Wylie CONNECTION Magazine May/June 2021

May/June 2021 • Volume 16 - Issue 2

Your Window to Wylie

Texas State Parks

Don’t Miss the New Featured Chamber Members Section PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID WYLIE, TX PERMIT# 63

The Connection Magazine, Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Fun for the Whole Family!

LINK TO VIDEO MESSAGE ABOUT WINNING A PRIZE!

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

Please Recycle This Magazine After Reading!

Comprehensive, Personalized Care for Cancer.

Methodist Richardson Medical Center is more than a medical center, it’s a place of community and healing for those battling cancer. Our dedication to patient care has led Methodist Richardson to become the first hospital in the nation to earn The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Hepatic/Pancreatic/Biliary Cancer, and we have received accreditation by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

These symbols of quality reflect our commitment to exceptional and comprehensive patient resources for safe and effective cancer care. Trust. Methodist.

We offer a wide range of services to support our patients through their cancer experiences: • Family and patient resources • Cancer support groups • Genetic testing

• Cancer nurse navigators • American Cancer Society (ACS) volunteers • Palliative and supportive care

For more information or to find a physician on our medical staff, call 877-637-4297.

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff, including those specializing in transplant services, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System or any of its affiliated hospitals. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

Thank You to All

EDUCATORS!

Educators and those that support our schools work hard to help students have successful futures.

Community Wealth Advisors wants to say THANK YOU for the challenging work you do and offer you a chance to have a successful financial future by partnering with a financial advisor to meet your financial goals.

During the months of May and June, anyone that works for a school and has a complimentary consultation for financial or investment planning will receive a $25 gift card for dining in Downtown Wylie.

Whether you are in the phase of life to begin saving, need support with growing established assets, or ready to transition to retirement, Community Wealth Advisors will partner with you to develop a financial plan to meet your individual needs.

LIFETIME PLANNING STAGES

LAYING THE FOUNDATION

GROWING YOUR ASSETS

COMMUNITY WEALTH ADVISORS

LIFE WELL PLANNED. 109 N. Ballard Ave., Wylie, TX 75098

972-521-8282

www.RaymondJames.com/CWA @CWA.RaymondJames

Allison Wilson Financial Advisor

MAKING THE TRANSITION

Sherry Snodgrass Office Manager

SPENDING YOUR MONEY WISELY

Stephen Wilson, CFP® Financial Advisor

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Call 972-521-8282 today to schedule your appointment.

Scan to learn more about the team at CWA. ©2021 Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Community Wealth Advisors is not a registered broker dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Drop In and Drop Off a Pint of Life Saving “TEXAS RED ” Enjoy Some Free BBQ, Live Music & See Some Cool Wrapped Cars!

Saturday, May 15 BLOOD DRIVE: 12 - 6PM

BUS ON-SITE FOR BLOOD DRIVE

SCHEDULE YOUR DONATION TIME!

https://ww3.greatpartners.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/123011

LIVE MUSIC: 5 - 9PM

Desolation Angels with opening band, Summit

BBQ SERVED: 1 - 4PM

PLUS: Fireworks After Dark!

Veteran Owned & Operated @LaserWraps (972) 442-3332 704 Parker Rd., Wylie, TX 75098

NOW ENROLLING! Please stop by for a tour.

We are excited and ready to educate and care for your children in a safe environment where the Primrose Balanced Learning curriculum can take your child to the next level. Please scan the QR code to learn more.

2 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

53%

check out these local businesses I work with on social

of website traffic is mobile. Is your business' website mobile-friendly?

message! o e id v l ia c watch speyour smartphone e s u qr code! camera on

82% of people are on social media.

How are you getting your business in front of them?

website design | social media marketing

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

greatscottsites.com/flyer

www.wyliechamber.org | 3

Hello Wylie and thanks for staying Connected!

Is it safe to go out yet? With a mask? No mask? One shot? No shots?

We leave the viral expertise to others but feel like the time is right to get out and about a bit, no matter what facewear you sport. So, we have filled this issue with fun family outdoor things to do in the area and in Texas as a whole.

First, before you read, you will want to scan. Scan the many QR codes that reside in the following pages.

They might take you to a website you will need – now or later – or the QR scan will get you closer to the many local businesses in the area. If you scan the right one, you might win one of those prized Connection T-shirts, which we now have in different colors! The QR codes provide an extra layer of knowledge about the businesses to help you with any service needs.

Content-wise, we have a great feature on Texas State Parks near and far, with the many amenities and activities you and your family can experience. We spotlight a few local families and their park experience

for more insight.

You can also learn how to do a little urban farming via classes at Collin College, and we have a quick look at the current cornhole craze, with all the info you need Wylie Chamber President to have your own backyard tournament.

Our traditional sections highlight sun safety and college financing. In a new section for 2021, we feature some of our Wylie Chamber members who can help you with your summer business, service or entertainment needs.

Don’t forget to scan the QR codes in the magazine for information and possible prizes, and of course the butterfly is flying somewhere in the issue as well.

Until next time, enjoy your time out and about and thanks for reading.

We hope you enjoy reading the CONNECTION as much as we enjoy bringing it to you!

Information Security Analyst Insurance Underwriter

Sleep Technologist

FIND YOUR FUTURE REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER CLASSES Explore the possibilities at collin.edu

4 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

CONTENTS

May/June 2021 • Volume 16 - Issue 2

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 Rhonda Taulbee

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

Heather Darrow

PHOTOGRAPHY Ethan Good Nick Young

CONNECTION FEATURE 6

TEXAS STATE PARKS

Four Family Favorites

CONNECTION COLUMNS 12

CITY OF WYLIE

State of the City, Fire Station #4 Ground Breaking, Trails

14

WYLIE ISD

Adopt A Senior

17

COLLIN COLLEGE

Cultivating a New Future

Digital edition available online at www.wyliechamber.org

18

YOUR HEALTH

The CONNECTION Magazine ©2021, Wylie Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. The CONNECTION is published bimonthly and mailed free of charge to over 24,500 households and businesses with an estimated readership of over 75,000 in the Wylie area.

20 21

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.

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.

Be Safe in the Sun

CALENDAR - May & June

FEATURED WYLIE CHAMBER MEMBERS

22

FUN FOOD

Gourmet S'mores

23

LET'S PLAY

Cornhole

24

YOUR MONEY

Countdown to College

Just for fun, find the butterfly! Last issue it was hidden on page 7 in the bull rider's photo. Happy butterfly hunting!!

