Allen, TX May 2023

ALLEN'S TRUSTED FAMILY DENTIST SINCE 1967

(972) 727-3941 ALLENDENTIST.COM

The professional team at Allen Dental Center is like a family. We genuinely care about taking care of our patients, and we are able to provide them with virtually any dental procedure right here in our office.

You can be confident you will receive the highest quality care from our knowledgeabe, experienced, and gentle dentists.

Allen Dental Center is ecstatic to announce that we are expanding our office in an effort to accommodate and serve a greater number of patients. Stay tuned for updates!

OVER 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE.

ALL OF YOUR DENTAL CARE IN ONE PLACE

FRUSTRATED WITH YOUR TEETH? WE HAVE A SOLUTION!

Our Ladies' Issue

I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful.

And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms. It’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives — making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role — connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Allen & Fairview's women.

They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Katelyn Reed | katelyn.reed@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITERS

Alisa Hauser, Megan Hernandez

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joseph Rivers, Zaharra Hemani, Kate VanMersbergen, Zoe Martin

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jodie Jolley, Jennifer Kirk, Mary Tran

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @ALLENCITYLIFESTYLE

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1-14: Allen City Lifestyle hosted our annual Client Appreciation Ladies’ Luncheon at Heritage Ranch Golf & Country Club. The luncheon is one way in which we thank our partners and community leaders for their support of the publication. Special thanks to Allen Mayor, Kenneth Fulk, Fairview Mayor, Henry Lessner, and the numerous members of Allen and Fairview City Council, Boards and Commissions, and City offices for joining us. Floral arrangements provided by JKS Designs.

15: Brenda Huerta, one of this year's Allen Citizens Fire Academy participants, showing off her new uniform. 16: The Allen-Fairview Chamber Gala, celebrating local business owners and community leaders, was held March 17th. 17: Cleghorn Celtic Rock Band entertained at the Allen Public Library for St. Patrick's Day. 18: The 9th Annual Heritage Ranch Car & Truck Show benefiting Leia's Kids. 19: Allen's finest serenading attendees of the Spring Break Pop Up Party at Watters Creek. 20: Angel Perales with Prestige Event Services gives Cera a tour of the Chamber Gala. 21: The Allen ISD Board of Trustees hosted its annual Namesake Dinner in appreciation of attendees’ community leadership.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @allencitylifestyle

CITY OF ALLEN

HERITAGE RANCH GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

ALLEN FAIRVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ALLEN ISD

WATTERS CREEK SHOPPING CENTER

ALLEN FAIRVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BUYING OR SELLING

a home?

B u y i n g o r s e l l i n g a h o m e c a n b e a s t r e s s f u l p r o c e s s i f y o u d o n ' t

h a v e t h e r i g h t r e a l e s t a t e a g e n t . Y o u c a n r e l y o n m e t o g e t y o u t h e b e s t p o s s i b l e r e s u l t .

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Veterinary Emergency Group Opens 24 Hour Pet Hospital

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG), the world’s veterinary emergency company that helps people and their pets when they need it most, is excited to announce the opening of its newest hospital at 1975 Central Expressway, Allen, TX 75013. The location will provide Allen families with the highest level of emergency care in veterinary medicine, including surgeries, ultrasounds, x-rays and more. VEG Allen is open for pet emergencies 24/7, even on holidays.

Rolling Hills Park Reopens

The renovation of Rolling Hills Park is now complete! The existing park property was combined with newly purchased park property to transform Rolling Hills Park into over three acres of usable park acreage. In addition to a new playground, Rolling Hills Park now includes a loop trail, pavilion area, pollinator garden, sport court, and open play area.  Rolling Hills Park is located at 222 Glenwick Place, Allen, TX 75013.

Allen Fairview Chamber Deep in the Heart Gala Award Winners

Small Business of the Year – The Dinosaur Company Business of the Year – My Community Credit Union

Entrepreneur of the Year – Ali Alzurufi

Ambassador of the Year – Justin Foltz

Business Success Advocates of the Year – Julie Brown & Andrea Patrick

Spirit of Fairview – Katherine Ponder

Spirit of Allen – Chief Brian Harvey

Community Partner of the Year – Allen American/Star Local Media

Chamber Member of the Year – Cynthia Thompson

Want to be featured?

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

Photography by Allen Council member, Ben Trahan

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab your gal pals and plan a relaxing or upscale day, weekend, or GNO (Girls’ Night Out!) with any one of these local experiences fit for the females.

