theMagazine - Fairview + Lucas - November/December 2025
Idon’t know about you, but I feel like we were just ringing in the New Year, blinked, and suddenly we’re back in the glow of the holidays. Life moves fast, especially in a sports family—practices, tournaments, travel, and the constant shuffle of schedules. But every year, the holidays seem to gently tap the brakes for us. The games pause. The bags stay unpacked. Home becomes the center again.
As you move through this issue, you’ll see that same theme reflected in our stories. The Collins family finding their way back to the place that shaped who they are. Direction 61:3 walking alongside young adults stepping into independence—offering more than resources, offering belonging. Lincoln and his family reminding us that encouragement can be the greatest achievement of all. And Joan, turning her own journey into a lifeline for others who need to know they’re not alone.
Each of these stories is rooted in something simple and powerful: showing up. Not in big, sweeping gestures—but in presence. In
Correction: The recent article on district ratings contained an incorrect rating for Wylie ISD. The correct figures are: Wylie ISD — A Rating (92/100) 19,334 students | 21 campuses. We regret the error and appreciate your understanding.
listening. In opening the door. In being there.
As we enter this season, my hope is that we let ourselves slow down enough to notice those moments. To share a meal. To make a call. To check in. To be the warmth someone else may be needing.
And as always, I want to remind you—this magazine is built from your stories. The daily moments, the milestones, the challenges, the sparks of joy. If you have a story to share or someone you think we should know, please reach out. My door (and inbox) is always open.
Because when we show up for one another, we’re not just celebrating the holidays—we’re truly living the heart of them.
Jonathan Price jprice@themagazinedfw.com (972) 922-8765
Associate Publisher/Managing Editor
Stephanie Murphy smurphy@themagazinedfw.com
Creative Director
Allison Michele Horwath
Resident Copy Editor
Jessica Deany
Community Writers
Christi Murphy, Farm and Garden
Dorothy Sailor, theComic Strip
Pamela Sailor, Giving
Tanya Donaghey, Education Outlook
Photographers
Aimee Louise
Paul J. Marto Jr.
Stephanie Murphy Photography
Creative Team
PPPublishing
www.theMagazinedfw.com
BY STEPHANIE MURPHY
The Collins Family HOME HOME sweet
“This is home. It always has been.”
— KELLY COLLINS
There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when a place shapes who you are — and then, years later, you return to let it shape your children too. For Chad and Kelly Collins, that’s exactly what Lucas has done. Both grew up together in Lucas, running through the same neighborhoods and walking the same school hallways, long before they ever dreamed they’d build a life together. Today, after nearly 30 years of marriage, three grown children, and careers that reflect a deep commitment to service, the Collins family’s story is one about faith, education, and the power of community.
Chad and Kelly have known each other since they were about ten years old, their families living just down the street from one another in Seis Lagos. They stayed friends through the years, always bumping into each other around the neighborhood — until college brought new paths and new beginnings. Despite attending different universities, they kept in touch and would see each other during school breaks since their parents lived close to one another, and, as fate would have it, started dating during their senior year of College. They were married in 1996, the beginning of a life defined by love, hard work, and shared purpose.
Over the years, life took them far from Texas, even as far as New York, but when the opportunity came to move back to the Dallas area, the decision was easy. “We couldn’t imagine living anywhere else,” they said. “We loved growing up here and knew it was exactly where we wanted to raise our family.”
For the Collins family, Lucas has always meant connection: to friends, to faith, and to the kind of close-knit community that feels like family.
Faith, family, and education have always been >>>
the cornerstones of the Collins home. “Our faith and our family are our non-negotiables,” Chad said. “They guide everything we do, and Kelly has been a huge proponent of making that a top priority in our home through the years.” The family attends Chase Oaks Church, where they’ve been actively involved in service over the years. Kelly served for more than a decade as a children’s leader in Bible Study Fellowship, a national organization that helped her foster a deeper sense of community and faith among local families. They have a large children’s ministry, and Kelly has loved working with the youth and other women as they build their faith.
As a middle school counselor at Willow Springs, Kelly’s love for education shines through in everything she does. She began her career teaching elementary students at Anderson and Rogers in Frisco ISD, when Frisco had just one elementary school and added two more by the time she took time off to raise Carson, Chief, and Caroline. She returned to the work just a few short years ago — this time to guide and support students as they navigate some of the most important years of their development. “Education has always been a calling for me,” she said. “There’s nothing more rewarding than helping kids grow not just academically, but emotionally and socially too.”
It’s that same value for learning and encouragement that’s shaped the entire Collins family. Carson, their oldest, played football and graduated from the University of Tulsa. He works in finance for L3 Harris and recently married his wife Maya, who also works in education. Chief, their middle child, is finishing his football career and business and construction management degree at Texas Tech before joining Lee Lewis Construction, a Texas-based construction firm. Caroline, the youngest, is following in her mother’s footsteps as an education major at Texas Tech, after a decorated high school volleyball career that included a Lovejoy state championship title.
Chad’s own career path mirrors his belief that
leadership and service go hand in hand. After decades in the pharmaceutical industry, he decided to build something that could make a real difference in people’s lives. Six years ago, he founded Corganics, a company that has quickly become one of the most trusted names in cannabinoid therapy (CBD).
Corganics is more than just a business; it’s a mission to create safe, science-backed, physician-exclusive products that help people live healthier, more comfortable lives. The company offers the nation’s most clinically proven and rigorously tested CBDbased therapies, used to support pain management, sleep, anxiety, and inflammation, among other medical needs. What sets Corganics apart is its commitment to medical integrity. “We wanted to bring the highest standards of pharmaceutical science into natural therapies,” Chad explained. “Everything we do is about safety, purity, and trust.”
