toward the RIGHT franchise for them. I also help local businesses expand using a franchise model.

Don’t let “circumstances” hold you back.

My name is Rudy Frederico and I Make Entrepreneurial Dreams Come True.

SCAN TO CONNECT

ALLEN CITY LIFESTYLE™

www.franchisewithrudy.com 214-725-4867

rudy@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

21

EDUCATOR TURNED ENTREPRENEUR:

Meet Brittany Welch BOARDS BY B CHARCUTERIE

ARTICLE BY KATELYN REED | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BOARDS BY B

22

LOCA LS ON LY | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Brittany Welch is a former softball coach and teacher turned grazing table goddess. After years of making charcuterie boards for her own enjoyment, a friend asked her to create a grazing table for a birthday party. She was thrilled to have the opportunity to impress her friend’s guests and set to work crafting a delicious and beautiful experience. Brittany jokes that as she set up for the party, she had “a drink in one hand and meat and cheese in the other.” With her hands full, the idea to start Boards by B was born.

When Brittany started Boards by B, she was still teaching, but had stopped coaching in an attempt to take something off her plate. She’s well aware of the irony – she took off coaching and added on the responsibility of growing a business! Her first year building Boards by B was full of growth and learning experiences.

Brittany says she learned so much about herself, business, perseverance, and grit during that first year.

The business recently celebrated its one year anniversary, and Brittany now makes charcuterie, breakfast, and themed boards, fruit platters, and grazing tables full time. She also hosts

interactive workshops to help charcuterie lovers make their own delicious boards at home. Regarding her transition from education to entrepreneurship, Brittany says, “Being able to devote more time and energy to BBB has been amazing! It is my passion and my dream, and it’s surreal to see how it’s grown since day one.

I still get chills thinking about how I get to do this full time now!”

Brittany prides herself on her attention to detail. Whether she’s creating a board for a corporate event or a grazing table for a wedding, her goal is to provide clients and their guests with an amazing experience. She wants every bite from the boards and tables she creates to be unforgettable.

She brings the same level of creativity and heart to her workshops.

They’re designed to be informative, fun, delicious, and one-of-a-kind.

Brittany says they’re perfect for private events, too. Whether you’re hosting a bachelorette party or looking for a fun team-building activity for your company, Brittany can design a workshop sure to please.

For more information on Boards by B, check out bandbboards. com or give Brittany a follow on Facebook, TikTok, or Instagram.

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

23

First Responder of the Month

Allen Police Officer: Chris Hester

24

H OM E TOWN H E R O | L IFE + CULTURE

“When I became a school resource officer in 2019, I knew magic would be a great way to engage students.”

— CHRIS HESTER

Officer Hester became an Allen Police Officer in 2005 at the age of 22. He served as a patrol officer before joining the Community Relations Unit. He spent eight years in the unit leading community outreach programs such as the Citizen’s Police Academy and RAD Women’s SelfDefense. In 2019, Hester became a school resource officer assigned to Allen ISD middle and elementary schools. In 2022, Hester had the opportunity to become the Training Coordinator for the Allen Police Department, where he currently serves.

Outside of police work, Chris Hester is a professional magician. He has studied the art of magic since he was nine, but started performing professionally in 2013. Chris Hester

has performed hundreds of children’s birthday shows, corporate events, private parties, and fundraisers, and recently took his talent to the “Frisco’s Got Talent” stage where he was a prize-winning act. Officer Hester is looking to make magic his full-time career once he retires from law enforcement. In addition to magic, Hester creates Halloween masks for local haunted houses.

Hester is constantly asked if he uses magic at work, but says he kept it a secret for a long time: “People expect to hear funny stories about me using magic on traffic stops or something, but I’ve always kept it professional.” It wasn’t until he became an SRO in 2019 that his worlds converged. Hester says, “I knew magic would

be a great way to engage students. I did magic daily while assigned to the schools.”

Eventually, Hester put together assemblies for students from kindergarten to sixth grade with “a focus on decision making, using social media responsibly, mindfulness, trusted versus untrusted adults, personal safety, and more. [Hester] called it M.A.G.I.C. – Mentoring and Guiding the Integrity of Children.”

Hester will be doing a full stage show at the Nack Theater on October 7th, 2022 at 8 p.m. Tickets are just $20 and are available through nacktheater.com or his website, hestermagic.com.

