Wylie CONNECTION Magazine January/February 2022

January/February 2022 • Volume 17 - Issue 1

Your Window to Wylie

Two Tickets to

When reading digital version on smart devices or your computer, tap or click to activate all QR Code links.

LINK TO NEW VIDEO FROM CHAMBER PRESIDENT PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID WYLIE, TX PERMIT# 63

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The Connection Magazine, Wylie Chamber of Commerce

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Paradise Enter to win a 4-night stay in the U.S. Virgin Islands!

Here’s to a Happy & Healthy New Year!

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication Digital Version: www.wyliechamber.org

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Well, we seem to have cleared another year in the Southeast Collin Corridor, and it’s time to look forward to 2022 with the hope that it’s the year we all get back to normal. Does anybody remember exactly what “normal” was?

We are very happy to be here and to see the launch of another year of “Connecting” the area.

Following are some great local stories guaranteed to whet your appetite for all the wonderful opportunities ahead in the new year. After reading through them, see if you can guess the running theme.

Our cover story features Steve and Amie Mayes and their Wylie business success story that is as fascinating and crazy as Steve and Amie are in person. It runs through Wylie and tracks south to an island getaway in St. Thomas to which you can win a trip! Look inside and enjoy the read.

We have a feature on a local high school wrestling coach who brings the Power to Improve to his Wylie gym and wrestling club, and you will be fascinated to read about the WISD wellness initiatives that power their teachers. Have you heard the phrase, “Happy Wife, Happy Life”? At WISD it is more like “Healthy Teachers, Healthy Kids,” and the results benefit all of us.

A hand-written note sparks a feature about the life/careerchanging Medical Assistance Program offered at Collin College.

We follow mother of three, Kristin Ostertag, in her journey to being a nurse and learn about the many hands-on opportunities available in the program.

Methodist Richardson Medical Center shares some self-care tips to implement in the coming year, and our finance expert and friend Trace Wylie Chamber President Dennis closes the book with some helpful suggestions for building a sound financial foundation.

Throw in our fantastic local business/advertisers and the growing-again Community Calendar, and you have a “Full Monty” of information available in the first Connection of 2022!

Before we go, a special thank you to our one and only Editor-inChief, Ms. Anne Hiney, who has overseen the Connection pages since we started in 2006. Another big thank you to our Advertising Specialist, Ms. Melissa Irvin, who is in her first year with the Connection family. Her energy and ad smarts have brought a renewed passion to our little project, and we are so lucky to have her. Happy New Year and thank you both for all you do.

As always, we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we have enjoyed bringing it to you. •

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CONTENTS

January/February 2022 • Volume 17 - Issue 1

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication 307 N. Ballard Ave. | Wylie, TX 75098 972-442-2804 | info@wyliechamber.org www.wyliechamber.org

YLIE CHAMBER PRESIDENT Mike Agnew W

ADVISORY BOARD Jan Arrant Ian Halperin Craig Kelly Heather Darrow Stacie Smith

ADVERTISING SALES Melissa Irvin

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Anne Hiney CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Judy Truesdell Donnita Fisher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Deonna Osborn Jan Arrant Craig Kelly Ian Halperin

Heather Darrow Donnita Fisher

PHOTOGRAPHY Ethan Good Nick Young

For information about advertising in The CONNECTION Magazine please contact the Wylie Chamber at 972-442-2804 or adsales@wyliechamber.org.

All are welcome to advertise, Chamber membership is not required. Share comments and story ideas with Anne Hiney at theconnection.anne@mac.com.

Digital edition available online at www.wyliechamber.org

The CONNECTION Magazine ©2022, Wylie Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. The CONNECTION is published bimonthly and mailed free of charge to over 25,000 households and businesses with an estimated readership of over 75,000 in the Wylie area.

Additional copies are distributed to our advertisers and high traffic local city offices. Contents of this magazine may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for content of all advertisements. Information published in The CONNECTION is the opinion of the sourced authors. The Wylie Chamber of Commerce does not necessarily share the editorial opinions expressed in The CONNECTION Magazine. Personal decisions regarding health, finance and other matters should be made after consultation with the reader’s professional advisors.

Just for fun, find the butterfly! Last issue it was hidden on page 12 in the Wylie Art Fest photo. Happy butterfly hunting!!

