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contents November 2012 Vol. 22, Issue 11

58

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cover story58 Cold Fact Paranormal addresses

Allen’s haunting questions David Madrid, Nate Hernandez and Al

Waltzz make up the Cold Facts Paranormal team. This group has studied many sites around Northeast Texas, and in September of this year, they expanded their local research to another historical Allen site—the buildings at Allen Heritage Park.by Peggy Helmick-Richardson

feature26 It’s a kick Allen High School senior Shane Tripucka

is one of the most talented high school punters in the country and has been selected by ESPN to play in the nationally televised Under Armour All America High School Football Game this January.by Simon Valentin

special sections30 kids korner

A Season of Thanksgivingby Deborah Dove

44 business seen

Church of the Savior

Abby Cleaning Services

Independent Bankby Nicole Bywater

45 pet page

Rocko

46 calendar

66 people seen45

8 www.a l l en image . com

Allen Imagepublisher/editor

Barbara Peavy

office administrator

Carrie McCormick

advertising sales

Jill Edelman

Joy Dickschat

contributing writers

Nicole Bywater

Deborah Dove

Tom Keener

Jeff Mues

Dawn Bluemel Oldfield

Peggy Helmick-Richardson

Mark Robinson

Simon Valentin

Kathleen Vaught

cover photo

Larry Fleming

Allen Image © 2012 by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. Allen Image is published by Moonlight Graphics and individually mailed free of charge to the residents of the Allen area.

Subscriptions are available to residents outside the delivery area at a rate of $2.50 per issue—$30 per year.

Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to:

Allen Image, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807 or visit our website at www.allenimage.com.

contents

40

departments civic forum10 There’s a program for that!

by Kathleen Vaught

12 St. Jude Craft Fair

14 Tom Thumb Texas Stampede

by Jeff Mues

16 Collin County welcomes a new Texas Revolution

18 Allen Event Center turns three

by Jeff Mues

20 2012 Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast with Santa

Local congregation celebrates 10 years of nativity exhibits

22 People’s Choice Art Exhibit

America’s piano showman comes to Allen

23 Turning it around

Discover a Healthier You

library28 Jack Ruby’s singer

by Tom Keener

29 Buster Keaton Film Festival

by Tom Keener

education32 Trial and Error

by Mark Robinson

gardening36 Indoor gardens

by Dawn Bluemel Oldfield

beauty/fashion40 Fall trends in hair

by Nicole Bywater

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civic forum

Looking for a fun and educational workshop for your Brownie troop? Try “Earth is Our Home” presented by the City of Allen Community Services Department. Have an eager group of students who want an up-close look at one of Allen’s fire engines? Not a problem—the Allen Fire Department can arrange a visit. Do you have a neighborhood group itching to do a beautification project but don’t have enough tools? The Allen Parks Foundation Tool Trailer is here to help.

These are just a few of the educational outreach programs offered through the City of Allen and its partner organizations. Whether you are an educator or have a group that wants to be educated, there is probably a program to meet your needs.

The City Secretary’s Office will help coordinate tours of Allen City Hall and visits to your classroom from the Mayor.

Community Services and Keep Allen Beautiful have numerous environmentally based activities and programs ranging from the annual Recycled Art and Arbor Day poster contests to in-classroom interactive games, models and demonstrations to

lesson plan resources and supplies available for checkout. Kids can learn from Wartville Wizard who fights the town litterbugs, play Environmental Jeopardy or plant seeds in biodegradable seeding pots just to name a few. The Sustainable Landscape Series presented by the Water Conservation Division covers topics ranging from how to build your own rain barrel to garden friendly bugs.

The Allen Police Department’s Community Relations Unit oversees numerous programs designed to build relationships between our community and those that protect them. Some of the programs offered include bike safety, stranger danger, child safety seat installation, workplace violence and burglary prevention.

In partnership with Allen ISD, each school has access to the School Resource Officers (SRO). APD also has a very active and award winning Law Enforcement Explorer program. Explorer Post 2000 is designed for youth between the ages of 14 and 21 who want to help others and explore the career fields of law enforcement and criminal justice. Twice a year, APD offers the Citizens Police

Academy to educate residents about their police department.

Allen’s Fire Department is also active in public education and outreach. Tours can be scheduled at any of the five stations to see how the firefighters live and where the trucks, engines and ambulances are housed. Fire Station #5 is LEED Certified and offers a working example of how homes and workplaces can fit into the environment with as little impact as possible.

School visits can be coordinated to see demonstrations that include both bunker gear and apparatus displays. In addition, there are several materials available for loan for teachers including books, games and DVDs. Youth interested in learning about a career in Fire service and age 15-21 can participate in the Allen Fire Department Explorer Post 1953.

The Citizens Fire Academy and Citizens Emergency Response Team programs are available for adults living or working in Allen who want to learn more about Allen’s Fire operations and be a part of a community disaster response team.

As the cultural hub of our city, the Allen Public Library offers programs

There’s a program for that!by Kathleen Vaught

A l l e n I m A g e x N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 2 11

for all ages. There are story times for babies, preschoolers and their families. Elementary aged kids, tweens and teens can find a variety of crafts, music programs, book clubs and more. Grown-ups are not left out either! There are a variety of book clubs, online computer resources and even a monthly movie series the entire family can enjoy. The Bach to Books cultural arts series presents noted authors, scholars and performing artists throughout the year.

As part of a collaborative, city-wide effort to promote a healthy lifestyle, Allen Parks and Recreation supports the Alliance for a Healthier Allen (AHA) which focuses on initiatives centered on the four aspects of wellness: physical and nutritional, environmental, mental and financial. AHA created the Motivate to Move program, a two-month long campaign in the spring designed to encourage school-aged children to be more active and make healthier eating choices.

Other partner organizations such as Community Waste Disposal, Allen Heritage Guild, Allen Parks Foundation, Friends of the Allen Public

Library and Collin County Texas Agrilife Extension Service also have a vast array of educational programs and resources. Tours of the CWD materials recovery facility, historical exhibits, presentations and videos, a trailer full of landscaping tools, the ALLen Reads program and education in agriculture, natural resources, youth development and consumer sciences are just a few of the programs and services available.