Our Picks for The Gal Pals

FAIRVIEW FARMERS: Focused on organic, high quality, and local ingredients to make the best brunch possible for you and your friends. Grab the gals and a mimosa! 441 E. Stacy Road, Fairview, TX 75069

CRÚ FOOD & WINE BAR: Offering 30 wines by the glass and 300 splendid bottles from all over the world at every price point. Grab your friends, un-wine.  842 Watters Creek, Allen, TX 75013

ROSE COUTURE NAIL BAR: Want to elevate your nail game? This will be an experience you will never forget. 105 Whistlestop Way, Fairview, TX 75069

THE STIX ICEHOUSE: Here you’ll find great food, a full bar and good ol’ fashioned fun. Forget your phone and get lost in The Stix. 301 Eldorado Parkway #100, McKinney, TX 75069

FROGG COFFEE BAR & CRÊPERIE: Prepared by a talented team of baristas & chefs, the menu showcases a selection of crepes along with delicious hot & cold beverages. 832 Watters Creek Blvd., Allen, TX 75013

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Want to recommend a local experience?

Fairview Farmers

WOMEN IN SPORTS

Women in Sports is a movement that has gained steam throughout the years.  With the help of newsworthy events such as the USWNT equal pay lawsuit and athletes like Simone Biles earning the title of GOAT while dealing with health issues, it's no wonder fans rally behind female athletes who compete in front of millions and help the success of a multibillion dollar industry.

ANA GONZALEZ MAKES FRANCHISE HISTORY

Photo by Aven Willow Portraits

But what about females who don't compete?  Those who work behind the scenes to help give experiences and memories to spectators and fans alike.   Fortunately, we don't have to go far to gain personal insight into the Women in Sports movement.

The Allen Americans Professional Hockey team was established in 2009 and captured four consecutive league championships from 2013 to 2016.

In April 2021, Ana Gonzalez joined the staff as Director of Social Impact.  Her role was to work with local nonprofits, as well as rebrand and relaunch the Allen Americans Foundation.

By April 2022, Gonzalez was promoted to Vice President of Social Impact and added the title of Executive Director of the newly named Allen Americans Red Lamp Foundation to her resume.  Gonzalez is the first female in franchise history to boast a Vice President title.

“I'm responsible for bringing the Allen Americans brand, team, and opportunities to the community.  I work with nonprofits, booster clubs, student athletes and organizations to fundraise and help bring awareness to their programs."

“Through our Hockey is for Everyone initiative, we don't focus on one specific cause or core pillars.  We celebrate and help all types of nonprofits in the North Texas area."

“We offer scholarships for Allen seniors and host community appreciation nights where we invite first responders, veterans, and school district faculty and staff. In addition, we're able to give back to the community through in-game experiences such as our Teddy Bear Toss, Underwear Toss and donation drives.”

Gonzalez grew up an athlete and her primary focus was competitive soccer. “I always enjoyed sports and the comradery that accompanies it… either as a player or spectator,” she said. “I'm still friends with my teammates from 30 years ago. I still have the competitive spirit, and I think that has really helped me in my career to keep pushing myself to be better.” CONTINUED

Photo by Mary Tran

Celebrate Texas Night

After graduating from Texas Christian University with a degree in Radio/Television/Film, Gonzalez spent many years in television, including sports broadcasting. In fact, she was contracted by the Allen Americans during their inaugural season to work in house broadcasting.

“This is actually my second stint with the Americans,” she laughs.

During her career, Gonzalez won numerous state and national awards for producing, editing, and writing, including two Lone Star EMMYs. Her passion for community involvement came when her great aunt and great uncle formed the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation, a family foundation dedicated to helping nonprofits in the South Texas area.

“As a result, I was able to merge my passion for sports, broadcasting and philanthropy when I accepted the position, the rewards, and challenges of working in the front office of a professional hockey team,” she said. “This job is 25 years in the making.”

One major challenge Gonzalez admits to is the actual work schedule. Late nights, weekends, long days, and working holidays are taxing.

“It’s not unusual to go almost a month without a day off as the season approaches, especially when you're balancing every day work and festivals on the weekends,” she said. “But the excitement and anticipation of bringing an experience to our fans and community members is the motivation that keeps me going. I always find time to rest, but being able to smile while at work makes the hard schedule bearable.”