His background, which includes decades of executive leadership experience in the pharmaceutical field, helped him assemble a team of experts dedicated to doing things the right way. And it’s paying off: Corganics is now recognized as a leader in physicianrecommended cannabinoid products, with a growing national presence and a heart that remains rooted right in Allen, Texas.
“Giving back has always been important to us,” Chad said. “Whether that’s through service on the school board in Lovejoy, coaching, or building a company that helps people, it all comes back to the same idea, using what you’ve been given to make a difference.”
After years of constant activity —football and volleyball games, practices, and travel —the Collinses are learning to embrace a quieter rhythm of life. “As empty-nesters, it’s different not having something every night of the week,” Kelly laughed. “But we’re enjoying it. We spend our time planning weekend visits to see the kids or just watching sunsets from our backyard.”
Their home in Lucas, where they’ve lived for the past 18 years, sits close to where both their parents still live, a connection that means more than ever now that their children are grown. “It’s rare these days for multiple generations to stay rooted in one place,” Chad said. “Having our kids grow up close to their grandparents was something we’ll always treasure.”
That sense of community, of neighbors who become lifelong friends and schools that feel like family, is what makes Lucas so special to them. From Friday night football games to impromptu backyard dinners, life
“Our faith and our family are our non-negotiables.”
— CHAD COLLINS
here has a rhythm that feels both simple and meaningful.
“This is home,” Kelly said. “It always has been.”
“Everything we’ve done, our careers, our family, even the way we spend our time, comes back to this place,” Chad said. “Lucas shaped who we are, and we wanted experience.”
For the Collins family, home isn’t just a location; it’s a living, breathing reminder of the values that matter most: faith, family, education, and service. And as the sun sets over their backyard in Lucas, it’s clear that those roots will keep growing strong for
ABY JONATHAN PRICE
LANDto PLACE
In a quiet neighborhood in Lucas, a modest home serves as a safe haven for young adults who’ve aged out of foster care. Inside, lives are being rebuilt— one day, one milestone, one prayer at a time. Here, residents learn to drive, hold jobs, manage finances, and, perhaps for the first time, believe in their future. It’s one of eight homes operated by Direction 61:3, a North Texas nonprofit helping foster youth transition into adulthood with support, stability, and hope.
The story of Direction 61:3 began not in a boardroom but in a church pew. Founder and Executive Director Myron Wilson, a longtime worship pastor, received a call from a young woman who had aged out of foster care and was living in her van. Myron and his wife took her in, unaware of the depth of trauma she carried. That experience opened his eyes to a devastating reality— when foster youth turn 18, many are simply released into homelessness. In Texas, as many as half of all young adults experiencing homelessness have aged out of foster care.
Named after Isaiah 61:3, which speaks of bringing beauty from ashes, Direction 61:3 has spent the past eight years doing just that. From one donated home in McKinney,
the ministry has grown into a network of homes and offices across Collin, Denton, and Grayson counties. Each home is faith-based, safe, and structured to provide not only shelter but also life skills and belonging.
“Most people think of foster care as a place for little kids,” says Melissa Cromwell, Director of Business Development. “They don’t think about the teenagers— those who turn 18 and suddenly have to figure out life alone.”
Direction 61:3 bridges that critical gap between foster care and independence. Residents earn driver’s licenses through the Kingdom Car Program, attend college or trade schools, maintain jobs, and pay modest rent to learn fiscal responsibility. Deanna Phillips, Director of Operations, explains, “We stair-step them into independence, just like you would with your own kids.”
One of their success stories, “Jefferson,” completed the McKinney Community Garden Kitchen’s culinary program, earned certification, and now works full-time at Fogo de Chão. Others are studying at UNT through the PUSH program, which provides tuition, meals, and housing for former foster youth.
Without Direction 61:3, the alternatives are grim. “If these kids don’t have us,” Deanna says, “they could possibly end up in jail, homeless, or trafficked.” She recalls a call from a frightened teenager sleeping in a park with no phone or family. “You hang up that phone, and it’s hard to sleep,” she says quietly. “You just want to save them all.”
Beyond housing, the organization restores dignity and a sense of normal life. Residents attend church with house parents, receive allowances tied to school and behavior, and experience milestones many have never known—birthday parties, football games, family dinners. “One girl told us she was thankful for water and electricity,” Melissa shares. “She’d never had that before.” Another teen, when asked what she was most proud of, wrote simply: ‘I made it.’
The McKinney campus continues to expand, with new two-bedroom “tiny homes” being built for young adults transitioning toward full independence. Residents can stay until age 24, guided by case managers and mentors who help them navigate work, education, and life. Future plans include a community center—a warm, welcoming hub where young adults can gather, cook, and continue building life skills. “When people drive by, they’ll just see a cute little neighborhood,” Melissa says. “They won’t realize they’re looking at a community of hope.”
For Myron, now 65, this season of life represents what he calls “the greatest days of purpose” he’s ever known. After nearly four decades in church ministry, he feels more energized than ever. “This is frontline work,” he says. “Helping young adults at one of the most critical points in their lives—it’s messy, but it’s sacred work.”
He’s watched Direction 61:3 grow from a single home in 2018 to eight properties and five acres of land, yet he knows the need remains overwhelming. “Seven hundred kids age out of foster care in North Texas every year,” he says, “and there’s only enough housing for about 35.” Still, he remains hopeful. “God’s doing amazing work through this ministry, and everyone can do something—whether that’s through prayer, time, or financial support.”
For residents of Fairview, Lucas, and surrounding communities, involvement can take many forms— mentoring, volunteering on Serve Days, sponsoring youth for Christmas, or attending events like Barbecue & Bingo, the Summer Golf Tournament, or the Christmas Mosaix Concert at Christ Fellowship on December 5.