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

Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air’s salubrity. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

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

ON THE COVER: David, Bryce, and Madison Elwart enjoy fishing at Tyler State Park.

6 www.wyliechamber.org | 5

By Judy Truesdell

The Taylor

s' vie

All photos courtesy of the Taylor, Sosa and Elwart families.

Can’t Decide What to do This Summer?

Put it in Park!

S

ummer is almost here, and If your family is like mine, you’re ready to get the heck outta the house and preferably outta town. That winter storm demoralized us, but it’s warming up now, and, though COVID is still raging, many of us are vaccinated, and it’s always been safer to be outdoors. But what to do? Get on a plane? Head for a theme park?

How about visiting one of the 89 Texas State Parks?

We asked around and found that many local families have already discovered the fun these parks can provide. What better way to be outside and safe while making some new happy memories?

It would take the whole issue to hit the high points of all 89, but here’s the low down on four that seemed to pop up on everybody’s list of favorites. (All parks have their own website; be sure to do your research before you go to learn about COVID restrictions as well as all the amenities each park has to offer.)

Eisenhower State Park 50 Park Road 20, Denison, TX 75020-4878

Located just an hour north of Dallas on the shores of Lake Texoma, this park features a sandy swimming cove, 4 miles of trails to explore along high bluffs, and excellent fishing for striped bass, crappie and catfish – 6 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

you can borrow rods, reels and tackle boxes with hooks, sinkers and bobbers for park use. (No fishing license is required when you fish from shore in a Texas State Park!) Look for native wildflowers or fossils left from an ancient ocean, play horseshoes, or take part in rangerled activities like stargazing and Dutch oven cooking.

You can make it there and back in a day, but if you’d like to stay overnight, campsites are available, including basic tent sites and pull-through sites for large RVs. There are also screen shelters and “Ike’s Cabin,” which features window unit AC and heat and bunk beds.

Tyler State Park 789 Park Road 16, Tyler, TX 75706-9141

Another favorite, this park features a 64-acre springfed lake and 100-foot-tall trees. Visitors can boat or swim in the lake, take a hike or mountain bike trek on 13 miles of trails in the piney woods, including the Whispering Pines Nature Trail, laid out 70 years ago by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Fish for crappie, perch, catfish or bass on three fishing piers and a boat ramp. Fishermen and -women can borrow gear from this park also, as part of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Tackle Loaner Program. There are boats for rent or you can bring your own. Camping accommodations are available here as well, including campsites, cabins, and screened shelters. Kids can borrow a Junior Ranger Explorer Pack, and btw, teachers – this is a Texas Aquatic Science Certified Field Site.

.

Par k Sta te Tyl er ore fish ing at enhower S ta

te Park .

h lores t sa e x p

So Bailey

Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway 100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX 76067

This park is in the heart of cattle country, one hour west of Fort Worth. Although it features many of the same amenities as other parks – fishing, swimming, geocaching, bike and horseback riding – unique to Lake Mineral Wells is Penitentiary Hollow, one of the few natural rock-climbing venues in North Texas. Be sure to check with the park before planning to climb; it is sometimes closed under wet conditions due to safety concerns. If you’d like a guide, contact RockAbout Climbing Adventures, the approved guide to lead climbers. Go to the website, https://rock-about. com/climbing-locations/mineral-wells-state-park/, email Adam@Rock-About.com, or call 512-415-0804 for more information. Reserve the park’s amphitheater or group hall for a family reunion (if everyone has been vaccinated), or rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, rowboats or flat-bottom boats with trolling motors.

Cooper Lake State Park Doctors Creek Unit 1664 FM 1529 South, Cooper, TX 75432 South Sulphur Unit 1690 FM 3505, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482

Cooper Lake State Park offers two “park units,” so there’s plenty of room to spread out and avoid crowds of campers. Your family can fish, picnic, swim, hike, bird watch, study nature, stargaze, ride horses or geocache. Rent a boat or kayak or bring your own.

Camping is also available at both units, including sites with water and electricity, or walk-in campsites. There A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

van tage

of sh their cam psite at Eis

Dav id

tak e ad

each from

rk . ate Pa yler St T t a e ak g-fed l e sprin

and

Elw ar t

ew of the b

Bry ce

are equestrian campsites at the South Sulphur Unit; you and your steed can explore the 10.5-mile Buggy Whip Equestrian Trail that crosses 600 acres of shaded forest and thick vegetation and includes hillsides and creek gulches. (Some parts of the trail will be best tackled by experienced horsemen and -women who are up to a challenge.) Both Doctors and South Sulphur offer screened shelters and cabins, and South Sulphur has 14 cabins with kitchens and bathrooms. (Let’s face it; not all of us are rugged outdoors people.)

Local Families Share Park Memories Wylie’s Julie and Mike Taylor and their kids, Breanna, 19, James, 17, Sabrina, 16, and Olivia, 14, escape to Eisenhower State Park every chance they get. “It’s become one of our favorite parks to visit,” Julie said, “because it’s so close and it’s beautiful and there’s lots to do.” The family tent camps at one of the campsites on a cliff, overlooking the beach area, where they swim.

There are caves and rocks near the beach, which the kids also love exploring.

They always bring a hammock in which to swing and relax, and they enjoy sitting around the campfire and making their own meals. One of their favorites is a tinfoil dessert called a banana boat – you slice the banana horizontally, see, and put marshmallows and chocolate chips in between the slices. Cover it in foil and place it in the hot coals of the fire. (Sounds like a combination banana split and s’more.) They also prepare foil dinners continued... www.wyliechamber.org | 7

King Possum

at y time d famil n e p s a os d Dre S iley, an

k ate Par dom St

a at home in advance of the trip, cutting up chicken rrett, B iree, Ba s e D or ground beef and packing it in foil with seasonings, butter, and cut-up veggies. They cook the dinners on hot coals after the fire has been going for a while. Julie suggests marking the outside to keep track of whose dinner is whose.

The trip has become one of their traditions for another reason. “We like to go camping over Easter weekend to have a special place to ponder the meaning of Easter and be in nature and appreciate the world a little more,” Julie said.

Justin and Lauren Falcone and their family live in Josephine, and they think Tyler State Park is a “pretty cool place,” but they also visit Eisenhower State Park and Cooper State Park. In fact, they visited Cooper in April. The Falcones have two sons, Hudson, age 3, and Cooper, age 2. “Our family loves to be outdoors,” Justin said.

“We purchased a State Park Pass, which gives us access to all state parks in Texas and provides discounted rates for overnight stays in our camper.”