Although working in sports comes with challenges, Gonzalez chooses to focus on the positives, and her “why” is simple: “I honestly believe in our product. Sports bring people together.  We are one of the few products where strangers can celebrate together.  If someone is having a bad day, we get to offer a moment for them to smile.  We bring men, women, and multiple generations together under one roof to cheer on our team, high five each other, and meet new people.  We offer nights where families can come together, a fun first date night, girls’ night out, or an evening for a parent to enjoy time with a child one-on-one.

“To be able to combine that gift, while helping the community that I love, is an honor.”

Allen Americans Red Lamp Foundation

Adriano Mungioli, Ana Gonzalez, and Eric Saldana

GOOD HUMANS DOING GREAT THINGS

SANDY LIU

ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS

Sandy Liu graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas with a bachelor's degree in molecular cell biology, but science was not her life’s calling. She wanted to give a voice to the voiceless and help those in need, so she decided to pursue law at St. Mary’s University School of Law.  Liu has over 17 years of extensive litigation experience as a Family Law Attorney and Immigration Law Attorney, particularly in the areas of child support litigation and family-based immigration issues.

Born in Taiwan, she has a unique perspective due to her immigrant background.  With roots in Taiwan, China, and France, her background and experience have given her a unique understanding of the goals and struggles of the immigrant family. Her previous experience as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Texas and as a managing attorney for a family violence agency provide useful insights to help her clients achieve their goals. But what is most rewarding for Liu is helping guide people, sometimes at the lowest point in their lives, through the legal process to find hope for the future.

Local community-based organizations made a significant impact on Liu's life as a young child by helping her family with English classes and resume workshops to enable her parents to find jobs so they could achieve the American Dream. In paying this forward, Liu is dedicated to putting her time, energy, and passion into improving lives in communities near and far through volunteering. She currently serves as the president of the Rotary Club of Allen and on the board of the Allen Philharmonic Orchestra & Symphony Chorus and Art and Music Guild of McKinney.

SANDY LIU

As a mentor to young attorneys and law students, she also serves as a member of several organizations including the Orchid Giving Circle, a philanthropic organization supporting positive social change and services for the North Texas Asian community, as well as Curt B. Henderson American Inn of Court, Collin County Women Lawyers Association, Dallas Bar Association. She is also a member of the Legal Services to the Poor in Civil Matters Committee for the State Bar of Texas.

Liu believes that we can all do good by uniting and taking action to create lasting change across our communities, the globe, and in ourselves by putting service above self.

First Responder of the Month

JESSICA BOWERS

Jessica Bowers’ first brush with obstetrics happened by accident. While a student at Allen High School, she made friends with an older, pregnant coworker at her part-time job. When her friend slipped on a patch of ice at work one day, Bowers took her to the hospital and watched with fascination as doctors and nurses connected her to fetal monitors and worked to ensure her baby's safety.

A few years later, Bowers decided to become a nurse, and that early encounter with obstetrics stuck with her.

An RNC-OB, Bowers’ work has always centered around mothers and babies. She’s worked in pediatrics, quality-management chart review, and high-risk obstetrics. She’s currently a labor and delivery nurse and a charge nurse for her unit.

Just as Bowers was there for her friend during one of the scariest moments of her life, she’s been there for countless mothers over her nearly 20-year career.

She’s helped deliver innumerable babies –including a couple who insisted on making their debuts in the hospital parking garage.

Being there for her patients is Bowers’ favorite part of the job: “Usually it’s on a really important day in their life. Sometimes it’s the worst day of their life if it’s a loss, but even in those cases, those patients really need you.”

Bowers also takes pride in the skills she’s developed over the years. She doesn’t just do her own job well — she guides new nurses too. “I really like mentoring and being there for other nurses in the charge nurse role.”

Bowers’ smile radiates warmth and kindness. She’s friendly and confident. She’s precisely who you want by your side when you’re in labor — whether you’re surrounded by doctors and nurses or sedans and minivans.

Jessica Bowers

ARTICLE BY KATELYN REED PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER KIRK

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Mrs. United States

ARTICLE BY KATELYN REED

MEET ANNIKA HINTON

For many, perceptions of beauty pageants are largely formed by shows such as “Toddlers & Tiaras” or beloved blockbusters like “Miss Congeniality.” We associate pageants with overbearing stage moms or unlikely contestants of the Gracie Lou Freebush variety.