Too much information? Luckily, all of this and more, including contact

information for all of the organizations listed, is compiled each year for area educators and is available on the city’s website for your convenience. Visit CityofAllen.org/Educator-Guide to download a free copy of the 2012 Educator Expo Guide for a complete listing of free educational programs offered through the City of Allen and its partner organizations. v

Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing

specialist for the City of Allen.


On November 2 and 3, the Women of St. Jude Catholic Church will once again host an Allen holiday tradition—the Annual St. Jude Craft Fair! 2012 marks the 27th year St. Jude has hosted this holiday event. Over 90 vendors from around the Dallas Fort Worth area, Florida, Louisiana and Oklahoma will display their unique one-of-a-kind items in the Parish Hall and Education Building. Proceeds from the Craft Fair support many of the Women of St. Jude charitable community pro jects, which is a wonderful way to share the spirit of the holiday.

Shoppers will find an abundance of distinctive holiday gifts and

decorative items for the season, as well as an impressive selection of year-round home décor creations. Most of the vendors offer exclusive, handmade items, including wooden furniture, decorative glass pieces, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces, floral arrangements, children’s and women’s boutique clothing and purses, homemade scented candles and soaps, pet gear, baby gifts, school spirit items, quilts, original ceramic pieces and hand painted decorative art. You will be able to find something for everyone on your list and a special treasure for yourself as well.

Also on hand will be a delicious

variety of enticing homemade goodies—cakes, pies, breads and cookies—featured at the annual Bake Sale sponsored by Rainbow Days Pre-School. Raffle tickets will be sold and drawings will be held daily for a chance to win prizes donated by the vendors. Winners do not have to be present to win.

Hungry shoppers can also visit the St. Jude kitchen for scrumptious homemade snacks. The St. Jude kitchen will once again offer their famous “baked potato” lunches as well as an array of homemade soups, chili and yummy desserts. Their highly requested “baked potato soup” will once again be available on Saturday.

With the addition of the new Pastoral Center, parking for shoppers has been expanded. Make plans to begin the holiday shopping season with a visit to the St. Jude Craft Fair, Friday November 2, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, November 3, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. St Jude Catholic Church is located at 1515 N. Greenville Ave, between Exchange Parkway and Stacy Road. For more information visit the church website at http://www.stjudeparish.com. v

St. Jude Craft Fair


From bull riding to barrel racing and everything in between, the Tom Thumb Texas Stampede offers a full range of rodeo competition, returning to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA)’s roster in 2012. It is absolutely a can’t-miss event for all rodeo enthusiasts when it rolls into the Allen Event Center November 9-10.

“The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association is extremely pleased to see the Texas Stampede return to the PRCA family,” said Karl Stressman, PRCA commissioner. “The sport of professional rodeo has a long-standing tradition in the Lone Star State, and it’s exciting to continue to grow that tradition. This event provides another competitive opportunity for our members, and in turn, a great opportunity for fans to see a first class show.”

Rodeo events at the Stampede will include: bull riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, tie-down roping and barrel racing. Competitors from all over the country will descend upon Allen to take part in this PRCA competition. The biggest names in rodeo will be on-hand to compete against the best of the best at the fourth largest rodeo event in Texas, competing for glory and also a great cause. The Tom Thumb Texas Stampede has contributed close to $3 million to “make every second count” for children’s charities in North Texas since the event began in 2001.

“Rodeo is at the heart of the Tom Thumb Texas Stampede,” said Zandy Carnes,

executive director of The Tom Thumb Texas

Stampede. “Being a

part of the

PRCA’s line-up means we can continue to draw top rodeo talent and put on a show that people can’t wait to see—which helps us achieve our mission of improving the quality of life for children and families served through our support of children’s charities in North Texas.”

In addition to the great sport of rodeo, The Tom Thumb Texas Stampede features the Western Heritage Festival. The festival will include a petting zoo, pony rides, mutton bustin’, stick horse races and the Texas Stampede Western Marketplace. The festival runs November 9-10, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Once again this year, The Tom Thumb Texas Stampede welcomes a great concert lineup, capping off both Friday and Saturday evenings. One of the most recognizable voices in country music, Tracy Lawrence will perform on Friday, November 9. He has released nine studio albums, three compilations, a live album and a Christmas album, with his studio albums accounting for more than thirty singles on the Billboard country music charts. Of these, eight have reached number one, including: “Sticks and Stones”, “Alibis”, “Can’t Break It to My Heart”, “My Second Home” (all 1993), “If the Good Die Young”, “Texas Tornado”, “Time Marches On” and “Find Out Who Your Friends Are”.

Lee Brice takes

Tom Thumb Texas Stampede by Jeff Mues


the Stampede stage on Saturday evening, November 10, displaying the talent that has earned him a Country Music Awards nomination for 2012 “Best New Artist of the Year.” Though audiences may be familiar with this Sumter, South Carolina, native for his number one hit and sixth single, “A Woman Like You”, the first release from his album—Hard 2 Love,—Brice actually began in country music as a songwriter, working with talents such as Jason Aldean, Keith Gattis and Cowboy Crush. Along with Billy Montana and Kyle Jacobs, he co-wrote Garth Brooks’ 2007 single “More Than a Memory,” which became the first single in the history of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart to debut at number one.

Both Tracy Lawrence and Lee Brice will perform memorable, full-length shows at Allen Event Center following exciting rodeo competitions, which starts at 7:30 p.m. each evening. Ticket prices are $25 for general admission seats, $50 for assigned plaza seats and $100 for assigned VIP seats in the first six rows. For more information, visit AllenEventCenter.com. Tickets are on sale now at ticketmaster.com, charge by phone 800.745.3000 and the Allen Event Center Box Office. v

Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen Event

Center and Allen Parks & Recreation Department.


On Wednesday, September 19, at the replica of the world famous Alamo, on the lot of Crest Cadillac in Plano, Collin County’s professional indoor football team revealed their new name and logo.

The team’s ownership group includes former NFL Great Tim Brown and local attorney and Texas State Representative Ken Paxton. Utilizing human signs on the roof, as well as a horse trotting in front of the Alamo, the team’s new identity—Texas Revolution—was unveiled.