Every day, the team at Direction 61:3 walks beside young men and women who have faced unthinkable hardship. But here, their stories are being rewritten. Myron often recalls a line from Henry Blackaby’s Experiencing God: “Find out where God is at work and join Him there.” It’s a simple truth—and one that perfectly captures the heart of Direction 61:3.
Little Golfer,Big Dreams
At just eight years old, Lincoln Lewis has already lived a golf story that many grown players would envy. From tiny plastic clubs in the backyard to teeing off at the legendary St. Andrews in Scotland, this second grader is proving that passion, family, and perseverance make for one powerful swing.
Lincoln’s golf journey began when he was barely starting
to walk. “My mom bought Lincoln a little blue plastic golf set when he was just barely a year and a half,” Megan shared. “I never put them down,” grinned Lincoln. By the time he turned two, his grandpa upgraded his set, and soon after, his first real US Kids Clubs were customcut to fit his tiny frame. When most toddlers were learning to balance, Lincoln was learning to swing — He even used to hit golf balls over his mom’s car.
Lincoln entered his first tournament at just three years old, and in the five years since, his collection of medals and trophies has grown impressively. Competing primarily through U.S. Kids Golf, he’s already claimed seven local tour championships, two Texas State Championships, and even earned runner-up at the World Championship in Pinehurst, North Carolina — a highlight that earned him recognition from Congressman Keith Self.
He also represented Team Texas in the Texas-Mexico Cup, where his team took home the win in a Ryder Cup–style showdown. Aaron shared, “It was such a cool experience — not just for golf, but for friendship and sportsmanship.”
And then there was Scotland — the birthplace of golf. Lincoln still lights up talking about it: “he got stuck in a pot bunker, and it was a difficult competition overall, especially as he is getting older and starting to get more competitive and hard on himself,” shared Aaron. He’s already dreaming of his next golf adventures, mentioning Hawaii and the Bahamas as dream destinations.
Despite the long list of achievements, Lincoln’s parents are focused on keeping things balanced.
“We don’t want to make it too serious,” says his mom, >>>
Megan. “We follow Lincoln’s lead. He practices a few times a week, mostly playing with his dad, and does lessons maybe once or twice a month. It’s about fun first.” Neither Megan nor Aaron played golf previously, and this was never really a plan for Lincoln or their family, but he has had such a strong love for it that they’ve just wanted to support him however they can for as long as he is interested.
Lincoln’s dad, Aaron, serves as his caddie for every tournament. “It’s great one-on-one time,” he says. “Golf gives us a reason to travel, spend time together, and see his passion grow. That’s the best part.”
The family even has a golf simulator at home — the perfect setup for rainy days or quick practice
sessions. But when he’s not playing golf, Lincoln is still every bit the energetic 8-year-old boy who loves basketball, flag football, and hanging out with friends.
Golf is more than a sport — it’s teaching Lincoln life lessons in patience, resilience, and focus. “Golf can be really tough mentally,” Aaron admits. “At this age, he’s learning what a ‘good score’ or a ‘bad score’ means. It’s challenging to keep things fun without letting frustration take over. But that’s part of what makes it special — learning how to handle hard days.”
Megan agrees: “You want your kid to be happy and passionate about something. One of his coaches once told us, ‘It doesn’t matter if he’s the best 7-year-old — we want him to be the best
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17-year-old.’ Which we have taken to heart, he can have fun now, and if he takes it further down the line, that’s when we can take it more seriously.”
Lincoln’s journey is just beginning, but his love for the game is clear. His Instagram, @ LittleGolferPro, captures his adventures around the world, from early morning tee times to unforgettable tournament moments.
This fall, he’ll take part in the Crush It Cup, which he’ll
get to play with none other than Jordan Spieth — one of his heroes and a Masters Champion. Hanging on his wall is a scoreboard listing Masters winners — and one special name added: Lincoln Lewis.
As for the future? “Driving the ball is my favorite part,” he says proudly. “Because I hit it far.”
With that swing — and that heart — there’s no doubt this little golfer will keep driving his dreams farther than anyone can imagine.
Lincoln Lewis
By Pamela Sailor
A Detour Worth Taking:
Trading the Farm for the Coast
This year, our trip to the family farm in Missouri took an unexpected turn when a burst pipe flooded the main house. Thoughts of country roads, the scent of hay in the air, and long conversations with GramGram and PopPop were suddenly off the map. But with the car packed, we decided to point our compass south and head to the coast instead.
Born and raised on sunshine and surf, my husband and I grew up body surfing and building sandcastles in Newport and Huntington Beach. As we got older, thoughts of lugging coolers through hot sand, rip tides, and having sand in the car (forever), kept us from sharing those classic beach days with our kids. But now that we live hours from the
ocean, we longed to share those experiences with our kids.
We enjoyed bouncing from beach to beach, exploring Corpus Christi and Mustang Island. We visited rehabilitated sea turtles at the Texas Sealife Center. At Padre Island National Seashore, we spotted a wild Cara Cara (bird of prey). In ‘Port A’, the kids splashed in the surf, (mostly) avoided jellyfish, flew kites, boogie boarded, built elaborate sandcastles, stuffed themselves silly with candy from Winton’s Island Candy Shop. Before heading home, we made a few extra stops: we hunted for the elusive Alamo basement, wandered the San Antonio Riverwalk, and kept it delightfully weird in Austin.
Of course, we missed being on the farm, but some detours, it seems, lead us exactly where you’re meant to be. This year, we swapped riding tractors for riding waves, muddy boots for sandy toes, and watched our kids fall in love with the beach the way we once did.