NOTE: The first person to correctly locate the butterfly and send an email to magnew@wyliechamber.org wins a

CONNECTION

PROFILE OF SUCCESS 4

STEVE & AMIE MAYES with Two Tickets to Paradise Cottage & Red Head Barrels

CONNECTION FEATURES 6

OLD SCHOOL POWER

CONNECTION COLUMNS 9 10

WISD EDUCATION FOUNDATION

13

CALENDAR

15

COLLIN COLLEGE

16

WYLIE ISD

19

YOUR HEALTH

20

YOUR MONEY

CITY OF WYLIE

Parks & Recreation Local Events

The Power of a Handwritten Note Championing Wellness Self Care

Building a Healthy Financial Foundation

The CONNECTION t-shirt!

(It's not this one! )  Occasionally we make a mistake. Let us know if you find one so we can correct it. We love your feedback - send comments to info@wyliechamber.org. Story ideas are always welcome and appreciated. Thanks for “Connecting” with us!

Wylie Chamber of Commerce

307 N. Ballard Ave. • Wylie, TX 75098 972-442-2804 • info@wyliechamber.org

www.wyliechamber.org A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

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ON THE COVER: Steve & Amie Mayes of Two Tickets to Paradise Cottage and Red Head Barrels.

Photo by Walt Petruska

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Barrels, Business, & Beaches

Photo by Walt Petruska

by Deonna Osborn

“You were born to win, but to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win.”

– ZIG ZIGLAR Zig Ziglar could have been talking about Steve Mayes, owner of Red Head Barrels.

Steve graduated from Broadmoor Senior High in Baton Rouge, La. While still in school, he made the decision to join the Navy and serve his country, continuing on to active duty immediately following graduation.

In the mid-1990s, Steve joined Amway, which introduced him to the business world and particularly the importance of goal setting, networking, and marketing. A book entitled “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” by Robert Kiyosaki, taught him about building businesses that would act as both assets and passive revenue streams, launching a lifelong habit of goal setting and a quest to create such a business.

In the early 2000s, Steve moved to Dallas and co-launched a company that helped thousands of people start their own successful internet businesses.

In just six years, the company grew to a net worth of nearly $15 million and boasted over 250 employees.

This company, along with a string of subsequent successes, allowed Steve to enjoy increased flexibility while remaining active in the business world. He was afforded the opportunity to spend increased time with family and engage more actively in his beloved Wylie community through activities such as the Wylie Chamber of Commerce.

During the 2012 State Fair of Texas, Steve and his soon-to-be-wife Amie discovered the idea for Red Head Barrels as they brainstormed other product models. Within three months, a website was launched.

They enjoyed overwhelming sales success during Black Friday 2013, and Steve and Amie decided to fully commit to Red Head Barrels as a couple and a company.

Red Head Barrels creates handmade custom whiskey barrels, ideal for smoothing and flavoring liquors, vinegar, or hot sauce. The barrels are purchased as gifts by individuals from the lay consumer to the most discerning liquor connoisseur.

During the summer of 2013, Steve married Amie, his best friend and business partner. Her background as director of sales for Hilton Hotels brought some unique

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and valuable skills to the venture. After watching the business grow 1,940% in the first four years, the two decided to take a “leap of faith,” as Amie described it, and Steve made the company his primary job within a couple of years. In 2020, Red Head Barrels sold over 30,000 barrels to businesses, distilleries, and individuals. Several major companies have incorporated the services and expertise of the company, displaying and storing their liquor primarily through the beautiful engraved barrels. This included Elijah Craig, Bacardi, Patron, and many others.

Steve and Amie began thinking of life after 12-hour days. Calling himself, “ambitiously lazy,” Steve focused on the importance of striking a perfect life balance.

They had a seven-year plan and began looking forward to 2020, at which point they would be empty-nesters. Although they wanted to ensure that the business continued successfully, they looked forward to being able to step away from being a daily physical presence.

They started to explore boat shows, looking into the option to travel the world by sea. Deciding to acquire a second home, they explored options in various locations. In 2020, they decided on a property in the U.S. Virgin Islands on St. Thomas. Steve’s flair for business and Amie’s hospitality experience made a bed and breakfast a natural choice for the property. They purchased the home in June 2020 and immediately started renovations. The couple then returned to Wylie in July, sold everything and permanently moved in August 2020.

Because COVID had shut down the island to visitors, they saw the property for the first time the day of closing, conducting all transactions remotely. Steve again trusted his intuition, and their dream became a reality as Two Tickets to Paradise Cottage launched in April 2021.