He said there is something for everyone when they visit state parks. “Our family loves to fish, hike, ride bikes, and just hang outdoors.” Sometimes they take day trips, but most of the time now, they take the camper and stay overnight.

Desiree and Dre Sosa of Wylie, together with their kids, Barrett, 13, and Bailey, 11, don’t just have one The Taylor kids join fo rces to wa favorite park – they have four. The sh dishes a t Eisenhow er State P Sosas visit Eisenhower, Tyler, Cooper, ark . and Lake Mineral Wells, all of which they call “great Sachse’s state parks.” They love the beaches, paddle board and Elwart family – kayak rentals, hiking trails and fishing. “Enjoying the Michele and David and outdoors with the family cannot be beat,” Desiree said. their kids David, 13, Bryce, 11, and Madison, 11 – haven’t been to a state park in over a year due to COVID concerns, but they are Did you know that Texas has 89 state parks? Visit “super sad” about that the Texas State Parks website for a map of all of and look forward to them, descriptions of their amenities, calendars of visiting when they events, and other information to plan the perfect feel safe. When the get-away. Find information about purchasing Texas kids were younger, State Parks Passes, which provide unlimited entry; the family made Texas Parklands Passports that are free to certain the decision to groups, such as seniors and disabled veterans; and Barret invest in a 35-foot t Sosa Youth Group Annual Passes.

RV instead of incurring the expense of a big vacation every summer.

Visit tpwd.texas.gov to get Although they take camping trips all over Texas and the whole parks picture! other states, they always enjoy Tyler and Eisenhower.

“My kids really like to fish,” Michele said. “Tyler State

ip.

.

shows

off his c

atch a

t a rec ent ca

mping tr

Find the Perfect Park

continued...

8 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

Buy, Sell or Build with

CALL OR TEXT

469-964-7079

MsNikkiSellsHomes@gmail.com

NPETERS.CBAPEX.COM

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

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.

N

www.cantrellfamilydentistry.com www.wyliechamber.org | 9

Barrett S

Park has the best shore fishing in my opinion.

Eisenhower has a nice pier to fish from, as does Daingerfield.”

The family loves to hike, and Tyler has a beautiful trail around the lake. “All the state parks have some trail system, where you can cousin R ic get out into the ky Segovia canoe at L ake Miner woods and feel that al Wells. connection with nature and the quietness that you can only get through camping,” she said. “Tyler also has mountain bike trails, so if your family wants to spice it up and add in some other fun activities, they are available too.”

The Elwart kids participated in Junior Ranger activities when they were little; they would go on walks with park rangers, then go out and complete different activities to get their Junior Ranger badge, learning about different plants and animals that are native to that park’s region.

They don’t necessarily camp each time; day osa and h is

Although the idea of keeping an eye to your screens may not seem compatible with a weekend in the wild, here are some apps that can actually enhance the experience.

Texas State Parks Official Guide tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/app This free mobile guide to all 89 Texas parks can point you toward those with swimming, fishing, kayaking, and other activities, as well as cabins, lodges, shelters, RV sites, and tent camping sites.

Discover which parks feature boat ramps, dump stations, showers, hiking, biking and equestrian trails, and use the in-app map to locate parks near you. Operating hours, pictures and virtual tours are also available. Use the in-app dialing to make reservations or call, get driving directions, discover park programs and happenings, and get up-to-date info such as burn bans.

AllTrails - www.alltrails.com/mobile Download this app to plan your hike, bike ride, or trail run and make the most of the experience.

Search by length, rating, and difficulty level, which trails are kid (and dog) friendly, and view handcurated maps and reviews by other hikers. Once you’ve arrived, this app prevents you from, well, getting lost if you have a less-than-perfect sense 10 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

boat desse

rt.

trips are fun and cost effective, Michele says, especially for those looking for some water fun or light hiking – more affordable than pricey water parks and more interesting than the neighborhood sidewalks! “I love Daingerfield for a nice day trip; they have a great swim beach and picnic area, and it’s a little closer than Tyler State Park.” She also mentioned Fort Richardson in Jacksboro, which has some interesting historic buildings and tours providing insight into Texas history.

Wherever they go, “great family memories are made every time.”

So if you’re not quite ready to risk a packed plane or rock a roller coaster – or the outdoors is calling – visit the Texas State Parks website and choose your own adventure. Peace, quiet, and priceless family a n a is ban or shows h experiences await. • w James Tayl

SAND & GRAVEL 5390 Pleasant Valley Rd., Sachse

972-442-6231

Open to the Public! Family Owned & Operated

Landscaping Supplies Organic Compost & Mulch

Flagstone & Rocks All Sizes Sand, Gravel & Dirt for All Projects

of direction. One click gives you directions back to the rail head. Use the app to keep track of trails you want to explore and create custom maps of the ones you’ve tackled.

iNaturalist - www.inaturalist.org Upload a picture of any wild plant, animal, or fungus, and iNaturalist’s community, together with image recognition software, will help you identify it. Record and organize nature findings while making connections with other nature enthusiasts, including hikers, hunters, birders, beach combers, mushroom foragers, park rangers, ecologists and fishermen! Share observations, see what other fans of nature have found, keep a life list. Over 31 million observations of over 250,000 species have been recorded.

Geocaching - www.geocaching.com Join the world’s largest treasure hunt with this app. Find hidden objects using GPS coordinates.

Once you’ve discovered the treasure and taken a token, sign the logbooks and log your find online.

Picture This - www.picturethisai.com Take or upload a photo of any plant and get instant and accurate plant ID with artificial intelligence technology. • A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

Firewood

Sold by the Stack, 1/4, 1/2 and Full Cord

Excavation & Site Work Concrete

Break-up & Haul-off, RV & Building Pads, Driveways & Sidewalks

Delivery Available or Pick-up & Save www.EubanksSandandGravel.com www.wyliechamber.org | 11

CITY OF WYLIE

State of the City Address Wylie Mayor Matthew Porter joined Wylie ISD Superintendent Dr. David Vinson for a joint State of the City/School address during a special Chamber of Commerce luncheon April 27.

More than 100 people gathered, sitting at tables of 4, at the Collin College Wylie Campus Events Center. The event marked the first in-person Chamber luncheon in more than a year, as people were eager to re-connect.

Unity was on display as Mayor Porter and Dr. Vinson casually sat center stage following brief 15 minute presentations by each speaker. The two discussed the response to Winter Storm Uri and COVID-19, our school resource officer partnership, working together on planning future growth, and Wylie’s overall quality of life.