William’s Pixar-Inspired Tesla
If you’ve driven through Lucas lately, you might have spotted Lightning McQueen—Tesla style. The car belongs to William, a local resident who is also a Chick-fil-A manager in the area, who decided to bring a little Pixar magic to his daily commute.
William, who was homeschooled and has lived in Lucas his whole life, has been working full-time at Chick-fil-A for nearly four years. “He’s a responsible young man full of character— in both senses of the word,” says his mom, Lisa. “So I’m not surprised he picked a memorable car.” William’s sole goal when looking at cars was to find a red one, simply because he thought it would be an excellent color. When they found one, it has undoubtedly become the talk of the town.
That memorable car is a 2018 red Tesla wrapped with custom vinyl stickers that any Disney/Pixar fan would mistake for Lightning McQueen. The idea started small—when a friend gifted him a sun visor featuring cartoon eyes. “People started calling me Lightning since my car was red and had the eyes,” William laughs. “So I thought, why only go halfway?”
After spending more time than he would have imagined researching ways to make his vision a reality, he found a site that let him design and order custom vinyl graphics. The stickers, which can last five to seven years, transformed his Tesla into a full-blown character car. He’s had the Lightning look for about five months now—and it’s impossible to miss. Since they are just vinyl stickers, we found it amusing that he could really call his car “Stickers,” much like Lightning’s nickname in the movie Cars
“People are always stopping to take pictures,” William says. “When I’m working and it’s parked outside of Chick-fil-A, other employers will come and tell me people were out taking photos of my car again. I’ve even had people snap photos while I’m sitting in the driver’s seat, so sometimes I’ll try to pose for the shot.”
The only thing missing? Lightning McQueen’s signature “Ka-chow!” soundbite. William jokes that since his Tesla model doesn’t have built-in sound effects, he might have to get creative in the future.
Whether it’s at the Chick-fil-A drive-thru or cruising around town, William’s car is spreading smiles—and proving that a bit of imagination can turn an ordinary commute into something unforgettable.
Nestled in South Lucas is a street that may be one of the most uniquely diverse in town. Our little neighborhood is a warm blend of backgrounds, experiences, and family stories—almost like our own mini United Nations. Twenty-two homes make up our cozy community. Alongside chickens, horses, goats, and the occasional cow, neighbors have lived together comfortably since the early 1970s when the first model home was built. The houses range from classic 70s ranch-style homes to modern builds and thoughtful remodels. There are mother-in-law suites, stables, and even a covered wagon and horse arena to complete the picture.
The people here are just as wonderfully varied. Across the street is a restaurant owner and her husband with young children. Nearby is a same-sex couple raising their two older kids. Next door is a multi-generational family originally from Mexico who care for a lively herd of goats. We have a widower, two single moms, and a retired couple, as well as grandparents raising their grandchild. One family organizes National Night Out every year,
BY MINETTE SATTERWHITE
making sure it’s always something special. Our neighbors come from many places—India, South Africa, Asia, South America—and our street is full of blended, multigenerational, and beautifully unique families. One neighbor has rescued so many dogs we’ve lost count. And on fall Saturdays, you’ll spot flags proudly flying from Aggies, Bears, Red Raiders, Horned Frogs, Razorbacks, and more. Children here range from pre-K all the way to grown and gone.
When someone on our street needs help, we show up. If there’s an emergency, we are there. Need your pets fed while you’re away? Just ask. National Night Out and occasional “wine-downs” bring us together over food, conversation, and laughter.
We don’t all share the same politics or practice the same faiths, but with very few exceptions, we get along remarkably well. Sure, you can’t choose your neighbors— but turns out sometimes life just goes ahead and chooses perfectly for you.
Mark Your Calendar
NOV
DISNEY ON ICE
CUTX EVENT CENTER
NOVEMBER 26 – 30
Join Mickey Mouse and his Disney friends on adventures filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics, and unexpected stunts!
Cost: Visit cutxeventcenter.com
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS:
A MCKINNEY CHRISTMAS HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
MCKINNEY
NOVEMBER 28, 29, 30
Family activities, food, entertainment, and festive shopping across 14 charming blocks. A uniquely McKinney holiday tradition for all ages. Cost: FREE to attend
BELIEVE! MCKINNEY 5K AND 1
MILE FUN RUN
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MCKINNEY
NOVEMBER 29, 8:00AM TO 10:00AM
Believe! Holiday Run/Walk in Historic Downtown McKinney. Support youth through education and leadership. Proceeds benefit Holy Family School and AEYL.
Cost: Visit playtri.com/all-races/believerun
FAIRVIEW LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS
372 TOWN PLACE
(W. SIDE OF TOWN HALL)
NOVEMBER 29, 5:45PM
Join us as we kick off the Holiday with a dazzling event filled with holiday lights, free activities and entertainment and much more. Cost: FREE to attend
LUCAS COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
LUCAS COMMUNITY PARK
(NEXT TO LUCAS CITY HALL)
DECEMBER 6, 6:00PM TO 9:00PM Country Christmas 2025 in Lucas! Tree lighting, Santa, train rides, snow slide, crafts, bounce houses, and holiday market fun for the whole family. Cost: FREE to attend
DEC
2025 HOLIDAY TOUR OF HOMES
DECEMBER 6 & 7, 10:00AM TO 5:00PM SELECT HISTORIC HOMES IN DOWNTOWN MCKINNEY
Holiday Tour of Homes returns! Explore beautifully decorated historic and contemporary McKinney homes. A cherished tradition supporting Chestnut Square Heritage Village and local history preservation. Cost: $35pp
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA PROFOUND FOODS 163 FOUNTAIN COURT AT FAIRVIEW TOWN CENTER (FTC) DECEMBER 6, 13, 20 AT 9:30AM
Enjoy a meal, story time, photo area, and take-home gift bags. A festive, family-friendly holiday experience. Bring your own camera for photos. Cost: Visit fairviewtowncenter.com
MCKINNEY PARADE OF LIGHTS (MCKINNEY ROTARY CLUB) DOWNTOWN MCKINNEY
DECEMBER 13
Arrive at 3:30pm, Parade starts at 6:30pm. Cost: FREE to attend
IN THE WORDS OF JOAN VAN VLIET
When you meet Joan van Vliet, it doesn’t take long to recognize the quiet strength behind her kind smile. Though she refers to herself as “an aging person,” she radiates vitality and gratitude. “I thank God every day that I can do the things I can do,” she says. It’s that gratitude—and a life rich in experience—that carried Joan through one of the most profound chapters of her life: caring for her husband as he journeyed through Alzheimer’s disease, and then turning that experience into hope for others.