Two Tickets to Paradise is nestled on the north side of the island on Papaya Hill, aptly named for the plethora

of papaya trees. The cottage is located on Steve and Amie’s property, yet distanced far enough away to allow for privacy and enjoyment of the guests. A onebedroom efficiency, it is completely furnished and stocked with a full kitchen as well as access to the heated pool, fully stocked tiki honor bar, and outdoor cabana. It has been said the property resembles a mixture of Swiss Family Robinson meets Jimmy Buffet.

It is extraordinarily relaxing and undoubtedly run by some of the finest individuals Wylie has to offer.

The couple enjoys the continuation of their volunteer passion as they commit to beach clean-up and supporting local businesses in their new community, as they once did in Wylie. Amie is active with the St. Thomas Humane Society, which helped over 100 dogs fly off the island to find homes in 2021.

Steve and Amie run Red Head Barrels mostly from their remote location, as they currently enjoy a fulltime residence in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The couple visits Wylie on a regular basis to catch up with family and to check on the business. The dayto-day operations are run by Jennifer Crossley with five shop employees, who handle all the shipping, receiving, engraving, and customer service. Red Head Barrels also employs part-time employees as needed throughout the year. Steve oversees the marketing, including all website traffic and online sales. The Mayes have truly developed a unique business plan, allowing both entities to flourish.

When asked for a piece of advice to future business leaders, Steve’s main focus lies on setting goals and following through with set objectives. He said that regular goal setting played such an important role in his success, and he believes this to be foundational for success.

There is no doubt that Steve and Amie Mayes, Red Head Barrels, and now Two Tickets to Paradise Cottage have exemplified a unique business model to the community. We are fortunate to learn from Steve’s experience and to benefit from his entrepreneurial skills. •

redheadoakbarrels.com twotickets.vi A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

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by Donnita Fisher

OLD-SCHOOL POWER W

ylie’s Power Training Center, owned by the 501(c) nonprofit business. This enables the center to Kenney family, isn’t a typical mirrors, music, and fundraise and "help their athletes fulfill their goals,” metabolic magic workout facility.

Bryan said. Come in and work hard for whatever your goal is, whether it’s (an athletic) scholarship, getting Bryan likes to call it an “old-school training back in shape after a baby, or trying to feel better on the center, which is pretty much the opposite of these pretty weekends. new health and fitness clubs. We want our gym to have that ‘Rocky’ feel to it.”

“Honestly, our goal at Power is for you to have the power to improve yourself.”

Located at 114 Regency Dr., the center is in a former The wrestling coach at Plano East Senior High School, cabinet shop and granite Bryan also coaches the Power Wrestling Club. company warehouse.

The club led to the And don’t expect carpet, center, he said. “We were showers, fancy machines, running wrestling club or a bunch of other out of a couple of different amenities either. high schools,” Bryan said, “There are not very “then came Covid.” many gyms that are like Bryan and his wife Laura this anymore,” Bryan said.

Kenney, a teacher at Plano “I’m just not a 'pretty Senior High, opened Power gym' type of person. I in January 2021. want to sweat and make “The wrestling club runs noise when I work out.” out of the center. It’s a Workout equipment, Travel USA wrestling club Bryan said, includes “big for kids through adults,” tires, sledgehammers, turf, Bryan said, adding that weights, cardio equipment, Before and after - from cabinet shop to old-school training center. the wrestling club is like a but no machines.” He says travel basketball or baseball team. it’s a gym where you “go in, work hard, and get back to There are students from Plano East, Wylie, Wylie East, your life.” and Lovejoy all training together outside of high school “A lot of times we search for things that are new, practices, working together to get better, Bryan said. shiny. Power is the opposite of that. In my opinion, “It’s kind of fun. Some of our kids are training together Power is for everybody. We are a no-ego type of gym. and then wrestling against each other for their high To help other families, Power Training Center is a schools.”

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The center teaches different styles of wrestling. In the That’s why Power offers so many options. “There are jujitsu gyms and personal training gyms. We are just all spring, it’s freestyle and Greco-Roman. Freestyle blends of those at the same time. We have wrestling, football traditional wrestling with judo and Russian sambo speed work, some parents techniques and allows the use working out in one corner … it’s of the wrestlers’ legs in offense almost a community center.” and defense. Greco-Roman rules disallow holds below One of the weekly offerings the waist and rely on throws. is Power Yoga Sunday with a Freestyle and Greco are both class led by Dulani Stephens, Olympic sports. a football coach at Plano East.