WylieTexas.gov Ground Breaks on Wylie Fire Station #4 The ground was broken April 17 on Wylie Fire Station #4 located on McMillen Drive (between McCreary Rd. and N. Lewis Rd). Wylie Fire Rescue Honor Guard and Pipes and Drums opened the ceremony followed by comments by Mayor Matthew Porter, City Manager Chris Holsted, Zach Walker, VP at Pogue Construction, and Fire Chief Brandon Blythe. The new station is part of Wylie’s overall fire protection plan to maintain our ISO Class 1 Fire Protection Rating and exceptional response times that residents have come to expect. The station is expected to be completed by spring 2022.

12 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

www.wyliechamber.org | 13

WYLIE ISD

Adopt A Senior A NEW TRADITION CELEBRATING WISD'S GRADUATING SENIORS CONTINUES

by Ian Halperin

14 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

Photo courtesy of Wylie ISD.

W

hen COVID-19 shut down schools across Texas last spring no group of students was more impacted than the Class of 2020. Seniors missed award ceremonies, prom, senior walk and so many other traditional rites of passage. Even though Kim Verity has no children in the Wylie ISD, she started an "Adopt a Senior" program to provide a little something special for Wylie High, Wylie East, and Achieve Academy students who lost so much.

Kim, along with Candice Lawrence and Barbara Gonzalez, helped spread the Wylie Way by celebrating more than 600 graduates with gifts and well wishes as they endure the challenges of COVID-19. The trio is continuing the program for the Class of 2021.

“Being a senior parent is always stressful,” said Kim. “Top that off with a pandemic and you are thrown a curveball. Like many, I was disappointed that the senior events were being canceled. Although this was out of our control, I reflected on my senior year and knew that this was not going to be easy for me, or my son.”

“This program brings a smile back to the faces of the seniors,” said Leslie Kaiser, mom of Wylie East students in the classes of 2020 and 2021. “It gives them something to look forward to, and it's special because it's created just for them. It's amazing to see how creative our community is with gifts and celebrations for our seniors. I'm so grateful for this program because it demonstrates kindness and generosity in a time when it's desperately needed.”

“When everything seemed to be canceled, it made me feel good to know that others knew we were going through a hard time,” said 2020 WEHS graduate Collin Kaiser.

Leslie adopted a senior from each school last year and plans to do the same this year.

Besides helping run the program, Candice, who also had a senior in 2020 and one in 2021, said there is more

Candice Lawrence presents her adopted senior, Collin Kaiser, Wylie East Class of 2020, with a gift basket.

excitement this year. “A lot of the kids know what it is and they are looking forward to being adopted this year.”

Although not an official district project, Wylie ISD recognized the value of the program and honored Kim, Candice, and Barbara this past October with the Wylie Way Award.

Parents and guardians of the Class of 2021 from WHS, WEHS, or Achieve can put their child up for “adoption.” It’s all done via the group’s Facebook page.

Parents create a post, including a picture, indicate which high school their senior attends, and include a few facts about the grad. Once it’s complete, it is posted in the comments for prospective adopters to select from.

“We ask that everyone communicate in a private message to arrange delivery of the gifts,” added Kim. “To maintain privacy, please do not publicly post phone numbers or addresses on the Facebook page.”

Parents and guardians of the Class of 2021 from WHS, WEHS, or Achieve can register their graduates. Anyone can adopt a senior. Visit the group’s Facebook page: Adopt-A-Senior 2021 (Wylie, TX) • w

This Summer Find More Reasons to Smile!

Call us now to schedule your consultation • Wisdom Teeth Removal • Dental Implants • All on 4 implants • IV Sedation

Edmondson Law, PLLC Dr. Ajay Ganti

Additional Services • Facial Rejuvenation • Facial Cosmetics • Facial Surgery Proudly Serving the Cities of Wylie, Murphy, Sachse, Garland, Richardson, McKinney, Lavon, St. Paul, Lucas, Parker & Other Communities Within & Around Collin County

469-596-7722 www.northtxofs.com

2300 FM 544, Suite 240 Wylie, TX 75098

Voted Wylie’s BEST Insurance Agency 10 Years in a Row! Cindy Hampton, Cathy Jonson, John Yeager, Chelsea Paredes, Debbie Castillo and Kylie Reising

Practice Areas WYLIE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

“Serving You Since 1898”

JOHN YEAGER, CIC

Check With Us For All Your Insurance Needs

Corporate/LLC/Partnership Formations

✔ AUTO ✔ LIFE ✔ BUSINESS ✔ HOMEOWNERS

Highest Standards of Professional Service

972-442-3505 Fax: 972-442-3885

info@wylieinsurance.com 201 Calloway • P.O. Box 40 Wylie, TX 75098

Wills & Estate Planning Trusts & Probate Business & Family Law Personal Injury Real Estate Law

WINNER BEST OF 2021

CS

WINNER & media

www.wylieinsurance.com A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

Edmondson Law, PLLC

303 S. Jackson Avenue, Suite 200 Wylie, Texas 75098 o. 972.442.8326 | f. 972.442.8227

wylietxlaw.com www.wyliechamber.org | 15

Summer Day Camp

A great constructive alternative to daycare or other summer programs.

Register Now!!

Make your child’s summer a combination of fun and knowledge while learning Martial Arts and the ABC’s of life: Attitude - Behavior - Character.

EVENING CLASSES for ADULTS, KIDS, FAMILIES

Pay for your first week and receive a free T-shirt.

New Students Only

1234 Parker Rd. - Wylie, TX

214-293-8057 info@wyliekarate.com

www.WylieKarate.com GET READY FOR

SUMMER

PARKER ROAD VETERINARY HOSPITAL

37 Years of Dedicated & Caring Service to Wylie and the Surrounding Area

SMALL ANIMALS & HORSES FULL SERVICE MEDICAL & SURGICAL CARE 24 Hour Emergency Service Available for Our Clients

$75 TUNE UP SPECIAL Includes air conditioning inspection and wash outdoor unit.

martin-heating-and-air.business.site 16 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

Park Blvd.

Water Tower

FM 544

Parker Rd. Vet. Hosp.

Ballard St.

FM 1378

Parker Rd.