Joan’s story began in New Jersey, where she dreamed of becoming a diplomat. But when her father left and her mother was left to raise five children, Joan stepped in to help. She began teaching—a decision that would shape the course of her life. Her career eventually took her across the world, from Venezuela to Iran to the Caribbean, where she built a life with her Dutch husband, who worked in the oil industry. Their years abroad taught Joan adaptability, empathy, and patience—qualities that would become
essential when Alzheimer’s entered her world.
In 2011, after decades of good health, her husband began showing subtle changes. “He started speaking Dutch to relatives who didn’t understand it,” she recalls. “It was strange. I didn’t know what was happening.” A diagnosis soon confirmed the truth: Alzheimer’s. For more than five years, Joan cared for him at home, learning daily how to navigate a disease that slowly takes memory, identity, and independence. “No one is ever prepared for it,” she says softly. “It’s the loneliest experience you can imagine.”
Yet even in the difficult seasons, there were moments of unexpected beauty. “We still went to the symphony,” she remembers. “He couldn’t speak much, but he would tap my arm and keep time with the music. Music stayed when words were gone.”
After his passing in 2016, Joan faced a choice. “I could close the door on that part of my life, or I could help someone else standing where I once stood.” She chose to help. Joan became
an advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association and joined the Advocacy Impact Movement (AIM), pushing for research funding, education, and caregiver support. She now leads two support groups—one at Heritage Ranch and one at Grand Brook Memory Care—creating a safe space for individuals caring for loved ones with dementia. “You realize very quickly that no one should face this disease alone,” she says. “Support groups remind you that you’re not the only one walking this path.”
What began as a small walk in memory of her husband has grown into a vibrant community effort. Through her group, Ranchers for the Cure, Joan partnered with the Chip-in Fore Charity Golf Tournament, founded by Heritage Ranch golf pro Johnny Williams in honor of his mother. Together, their efforts evolved into multiple fundraising events, including the now-beloved Glitz & Glam Gala—which has raised tens of thousands of dollars for Alzheimer’s research and caregiver programs.
“The first year, we raised maybe two hundred dollars,” Joan laughs. “This year, about eighty-five thousand. It’s amazing what can happen when people come together for something that matters.”
For Joan, though, the mission goes beyond fundraising. It’s about breaking the silence surrounding Alzheimer’s. “People are still afraid of this disease,” she says. “They avoid talking about it or getting tested because they don’t want to know. But early diagnosis can make all the difference.”
Over time, Joan has learned lessons she now shares with others:
· Seek testing early—it can slow progression and improve quality of life.
· Ask for help—no one is meant to carry this alone.
· Lead with patience and grace—frustration only deepens the emotional burden.
· There is still life to be lived—even in the midst of decline.
She also acknowledges the hard decisions. When caregiving becomes too physically or emotionally overwhelming, placing a loved one in memory care may become necessary. “Sometimes love means recognizing when you can’t do it all,” she says. “And trusting that there are good people who can help.”
Today, Joan is encouraged by scientific progress, including new treatment options and diagnostic developments. “We can’t grow back brain cells yet,” she says, “but we can slow the loss. That gives me hope.”
Hope—and love—remain at the heart of Joan’s work. In her living room, her husband’s favorite chair still sits by the window. “He would look at me and say, ‘You won’t send me away, will you?’” she recalls. “And I told him, ‘You’re home.’”
Through her advocacy, caregiving compassion, and unwavering belief in the dignity of every life touched by Alzheimer’s, Joan van Vliet has kept that promise—not just to her husband, but to countless families walking this path.
Because love, as Joan reminds us, doesn’t fade with memory. It only grows stronger.
BY LITTLE CHICKADEE
“Egg”citing Facts The About Our
This article is dedicated to and in honor of Susan Lemke
Well, back to school means two things: the Lucas Farmer’s Market has wrapped up another successful season, and the State Fair of Texas is right around the corner. Ok, ok, I know back to school means so much more. But, for the purpose of this article, we are going with two local and state events that all Lucas and Texans get excited about: fresh eggs and Fletcher’s corny dogs.
If you’ve lived in Lucas for any length of time or have chickens in the Fairview and Lucas area, you know or have heard of Cathy Gleason. She knows all things chickens. She is fondly known in most households as the “chicken lady,” “chicken expert,” or just Cathy. She has over 30 years of experience with poultry. As a beginner chicken owner, I would ask friends questions to learn, and
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they always directed me to Cathy. I would private message her about minor and major things; she was always willing to help, teach, and encourage me. This is the type of human she is: knowledgeable, loves animals, kind, straight to the point, and shoots it to me straight. Exactly my kind of human to know. I loved it when she laughed at me when I first started chicken raising and asked if I should take it to the vet. I’ve come a long way and have learned to treat my own flock at home with the help and knowledge of people like Cathy, who was willing to give it to me straight and teach me.