The ownership group of the Texas Revolution—Championship Sports

Group—comes with years of experi-ence and bring one of the more polished minor league front offices in the business. Starting at the top with team President Tommy Benizio, and including Vice President of Sales

Barney Welch, as well as Vice President of Operations Charlie Hildbold, the Revolution have over 34 years of experience in professional sports in baseball, hockey and football.

Benizio’s last job had him serving as the Indoor Football League’s Commissioner, a post he held for almost four seasons before moving to North Dallas.

Barney Welch started in 2004, alongside Benizio, with the Odessa Roughnecks. After four years, Welch left to run his own team, and in 2009, he started and operated profitably the Abilene Ruff Riders.

Charlie Hildbold started working for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2005 and was hired by Benizio in 2007. After the 2009 season, Hildbold moved to Richmond, Virginia, where he started a football team. In the 2010 season his team earned four league awards including Franchise of the Year.

The Texas Revolution will begin play in March, 2013, at the Allen Event Center located in the Village at Allen shopping center. Season tickets for the team start as low as $99 for the eight-game home schedule.

For more information about the Revolution log on to the team’s website at www.texasrevs.com or call the front office at 972.422.PASS (7277). v

Collin County welcomes anew Texas Revolution!


Happy birthday to us… Happy birthday to us... Happy birthday dear Allen Event Center... Happy birthday to us! It’s hard to believe but your favorite arena is turning three!

Three years have elapsed since the arena opened in November 2009. Much has changed since opening. The City of Allen took over operations and management of the building in June of 2010, acting quickly to address several areas identified for improvement such as high concession prices and a difficult-to-navigate website. Food and drink prices were reduced by 25 percent and the website was completely redesigned. Customer service, operational efficiency and family-friendly pricing (including of course, free parking) all became top priorities.

The booking manager, brought in by the City of Allen from concert and entertainment giant Live Nation, concentrates on keeping the building booked and busy with a variety of events including concerts, hockey, football, basketball, soccer, rodeos, ice shows, conventions, graduations and more. In its three-year existence more than a half-million people have come through the building.

Which brings us to two of our most frequently asked questions from visitors, residents and fans…What are the

types of events you have at the arena and how do they differ? Essentially, the types of events that take place at the arena fall into one of four categories: rentals, tenant lease, self-promoted and co-promoted events.

Rentals are events for which an outside entity simply pays the city a fee to use the facility. They can be the most straightforward events for the arena and as a result comparatively more profitable in terms of resources used and staff needed for operation. With a rental arena personnel are not making the major decisions regarding an event—whether or not there will be an opening act, which doors are open for guests, how a show is marketed, ticket cost, etc. Examples of rentals in Allen Event Center include trade shows like a home and garden or gun show.

A tenant lease is a long-term relationship with another organization for ongoing events such as those which exist with the sports teams that call Allen Event Center home (Allen Americans, Texas Revolution and Dallas Sidekicks). Some annual events such as The Tom Thumb Texas Stampede and the Lone Star Conference Championship Basketball Tournament also fall into this category. In a tenant lease, all parties work collaboratively to ensure repeatable success. However, the tenants have authority

Allen Event Center turns threeby Jeff Mues


over most event details and marketing. The Allen Americans produce each hockey game from music to graphics; the Texas Revolution book their own half-time entertainment and have their own announcer; the Dallas Sidekicks decide which nights they’ll include fan appreciation or other promotions; and The Tom Thumb Texas Stampede books its own concerts and produces the rodeos.

If an event is co-promoted or self-promoted, then the Allen Event Center team has more power to make decisions, subject of course to whatever production demands the entertaining act requires as agreed upon in contract negotiations. Most concerts fall into the category of co-promoted or self-promoted shows.

Along with the power to make more operations and marketing decisions, comes a greater degree of financial risk. In a co-promoted show scenario, another party agrees to share in the production costs and artist fees as well as in profits. When there is no third party promoter involved, the City of Allen stands to lose or gain more, depending on the cost and success of the event.

While it’s great to have sold out events like the recent Hall and Oates concert, there are many other ways to measure the success of an event including the cultural value of an event, resulting marketing exposure and the overall economic impact to the community. So, events which do not necessarily turn a profit in the box office are still considered successful if they stimulate the local economy and create revenue for Allen businesses. A great example of this would be the Lone Star Conference Basketball Tournament, which had an estimated economic impact of over $500,000 in 2012. Each event hosted at the arena adds to the Allen Event Center’s total annual economic impact estimated to be $9.2 million!

So we hope we answered your questions and one more time… Happy Birthday to us! Allen Event Center is your arena, hosting quality entertainment right in your community. You don’t have to drive all the way to “Big D” to experience national acts and exciting sports. Just walk out your door for much more in year four! (Eh, we had to get at least one more cheesy birthday line in.)

Follow us on Twitter, friend us on Facebook and visit us often at AllenEventCenter.com to be among the first to hear about new show announcements and exciting events. v

Jeff Mues is a senior marketing coordinator with the Allen

Event Center and Allen Parks & Recreation Department.


SnippetsSnippets

2012 Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast with Santa

For many years, one of the major events kicking off the Christmas holiday season in Allen is the Pancake Breakfast with Santa provided by the Allen Kiwanis Club and Allen High School Key Club.

This year the Pancake Breakfast will be held in the First Baptist Church, in The Curb (formerly known as the Fellowship Hall) on Cedar Street, just north of McDermott. Pancakes, sausage and drinks will be served 7-11 a.m. on Saturday, December 1. There will also be a special visit and photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Advance tickets sold prior to December 1, are available for a donation of $6 per adult, $3 per child (age 5-9), or $7 and $4 at the door on December 1. Advance tickets may be obtained at American National Bank (Greenville at Bethany Drive), Edward Jones (SE corner of McDermott at Alma), Courtyard by Marriott-Allen (Stacy Road/The Village of Allen), or from any Kiwanis member. All proceeds benefit the many programs of the club—Dictionary Project, Kids Against Hunger and other programs supporting the needs of children within the community.