According to Bryan, Dulani said Power Wrestling is a USA yoga helped him cope with Wrestling chartered club. USA everything going on during Wrestling is the group that Covid. oversees amateur wrestling in the U.S. and represents the “We joke that he is the sport to the U.S. Olympic and opposite of what you expect a Paralympic Committee and yoga instructor to look like. He’s United World Wrestling. a 300-pound Black man who teaches yoga. I personally would Bryan holds a silver level never go into a yoga studio, but I certification with USA Wrestling was like, ‘I would go to his class.’ and is working on gold Now we have a bunch of athletes certification. He is an assistant Laura & Bryan Kenney with daughter Reese and son Brexton after doing yoga along with some of their Wylie Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting. coach for Team Texas. He has their parents, and I can touch my been an assistant coach for the toes again.” high school development camp at the Olympic Training Center.

Bryan says the class is staged for different levels.

Bryan has always been on the move. “I’ve been physical The Grind House Sports my whole life,” he said. “I grew Training is also offered at Power. up playing tackle football in Run by former NFL Houston third grade. I did powerlifting Texans defensive end Terrell in high school. In college I got Washington, the program aims into body building, and this is to increase speed, power, agility, the type of training I’ve always and overall athletic performance done and I’ve always put of youth and high school athletes through.” athletes.

Before Plano East, Bryan Coach Kenney demonstrates using a 50 lb. Bulgarian Bag for training.

The gym portion of the center spent two years at Plant High operates like an always-open School in Tampa, Fla. Prior fitness facility. Members get a to that he was the wrestling door code. Hours are limited coach at Frisco Wakeland High for high school members but School and Richardson ISD’s others can come and go anytime.

J.J. Pearce High School.

“There are no courses, but whatever works for somebody’s The idea for Power Training schedule,” Bryan said.

Center came from his family’s time in Florida, Bryan said. The “Health and fitness are very gym they were using there had important to our family and to be able to offer something for different types of workouts and parents to be able to do while trainers. “We’re not corporate The Yard – additional outdoor workout area for training. (Recycled Billy or Sally is at wrestling juggernauts,” he said. “Just two turf was purchased from WISD after stadiums were updated.) practice -- that’s something.” teachers wanting to make something that didn’t exist.”

For more information about Power Training Center, So Power isn’t just about wrestling. It’s important visit the Facebook page Power Training Center TX, call for the Kenneys to incorporate family into their fitness 469-573-4450, or email powertrainingcentertx@gmail. center. The Kenney kids, daughter Reese, 8, and son com. • Brexton, 2, “are at the gym a lot,” Bryan said, “and are kind of a mascot for our wrestling team.”

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

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Joni Martino Multiplies Materials Two decades after the founding of Wylie ISD Education Foundation, corporate sponsors continue to serve the community.

Two years ago, second-grade teacher Joni Martino noticed her students were spending a lot of time trading tools for math and waiting for other classmates to finish practices. Smith Elementary is a bright place in our booming district with the class sizes growing faster than the materials can multiply.

In 2020, Wylie ISD geared up for an unpredictable academic year.

Teachers began looking for new ways for students to engage.

Mrs. Martino applied for a grant from Wylie ISD Education Foundation to help supply enough math toolkits so her students didn’t have to share and precious classroom time wouldn’t be spent cleaning tools before passing them off to other students during the same lesson.

“These toolkits were needed very much when we had to social distance and limit sharing supplies,” she said. “My students love having their own kits, and having hands-on math manipulatives is instrumental in student learning!”

Mrs. Martino is just one of many educators who applied with pandemic-related requests for the classroom. Her grant was sponsored by Chamber of Commerce member RLK Engineering, who saw it as an opportunity to help inspire future engineers.

“Supporting Wylie ISD Education Foundation is about supporting our teachers, and ultimately our students,” said Ronny Klingbeil of RLK Engineering. “It’s been so inspiring to see how teachers have innovated and persevered to support their students, and we want to be a part of that success.”

Sponsors, Wylie ISD teachers and staff, and our donating community are responsible for more than $3 million worth of grants to date. To learn more about Wylie ISD Education Foundation and its teacher grants, and participate in our online auction opening Feb. 18th, please go to wisdfoundation.org.