But for Allen resident Annika Hinton, it wasn’t a thirst for fame or an FBI cover that led her to compete for the Mrs. Texas crown in 2022 – it was the advice of her therapist.

Following the birth of her first child, Annika joined the estimated 10 to 20 percent of mothers who experience postpartum depression. She sought the help of a therapist who advised her to find something to do just for herself.

“Being a mom, you give 100% of yourself to absolutely everything else –whether it’s work, your child, your husband – so she told me to find something I could do just for me.”

That same week, a friend sent her a link for the Mrs. Texas Pageant. Her mom agreed to watch her son, and Annika decided to go for it.

She never anticipated she would win Mrs. Texas.

She saw the experience as a fun excuse to get her hair and makeup done and spend a weekend away with her husband in San Antonio.

Her platform since day one has been to spread awareness about postpartum depression and anxiety. At the Mrs. Texas Pageant, Annika’s hair and makeup artist heard her speech on the subject. The next day, she shared something with Annika she had only shared with her husband: she, too, was battling postpartum depression.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE VANMERSBERGEN

Annika’s speech inspired her to seek help.

At that moment, Annika told her husband, “I don’t care if I win. I did my job. I got to one person that needed to hear that message.”

As if Annika herself weren’t enough to dispel the misconceptions many hold of pageant participants, she’s quick to note the intelligence, depth, and generosity of her fellow competitors. Many are doctors or lawyers, and all of the participants have a cause they support passionately. In Annika’s experience, most competitors are there for the adventure, though some are very motivated by a desire to win.

As she puts it, “You’re never going to have that many women who are competing so heavily against each other, but yet are just so supportive of each other.”

When asked in her interview how she would handle a loss, Annika, who admits she’s a little sarcastic, responded, “Well, the way I look at it, today’s Saturday. On Monday I have to clock into work at 8 a.m. if I win and I have to clock in at 8 am. if I lose.”

But Annika did win.

After being crowned Mrs. Texas, she competed in the Mrs. International competition in Las Vegas. As runner up, she was crowned Mrs. United States and has been using her crown for good ever since.

In addition to increasing awareness about postpartum depression, she founded an organization called “Love and Letters.” Each month, the group collects thank you notes from local schools to give to a group of modern-day heroes. Annika, who is the assistant director of a preschool, says all of the children at her school participate, from infants who contribute handprints to two-year-olds who write scribbly letters up to preschoolers who write their own notes.

Annika, who is expecting her second child in late May, will compete in the Mrs. International Competition again at the end of July. Whether or not she wins the crown, she wins the hearts of all who meet her and makes our community better by giving back.

“I don’t care if I win. I did my job. I got to one person that needed to hear that message.”

As a professional woman, what advice would you give to your younger self?

We asked attendees of our Ladies' Luncheon to share their answers to this question. Here's what they had to say.

“Talk to other women in your chosen profession and ask for advice. Watch and learn from other successful women in your profession and seek out a mentor. Know that you can have a successful career and be a mom at the same time.”

JULIE BROWN Office Manager of Allen Economic Development Corporation

“Be authentic, be yourself, be kind – you’ve got this! Always be grateful and smile!”

NICKQUOLETTE

“Trust in your skills, talent, and abilities as you always are one step ahead of those who need your services.”

“Learn to connect with more people. Learn how to run an office.”

DR. SANGITA CHANDRAN Twin Creeks Dentistry

MARISSA BALIUS, KAYLA WOOD, AND ELIZABETH DEAN Attorneys of Allen Texas Attorneys

BARRETT CEO/Founder & Executive Résumé Writer and Coach of iRock Résumés

DELAINE BRODERICK Owner of Dinners by DeLaine

“Only do what you are passionate about, not just what will make you money.”

“Throughout elementary school, every report I took home said, ‘Conscientious, contributes to class.’ Little did I know, this innocuous statement would guide my career.”

“Be confident and trust that things will work out as they should.”

“Tri your best and egg-cellent things will happen!”

“Pick a job that lets you be creative and engaged. Don’t worry so much about what you think you ‘should’ be doing.'”

“Stay focused on your dream and work your way towards it – one step at a time. Surround yourself with people who encourage and uplift you!”