For information, or volunteering opportunities, contact Ben Blair 214.495.0488, or the Kiwanis website, www.allenkiwanis.org. v

Local congregation celebrates 10 years of

nativity exhibits

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ (LDS) Nativity Exhibit will once again revere the celebrated birth of Jesus Christ. For the past ten years, the LDS Chapel has been inviting neighbors, family and friends to celebrate the Christmas season by viewing a large variety of nativity displays. The event has grown to the point of hosting over 2400 visitors and displaying close to 1000 nativity sets.

The hall is decorated with hundreds of Christmas trees, sparkling lights and poinsettias. Many churches, performing organizations and individual musicians have united in the Christmas spirit to perform seasonal music for this awe-inspiring event.

Join your friends and bring your whole family to this celebration on Friday, November 30, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday, December 1, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. The church is located at 1324 West Exchange Parkway in Allen. The tradition has grown and is also held in Melissa and Bonham. The Melissa Congregation is located at 737 E. Melissa Road in Melissa and the Bonham Congregation is located at 1540 Hwy 78 South in Bonham.

This event is free and open to family members of all ages. v

Getting a sleep study and treatment for snoring or sleep apnea (OSA) used to be difficult. You had to visit your primary care physician, who would likely refer you to an ENT. They might suggest surgery or a sleep specialist who would then refer you for an “in lab” study. After all of that, you would be left with a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device to use at night. The CPAP basically blows air down your throat to splint your airway open, in hopes of reducing snoring and apnea. Many find the mask difficult or impossible to tolerate. Now a proven new solution is easily available.

Simple Sleep Services, located at 6101 Chapel Hill in Plano near Willow Bend Mall, has taken this process and made it more convenient and comfortable. They have streamlined the diagnosis and offer custom manufactured dental solutions for snoring and apnea, making everything easier on the patient.

At Simple Sleep Services, the testing is done in the comfort of your own home by wearing a soft headband with a small recording device. You take it home and sleep in your own bed. Then simply bring

it back to the office and the medical director, a board-certified sleep physician, interprets the test results and they contact you with a diagnosis.

The therapy and devices used by Simple Sleep Services have been around for a while, but they are the first to streamline the process, making it an all-around easier experi ence for the patient. In 2006, the American Association of Sleep Medicine recommended the oral device Simple Sleep Services provides as a first

line therapy for snoring, mild and moderate sleep apnea and second line therapy for severe

sleep apnea when patients fail or refuse a CPAP mask.

North Texas residents Robin and Ronnie Anderson decided years ago the only way to get a good night’s rest was to sleep in separate rooms. Ronnie’s loud snoring had become such a disturbance he started retreating to the couple’s guest room ten to twelve years ago.

The device from Simple Sleep Services worked on the very first night. “No matter what he tried before, it didn’t work”, said Robin. “We would start out together and I would leave at about

midnight or he’d fall asleep on the couch”.

They knew about sleep studies and the CPAP mask, but decided that the mask or surgery was not an option. “The couch was pretty much my bedroom”, Ronnie said. Then they learned how Simple Sleep Services is changing the way sleep issues, such as snoring and sleep apnea, are being diagnosed and treated. “I’ve been using the product for five months now. Every morning when I wake up I feel well rested, I get a good night’s sleep and I feel more energetic”.

If you are wondering if this is an affordable solution, the answer is absolutely. Simple Sleep Services works with all private insurance companies including Blue Cross/Blue Shield, United, Aetna, Cigna, Humana and others. Simple Sleep Services also offers affordable and convenient payment options including interest free financing.

Whether you’re looking to restore harmony in the bedroom or worried about sleep apnea, Simple Sleep Services is the streamlined, easy and effective solution for diagnosis and treatment.

To read more success stories or set up your consultation, please visit www.simplesleepservices.com or call 469.685.1700.

A good night’s sleep shouldn’t be work. It’s Simple. Stop Snoring, Sleep Healthy, Live Life!

Good Night! Sleep Tight!

Simple SleepServices

To hear Robin and Ronnie’s story

go to www.simplesleepservices.

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SnippetsSnippets

People’s Choice Art ExhibitThe third People’s Choice Art Exhibit and Sale will be held noon until 6 p.m., November 5-11 at the Depot Museum, 100 E. Main Street in Allen. Categories include paintings, sculpture, photography, pottery and fabric. From students to professionals, creations of local artists will be featured.

Winners will be announced at a grand gala beginning at 7 p.m., Saturday, November 10. Food, refreshments and a variety of fine wines donated by Market Street at Watters Creek will be served. The Twin Fiddles—Megan and Leah Bynum—and Shawn Young and Jim Longley on harmonica will provide live music. Works of art donated by local artists will be sold through a silent auction.

More than 20 artists including Pamela Van Laanen, Steve Warrick, Marie Renfro, Amy Chizk, Linda Clary and Murray Stein will be exhibiting their works and exhibit visitors are the jury. Ribbons will be given to the first place winners in each category and a cash award will be awarded for the single artwork that receives the most overall votes.

Sponsored by the Allen Heritage Guild and Market Street at Watters Creek, the exhibit and reception are free. For information, call Steve Warrick at 214.499.1012. v

Artist: Wallace Porter

America’s piano showman comes to AllenAllen Event Center will welcome grand pianist, international television star and entertainer Dino Kartsonakis and his wife, Cheryl, for a performance on December 10. One of the premier performers of our time, Dino is often referred to as “America’s Piano Showman”—a fitting nickname as he performs his majestic piano styling to millions of people each year.

Though he rarely performs in North Texas, Dino has performed concerts for the last 12 years in Branson, Missouri. He has repeatedly thrilled these audiences with his exceptional showmanship and talent, making his Christmas production one of the most critically acclaimed shows in the entertainment city.

Taking time out from their seasonal show in Branson, Dino and Cheryl tape The Dino Show—a weekly music and interview formatted show on TBN, the top rated Christian television network, which takes The Dino Show into 200 countries. Dino presents live audiences with top quality music as well as an elaborate production. But the show is not all talent and flash. At the end of each show Dino presents audiences with something very near to his heart—the Gospel.