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

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CITY OF WYLIE

Friend-Power is Stronger than Willpower in Rec Center activities. According to Kimball, programs like Wylie Recreation Center Supervisor Annika Sacco often observes Parent’s Night Out allow her daughters to meet and socialize new friendships made on the fitness floor, during classes, camps, special events, and in childcare. She with a different pool of kids and get out of their comfort zone. Kimball continues, believes this feeling of connection “I love the Wylie Rec Center because my attracts and motivates many guests at girls are building social awareness and the Wylie Rec Center. Sacco explains, communication skills while working on their “When surrounded by people and staff physical fitness.” that recognize, elevate, and support you, anything is possible.”

According to Sacco, the Rec Center is in Barbara the business of creating new connections.

Cassandra Braithwaite looks forward Nic Ngoc Marks When participants come together and to joining her friends on the Rec Janie make new support systems, wellness goals Center fitness floor for her self-care Jones-Adams become obtainable. We all realize that routine. She has peace of mind when something feels hard to accomplish, knowing her boys are safe and happy it can be challenging to stick to, but the in the Rec Center childcare. “The sense of community here makes the childcare staff welcome my boys and process doable. me on every visit. My workout is free of guilt, worry, or feeling I need to Barbara Marks, Wylie Rec Center member hurry up, because I know the boys are since 2012, knows friend-power is stronger having fun and won’t want to leave,” than willpower. “Every time I wanted to quit, said Braithwaite. there was always someone there. Whether Mother of young rec patrons Madison and Morgan, Tosha Kimball, has seen her girls grow socially through participation

it was staff, or maybe another person working out, we would share health goals together. There was accountability and community.”

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A a R w s a

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According to Marks, joining the Recreation Center has been a life-changing decision. She has also discovered the Senior Recreation Center which is now among her favorite social wellness activities. Marks said she is continually learning something new, doing something new, or going somewhere new at the Senior Recreation Center.

To Nic Ngoc, the Wylie Rec Center is a place to get plenty of exercise and participate in activities to improve his health. Ngoc keeps his social health active with the friends he meets walking the indoor track at the Rec Center and the outdoor Municipal Complex Trail. Like Marks, Ngoc has also found a support system from classes and activities at the Senior Recreation Center.

Ngoc encourages others to take advantage of what the City has to offer so that more people can join, socialize with, and make new friends.

This January, let the Rec Center help you jump-start your healthy lifestyle, maintain a target weight, train for an athletic event, or set a whole body wellness goal. Wylie Parks and Recreation offers a range of options to spark connection with self, family, and community, while meeting your fitness and wellness needs.

Join the January month-long health and wellness celebration and make fun and social part of your new healthy lifestyle.

Wylie Parks and Recreation advances community health and wellbeing through vital services, programs, and opportunities. Wylie Parks and Recreation utilizes parks, trails, open spaces, exercise classes, wellness opportunities, access to healthy food and social services, and a safe environment for children, to address the physical, mental, and social needs within the community.

Join Today and Jump-Start Your New Year’s Resolution Clean, friendly, and close to home, Wylie Recreation Center offers a range of options to meet your fitness needs. Keep your workout fresh and choose from 40 cardio machines, including treadmills and the flexible and highly adjustable Adaptive Motion Trainers (AMT).

Ellipticals, recumbent bikes, stair climbers, and rowing machines are also available.

Treadmill not your thing? Walk, jog, or run the 3-lane 1/10th mile walking track. Strength train every muscle group on 23 easy-to-use weight machines. Take advantage of the plate-loaded machines, resistance bands, stability balls, and medicine balls for your advanced workouts.

Annual Rec Passes - Gain access to Open Play areas and equipment including Open Gym and Open Climb. Ages 12 years plus may also access the Fitness Area equipment and the Indoor Track (access for ages 12 - 15 years with adult age 18 years or older). No-charge childcare is available to parent or legal guardian users who have a valid Annual Adult, Annual Senior, or Annual Family Rec Pass.

WylieTexas.gov/RecCenter

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

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January/February Jan 20-22 Wylie High School - Spongebob the Musical: Join Spongebob and his equally quirky circle of friends! Their pleasant existence is interrupted when it is discovered that Mt. Humongous will erupt and obliterate Bikini Bottom. SpongeBob powerfully proves that optimism really can save the world, and that he is not “just a simple sponge.” Check website for tickets. www.wylietheatre.com

Group - Pinkalicious: In Pinkalicious The Musical, Pinkalicious can't stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor's office with Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe - a dream come true for this pink loving enthusiast. Check web for tickets. www.wylieactinggroup.org/season/

Feb 26 Wylie ISD Education Foundation – 19th Annual Boots ‘N Barbecue Gala: The Foundation works to enhance education by inspiring volunteer leadership and community giving to fund Grants for Teachers and Scholarships For Seniors. This year’s 19th annual gala is sold out but everyone can support by participating in the online auction open Feb. 18-26.