Cathy has played an essential role in the local Lucas Farmer’s Market. She holds an egg contest and informational display for our local community. It is a fun way to kick off the season of the Lucas Farmer’s Market, talk poultry with other like-minded “chicken people” and learn about all stages of chicken raising. Each year, the
contest gets bigger and bigger. There are two categories at our local egg contest: the quality and durability of the eggshell and the inside contents of the egg. It’s free to enter and open to any chicken owner in the area. I wanted to learn more about how the egg contest came about. After visiting with Cathy, I learned where this idea originated and, more importantly, who inspired Cathy to bring it to the North Texas area.
A dear friend of Cathy’s, Susan Lemke, who is no longer with us, started one of the first larger egg contests many years ago in College Station. Cathy would help Susan with the shows and decided to “borrow” the idea to start an egg contest at the State Fair of Texas, where Cathy was a supervisor and judge at the poultry shows. Of course, the main reason for the State Fair poultry show is for farmers and our youth to show their animals. The youth are
involved with farm animals throughout the entire year through FFA and 4H. They have standards to abide by, which include raising, taking care of, and preparing their animals for show. Cathy has shown her chickens in shows all over Texas and many other states. This was the perfect job for her, as it allowed her to work with youth, poultry, and teach many more about this incredible animal.
The Texas State Fair is renowned for showcasing the great shows that highlight the hard work of our farming community. But it is also for public entertainment. So Cathy decided the poultry part of the fair needed to be jazzed up a bit. So, she decided to start an egg contest at the State Fair, just as her dear friend, Susan Lemke, had done in Central Texas. She expanded the egg contest into a yearly event at the fair, featuring many categories and lots of entries, which drew attention from many, including the Dallas Morning News.
The history of our local egg contest goes further and broader than I imagined. But, more importantly, the special meaning it holds for Cathy. She volunteers her time and energy to teach about these incredible animals. Once the Lucas Farmer’s Market began, she decided to educate, reach people locally, give back to her community, celebrate how Lucas welcomes the livestock/poultry farming community, and, more importantly, honor her friend, Susan. Cathy continues to grow our local contest each year and
educate our community on all things chickens. It’s such a fun way to bring our community together and to learn. She has recruited helpers for the egg contest and judges. They bring some of their chickens to show and even hold or pet. Nutrena has proudly been the sponsor for our local egg contest in Lucas. They are so kind to not only
Frost Bank. Visit 498 E Stacy Rd | Allen, TX 75002 or call (214) 515-4222.
sponsor it, but also donate feed and other goodies as prizes for the winners.
To add to the “special” meaning of this egg contest is that Cathy’s dad and mom had a woodworking shop. When Cathy started these egg contests in North Texas, her dad made all the egg crates to show the eggs. She still uses those egg crates today. I can’t write this article without a huge thanks to Cathy Gleason for never hesitating to help a stranger with their chickens, for her patience in continuing to teach us, and for giving so freely of her time to our community. Her love of poultry came from a teacher planting that seed when she was in kindergarten, hatching eggs in the classroom. So when she had her own kids, she began raising chickens. As she was more involved with chickens, she gave back by supplying fertilized eggs to classrooms all over to share her knowledge and plant that seed in
generations to come.
I loved learning more about the egg contest’s origins and discussing chickens with others. You can see this egg contest is more meaningful than meets the eye. Behind every egg is a chicken that worked hard to produce it. Behind that chicken is an owner who has worked hard to raise it in a healthy and humane way, ensuring fresh eggs. Then, even more importantly, you may just see an egg, but behind that is a history of love, friendship, knowledge, time, hard work, sharing of ideas, community, and a way to honor dear friends who impacted our lives in a positive way. Cathy has done that so well for her dear friend, Susan Lemke. That is what true farming is about: community, kindness in sharing your knowledge, helping others, love of animals, creating memories, living a simple life, and making friendships that last way past our lives and for each generation to come.
Built on Trust, Rooted in Family
For Dr. Justin McElvain, dentistry has never been just about teeth—it’s about the people. From the moment you walk through the doors of Lone Star Family Dental, it’s clear this is more than just another dental office. It’s a place where smiles are maintained, relationships are built, and patients quickly become part of an extended family.
When the Fairview office first opened more than a decade ago, it was just Justin and his wife, Paige—who often played the roleof hygienist (and sometimes still does). Today the practice has grown in every sense: a larger space, expanded services, and a team—yet another example of the extension of family. Even his father-in-law, Dr. John McDaniel, joined the practice during the pandemic, bringing more than 30 years of experience to the chair beside him. “It’s truly family dentistry,” Justin says with a grin. “We’ve
got three generations represented in some way every week—our family caring for other families.”
Now living in Lucas with his wife, Paige, and their three children—Nixon, 8; Audrey, 6; and Gavin, 2— Justin jokes that his commute has stretched from two minutes to ten. Moving from Allen to Lucas, has given their family room to roam, with bikes in the driveway, creek adventures in the backyard, and plenty of time to simply be kids. “We wanted a place where they could run and play, not sit behind screens,” he says. “Lucas has given us that.” Whether he’s grilling by the pool, cheering on the Aggies, or chasing little ones through the yard, Justin says those are the moments that mean the most. “My greatest achievement will always be my kids—they’re my world.”
Ask him why he chose dentistry and he smiles. “I’ve always loved working with my hands. I used
to draw for hours as a kid, organizing everything down to the smallest detail. Dentistry combines that artistic side with health care and service— it just clicked for me.” That same attention to detail shows in every smile that leaves his office. Whether he’s performing a root canal or refining a cosmetic case, Justin approaches each procedure like an artist perfecting his work. “That’s my signature,” he says. “If someone’s walking around with a smile I helped create, I want them to be proud of it—and I want to be proud of it too.”