Having performed at such legendary venues as Carnegie Hall, North Texas audiences are in for a treat as Dino performs for the first time in Allen. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800.745.3000 and the Allen Event Center Box Office. For more information, visit alleneventcenter.com. v


SnippetsSnippets

Turning it aroundAs a small group home for six adults with special needs, Cornerstone Ranch in McKinney strives to provide opportunities for its residents to experience new successes. The residents, all of whom have an intellectual or developmental disability, spend each day practicing daily life skills, expanding their capabilities, volunteering with non-profits in the community, and living as a family in their ranch-style home. Four additional adults with special needs come from the local community for a day program.

This year’s new venture has been learning to do simple gardening. With the help of volunteers, they created a half-acre vegetable garden behind their home. But after all their hard work, the residents watched helplessly as the plants were overcooked in the summer heat.

As a last resort, Doug Schulte, Program Director at Cornerstone Ranch, helped the residents clear the garden and plant sunflower seeds. The accomplishment of successfully growing an entire crop of sunflowers gave all the residents a new enthusiasm for gardening.

“Sunflowers are one of the most rewarding crops we have ever planted,” said Doug. “All I did was scatter the seeds on our field, water and watch them grow.”

Every afternoon for the past few weeks, the residents have picked the best flowers, arranged them into bouquets and delivered them to friends and several local florist shops. They are already talking about planting their next crop later this month. v

Discover a Healthier YouThe Allen Public Library presents a monthly program with topics led by a wide range of expert practitioners and instructors—all designed to help you discover your inner healthier self.

The series begins in November with an introduction to T’ai Chi, the ancient art of “moving meditation.” The Allen Chapter of the Lu T’ai Chi Players will help you explore how the practice of T’ai Chi promotes relaxation and stress reduction.

December follows with “Relaxation through Breathing” led by a registered Yoga instructor. You can then start the new year off right by learning what “Food Matters” in January; focus on “Self-Defense” through martial arts in February; and find ways to battle the “Sugar Blues” in March. The series will conclude in April with a “Walking with Weights” program led by City of Allen Parks and Recreation staff.

The programs will be held the 1st Thursday of each month, noon-1 p.m. in the 2nd floor program room of the Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive. All programs are free and available to ages 18 and older. Preregistration online is requested, as space is limited; same day registration may be available. Visit www.AllenLibrary.org, click on the Interactive Library Calendar in the Related Links menu and click on the session date of interest, or for more information call 214.509.4913 or 214.509.4905. v


ining in llen

feature


ESPN talent scouts who scoured the U.S. for the best high school football players found their punter in Allen.

Allen High School senior Shane Tripucka had already garnered the attention of top colleges from around the country, and rightfully so. When he punts, hang time is so long fans doze off. Cheerleaders practice their back handsprings. Some people read the privacy statements on their Facebook accounts.

An exaggeration? Yeah, a bit. But the bottom line is, one of the most talented high school punters in the country is set to play in the nationally televised Under Armour All America High School Football Game this January.

The seventeen-year-old was floored when ESPN called. “I was at home and they called my dad’s phone,”

Tripucka says. “The man from ESPN said ‘You’ve been selected for the Under Armour All America Game. Do you want to play?’ and I said, ‘Definitely!’ I couldn’t even think I was so excited.”

His father, Chris Tripucka, had known for a week. “It was the hardest secret I’ve ever kept. Under Armour said they’d like ESPN to tell him because ESPN picks the team,” Chris says.

“I said absolutely. They were supposed to call his phone. I kept telling him ‘Make sure your phone is always on.’” But, they called Chris’ phone by mistake so both father and son were a little surprised.

“I’m honored to be chosen,” Shane says.Though excited about the opportunity to play in front

of a national audience, Shane remains focused. “There’s still work to be done,” he says.

Work which includes twenty a hours a week spent practicing, watching videos, doing drills and developing muscle memory so when he gets on the field and kicks, it’s like breathing. This level of training is required to achieve the success Shane is after, because punters can’t have off days or bungled plays.

“You go out and try to make each kick your best punt,” Shane says.

On average, a quarterback gets dozens of chances to make perfect passes in a game. A punter gets a few kicks—if he’s lucky.

To make sure he consistently gets the good kick, Shane’s investment doesn’t end with top notch coaching he gets from the Allen Eagles. He also travels to college training camps and works out at Chris Sailer Kicking, a football specialties training facility known worldwide.

“It’s important to have a good specialist (punter),” Chris Sailer says. “If a punter messes up a play, the one chance they had, it can negatively impact the game.”

Chris and his coaches helped refine Shane’s skills over the last year or so. “Shane is physically imposing, he’s a big guy, very athletic, he carries great confidence, but when I met him, he was raw,” Chris says. “He didn’t have technical skills, he was just a big, strong guy with potential.”

Hours of sweat equity are developing his potential.“He went from having four-second hang times to…

It’s a kick!by Simon Valentin


five-second hang times in his better punts and he’s consistent with those times, ” Chris says.

To give you an idea of how amazing that is, according to Chris, a good NFL punter hits the five-second mark about 80 percent of the time. The longer the ball stays in the air, the more time a punter’s teammates have to freight train downfield and keep the opposition locked tight.

But it’s not just about hang time. It’s also about distance. “If the ball only goes ten yards, it sets it up for the other team and they have good field position. On the other hand, if your kick is good you can pin them inside their ten-yard line,” Shane says.

It’s also about accuracy. “Sometimes you kick left, sometimes right, you can’t just kick. It’s situational,” Shane says.

This thinking is second nature to Shane. He’s been living, eating and breathing sports since he was a kid. His family is one of those gifted with that little genetic tweak that helps create champions.

His grandfather, Frank Tripucka, played football for teams from Canada to Colorado. And, in the Denver Bronco’s inaugural season Frank was one of their coaches. At the first game, quarterbacking was so bad he got a call from on high to suit up and get on the field. He did, and officially became the Broncos first quarterback. He also threw the first touchdown pass in the American Football League.

Shane’s uncle, Kelly Tripucka, played in the NBA for ten years and was a prolific scorer. Currently he’s the color analyst for the New York Knicks.

Chris, Shane’s dad, went to Boston College on a football scholarship and was a quarterback alongside someone who had slight success in professional football—Doug Flutie.