Come play at https://one.bidpal.net/bnbbq22

Winter Reading Challenge: Jan. 5 - Mar. 5 Winter Holiday Cookie Decorating: Feb. 1 @ 6 p.m.

Learn how to decorate cut-out sugar cookies like a pro from Confection Perfection by Melissa. Meets in person.

Registration required.

Polymer Clay Make, Take, and Bake: Feb. 8 @ 6 p.m.

Learn how to create jewelry from polymer clay and have the opportunity to create your own to take and bake at home. Meets in person. Registration required.

Wylie Rec Center

CALENDAR

Feb 25-27 & Mar 4-6 Wylie Acting

Smith Public Library www.wylietexas.gov/library

www.wylietexas.gov/activities/

Parent's Night Out: Jan. 14, 6-10:30 p.m. Ages: 4 12yrs+ $15. Enjoy an evening out while your kids have fun at Wylie Rec. Activities include supervised crafts, games, rock climbing, pizza for dinner, and a movie.

Extended care available, register separately. Wear closedtoe shoes and comfortable clothing. Kids are divided into age-appropriate groups. If your child has dietary restrictions, please pack a dinner.

Club Sweat Black Light Zumba : Jan. 22, 8:30 10 p.m. Ages: 13yrs+ Ditch the workout and join the party as we transform Wylie Recreation Center into a popular dance club! White and neon-colored clothing recommended. Glow swag provided. Early Registration $15; $19 starting 1/17.

Creating healthy smiles for the whole family!

General Dentistry for Adults and Children Jonathan Cantrell DDS & Sarah Cantrell DDS

Wylie, TX 75098

972-442-9139 A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

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Park Blvd.

FM 544

W. Brown St.

. 78 Hwy

WYLIE Ballard Ave.

McMillan Rd. Country Club Rd.

Parker Rd.

McCreary Rd.

456 Country Club Rd. Suite 104

Parker Rd.

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wylietxlaw.com 14 | THECONNECTION | January/February 2022

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COLLIN COLLEGE

The Power of A Handwritten Note: STUDENT TRAVERSES THE PATH TO A NEW CAREER

by Heather Darrow

O

n the days when she needs inspiration Kristen students may become credentialed as Certified Ostertag opens her wallet and pulls out a Phlebotomy Technicians (CPT), Electrocardiography handwritten note. The words she reads are (EKG) Technicians, and Medical Scribes.” her own. They are As part of the program, Kristen the reason she decided to go completed an externship in to college, change careers, and a cardiology office. She took never look back. patient histories and vital signs, A mother of three teenagers, verified insurance, scheduled Kristen enjoyed her job as the appointments, updated medical director of advocacy and finance records, and performed hundreds manager for a local domestic of EKGs. violence shelter. However, at “There wasn’t anything that they the beginning of the pandemic could throw at me that I couldn’t she was reminded that there perform, and that is because of aren’t any guarantees in life. She this program,” Kristen said. “The felt called to become a nurse interaction with the patients gave but decided to earn a medical me confirmation that I was doing assisting certificate first. what I was called to do. Multiple During an online Collin College patients told the providers that medical assisting program they felt heard and that I was kind. interview, she wrote the words, “I It was rewarding to find a balance really want this,” and tucked the of being efficient and still giving note in her wallet. great patient care, letting patients know they are important.”

“It was scary to walk away from a career that was successful,” Today, Kristen serves on the Kristen said. “It was only program’s advisory board. This because of the support of my spring she plans to work as a husband that I could. Since that medical assistant during the Kristen Ostertag is pursuing a new career at Collin College. moment I’ve been all in. It was day while she takes a nursing a no-brainer to select a program that could give me so prerequisite class at night. many certification options.”

“I will apply for Collin’s nursing program this spring,” According to Kimberly Gentry, professor of Medical she said. “I can’t stress enough how much Professor Assisting Advanced Practice, the college’s Medical Kimberly Gentry taught all of the students. Most of Assisting Advanced Practice program offers hands-on us didn’t have any medical experience. The amount training and skills that prepare students to work in we learned in an accelerated amount of time was physicians’ offices, urgent care facilities, and hospitals. tremendous. I highly recommend this program. It really Students can choose to enroll in the 10-month gives you a chance to get started in the medical field certificate program or the two-year associate of applied quickly.” • science degree.