Behind every great dentist is a great team, and Justin knows it. His office manager, Colleen, has been with him for years, as have Cara, Courtney, and a close-knit group of hygienists and assistants who keep the practice running seamlessly. “You can’t do this alone,” he says. “From the front desk to hygiene to treatment, every person here plays a critical role. What makes us different is that we all genuinely care.”
That care extends far beyond routine checkups. Lone Star Family Dental offers an extensive range of in-house services, including cosmetic veneers, implants, bone grafts, root canals, Invisalign, and even some wisdom-tooth extractions. “A lot of general dentists refer those procedures out,” he explains. “But our goal is to keep patients comfortable and cared for under one roof. It’s part of building trust.” Transparency is key as well. Justin takes time to walk patients through every option—ideal, practical, and minimal. “Not everyone’s situation is the same,” he says. “I want people to understand their choices and feel confident about their treatment. It’s about honesty, not upselling.”
Even in challenging times, the practice has thrived. When the pandemic hit, Lone Star Family Dental not only survived—it expanded. In 2021 the team completed a renovation that doubled the practice’s capacity, ensuring they could meet the growing needs of the Fairview + Lucas community. “Every year, we’ve grown,” he reflects. “It’s not about numbers—it’s about striving for excellence. If you’re not growing, you’re dying. And excellence in service and care—that’s what fuels our growth.”
That pursuit of excellence comes with humility and gratitude. “We’ve been blessed,” he says.
“The right people came along at the right times, and it’s all worked out better than I could’ve planned. Honestly, I see God’s hand in that.”
Ask around and you’ll hear the same thing from both staff and patients: Dr. McElvain is as generous as he is skilled. It’s a quality that defines him, whether he’s mentoring young dentists, supporting local schools, or helping a family in need. “If there’s one thing I hope people remember about me,” he says quietly, “it’s that I loved people and was generous with what I had.”
At Lone Star Family Dental, that generosity shows up in every smile, every thoughtful interaction, and every late-evening follow-up call to check on a patient after surgery. It’s not just dental care—it’s care that comes from the heart.
LONE STAR FAMILY DENTAL 431 E Stacy Road, Suite 108 Fairview, TX 75069
(214) 383-2626
www.mylonestardental.com
BY JONATHAN PRICE
When you meet Mike Todryk, co-owner of Armor Coffee and Armor Brewery, one of the first things you notice is his sense of humor. He’ll grin, you’ll laugh, and you’ll get exactly who he is in about five seconds: an Army veteran with a work ethic forged in Milwaukee, a leader who cut his teeth at West Point and in the operating rooms of Dallas, and a small-business founder who believes the product matters—but the people matter more.
Mike Todryk’s story begins far from North Texas—in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he grew up in a middleclass family that valued hard work and integrity. “My mom was a hairdresser and still working at the age of 83. She taught me to put my head down, work hard, and good things will come your way. That’s something I’ve carried through every part of my life,” he shares.
Following a strong family tradition of military service, Mike set his sights on West Point. “I visited the Air Force Academy with my dad and realized I wanted a path where I could serve and challenge myself mentally and physically,” he says. “West Point gave
me both.” After graduating, he served five years as an armor officer, including a deployment overseas, before transitioning to civilian life in 2003.
Mike’s post-military journey led him into the medical device industry—a field that married his engineering mind with a people-first approach. “In the OR, you’re side by side with surgeons, helping improve lives. That gave me purpose,” he says. Over 17 years, he climbed from clinical roles to sales director at Abbott, refining his leadership style along the way. Still, something was missing. “I loved what I did, but I wanted to create something of my own—something tangible, where I could still see the impact every day,” he explains. That desire pushed him toward an Executive MBA at SMU in 2017. “Worst thing you can do for a selfstarter,” he laughs. “All you want to do afterward is start a business.”
While at SMU, Mike drafted
a business plan for a coworking concept with a café component—aptly named The Armory. It was a solid plan, but when his brother, his intended operations partner, chose to pursue his art career, the timing felt off. “I prayed about it,” Mike remembers. “Was I forcing something? Or was God telling me to wait?”
Then came an unexpected email, while sitting in an all too familiar place: Coffee shop for sale in Collin County—exclusive drive-thru, next to event center. Mike was literally sitting at the former Village Coffee, the very same restaurant that now bears the Armor name and logo.
He bought the shop in 2019, blending his business acumen with lessons learned from years of leadership and service. “I wanted to create something that wasn’t just about coffee,” Mike says. “It had to be about people, connection, and community.”
When it came time to rename the business, the inspiration came from his past life as an armor officer, as well as inspiration from scripture. Cleaning his home office one day, Mike found his old military Bible, where his father had written Psalm 91—the soldier’s prayer. Verse 4 read: “His faithful promises are your armor and protection.”
“That was it,” Mike recalls. “Armor connects my faith, my military background, and God’s promise of protection. It became more than a name—it became our purpose.”
Armor Coffee officially launched in early 2020—just in time for a global pandemic. Yet, despite shutdowns, the shop flourished. “We did better in that first year than the previous owners did pre-COVID,” he says. “People needed connection, even if it was through a drive-thru window.”
Built on three specific and intentional pillars, every aspect of Armor reflects three non-negotiables: quality, community, and integrity.
“Quality means unexpected excellence,” Mike says. “You walk in from a strip mall and think, Whoa, this isn’t what I expected. That’s the goal—make it better than people imagine.”
Community, he explains, starts internally. “Treat your people like adults, give them a sense of ownership in their role, and they’ll treat customers like family.” Externally, it means giving back—to veterans, first responders, our schools, and other great causes.
And integrity? “Do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do,” he says simply. “Even if it costs you.”