LETTY GOMAR

Owner of The Goddard School of Allen (West)

BHAVNA GUPTA

Managing Owner of Young Chefs Academy of Allen/McKinney

MANDY CARRASCO Outreach for The Dinosaur Company

CERA

Marketing Baby Triceratops with The Dinosaur Company

ANDE DAVIDSON Marketing Coordinator for The Dinosaur Company

“Don’t be afraid. Be passionate about what you’re doing. Going into business for yourself isn’t to be taken lightly. Be passionate and don’t be afraid to just do it.”

“It’s okay not to know everything! It’s okay to ask for help and advice. It doesn’t mean you are weak! It means you are wise!”

“Open a Roth IRA as soon as you start working –contribute every year to the maximum amount.”

“Do something you really love and are good at!”

“Spend time with others that share your dreams and ideals – these are the mentors that will guide your path.”

MARILYN LATHAM Vice President of McKinney Repertory Theatre

TRACI MARKEL Marketing Manager of The Village of Allen

KENDRA HEALY Owner of My Haven Travel by Cruise Planners

SHAHMEEN KHAN

Financial Paraplanner with Meridian Wealth Management and Community Volunteer

MEG LABAZIEWICZ

Certified Interior Designer and Owner of Inspired Interiors by Meg

ACCASIA MARTINEZ Owner of Accasia’s Event Venue

“Find something you love to do so it doesn’t feel like hard work. Know your business – the industry, your numbers – and always keep learning. Prepare to fail so you can get right back up and kill it. Always strive for excellence in all you do, and do not allow anything to compromise it!”

CELINE MCGUIRE

“You can choose courage or you can choose comfort; you can’t choose both.”

KATHY TODRYK Optavia Independent Health Coach

“Don’t let fear hold you back. Be afraid if you must, but do it anyway.”

“Never stop trying. Every mistake is just another step in making it better. Don’t be afraid to fail. Without failure you can’t triumph.”

ANGELA TUCKER Realtor with Coldwell Banker Apex

“Believe you can and you are more than halfway there!”

CAREY LYNN ZARATE Owner/Maker of Artistic Endeavors, home to Carey Lynn Creates

Wealth Planner with Merrill Lynch

THE BIG Z FOUNDATION

NONPROFIT OF THE MONTH

ARTICLE BY ALISA HAUSER

Every day, 43 children are diagnosed with cancer. Each year, more than 40,000 children undergo treatment for cancer, and sadly, that number is rising.

The Big Z Foundation provides a community of caring, encouragement, and hope to families experiencing pediatric illness, families who are comforted by the knowledge that someone who has walked in their shoes understands, cares, and is supporting them in their journey.

PROVIDING SUPPORT

The Big Z Foundation supports families in need with travel and hotel accommodations, medical claim cost assistance, college scholarships for patients/siblings, and funeral assistance.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Cancer takes a toll not just on the child, but the whole family. The Big Z Foundation addresses the effects that pediatric illness and treatment have on the financial and emotional wellbeing of patients and their families. The foundation teams up with licensed social workers at each of its partnering hospitals to assist those families with the greatest needs. As the needs of each family differ, the LCSW helps address the individual and specific essential needs of each family.

GIVING HOPE

Zach Hoefler, “Z,” grew up in Allen and was a lovable, caring, compassionate, funny, optimistic and loyal friend. He was also a young man who loved family immensely. In high school, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. In the Hoefler family’s journey with Zach at Dallas Children’s Medical Center, they witnessed an incredible need for the assistance of families with children diagnosed with serious pediatric illnesses.

The Big Z Foundation was established in Zach's memory after he died in 2018.

“The Hoefler family unconditionally embraces people with open arms and loving hearts,” says a family friend.

Zach’s mom, Kelly Hoefler, is quick to credit the tremendous outpouring of support from friends in the community. “It’s just amazing,” she says, “When I think ‘I need this or that’, it just appears!”

THE BIG Z IMPACT

Support the foundation by visiting bigzfoundation.org/the-big-z-classic/ to get your ticket to The Big Z Classic at Heritage Ranch & Golf Country Club on May 19th followed by an evening you don’t want to miss … the Big Z Rockin’ Bash. Enjoy dinner, an amazing auction, and a rockin’ evening with the phenomenal band ‘Empire 6’ and special guests.

“Zach inspires, not just by his illness or his death,” says a family friend, “but by his life. He inspires us to live life and love urgently, do the right thing, be kind and generous.”

Zach's family and community have certainly carried on this legacy through the Big Z Foundation. Z’s spirit and legacy will forever be #HoeflerStrong.