For more on Officer Hester visit our Facebook Page, Allen City Lifestyle.

ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CHRIS HESTER

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

25

ARTICLE INSPIRED BY AMBITIOUS KITCHEN

Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Homemade Never Tasted So Good!

26

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to make this super creamy, flavorful pumpkin spice latte.

That’s right, this easy homemade pumpkin spice latte comes together in just about 10 minutes and 4 easy steps:

• ESPRESSO: We prefer using espresso in the latte for that stronger coffee flavor.

• MILK: For that delicious, creamy element.

Feel free to use any milk you’d like, preferably one that froths well.

• PUMPKIN FLAVOR: We’re using real deal – pumpkin puree – plus some pumpkin pie spice to get all of that fall flavor.

• SWEETENER: We’re just using 1 - 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup to naturally sweeten the pumpkin spice latte. You’ll also want to add some vanilla extract to bring out the sweet flavors.

1. HEAT THE MILK. Start by pouring your milk of choice into a small pot and heat over medium-low heat until it is hot and almost simmering. Be careful to not boil the milk.

2. MIX THE INGREDIENTS. Make your espresso or coffee and pour it into a large mug or glass mason jar. Mix in pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla until well-combined.

3. FROTH THE MILK. Use a milk frother to froth your milk for about 30 seconds or until foamy, then pour into the mug on top of the pumpkin espresso mixture. Reserve the extra foam, and spoon it on top.

4. TOP & ENJOY. Feel free to top with whipped cream if you want get a little fancy. Sprinkle with a little extra pumpkin spice or cinnamon and enjoy!

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

27

O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SAT URDAYS

Concerts by the Creek Fall Series

WATTER S CREEK, 970 GARDEN PA R K DR I V E , A L L E N, T X 7 5 0 1 3 | 7 :0 0 P M Grab your blanket or lawn chair and find a spot on the Green or enjoy patio dining as Concerts by the Creek Fall series returns! Food and beverages from any one of our restaurants or Market Street make a perfect "picnic" dinner you can enjoy as well! Food purchased from outside Watters Creek's restaurants and merchants is not permitted.

O C TOBE R 8T H

Purple Glitz and Glam Gala for Alzheimer's

H ERITAG E RAN CH CLUBHOUS E , 4 6 5 S C E NI C R A NC H C I R C L E , FA I RV I E W, T X 7 5 0 6 9 Join us for the inaugural Purple Glitz and Glam Gala benefitting the Alzheimer's Association. Tickets are $100 each. Sponsorships are available. Dinner, live auction, and music provided by Gatos Muertos! Contact Eric Hoyle with Heritage Ranch Country Club for tickets.

O C TOBE R 8T H

Family Night: Campout & Movie

BETHAN Y LAKES PAR K, 745 S . A L L E N H E I G H TS DR I V E , A L L E N, T X 7 5 0 0 2 | 3:0 0 P M Families are invited to camp under the stars and enjoy an evening full of nighttime fun with camp traditions.

After setting up camp, enjoy your own picnic, play in the park, and join us in the amphitheater for a movie at dusk — Spirit Untamed. $12 per person.

O C TOBE R 8T H

Arbor Day Celebration

STACY R IDG E PARK, 1900 COU NT RY B R O O K L A NE , A L L E N, T X 7 5 0 0 2 | 9 :0 0 A M Attend City of Allen's annual Arbor Day Celebration! Arbor Day is a nationally celebrated observance that encourages tree planting and care. Tree plantings, educational arts and crafts, chainsaw carvings, and local vendors are part of the festivities.

O C TO BE R 1 0 T H

Fall Golf Classic

H ERITAG E RAN CH CLUBHOUS E , 4 6 5 S C E NI C R A NC H C I R C L E , FA I RV I E W, T X 7 5 0 6 9 | 1 1 : 00 A M Sponsorships are available, and groups or individuals are encouraged to play a round! Lunch and goody bags will be provided for all. Proceeds from the event benefit the Allen Fairview Chamber's member and community programs.

O C TO BE R 1 5T H

Pumpkin Splash Patch

DRN LEIS UR E POOL, 110 E. RI V E R C R E ST, A L L E N, T X 7 5 0 0 2 | 1 0 :30 A M Come to the Natatorium and pick your pumpkin from our floating pumpkin patch! Swim and choose your pumpkin (small or large) and stay to carve or decorate the pumpkin for Halloween. Carving and decorating supplies provided. Children age six and younger must be accompanied by an adult in the water. $8 for small pumpkin; $15 for medium/large pumpkin.