Brown St.

y 78

Hw

One mile north of Downtown Wylie (Next to the Water Tower)

N

Dr. Kerin

Dr. Abraham

Dr. Wallis

Dr. Myers

www.parkerroadvet.com

707 Parker Rd • Wylie

972-442-6523

COLLIN COLLEGE

Cultivating a New Future: THIRD GENERATION LANDOWNER EXPLORES URBAN FARMING

by Heather Darrow

A

Photo by Nick Young, Collin College photographer.

s a young girl, Dana Gilbert gardened Dana’s grandparents, retired Air Force Colonel Worth alongside her great-grandmother. Later, she Speed and Mary Lou Speed, bought the 10-acre parcel tried her hand at of land in the 1980s. Dana’s planting tomatoes and mother and stepfather, Suzanne peppers. Today, she is a thirdand Mike Powers, moved to the generation Wylie landowner property in 2013 after Dana’s who is ready to embrace the grandparents passed away. urban sustainable agriculture “We rode horses on the movement. land, and my grandparents “This past year was very eye raised chickens,” she said. “My opening,” Dana said. “I began to grandfather loved hanging out question what we were doing. I with the horses. It was calming wondered, ‘Are we really living and wonderful for them, and our best lives or are we just he helped my aunt and uncle going to work?’ My husband, build their house next door. My Russell, and I decided we mother is a master gardener. She wanted to see what we could do kept the chickens and sold eggs to enjoy the land we have and at the farmer’s market. She also make it productive.” had raised beds with a variety of plants and a small vegetable Dana registered for two Collin garden,” Dana said.

College Urban Sustainable Agriculture classes and plans to Today Dana and her husband earn an associate degree in the have 20 chickens and 8 chicks. program.

This year they are starting a Dana Gilbert is studying Urban Sustainable Agriculture at Collin College. garden and planting things they “I am learning how agriculture like to eat like potatoes, squash, has changed over the years and SCAN QR CODE TO VIEW and onions. how to improve it. Now I know A VIDEO ABOUT THE which insects are beneficial “The land is a blessing, and my URBAN SUSTAINABLE and that you select companion ultimate goal is to have enough AGRICULTURE PROGRAM vegetables to make sure you are produce to sell at the farmer’s not planting something that will market on a regular basis,” she bring pests. One day I would said. like to quit my job and just work our land. These classes Dana plans to follow her grandfather’s adage, “the will eventually help me reach my goal,” she said. land needs to work for me. Not the other way around.”

According to Anne Thornton, director of the “I never thought one day I would want to grow agriculture program, students can earn two certificates vegetables,” Dana said. “For me, it would be a slower as well as an associate degree in Urban Sustainable pace, and I would get to be my own boss. It is pretty Agriculture. cool to see something you’ve tended grow, and there “This unique hands-on program covers vertical is something to be said for working your own land in a farming, beekeeping, animal science, hydroponics, more sustainable way.” and so much more,” Anne said. “Industry professionals For more information about the Urban Sustainable address the farm-to-table concept and teach students Agriculture program, visit www.collin.edu/department/ how to put scientific principles to work.” agriculture/. For more information about the Wylie ‘The land needs to work for me. Not the other way Campus, visit www.collin.edu/campuses/wylie/. • w around.’

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

www.wyliechamber.org | 17

YOUR HEALTH

Be Safe in the Sun

by Jan Arrant

H

ere in Texas, fun in the sun is the norm.

You might be boating on Lake Lewisville, floating the Brazos, cheering on the Rangers, hiking Big Bend, or walking the golf course.

Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing, too much heat and too much sun can put you in danger of lifethreatening illnesses.

Heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke Ketan Trivedi, MD, emergency medicine physician on the medical staff at Methodist Health System, sees cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke all summer long.

He says missing the signs of heat exhaustion — muscle cramps, fatigue, profuse sweating, lightheadedness, and dizziness — can lead to heat stroke, which is a much more serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

“Heat stroke is a true medical emergency, and the patient needs to be brought to the emergency department promptly,” Dr. Trivedi says.

“People often confuse heat exhaustion and heat stroke, but there’s a huge difference,” Dr. Trivedi adds.

“Any neurological signs, such as altered mental status or seizures, along with an absence of sweating are the hallmark differences that accompany heat stroke. The problem with heat stroke is that it can start affecting different organs in the body — liver, kidneys, and muscles — so people have to be evaluated appropriately.”

Stop heat-related illnesses before they start Dehydration is one key factor contributing to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Fueling up with water and sports drinks the day before outdoor activities will help ensure that your body has the fluids and electrolytes it needs to stay hydrated.

“You don’t want to wait until you have symptoms to start drinking fluids; you want to pretreat,” Dr. Trivedi says.

He offers these additional tips for lessening the likelihood of heat-related illnesses: • Limit activity to shorter durations.

• Alternate activity with resting in the shade to give your body a chance to cool down.

• Drink more than the recommended 8 to 10 glasses of water a day if you’re going to be exerting yourself outdoors.

18 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

• Alternate water with sports drinks, which contain the necessary electrolytes, sodium, and potassium.

• Eat potassium-rich foods, such as melon, beans, and spinach.

• Avoid alcohol, soda, and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.

Sun Safety: Fact vs. Fiction Learn the facts about ultraviolet (UV) exposure before heading outside.

It’s important to wear sunscreen when spending time outside, especially during the summer. But despite years of public safety messaging, many myths still persist about when you can be outside safely without sunscreen.

MYTH: I’m just going outside for a little bit, so I don’t need sunscreen.

FACT: It can take as few as 15 minutes for UV rays from the sun to damage your skin.

MYTH: As long as I put sunscreen on my baby, it’s fine to take her to the pool.

FACT: The American Academy of Dermatology advises using sunscreen on babies younger than 6 months old only when absolutely necessary. Instead, protect infants’ sensitive skin by keeping them in the shade and dressing them in protective clothing.

MYTH: Now that I’ve got a base tan, I don’t need sunscreen.

FACT: Tanned skin has an estimated sun protection factor of about 4. That is not high enough to prevent long-term sun damage.

MYTH: I applied self-tanner, so my skin is dark and I don’t need sunscreen.

FACT: Self-tanner is a safer way to get the look of tanned skin, but it does not protect your skin from the sun.

The simple fact is that you should always wear sunscreen when you are outdoors to lessen your chances of getting skin cancer. Also, schedule an annual visit with a dermatologist to check for possibly cancerous moles or other signs of skin damage. • w 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.

Your TERMITE

Commercial & Residential Services

Solution Headquarters

Certified Sentricon SpecialistTM

• Curative & Preventative Sentricon® System with Always ActiveTM Technology offered • Conventional/liquid treatments using Termidor • Spot Treatments using Termidor • We foam plumbing inside, no drilling through slab inside • WDI reports

Experience the Ultimate in Value, Integrity and Trust.