In 2021, opportunity knocked again—this time, quite literally down the road. When a local brewery shuttered, Mike jumped at the opportunity. He bought the property and transformed it into Armor Brewing Co., a family-friendly space with craft beer, a scratch kitchen, and the same warm, unpretentious atmosphere that defines Armor Coffee. “We wanted a place where people could relax, bring their kids, enjoy great food, and feel connected,” he says.
With nearly 100 employees across all locations, Armor Brewing is thriving and recently celebrated its second anniversary, while Armor Coffee opened its second location in Wylie this past spring. “In the next three years, I’d like to open three more cafés and another restaurant,” he says. “But only if we can grow the right way—with the right people, for the right reasons.”
While Mike is often the face you see at Armor, he is quick to point out that none of this was built alone. His wife and co-owner, Jenn Todryk, is an essential part of the vision. Many know Jenn as the host of HGTV’s No Demo Reno and for her design style that blends warmth, humor, and practicality. That same instinct is woven throughout Armor—in the welcoming atmosphere, the thoughtful design details, and the genuine “come as you are” feel.
At home, the Todryks are raising three kids in a household full of laughter, energy, and humor. Life is busy—businesses to run, episodes to film, teams to lead—but they navigate it together, grounded in faith, family, and a genuine love for what they do.
Looking back, Mike recognizes the thread that ties his journey together: faith. “Not every closed door is a failure,” he reflects. “Sometimes it’s God protecting you from something not meant for you.”
His story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless purpose—a reminder that when faith and community guide the mission, success takes care of itself.
“If you build for yourself, it’s temporary. If you build for others, it lasts,” he says. “Armor was never about me. It’s about creating something that gives people a place to connect.” He pauses, grins, and adds, “And hey, if it gives me a reason to drink more coffee and the occasional beer — that’s not bad either.”
Steady A
& Hand Heart a Kind
When Dr. Kim Spicer and her husband left Lubbock for Wylie ten years ago, she wasn’t sure the move would stick.
“Honestly, I wasn’t interested in moving to Dallas because of the traffic,” she laughs. “But Wylie isn’t Dallas—and once we visited, we knew this was home.”
That decision has come full circle. After serving nearly a decade beside former superintendent Dr. David Vinson— first as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, then as Deputy Superintendent—Dr. Spicer has now stepped into the district’s top role. It’s a familiar seat, one she approaches with gratitude, confidence, and a deep love for the community she’s had a steady hand in helping build.
Her journey in education began in a small town near San Angelo and continued for 20 years at Frenship ISD, where she first met Dr. Vinson, who later invited her to join Wylie ISD in 2015. “We worked side by side for ten years,” she says. “He set the vision for the district but always sought the counsel of those around him. I feel like I’ve had a hand in building what Wylie ISD is today.”
Now, her focus is on steady progress. “Our curriculum and instruction theme this year is ‘1 percent better,’” she says. “We are an A district (referencing the Texas Education Administration’s latest scores), but success isn’t only about grades. It’s about whether every student feels valued, loved, and safe. If we do those things well, the academics will follow.”
Ask Dr. Spicer what drives her, and she’ll tell you a story—the Starfish Story, the timeless reminder that even saving one starfish matters. “If I can make a difference for the people I serve—students, teachers, parents—then I’ve done my job,” she says. “It doesn’t matter if you’re the custodian, the valedictorian, a parent, or the food service provider; everyone deserves kindness.”
Kindness, in fact, is a word that surfaces often in conversation with her. “My grandfather used to say there’s never an excuse for being anything less than loving,” she recalls. “I’ve replaced that with kind. There’s never an excuse for being anything less than kind.”
Dr. Spicer doesn’t shy away from the challenges facing public education today. She speaks candidly about how politics have seeped into classrooms and how state-level decisions—from vouchers to curriculum mandates often complicate the mission of simply serving kids.
“What happened to just helping children learn to read, write, and be good people?” she asks. “Our role in public education is to help kids feel safe, secure, and that they belong—then teach them math, science, and history along the way.”
work very hard to make a big district feel personal.”
She hopes that commitment becomes Wylie ISD’s lasting reputation. “When people hear a student graduated from Wylie ISD, I want them to think, that’s the kind of person I’d want my child to be. Educated, caring, confident. Like any great brand – Nike, Chick-fil-A – you should know what to expect – quality education and teachers who genuinely love their kids.”
At home, tucked away in her jewelry box, Dr. Spicer keeps a small slip of paper that reminds her why she does what she does. It reads: If you could do anything for God and would not fail, what would it be?
Her message to the community is clear: engagement matters. “If you’re unhappy with what’s happening in public education, vote. Contact your legislators. That’s where real change happens.”
Even as Wylie grows – 21 campuses now, with two more opening soon – Dr. Spicer is determined to preserve the sense of connection that defines the district. “When I first heard people say we wanted to keep a small-town feel, I thought it was just a slogan,” she admits. “But it’s true. We
“Every day when I put on my wedding ring, I see that note,” she says softly. “Right now, the answer is serving the Wylie ISD community. That’s where I’m called to be.”
For all her accomplishments, Dr. Spicer remains grounded in gratitude—for her husband of 34 years, her three children, two grandchildren, and the educators who once inspired her to teach. “When I was nine, my teacher, Mrs. Nelson, made me feel safe when my world was upside down,” she says. “That’s the kind of difference I hope we all make for our students.”
Today, she finds joy in her family—her husband of 34 years, their three children, and two grandchildren—and in quiet moments outdoors, reading or hiking. Those grounding spaces give her the clarity she hopes to bring to the district she now leads.
“I may be the new superintendent,” she says, “but my heart hasn’t changed. Wylie ISD is built on relationships and community. As long as we stay kind, stay curious, and keep getting one percent better, I think we’ll be just fine.”