With this kind of athletic mojo coursing through his veins, it’d be easy for Shane to get lost in dreams of NFL success, but his family keeps him grounded.

“He hasn’t reached his potential, so who knows what’ll happen,” Chris says. “Right now he has to get into college, get a good education and play football. Education is most important.”

That being said, folks who recognize talent are impressed. Chris Sailer has seen major players come through his facility, including Dan Bailey with the Dallas

Cowboys, Nick Folks with the New York Jets, and Ryan Succop with the Kansas City Chiefs.

“There’s every reason to believe Shane can become not only a starting college punter, but an all conference punter or an All American Punter and a possible NFL prospect,” Chris says.

Shane’s dad acknowledges a lot of people provide guidance to the young punter now, but the wisdom he stresses repeatedly is from his own father.

“He played in the NFL eighteen years and always said, ‘Work hard, do the best you can and things will work out for you.’”

Come this January, lets all tune in to watch how things work out for Shane—the Under Armour All America High School Football Game is scheduled January 5, 2013, at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. v

Simon Valentin is a freelance writer from Allen.


library

Did Jack Ruby and Lee Harvey Oswald know each other before President John F. Kennedy was shot and killed in Dallas? Who was the unidentified “Babuska Lady” seen in Abraham Zapruder’s film on the other side of the street filming the events? Where is her film?

Beverly Oliver, once a friend of Jack Ruby, a singer at Ruby’s Carousel Club and the adjacent Colony Club and co-author of Nightmare in Dallas, shares startling revelations about Kennedy’s assassination based on her riveting personal experiences at 7:30 p.m., Monday, November 19, at

the Allen Public Library. Co-author Coke Buchanan will also be on hand.

On November 22, 1963, Garland native Beverly Oliver was a 17-year-old teenager who was suddenly thrust into a pivotal chapter in American history. Her story of this historical event begins in the summer of that same year, when she accompanied Jack Ruby to New Orleans where she met Mafia bosses Johnny Roselli and Carlos Marcello. Shortly after that, she recalls Ruby introducing her at his Dallas nightclub—the Carousel Club—to Lee Harvey Oswald as a friend of his.

Beverly Oliver shares that on Thursday evening, November 21, after having dinner with Jack Ruby at the Egyptian Lounge, she accompanied him to the plush Cabana Motor Hotel where an owner of various Pepsi Cola franchises was hosting a lavish party. After dancing and socializing, Ruby and Beverly departed, heading to different destinations and into the pages of history. Beverly went to Fort Worth and Jack is believed to have returned to his nightclub. These two friends never saw each other again. When asked to describe Ruby, Beverly responded, “Complex, but he was always a gentleman with me.”

Beverly states that she was the infamous and mysterious “Babushka” lady seen standing on the south side of

Elm Street when President Kennedy was assassinated the following day. She was, therefore, one of the closest witnesses to the fatal shot that killed President Kennedy.

To be an eyewitness to this event is significant enough, but that her story conflicts with the Warren Commission’s account of what happened that day is of much greater interest. Further, she claims that she filmed the event with her new movie camera but three days later, two men identifing themselves as government agents confiscated her film and never returned it.

Come hear the intriguing story of Beverly’s experiences surrounding the Kennedy assassination, knowing Jack Ruby personally and meeting Lee Harvey Oswald.

Co-author Coke Buchanan serves as director of the Center for Indigenous Culture, Center for Global and Local Outreach and Center for Spirituality with the Memnosyne Foundation.

After the program, the authors will have their books available for purchase and signing. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free and no reservations are required. Call 214.509.4911 for information v

Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with

the Allen Public Library.

Jack Ruby’s singerA conflicting accountof the Kennedy assassination

by Tom Keener

Beverly Oliver

Coke Buchanan

Pho

to: J

oyce

Dea

n


This is your rare opportunity to experience the full grandeur of the silent film era. Movies for the Buster Keaton Silent Film Festival will be shown at 7 p.m. every Tuesday night in November at the Allen Public Library, 300 N. Allen Drive. It will include historical-style organ per-formances by the esteemed organist Benjamin Kolodziej who composed the original scores for this event.

In addition, each movie will be introduced by a film historian and discussion will follow the screening.

Chapel organist at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Benjamin is also an adjunct lecturer in sacred music at Perkins School of Theology. Since 1999, he has also been organist and director of worship at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, where he oversees an active music ministry including several choirs and two concert series. He is also currently dean of the Dallas Chapter of American Guild of Organists.

November 6—The Playhouse, 1921 (22 min.) and Sherlock Jr., 1924 (44 min.)—Presented by Dr. Carolyn Perry, professor of Humanities and Film History at Collin College. She has been the film history professor at the college since 2006 and is also Collin College’s Auteur Film Series director.

November 13—Cops, 1922 (18 min.) and Steamboat Bill, Jr., 1928 (70 min.)—Presented by Dr. Diana Gingo, professor of English at Collin College and a panelist in the College’s Auteur Film Series Director.

November 20—One Week, 1920 (19 min.) and The Navigator, 1924 (59 min.)—Presented by Jim Caldwell, adjunct professor on audio acquisi-

tion in the Cinema/Television Department of the Meadows School of the Arts at SMU.

November 27—The General, 1926 (75 min)—Presented by Allen Public Library Director Jeff Timbs, a film enthusiast since childhood who developed a deep appreciation for the visual poetry of images moving without words.

The theater organ is provided by the North Texas Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society. For more information, call 214.509.4911. v

Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with

the Allen Public Library.