For more information, visit www.collin.edu/ department/medicalassisting/.

“One unique feature of this program is that it is an advanced practice program, allowing students to To apply and register for Collin College classes at the take multiple credentialing exams and increase their Wylie Campus, visit www.collin.edu/campuses/wylie. marketability to employers,” Kimberly said. “In addition to the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification, Photo by Sara Carpenter, Collin College photographer.

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

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www.wyliechamber.org | 15

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WYLIE ISD

Championing Wellness MONTHLY WELLNESS INITIATIVES FOR WISD STAFF

by Ian Halperin

Brooke Rannebarger, Wylie ISD’s benefits coordinator, congratulates the Cox Elementary staff for winning the Marathon in a Month challenge.

Photos by Ian Halperin

A

nyone who has ever flown has heard the important instructions regarding the use of emergency air masks: “If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask on first, and then assist the other person.” You must be safe before you can safely help others. Many experts agree this philosophy also applies to physical and emotional health.

Wylie ISD has a long-held belief that, as a district, if we take good care of the teachers and staff, they will in turn take good care of our students. Like on the airplane: we look out for the district’s 2,200 employees and they will look out for the 18,000 students.

The Wylie ISD’s Employee Benefits, Recruitment and Retention, and Social and Emotional Learning departments have teamed up to offer Wylie ISD staff monthly wellness initiatives. The goal is to provide resources, wellness opportunities, and engaging wellness initiatives to the staff that support not only their physical well-being, but also focus on mental, social, emotional, and financial wellness.

“Mental health is linked to social interaction and COVID-19 put a big damper on socialization,” said Brooke Rannebarger, Wylie ISD’s benefits specialist and coordinator of the program. “Our goal was to find a way to bring people back together while improving their quality of life.”

This collaboration began at the start of the 2020-’21 school year and has continued into this school year.

Thanks to the support at the campus level, the district now has wellness champions at each school to help communicate and facilitate monthly initiatives. Their job is to be the eyes, ears, and helping hands to ensure that wellness opportunities are made available to all staff.

Wylie East High School Wellness Champion Susan McFarland chose to help lead the program because she knows it’s been a tough couple of years and that causes stress among her campus colleagues.

Cox Elementary teachers get some healthy snacks provided by CUTX for winning the Marathon in a Month challenge, one of the district’s new wellness initiatives.

“People feel overwhelmed, but if we focus on our health and taking care of ourselves a little bit, we will be in a better place,” said Susan.

Another campus champion, McMillan Junior High’s Kasia Reese, hopes the results of the program will be noticed by students.

“We’re taught to model everything so if teachers model healthy living and healthy lifestyles, hopefully, it will trickle down to students,” Kasia said.

As a PE aide at Dodd Elementary School, Kamela Banks understands the importance of ensuring the wellness needs of the adults on campus are being met.

“Ultimately, wellness is a lifestyle, and if we can become aware of it at an early age, we can foster it and replicate it daily so it will become as natural as pulling on a pair of socks in the morning,” she said.

The program is sponsored by the Credit Union of Texas. CUTX provided the campus wellness champions with “Well-Being Champ” T-shirts and provided the district with monthly prizes to those individuals and campuses who’ve won each challenge along the way.

The district plans to continue to grow the program, helping to keep employees physically and emotionally strong … the Wylie Way. •

16 | THECONNECTION | January/February 2022

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18 | THECONNECTION | January/February 2022

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YOUR HEALTH

Self-Care How taking care of yourself can help you take care of others

F

by Jan Arrant

eeling run down and out of energy? Life would be easier if there was a simple test to check for the “charge” left in our batteries.

Sometimes the first indicator that our batteries are nearly dead is a trip to the doctor with complaints of not feeling well. In hindsight, you might remember your illness started with a number of sleepless nights, your pants being a little too snug, or a need for one more cup of coffee.

It’s one thing for your battery to need to recharge; it’s another for it to completely run down. Just like with your car, your battery doesn’t die at an opportune time. It happens when you least expect it.

We make sure our cars get proper maintenance so we are not stuck on the side of the road, but many times we think our health will take care of itself and don’t provide the maintenance needed to ensure our motor is happily humming.

You can recharge your battery with very simple additions to your daily life. For instance, add meditation or a deliberate quieting of your mind while standing in line at the grocery store. Rather than becoming impatient, realize that you have been given a few minutes to be quiet. You cannot go anywhere; your groceries are already on the conveyor belt. So, take a few deep breaths to help quiet your mind. Take a minute to listen to your surroundings.