28

EVE N TS

O C TO BE R 2 2 N D

Trunk or Treat Drive-In Movie

BETHAN Y LAKES PARK, 745 S . A L L E N H E I G H TS DR I V E , A L L E N, T X 7 5 0 0 2 | 6 :30 P M Decorate your vehicle and bring your favorite candy to pass out at our Trunk or Treat Drive-in Movie. Afterward, enjoy a spooky film (CoCo) from the comfort of your vehicle! Trick or treating takes place before the start of the movie at approximately 7 p.m. Chick-fil-a will provide sandwiches, chips, and water.

OC TOBE R 2 9 T H

Halloween Double Feature

THE PAR K AT FAIRVIEW TOWN C E NT E R , 239 TOWN P L AC E , FA I RV I E W, T X 7 5 0 6 9 | 6 : 00 P M Come enjoy a FREE family double feature for Halloween at The Park featuring The Addams Family and Addams Family Values. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for some family fun! Come as your favorite Addams Family character — there will be prizes for the best costume! Enjoy FREE popcorn and, of course, we’ll have Halloween treats for the kiddos!

OC TOBE R 3 0 T H

OnStage @ APL: New York Times Author Chris Enss

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBR ARY, 30 0 N. A L L E N DR I V E , A L L E N, T X 7 5 0 1 3 | 3:0 0 P M Listen to New York Times bestselling author Chris Enss discuss her book Iron Women: The Ladies Who Helped Build the Railroad. This program will be presented live both in person and virtually via www.ACTV.org . No registration is required to attend. Admittance is first come, first served.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/AllenTX

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

29

OCTOBE R 2 0 2 2

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Allen.

N E I GH BO RH O O D

OR IGIN AL PRICE

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Saddleridge

$1,700,000.00

95.00%

2

6

7

Parkside At Fairview

$1,695,000.00

94.40%

13

4

6

Ascot Heath

$1,600,000.00

94.60%

24

4

5

Oakwood Estates

$1,598,000.00

100.20%

8

6

6

Dublin Creek Estates

$1,499,000.00

102.60%

20

6

4

Collinwood Acres North

$1,340,000.00

92.50%

12

4

5

Starcreek

$1,300,000.00

107.70%

35

6

7

Starcreek

$1,249,900.00

100.00%

36

4

5

Twin Creeks

$1,249,900.00

99.20%

13

4

4

Fairview Meadows

$1,225,000.00

116.70%

7

5

5

Thompson Springs

$1,225,000.00

103.70%

12

5

5

Twin Creeks

$1,199,900.00

95.80%

18

5

5

Ridgeview Crossing

$1,198,000.00

100.20%

6

4

5

Cumberland Crossing

$1,195,000.00

98.30%

44

4

4

Waterford Parks

$1,100,000.00

100.60%

11

5

5

Hawks Wood

$1,100,000.00

100.00%

12

4

4

Stacy Estates

$1,099,000.00

119.20%

5

4

5

Ridgeview Crossing

$1,063,400.00

100.00%

3

5

5

Ridgeview Crossing

$1,053,900.00

100.00%

4

5

5

Shaddock Park

$1,049,900.00

97.60%

42

5

4

Ridgeview Crossing

$1,045,900.00

100.00%

5

5

4

Ridgeview Crossing

$1,010,400.00

100.00%

4

4

4

Ridgeview Crossing

$995,400.00

101.10%

67

5

5

Twin Creeks

$995,000.00

104.50%

10

4

4

Shaddock Park

$975,000.00

112.80%

4

5

5

Experience The Difference Between Ordinary & Exceptional With

Allen's Premier Luxury Real Estate Team Kelly Pearson 720.281.3640

Lynda Roundtree 214.500.3281

www.KellyPearsonRealtyGroup.com

Dallas | Austin | Houston | Aspen | Beverly Hills

30

R EA LT Y R E P ORT | R EAL E STATE

© 2022 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY 4514 TRAVIS STREET, STE 212, TEXAS 75205 469.273.1431

fashionable, quality, unique women’s clothing to be your beautiful best 972.955.9943

VB

|

|

rachicboutique.com

rachic.boutique21@gmail.com OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

31

ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILL HERNANDEZ & REBEKAH USSERY

GEARING UP FOR FIRE SAFETY MONTH ALLEN FIRE DEPARTMENT'S PUBLIC EDUCATION PROGRAMS SAVE LIVES!