Buster Keaton Film Festival by Tom Keener

Benjamin Kolodziej


kids korner

Allen Community Outreach (ACO) They provide emergency assistance for families and individuals in financial crisis in Allen, Fairview and Lucas by providing assistance with paying bills and providing groceries, clothes, school supplies and toys at Christmas.Sort and Box food for Thanksgiving Food Drive—Kids ages 12 and older can volunteer for a two-hour shift with a parent (high schoolers can volunteer without a parent) to sort food and assemble Thanksgiving food boxes on November 15-17 or assist with distributing food on November 19 at First United Methodist Church of Allen. Visit the “volunteers” section of their website, www.acocares.org to sign up. Sort and Organize Gifs for Christmas Adoption Program—Kids ages 12 and older can help organize donated toys and gifts with a parent December 14-16 or help with distribution on December 17. As with the Thanksgiving Food Drive, high school students can volunteer without a parent and sign up is available on ACO’s website.Decorate a Box—Children of all ages are welcome to pick up a box to decorate with a Thanksgiving or Christmas theme. The boxes can be turned back in to ACO, who will fill them and deliver them to those in need in the community. Kids can also make placemats, napkin rings and other decorations to be included in the box.Christmas Toy Drive—Adopt a child, teen or senior and play “Santa,” buying items from their wish list and delivering back to ACO to distribute. Click on services on their website, or call 972.727.9131.

Adopt a U.S. SoldierSend a care package to a U.S. soldier stationed overseas who can’t be with their family for the holidays. Items to send might include individually packaged snacks, chewing gum, small sized toiletries, baby wipes, long distance phone cards, hand sanitizer, travel size games, disposable cameras, headphones, DVDs, magazines, books and comic books. Wrap a few with instructions to not open until Christmas and be sure and include a handmade card or note from your child. The U.S. Post Office offers a free military care package kit (boxes, tape, forms, etc.) if you call 1.800.610.8734—you still have to pay postage. You can find a specific soldier to send a package to at www.anysoldier.com, adopt a soldier to correspond with and send packages to regularly at www.adoptaussoldier.com or www.soldiersangels.com, or simply send a holiday card or letter via www.amillionthanks.org. Mail packages no later than December 1 to arrive in time for Christmas.

Children’s Medical Center Holiday Parade This one is a win-win. Attend the holiday parade, which features area marching bands, giant inflatable balloons (including Smurfette, Santa Elmo, Mrs. Potato Head and Ruldolf), gymnastics, dance, military and sports performers and costumed characters such as Clifford the Big Red Dog, Curious George, Barbie and Batman, and help the young patients at Children’s Medical Center (the parade is free but attendees

are encouraged to make a donation). The Parade starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 1 and runs through the streets of downtown Dallas. Visit www.childrensmedicalcenterdallas.com/parades for more information.

Operation KindnessThis shelter for homeless animals allows children as young as six to volunteer with a parent. Volunteer opportunities include cleaning cages, walking and training dogs, maintaining cat and kitten rooms (including offering the residents a little TLC), providing a foster home for young or pregnant animals and more. Volunteers must complete a volunteer application and pay a volunteer fee. Visit www.operationkindness.org/involved for more information.

Random Acts Of KindnessAnyone can do something nice and unexpected for someone else, and kids will love the idea of being sneaky and nice at the same time. A few ideas include putting quarters in gumball machines at the mall, hiding dollar bills in the toy aisle at the dollar store, delivering cookies to your local firefighters, taping money to a vending machine, picking up trash, paying for the person behind you in the drive-through at McDonalds, leaving a new can of tennis balls at the dog park, putting your neighbor’s newspaper on their doorstep, leaving positive notes or pictures drawn by your kids on people’s windshield, or writing a thank you note to someone you’re grateful for.MAKE GIFTSThese handmade gift ideas can be made by the dozen and given to ACO to distribute to its Meals on Wheels recipients, given to residents of Victoria Gardens or to someone else special in your child’s life.Treat Bags—Fill small Ziploc or cellophane bags with goodies (either homemade or purchased snack mix or candy), fold cute scrapbook paper over the top and staple, and then add a coordinating bow.Personalized Candles—Tape a piece of white tissue paper about the same size as your candle (white thick candles, such as pillars or votives, work best) to a piece of white copy paper. Have your little artist draw a picture or saying on the tissue paper with Sharpie markers. Remove the tissue paper from the copy paper. Cut out the design and place it on the candle, cutting away as much excess tissue paper as possible. Take a piece of wax paper bigger than your candle and pull it tightly around the candle. Use a heat gun to melt the design onto the candle. Gently peel back the wax paper. Paint Chip Bookmarks—Using small decorative hole punches, punch designs in a paint chip strip. Glue onto another paint chip strip in a contrasting color. Punch a hole in the top and insert three or four colorful strands of yarn, making a slip-knot to hold. Alternately, use a one-hole punch to make uniform holes in each color of a paint chip strip. Tie a ribbon in a matching shade through the top hole.

A Season of ThanksGIVING

By Deborah Dove

It never ceases to amaze me how much my kids get out of volunteering and helping others. This season, as we reflect on all we have to be grateful for, show

your children how rewarding it is to help others with these opportunities to give.


education

Danny Dawson’s life would never be the same.

It was a 21st birthday celebration. Everyone was drinking, too drunk to drive. It had started to rain on the backroads of Midlands. The rain was blinding and the road was slick.

Dawson testified that a deer had run onto the road. Avoiding a collision, the car hydroplaned, spun and crashed into a tree. The passenger died.

It was Danny Dawson vs. the State of Midlands. Murder was the charge.

And it was all fake.

The cases are not real. Awards are given by how well a “witness”, portrayed by a participating student, remembers his or her details. The decision is irrelevant as opposed to how the college students prepare and present their cases.

It is Mock Trial. Although the case of Danny Dawson vs. the State of Midlands was completely fiction-alized for the sake of competition, for the Collin College contingent, the stakes are still high and the effort—the hours spent researching, rehearsing—is very real.

“I grew up racing motocross, so I’m super competitive and that drives

Trial and Error:College students have their day in mock court

by Mark Robinson

Chris Arnell


me going into Mock Trial,” said Chris Arnell, a member of Collin College’s Mock Trial squad. “I want to be very good at anything I like doing. I want to make sure I’m on top of my game. The competition drives us. It feels natural to do this because of our skills.”

Arnell was not unlike scores of other students at a college or university. “My first two semesters at Collin College I didn’t know what I was doing,” he said. “Once, I was passing down the hall and saw a sign for pre-law advising. That’s when I met Professor (Robert) Franklin and he told me about Mock Trial.”