“Zach would be proud,” says his mom.

“ZACH INSPIRES, NOT JUST BY HIS ILLNESS OR HIS DEATH, BUT BY HIS LIFE. HE INSPIRES US TO LIVE LIFE AND LOVE URGENTLY, DO THE RIGHT THING, BE KIND AND GENEROUS.”

Young Chefs® Academy offers a distinctive and interactive encounter with our customized field trips, team building and corporate sessions, and custom group events. They’re a perfect opportunity for groups to sharpen life-skills, stir-up creativity, and soak up knowledge from the culinary arts! Our field trips incorporate highly credentialed curriculum support that identifies with teaching benchmarks in areas such as: Math, Science, Health, Reading/Language arts and so much more!

Birria Tacos

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Tacos Dripping with Deliciousness

INGREDIENTS:

• short ribs (bone in)

• chuck roast

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 7 whole cloves

• 1 tsp. Mexican oregano

• chicken broth

• white onion, halved

• garlic clove

• guajillo peppers

• 7 oz can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

• 15 oz can of crushed tomatoes

• corn tortillas

• quesadilla cheese

• chopped cilantro

• fresh limes, wedged

METHOD:

To a large pot, add meat, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, and oregano. Cover with chicken broth so mixture is 2 inches below the surface. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover.

In a second pot, add guajillo peppers (cleaned; stems removed), half a white onion, and one garlic clove. Cover with water. Bring to a boil. Remove ingredients from water and add to a blender with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and crushed tomatoes. Blend until smooth. Add to the first pot and continue to simmer, stirring every 30 minutes until the meat falls off the bone, approximately 3 hours.

Once meat is tender, remove it from the pot and place it in a separate bowl. Shred. Skim the grease off the top of the stew

and save it to fry tortillas. Remove cinnamon stick, bay leaves and cloves. Skim out imperfections.

Add a few spoonfuls of the stew into the shredded birria meat and stir until meat is saturated. Set aside.

Dice remaining onion half.

Place corn tortillas on a flat skillet on medium heat. Brush the entire top of each tortilla with reserved grease and sprinkle with cheese. Fry tortillas 1-2 minutes or until cheese melts. Flip. On one half, add birria beef, cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro and onion. Fold it over as it fries, pressing with a spatula to flatten. Fry both sides until the taco is crisp. Add stew to a small bowl for dipping and top with fresh lime juice, cilantro, and chopped onion. Dip birria tacos in the hot stew and enjoy.

ARTICLE BY KATHY MORENO

Designate guardians and establish a trust for minor and/or disabled children.

Often in our wills and trusts, we include planning for minor, disabled, or immature children. Who would you want to raise your children if you weren’t around to raise them yourself? Is that person also the best person to manage your children’s finances should your children inherit a sizeable estate? Let Allen Texas Attorneys help you protect your children and your assets with a sound estate plan. For more information, call us at (972) 390-1608 to schedule a consultation.

Presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

Carolyn Northcutt

Kayla Smith Wood

Elizabeth Morrison Dean John Schulmeister

Bold & Balanced

Meet the Women of Allen Texas Attorneys

ARTICLE BY MEGAN HERNANDEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZOE MARTIN

Being a woman in law can have its challenges and misconceptions. Finding a healthy balance between motherhood and having a successful legal career is the reality for the female partners of Allen Texas Attorneys. Carolyn Northcutt, Elizabeth Dean, Marissa Balius, and Kayla Wood have experienced their fair share of their passion and dedication being put to the test.

As Elizabeth Dean puts it, “It’s like sprinting a marathon.”

Despite the challenges, Dean feels that being a lawyer has always been worth it. She’s proud of achieving her dreams of becoming a lawyer and serving the community. At the age of 16 and with limited resources available, Dean began working in order to help support herself, including pursuing her undergraduate degree and paying for law school with

loans. After she graduated from law school and received a position with a top litigation firm in Dallas, she soon realized the difficulty of finding a balance between her career and raising a family.

“I eventually took a break from law to raise my children. Once they were older, I went back to work . . .  fulfilling my passion of helping people with their legal problems,” Dean recounts.

Similarly, Carolyn Northcutt married young and had four children in her twenties. As the realities of providing for her family of six set in, Northcutt knew that when she rejoined the workforce, she wanted to be compensated for her worth.

“I finished the last 63 hours of college with a degree in accounting in 17 months with a 3.85 average,” Northcutt recalls.