Serving the Dallas Metroplex since 2003.

Voted Best of Wylie 2008-2021!

State required disclosures are required before estimates are final.

www.Sentricon.com

Give us a call today for a FREE Termite, Pest or Wildlife control estimate.

www.allpestsolutions.com

GRAND Opening!

Children’s Boutique

Rompers & Outfits, Gowns & Onesies, Blankets & Lovies Masks, Headbands & Bows Hooded Towels & More!

Custom Personalization Available

Got Pests...Call the Best!

972-442-1169

2025 E. Stone Rd., Wylie, TX 75098

Implant Dentures

BEFORE

Restore Your Smile, Comfort, and Self-Confidence DENTURES AVAILABLE

AFTER Implant Dentures Completed in our State-of-the-Art Wylie Office

Modern Dental Care for Your Whole Family Schedule your commitment-free consultation today!

972-908-9830

info@insmiledentist.com

25% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE

214-210-2025

NEW LOCATION!

DISCOUNT CODE

311 N. Ballard Ave., Ste. 101 Wylie, TX 75098

Valid in store or online during the month of May.

juztjazboutique.com

SUMMER25

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

330 S. State Highway 78, Ste 200 Wylie, TX 75908 Dr. Behram Shah, DMD

www.insmiledentist.com Most Insurance Accepted | Flexible Finance Options Free Emergency Exams and 2nd Opinions

www.wyliechamber.org | 19

CALENDAR

May & June Wylie ISD Graduation Ceremonies

Visit www.wylieisd.net/graduation to watch livestream of the ceremonies.

May 27: Achieve Academy - Choice High School Graduation Ceremony May 28: Wylie East High School Graduation Ceremony May 29: Wylie High School Graduation Ceremony May 9: Mother's Day May 31: Memorial Day Celebration in Olde City Park - Downtown Wylie 7:45 - 8:15 a.m. Half Staff Flag Ceremony

8:30 - 10:30 a.m. Boy Scout Troop 78 accepting Flag Retirements 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Memorial Day Ceremony

June 20: June 26

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 3430 Skyview Dr, Wylie, TX 75098 www.facebook.com/events/241022107768466 Father's Day Bluegrass on Ballard 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. in Historic Downtown Wylie Ballard Ave. (Hwy. 78 to Brown St.) & Olde City Park www.wylietexas.gov/living/events/bluegrass_on_ballard.php

Facebook - @Wylie Veterans Memorial June 12 Big Cat Birthday Bash at In-Sync Exotics

• Mowing, Edging, Line Trimming & Blowing • Flower Beds & Gardens - Mulch Installation • Tree & Shrub Trimming • Spring & Fall Clean-Ups • Locally Owned, Operated & Insured

FREE ESTIMATES Call Herb or Marcus Whitaker at

Ethan Good Photography 972-922-2469 EthanGoodPhotography.com 20 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

972-670-9749

dubyalawncare.com

Featured Chamber Members ARTISTIC ACTIVITIES Creative Arts Guild of Wylie Lily Courtney 403B S. Birmingham St. Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 209-1907 www.cagwylie.com

CATERING Pink Company, The Larry Pink 1018 Joe’s Dr. Duncanville, TX 75116 (972) 342-3326 friedbypink.com

Landon Winery Bob Landon 103 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-0155

Studio Lotus Melissa Mancini 131 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 609-7370

Plano Super Bowl Erin Degray 2521 Ave. K. Plano, TX 75074 (972) 881-0242

Woodbridge Golf Club Sara Holsted 7400 Country Club Dr. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 429-5100

www.landonwinery.com

www.planosuperbowl.com

Woodbridge Golf Club Sara Holsted 7400 Country Club Dr. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 429-5100 www.wbgolfclub.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Creative Arts Guild of Wylie Lily Courtney 403B S. Birmingham St. Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 209-1907 www.cagwylie.com

Allen Americans Hockey Club Brittany Kucia 200 E. Stacy Rd., Ste. 1350 Allen, TX 75002 (972) 912-1024 www.allenamericans.com

Blue Heron Landing Events Michele Caputo 5915 Pleasant Valley Rd. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 740-1561 www.facebook.com/BlueHeronLandingEvents/

Collin Park Marina, Inc. Joe Castro 2200 Saint Paul Rd. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-3567

Wylie Acting Group Melissa Irvin 205 Industrial Ct., Ste. 200 Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 298-8061 www.wylieactinggroup.org/

EVENT CENTERS Bear Creek Celebrations Mel Foust 1045 Bear Creek Ranch Nevada, TX 75173 (469) 865-0151 bearcreekranchevents.com

Scan to watch video tour.

Blue Heron Landing Events Michele Caputo 5915 Pleasant Valley Rd. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 740-1561 www.facebook.com/BlueHeronLandingEvents/

Dallas Summer Musicals Amber Sloan 909 First Ave. Dallas, TX,75210 (214) 413-3924

Willow Pond Venue Yvonne Moore 190 County Road 490 Princeton, TX 75407 (972) 822-6227

Garland Summer Musicals Patty Granville 300 N. 5th St. Garland, TX 75040 (972) 205-2790

www.garlandsummermusicals.org

www.wbgolfclub.com

FITNESS CENTERS/ PROGRAMS Anytime Fitness 101 S. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 972) 461-1600

www.anytimefitness.com/clubs/ wylietx

CrossFit Alanis Beaux Dyson 1001 Alanis Dr., Ste. 230 Wylie, TX 75098 (214) 469-7588 CrossFitAlanis.com

www.collinpark.com

www.dallassummermusicals.org

www.studiolotusphotography.com

www.willowpondvenue.com

EVENT/MEETING SPACE Landon Winery Bob Landon 103 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-0155

CrossFit Wylie Chris Coker 120 Security Ct. Wylie, TX 75098 (903) 513-5766

www.crossfitwylie.com

Power Training Center Bryan Kenney 114 Regency Dr., Ste. 130 Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 573-4450 facebook.com/powertrainingcentertx

Pure Barre Murphy Kelly Jensen 511 E. FM 544, Ste. 109 Murphy, TX 75094 (214) 991-0947

www.purebarre.com/location/ murphy-tx

Snap Fitness 24-7 Deanna Williams 560 Country Club, Ste. 102 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 978-5459

www.snapfitness.com/gyms/wylietx-75089/8143

Wylie Karate Dennis Sukut 1234 Parker Rd. Wylie, TX 75098 (214) 293-8057

www.wyliekarate.com

GOLF Woodbridge Golf Club Sara Holsted 7400 Country Club Dr. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 429-5100 www.wbgolfclub.com

GUN SALES AND SUPPLIES Wylie Gun Guy Keith Stephens 211 Rush Creek Dr. Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 964-9106 www.wyliegunguy.com

Scan the QR Code with a listing to learn more about their business.