Other ways to regroup: • Get outside once a day for some vitamin D. Sunshine and fresh air can help you decompress, clear your head and recharge.

• Make sure you’re getting enough fruits and vegetables in your diet. Methodist Health System Wellness Director Kathy Ross, RN, MHA, says, “Eating 5 servings of fruits and veggies each day may reduce your risk for many diseases, including heart disease and high blood pressure. Plus, the natural sugar in fruit can help you feel healthy and energized.”

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

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• Make time for those annual visits with your physician.

If you have experienced more mood swings, a change in appetite, or trouble sleeping, share that with your doctor and then follow through on the suggestions.

• Get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day. Exercise can help control your weight, improve your mood and mental health, and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Start small – and check with your doctor before starting an exercise plan.

• Get a good night’s sleep. Put down those electronic devices. Turn them off, set them aside, and take time to think about your day and plan for tomorrow.

Adding just a few simple steps can provide that muchneeded maintenance to keep our motors humming even better than our cars. And remember, you can’t take care of others, if you don’t take care of yourself. It will catch up with you.

Need help finding a physician? Visit: www. methodisthealthsystem.org/doctors/search-results/. •

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System. www.wyliechamber.org | 19

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YOUR MONEY

Building a Healthy Financial Foundation HOW MANY PIECES DO YOU HAVE IN PLACE? Provided by Trace Dennis, CMT

W

hen you read about money matters, you will sometimes see the phrase, “getting your financial house in order.” What exactly does that mean?

When your financial “house is in order,” it means it is built on a solid foundation. It means that you have six fundamental “pillars” in place that are either crucial for sustaining your financial well-being or creating wealth. #1: A SAVINGS ACCOUNT. This is your Fort Knox: the place where you store and build the cash you may someday use for your biggest purchases. Savings accounts pay a modest interest rate. You should still consider having a savings account, even in today’s lowinterest rate environment. Banks and credit unions often limit the number and amount of withdrawals you can make from savings accounts per month. #2: A CHECKING ACCOUNT. This is your go-to account for everyday expenses, whether you pay your bills digitally or the old-fashioned way. Checking accounts pay a modest interest rate. Some accounts may have minimum balance requirements, so it's best to closely read the new account information. Also, opening a checking account may lead to opening a credit card account at the same financial institution. #3: AN EMERGENCY FUND. This bank account helps you deal with the unexpected. You know that label you see on fire extinguisher boxes – “break glass in case of emergency”? Only in a financial emergency should you “break into” this account. What is a financial emergency? Everyone’s definition varies, but examples include hospital bills, major car repairs, and unemployment. #4: A WORKPLACE RETIREMENT PLAN ACCOUNT. Some want to start saving for retirement as soon as possible. Workplace retirement plans offer you a convenient way to get started. In most of these plans, your contribution is made with pre-tax dollars.

Money saved and invested in these accounts can compound, and the compounding may become greater with time. Consistent monthly investment is the “fuel” for your account.

Regular monthly investing does not protect against a loss in a declining market or guarantee a profit in a rising market. Individuals should evaluate their financial ability to continue making purchases through periods of declining and rising prices. The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. Shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. #5: AN INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ARRANGEMENT (IRA). This is a tax-advantaged retirement savings account that you own. There are traditional IRAs (up-front contributions are not taxed; retirement withdrawals are) and Roth IRAs (up-front contributions are taxed; retirement withdrawals are not, provided federal tax laws are followed).

Mandatory annual withdrawals are required from traditional IRAs starting at age 72. The money distributed to you is taxed as ordinary income; if such distributions are taken before age 59½, they may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. No mandatory annual withdrawals are required from Roth IRAs while the original owner lives. To qualify for the taxfree and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal can also be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner's death.

Thanks to the SECURE Act, you may contribute to Roth and traditional IRAs all your life, as long as you meet the earned-income requirement for account contributions. #6: A TAXABLE INVESTING ACCOUNT. This is also popularly called an investment account or brokerage account. Unlike an IRA or workplace retirement plan, the invested assets in these accounts are taxed each year. A taxable investing account gives you access to a wide range of investment products, which can help complement the other accounts in your financial foundation. • Trace Dennis may be reached at 972-429-0603 or tracedennis@jaldennis.com.

20 | THECONNECTION | January/February 2022

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