Elizabeth Dean, Kayla Wood, Marissa Balius, and Carolyn Northcutt

She passed the CPA exam, became a real estate broker, started a real estate business, Texas Best Realty, and graduated law school at the age of 48.

Northcutt’s family always supported her pursuits. When she was ready to open her own office, her father loaned her $10,000, to “hang out my own shingle,” Northcutt remembers.  She set up shop in Allen, where she has continued to grow her legal practice over the last 23 years, welcoming her partner, Dean, in 2000, and adding four experienced attorneys who share her passion to help and serve the community.

Marissa Balius, who originally wanted to become an actress, developed an interest in practicing law when she was in high school and “did debate for the first time.” Balius’ parents both earned degrees, so she knew the importance of getting an education.

“For me, juggling the responsibilities of home and work is a challenge, and learning to leave the work at work so you have healthy boundaries and quality family time is important,” Balius shares.

Being an attorney can be emotionally tough, especially with long work hours, but Balius knows the broader picture and recognizes her devotion to her career.

“Helping people is why I wanted to become an attorney,” Balius adds, “So it is rewarding to hear from my clients the positive impact I had on their lives as I helped them navigate the legal process.”

A major misconception these women have faced is the feeling of being underestimated. There are stereotypes that women are ‘too emotional’ or, according to Kayla Wood, not “as smart or as good as men in the courtroom.”

Wood, who specializes in estate planning, remembers that when she first started practicing she was regularly the only woman in the room.

“I had to be tough to handle the perceived misconception that I (and therefore my client) would be an easy target,” Wood recalls. “Although sometimes people can underestimate you and your abilities, I use that to my advantage. Let them come to me unprepared. I’ll always be prepared and hopefully they won’t see me coming!”

To learn more about Allen Texas Attorneys, visit their website at allentexasattorney.com or call their offices at (972) 390-1608.

Elizabeth Dean, Carolyn Northcutt, Marissa Dean, and Kayla Wood

Marissa Dean and Kayla Wood

A sample of recently sold properties in Allen .

events

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

Wine & Design with Meg

13 PRESTIGE CIRCLE SUITE 140, ALLEN, TX 75002.

Wine & Design is a monthly event where Meg shares her passionate love of interior design. With great wines, light refreshments and wonderful conversation covering a new interior design topic each month, you’ll feel inspired to create more beautiful and personal spaces in your life. RSVP for the next Wine & Design

Boomerang Cares Foundation Golf Tournament

7201 CHASE OAKS BLVD., PLANO, TX 75025 | 8:00 AM

This event is being held to raise money for students with scholarships, caps & gowns, formal graduation announcements.

Individual - $125 | Team of 4 - $500

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

$750 - Hole Sponsor +

4 Rounds of Golf + Booth Setup

$225 - Hole Sponsor with Signage

CONTACT: JOSEY GARCIA | 469-396-7203

Allen Contemporary Theatre presents "Something's Afoot"

1210 E. MAIN ST. #300, ALLEN, TX 75002

A zany, entertaining musical that takes a satirical poke at Agatha Christie mysteries and musical styles of the English music hall of the ’30s. Ten people are stranded in a English country house during a thunderstorm. One by one they’re picked off by cleverly fiendish devices. As the bodies pile up, survivors frantically race to uncover the killer's identity and motive.

McKinney Repertory Theatre presents Neil Simon’s “Rumors”

111 N. TENNESSEE ST., MCKINNEY, TX 75069

Four couples arrive at an anniversary party for the mayor and his wife. The couples soon discover that there are no servants, the hostess is missing, and the deputy mayor has shot himself in the head. Comic complications arise when they decide they need to do everything possible to conceal the evening’s events from the local police and the media.

Allen Arts Festival

934 WATTERS CREEK BLVD., ALLEN, TX, 75013

Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm and the Allen Arts Alliance welcome back local artists and performers for the Allen Arts Festival during Mother’s Day weekend. Explore original artwork, enjoy live music and get creative with children’s art activities all weekend.

Allen Food & Wine Festival

190 E. STACY ROAD, ALLEN, TX 75002 | 12:00 PM

Join us for a beautiful day in Allen at the Allen Food + Wine Festival presented by H-E-B. The event at The Village at Allen will feature delicious food, hundreds of wines to taste, culinary demonstrations led by local chefs, bands playing throughout the day, and lots of great shopping!

Want to be featured?