J & S Party Rental, Co Eloisa Martinez 4906 Dillehay Dr., Ste. 300 Allen, TX 75002 (214) 884-5713

La Flor Murphy Lupe Santibanez 305 E. FM 544, Ste. 905 Murphy, TX 75096 (972) 881-1583

Studio Lotus Melissa Mancini 131 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 609-7370

OMG Creamery Ken Swayze 100 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 (214) 299-9776

www.jandspartyrental.com

www.studiolotusphotography.com

HOTELS & MOTELS Holiday Inn Dallas-Garland Jeff Daugherty 5110 N. Pres. George Bush Hwy. Garland, TX 75040 (972) 495-1144 www.holidayinn.com/garland

Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Wylie West Kimberley Jones 630 Sanden Blvd.

Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 543-0009 www.hiexpress.com/wylietx

Hyatt Place Dallas/Garland Lauren Crenshaw 5101 N. George Bush Hwy. Garland, TX 75040 (972) 414-3500

www.dallasgarland.place.hyatt.com

LaQuinta Inn & Suites Dipali Patel 2210 W FM544 Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 969-0911 www.laquintawylie.com

MOVIE THEATRE B&B Theatres Tiny Underwood 711 Woodbridge Pkwy.

Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 412-8765 www.bbtheatres.com

PARTY RENTALS Blue Heron Landing Events Michele Caputo 5915 Pleasant Valley Rd. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 740-1561 www.facebook.com/BlueHeronLandingEvents/

RENTAL & SALES Iron Throne Site Services Jennifer Langel 5593 TX-276, Ste. 104 Royse City, TX 75189 (214) 600-7667

laflormexicangrill.com

www.omgcreamery.com

Sonic Richard & Beth Marwin 501 Williams Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-1730 www.sonicdrivein.com

RESTAURANTS

Taco Delite Terry Greaves 409 S. Hwy. 78 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-4177

Burgerim At Wylie Lubaba Nahar 805 Woodbridge Pkwy., Ste. 100 Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 786-0131

Villa Vinci Flamur Derguti 117 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 429-4799

www.burgerim.com

www.villavinci.net

Cajun Donuts Brian Ibert 1796 Hwy. 78 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 429-2299

Whataburger Kristin Conley 350 Hwy. 78 Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 203-9759

ironthronesiteservices.com

www.loc8nearme.com/texas/wylie/ cajun-donuts/3564911/

Cotton Patch Cafe Kevin Hilton 3300 W. FM 544 Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 626-3519 www.CottonPatch.com

Fish ‘N Tails Oyster Bar Guillermo Torres 330 S. Hwy. 78 Wylie, TX 75098 (214) 299-9354 www.fishntails.com

Goodfella’s Pizza & Subs Craig Cosgrove 2260 Country Club Rd., Ste. 107 St. Paul, TX 75098 (972) 941-8167

whataburger.com

Bold BBQ Pit LLC Adam Diebold 114 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 804-9939 www.boldbbqpit.com

Chick-fil-A Katie Haver 400 S. Hwy. 78 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-8035

www.cfarestaurant.com/wylie

Community BBQ & Grill Britt Hammond 7010 Hwy. 78 Sachse, TX 75048 (972) 442-7772 www.communitybbqgrill.com

www.goodfellaspizzaus.com

www.landonwinery.com

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

www.wyliechamber.org | 21

Featured Chamber Members Cowboy Chicken Zaid Hammad 3360 W. FM 544, Ste. 950 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-0606

Napoli’s Italian Restaurant Gino Mulliqi 701 N. Hwy. 78, Ste. A Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-4653

Community BBQ & Grill Britt Hammond 7010 Hwy. 78 Sachse, TX 75048 (972) 442-7772

McAlister’s Deli Laura Farley 3200 FM 544, Ste. 101 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-0128

Dickey’s Barbecue Stacy Van Dyke 1301 Century Way Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 429-8525

Rosa’s Cafe & Tortilla Factory Kent Dean 3480 FM 544 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-3703

Cowboy Chicken Zaid Hammad 3360 W. FM 544, Ste. 950 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-0606

Napoli’s Italian Restaurant Gino Mulliqi 701 N. Hwy. 78, Ste. A Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-4653

Dickey’s Barbecue Stacy Van Dyke 1301 Century Way Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 429-8525

Rosa’s Cafe & Tortilla Factory Kent Dean 3480 FM 544 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-3703

www.cowboychicken.com

www.dickeys.com

Jason’s Deli Blake Lovelady 214 E. FM 544 Murphy, TX 75094 (972) 881-0074 www.jasonsdeli.com

McAlister’s Deli Laura Farley 3200 FM 544, Ste. 101 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-0128 www.mcalistersdeli.com/

www.napoliswylie.com

www.rosascafe.com

Bold BBQ Pit LLC Adam Diebold 114 N. Ballard Ave. Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 804-9939

www.cowboychicken.com

www.dickeys.com

www.boldbbqpit.com

Chick-fil-A Katie Haver 400 S. Hwy 78 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-8035

www.communitybbqgrill.com

Jason’s Deli Blake Lovelady 214 E. FM 544 Murphy, TX 75094 (972) 881-0074

www.mcalistersdeli.com

www.napoliswylie.com

www.rosascafe.com

SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS

TRAVEL

Wylie Baseball and Softball Association Lance Wallace PO Box 1178 Wylie, TX 75098 www.wyliebaseball.org

Wylie Football League Mark Burnett Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 442-4196

Cruise Planners Merchell Jones Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 969-2805

www.paradiseunseen.com

EMC2 Travel Planners Janet Smith 201 N. Ballard Ave., Ste. 101 Wylie, TX 75098 (469) 808-1895 www.emc2travelplanners.com

www.wyliefootball.org

Wylie Youth Soccer Association John Freeman 110 Security Court, Suite 100 Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 200-7991

Luxevo Vacations, Candice Lawrence Candice Lawrence Wylie, TX 75098 (972) 839-4052 www.luxevovacations.com

www.wyliesoccer.com

www.jasonsdeli.com

www.cfarestaurant.com/wylie

LINK TO FULL CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP LIST



FUN FOOD

S'Mores? Yes, Please!