32

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | EDUCATI ON

“A 1.5 - 2 hour course can save someone you love,” states Jill Hernandez, Public Education Coordinator for the Allen Fire Department. Hernandez oversees all of the educational programming, including free instruction on topics such as fire extinguishers, active shooter training, fire safety, emergency weather planning, and much more.

The most popular courses, taught by EMS Specialist Tony Cooper, are the adult CPR and Stop the Bleed (STB) classes. Stop the Bleed is a National Campaign that started after Sandy Hook — out of all the casualties, research has stated that 20 of the lives taken in that tragedy were lost just from bleeding out. The Allen Fire Department provides CPR and STB classes once a month in the evenings.

Stop the Bleed Class

When asked his favorite thing about the community classes, Division Chief Danny Williams stated, “They come in terrified and timid. Watching the transition in confidence from the beginning to end of the class, seeing the turnaround, the ‘I can do this!’ We are taking away their apprehension and fear, which ultimately can save a life.”

The City of Allen has countless success stories of bystanders beginning CPR before professional personnel arrived. These early interventions increase the likelihood of survival for the afflicted, and make the probability of people walking out of the hospital without deficits even greater.

Division Chief Williams recalled a story regarding the effectiveness of the training. He stated that he received an email from a young man thanking the department for offering the community CPR course which ultimately saved his father’s life. His father had been out riding his bike when he had a medical emergency. A community member who had taken the CPR training course was able to keep his father alive until the medical response team arrived. According to Division Chief Williams, “There is a 3 - 5 minute response time for most calls, and those minutes are crucial to the survival or recovery odds of the victim.” He remarked that the son’s final statement made a huge impact on him. The man claimed, “We should be planning a funeral right now, but instead we get to plan another Father’s Day.” Two additional options for those looking for a more in-depth experience include the Junior Fire Academy and Citizens Fire Academy.

The Junior Fire Academy is a week-long summer camp for fifth and sixth-grade students. Students rehearse practical first aid and fire safety skills, learn about firefighting equipment, and build self-confidence. The 2022 camp included 32 students. It was a memorable experience for all! 11-year-old John “loved search and rescue and learning how to tie different knots.” Kylie, 10, enjoyed “listening to dispatch and hearing all the different calls coming in.” Meanwhile, 11-year-old Aiden and 12-year-old Ania were fascinated by the emergency vehicles and getting to learn more about the features on the ambulance and fire trucks. The class collectively stated that the hoses and ladders were much heavier than anticipated, and they now have a greater respect for the job since attending the camp.

CONTINUED >

OCTOBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

33

Junior Fire Academy Suiting Up for Their Big Day!

Citizens Fire Academy (CFA) is an eight-week program that gives residents an opportunity to learn about Allen Fire Department’s structure and operations. The course is free and takes place each spring. Participants must be at least 18 and live or work in Allen. Citizens Fire Academy is limited to 20 total adults.

The Allen Fire Department also provides numerous online trainings for the community. Residents can learn about fire safety while getting to know the local fire department! Produced in-house by Allen City Television, their educational videos and PSAs offer lots of great information delivered by Allen firefighters.

Additionally, Remembering When™ contains everything you need to know to conduct a comprehensive fire and fall prevention program for older adults in your community. At age 65, older adults are twice as likely to be killed or injured by fires compared to the population at large. By age 75, that risk increases to three times that of the general population — and to four times by age 85.

Remembering When™ is centered around 16 key safety messages – eight fire prevention and eight fall prevention – for older residents.

The Allen Fire Department also provides classes to community groups as scheduling allows. Residents can request community education and appearances by visiting AllenFire.org

34

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | EDUCATI ON

“The more courses we offer and the more we train the community, the more likely it is that someone who has been educated by us is there when an emergency occurs.”

– DANNY WILLIAMS, DIVISION CHIEF

SIMPLE. TRANSPARENT. LOCAL.

SOLAR ROOFS ROOFING | STORM RESTORATION | SOLAR ROOFING

HHHHH

CALL US TO GET STARTED

UP TO

30% TAX CREDIT CALL NOW TO SEE IF YOU QUALIFY

469-975-7377 ProNailRoofing.com

550 S WATTERS RD. | ALLEN TX 75013