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

Mother's Day Brunch at The Hub

1289 JOHNSON ROAD, ALLEN, TX 75013 | 10:00 AM

Come gather and celebrate the amazing women in your life who have guided you, nurtured you and loved you. Mother's Day is a special day to show your gratitude and appreciation to all those hard-working, incredible moms who deserve nothing but the best on this special day.

Big Z Classic Golf Tournament, Bash & Auction

465 SCENIC RANCH CIRCLE, MCKINNEY, TX 75069

Big Z Classic Golf Tournament and Big Z Bash & Auction benefit an incredible cause. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., followed by shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. You don't want to miss the evening's Big Z Rockin' Bash, which begins at 6:45 p.m.  After a delectable dinner, there will be a fantastic auction, cash bar, and entertainment by Empire 6.

Know & Grow: Terrarium Workshop at Allen Public Library

300 N. ALLEN DRIVE, ALLEN, TX 75013 | 1:00 PM

Join us for a gardening workshop and presentation about the wonders of terrariums! Learn about open and closed terrariums, choosing the plants, and plant care. Participants will leave with a beautiful terrarium they created. In partnership with the Collin County Master Gardeners. Ages 18+. Limited to 14. Free tickets will be available 30 minutes before the start of the program.

Live Music with Lacy Ingram-Trigg 44 at Bommerjacks

131 E. STACY ROAD, FAIRVIEW, TX 75069 | 9:00 PM

Lacey Ingram is a wonderful local country music musician! See her perform live at Boomerjacks. Boomerjacks is a relaxing, welcoming, fun sports bar you never want to leave.

On Stage at Allen Public Library: Flames of Deception

300 N. ALLEN DRIVE, ALLEN, TX 75013 | 7:00 PM

Listen to author Travis Davis discuss his techno-thriller, "Flames of Deception."

In 2027, an analyst at the National Geo-Spatial Agency is examining images of the oil fields in Western Siberia and identifies peculiar behavior. The best-kept secret in modern history is revealed by his keen eye. Meanwhile, China is preparing a cyber attack that will devastate the United States.

Allen City Lifestyle Business Networking Event

THE HUB, 1289 JOHNSON ROAD, ALLEN, TX 75013 | 4:30 PM

Join Allen City Lifestyle and partners for a casual business networking event held monthly to connect local business leaders. ACL will buy the first drink for the first 50 professionals, and appetizers are provided. This networking event is open to entrepreneurs and business leaders in Allen and surrounding areas.

Student of the Month

MAKENNA COSBY

ARTICLE BY ALISA HAUSER

Firstborns are a force to be reckoned with.

Take 5th grader Makenna Cosby, for example. When she was just 10 years old, she started her own soap making business.

Her love of bath products began with smearing bubbles on her face and playing with rubber ducks. Fast forward a few years and a few bath bombs later, Makenna received a Christmas gift that was the beginning of a new passion: a soap-making kit.

After discovering how much fun it was to create, but concerned about the harsh chemicals in most soaps, Makenna determined to create healthier products. She researched and experimented with several products, learned all about creating a business, and launched Makenna’s Handmade Soaps in 2022.

At her recent booth at the Profound Foods Farmers Market, she started off shy, but quickly found her groove.

“Watching her have those first few awkward conversations when people were first arriving was the best,” says Makenna’s dad. “But by the end of it, she was walking up to everybody, engaging with the booths around us, networking; it was really cool to see.”

Preparing for the fair, she made about 260 soaps with the “help” of one employee that she hired (and promptly fired): her 7-year-old little sister. “She only worked for about five minutes!”

Makenna’s favorite scent is honey and shea butter. You can purchase from her wide variety of options at www. makennashandmadesoaps.com.

In addition to running her own business, she maintains straight A’s at GATE Academy at Vaughan Elementary, and plays on a travel softball team.

She’s interested in studying law, a career that her parents say she’s perfectly suited for. Why? “My parents say I’m really good at arguing,” she laughs.

This young entrepreneur is an inspiration and a reminder to us all that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams.

What’s Next? As her business expands, for every bar of soap she sells, she’ll be donating one bar to organizations that support the homeless.

What She’s Watching: “I really like watching comedies.”

Who She’s Following: “Nothing, I’m only in the 5th grade!” (Good job, Mom and Dad!)

Have a nominee for Student of the Month? Email our editor katelyn.reed@citylifestyle.com