THE CLASSIC

THE CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRY

This tried and true is a long time favorite. You already Who doesn’t love chocolate know the ingredients: covered strawberries? This - graham crackers s’more rendition features: - Hershey bars - chocolate graham - marshmallow crackers - sliced strawberries - Nutella - marshmallow

THE CARAMEL APPLE This gourmet version of a s’more is like eating a slice of pie! It doesn’t get more American than that!

- graham crackers - sliced green apples - caramel sauce - marshmallow

Source: Oh So Delicioso, ohsodelicioso.com/gourmet-smores-four-ways/ Reprinted with permission.

22 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

Here are some delicious variations on a classic summer dessert to give a try!

THE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CUP This one might be the new favorite. If you are a sucker for chocolate and peanut butter together, this combo is heaven: - chocolate graham crackers - peanut butter cups - marshmallow

LET'S PLAY

Cornhole …

it’s Catching On!

By Suzie Q. Summertime

I

f you can toss a small corn-filled bag 30 feet, you can play the game of cornhole! This fun and easy game can be played anywhere – driveways, parks, backyards, campgrounds, beaches … even indoors.

It's safe for most everyone – no metal or pointed objects – and it’s a game the whole family can enjoy. Track down two cornhole platforms and eight corn bags, and you’re ready to play! Since we aren’t professionals around here, we thought some basic guidelines would come in handy. Let’s play!

Boards and bags: • Boards should be placed on a flat surface 27 feet apart (front to front).

• There should be eight bags, four bags of each color.

How to play: • Singles or partners may play. Choose any side of the board from which to throw; your opponent will stand on the other side of the board. If the game is being played with four players, your partner will stand at the other board.

• Each team has four bags of one color.

• All eight cornhole bags begin at one end.

• Decide which team has honors and will go first in round one. The team which has honors begins play by throwing a cornhole bag at the opposite cornhole box. A player may throw from anywhere behind the front of the cornhole box from which they are throwing.

• Players will alternate throwing until all eight bags have been thrown. If a cornhole bag hits the ground and then bounces up onto the board, that bag is taken off the playing surface.

• The next round starts when the other cornhole player/ team that has honors (see scoring) throws their first cornhole bag from the opposite end.

• The game continues until one team reaches 21 or more points.

Fouls: • Fouls are committed when a player's foot goes past the foul line at the front of the board or a player goes out of turn.

• The player who caused the foul loses the throw when the foul occurred, and the bag will be removed if it landed on the playing surface.

A Wylie Chamber of Commerce Publication

Scoring: • The score will be taken after all bags have been thrown for a round.

• Three points are scored for a cornhole bag that goes through the hole.

• One point is scored for a bag that is on the playing surface, or hanging into the hole, or hanging off the edge but not touching the ground.

• No points are scored for a cornhole bag that is on the playing surface but also touching the ground.

(If a bag is hanging off the front edge and resting on a bag that is on the ground and can be removed without making the hanging bag fall to the ground, then one point is given.)

• The team with the highest round score adds the difference of the two scores to their game score. (This is known as cancellation format scoring.)

• The team that wins the round is given honors to throw first in the next round.

• If both teams have the same round score, then the game score stays the same, and the team that had honors in the previous round continues to have honors.

For more information about the game, including details on building your own, visit americancornhole.com/rules/ • w www.wyliechamber.org | 23

YOUR MONEY

Countdown to College THINGS TO CONSIDER AS A PARENT OF A FUTURE COLLEGE STUDENT Provided by Derek Draper

A

s a parent, of course you want to give your child the best opportunity for success, and for many, attending the “right” university or college is that opportunity. Unfortunately, being accepted to the college of one’s choice may not be as easy as it once was. Additionally, the earlier you consider how you expect to pay for college costs, the better. Today, the average college graduate owes $37,731 in debt, while the average salary for a recent graduate is $49,785.

Preparing for college means setting goals, staying focused, and tackling a few key milestones along the way — starting in the first year of high school.

Freshman Year. Your child should have at least a handful of colleges picked out. A lot can change during high school, so remaining flexible and focused on your shared goals is crucial.

It may be helpful to meet with your child’s guidance counselor for advice. Encourage your child to choose challenging classes as they navigate high school. Many universities look for students who push themselves when it comes to learning. A balance between difficult coursework and excellent grades is the gold standard.

Keeping an eye on grades should be a priority for you and your child as well.

Sophomore Year. Some students may have the opportunity to take a practice SAT. Even though they won’t be required to take the actual SAT for roughly a year, a practice exam is a good way to get a feel for what the test entails.

Sophomore year is also a good time to explore extracurricular activities. Colleges are looking for the well-rounded student, so encouraging your child to explore their passions now may help their application later. Summer may also be a good time to get a parttime job, secure an internship, or travel abroad to help bolster experiences.

Junior Year. The junior year is all about standardized testing. Every October, third-year high-school students are able to take the Preliminary SAT (PSAT), also known as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT). Even if they won’t need to take the SAT for college, taking the PSAT/NMSQT is required for many 24 | THECONNECTION | May/June 2021

scholarships, such as the National Merit Scholarship.

Top colleges look for applicants who are future leaders. Encourage your child to take a leadership role in an extracurricular activity. This doesn’t mean they have to be a drum major or captain of the football team. Leading may involve helping an organization with fundraising, marketing, or community outreach.

In the spring of their junior year, your child will want to take the SAT or ACT. An early test date may allow time for repeating test their senior year, if necessary. No matter how many times your child takes the test, most colleges will only look at the best score.

Senior Year. For many students, senior year is the most exciting time of high school. Seniors will finally begin to reap the benefits of their efforts during the last three years. Once you and your child have firmly decided on which schools apply, make sure you keep on top of deadlines. Applying early can increase your student’s chance of acceptance. It is also the time to apply for scholarships, grant money and FAFSA application.

For many people, college sets the stage for life.

Making sure your children have options when it comes to choosing a university can help shape their future.

Work with them today to make goals and develop habits that will help ensure their success. • w Derek Draper may be reached at 972-429-0603 or derekdraper@jaldennis.com.

Let us Help you Make a Better Plan for your Tax Refund this Year Wealth management and investment services throughout every stage of your life.

CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

972-429-0603 601 Commerce St., Wylie, TX 75098

www.jaldennis.com

Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC.

Derek Draper, Jal Dennis, Trace Dennis, Demond Dawkins Sarah Kalaj, Julia Thorman, Rhonda McDowell, Kristi Denham, Regina Smith