Arnell attended the next scheduled meeting. “From that day on, I made every meeting. Consequently, two weeks afterwards, they made me an attorney. I had no idea what I was doing. It was an eye-opening experience and I knew from then on what I wanted to do.”

Every academic year, the American Mock Trial Association provides a “case,” which rotates from criminal to civil. In 2011-12, it was the Danny Dawson case. Students from around the nation pore over the case memorizing every small detail and finding any kind of precedent that might be useful.

Students from each team are given a role from attorney to witness. After months of preparation, they compete against Mock Trial teams in regional meets in order to qualify for the national tournament.

Collin College’s Mock Trial is the only squad from a community college to qualify for nationals three times, which makes the fact they’ve qualified four times even more astounding.

At the American Mock Trial Association National Championship Tournament in April 2012, Arnell achieved a perfect score. Out of the 144 participating attorneys, Arnell was one of only three to have a perfect score.

“When I got to Collin College, I was just drifting along. I had no clue what I was doing,” Arnell said. “I

found Mock Trial and started applying myself and it carried over into every facet of my life. I started making A’s in all of my classes. It brought a better quality of life. Once you do it for one thing, you start doing it for all the others. It gave me focus.”

Arnell’s perfect score came from an attention to detail, practice, studying and experience. It would be the same ingredients anyone would want in their attorney representing them in a court of law.

“Whenever you critically analyze anything, you have to know every angle and every point you want to bring up,” said Kimberly Smith, Collin college Mock Trial team member. “You always want to be right.”

Smith, like many others, loves to be right. More so, she likes to argue or at least “debate intelligently.” In her first Mock Trial meeting, she had read the case and got into an argument with Arnell.

“We love to argue. It’s that


simple,” Smith said. “We are both logical people and we like looking for holes and playing the devil’s advocate. It just makes sense to pursue a field like that.”

Smith is planning to pursue a law degree from Columbia University and a career in the social justice realm in

order to “change things and make them better than when I found them.”

Both Smith and Arnell talk about being a “closer” in reference to the closing argument of a Mock Trial case. It’s the culmination of all the hard work, research, practice and teamwork. The closing argument also lies beyond

the scope of knowing court procedure or law. The closing argument is as much about your ability to speak in public, composure and eloquence.

“You can’t pre-write a closing argument. So, you have four minutes between the defense resting their case and closing arguments. You talk for nine minutes and you either send that person to jail or they are acquitted. It’s all off the cuff. It’s amazing. It’s such a blast, such a rush,” Arnell said.

As exhilarating and rewarding as Mock Trial has been for Arnell, Smith and their teammates, it’s also one of the more arduous programs at Collin College. It is not uncommon for students to quit once they realize what it takes to succeed.

“We drive people away after they see how much goes into Mock Trial,” Arnell said.

Smith added, “You have to be self-motivated to succeed in this program. You have to be a certain type of student to want to do this. We attract the hard-working students, who are typically pretty clever as well. But it’s so much fun. You don’t realize how much work you put in until you sit and talk about it.” v

Mark Robinson is a Collin College special

contributor.

Photos: Nick Young Collin College

photographer.

Collin College Mock Trial team members Chris Arnell, Mark Yablon, Sergio Orjuela, Michelle Davis, Kimberly Smith, Bakhtawar Khan and Angela Li.

For Your HealthMarketPlace



gardening

I inherited my love of gardening from my great-grandmother, Verlie Bostwick. Her vegetable garden was the size of a small city block and the envy of the neighborhood. She grew a cornucopia of vegetables; and the tomatoes, green beans, peppers, and radishes always yielded a bumper crop under her watchful eye. Lily of the valley, roses and lilacs perfumed the air every summer. Weeds didn’t dare sprout in her flowerbeds!

One of my favorite memories is of the numerous houseplants she grew in her bedroom. A long table covered with a pristine white cloth sat beneath a bay of windows—the southeast exposure providing the perfect conditions for her indoor garden. Christmas cactus bloomed in bright hues of red, pink, coral, and white; and her favorite African violets covered the table in varying shades of purple, blue, pink and white. Pothos ivy trailed over the table’s edge and a lone orchid arched gracefully over the table.

While I may have inherited Grandma Bostwick’s passion for plants, her thumb was much greener than mine. My vegetable garden produces when, and if, it feels like it. Weeds mock me. My houseplants suffer from either too much love or neglect; or they fall prey to our cat. Yet, I love plants in our home and when one of my green lovelies perishes I quickly run out to buy a replacement, promising to care for it better than its predecessor.

Houseplants are a wonderful addition to every home. Not only do they bring a little of the outdoors in, the color

and texture of their leaves adds beauty to any room and complements the décor. Houseplants also make our homes healthier. Through the process of photosynthesis, many plants remove indoor pollutants by absorbing carbon dioxide and other toxins, such as formaldehyde and benzene, releasing oxygen into the air.

While selecting plants for your home can seem intimidating, you really just need to know some indoor gardening basics to grow happy houseplants. Focus on providing your plants with an environment in which they will thrive. This will not only result in lush plants, it reduces the risk of insects or disease. First and foremost, you have to understand the conditions of your home—what kind of light and how much space do you have?

How much time are you willing to give for their care?

Indoor gardensby Dawn Bluemel Oldfield

“Just because you’ve only got houseplants doesn’t mean

you don’t have the gardening spirit—I look upon myself as an

indoor gardener.”

– Sara Moss-Wolfe


Be sure to select varieties that aren’t poisonous to pets or small children if you have them in your home, as some can cause illness or irritation. Contact your veterinarian or physician if you suspect a little one has ingested a plant and see signs of illness.

Once you’ve researched the perfect plants, it’s time to purchase them. Shop at a reputable garden center or nursery for healthy plants. The store should be clean and the plants should appear healthy at first glance. It may seem like a lot of work, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Another thing to consider is your style. Select plants that complement your home’s design. Do you need a tall plant to fill a corner? Does a table top or bare wall space beg for some greenery? If your home has a southwest or country theme, consider cactus, succulents or other arid climate plants. Flowering plants such as kolanchoe, angel wing begonia,

cyclamen and ferns look nice with English cottage or shabby chic décor. Palms, elephant ears and bromeliads lend tropical style to a seaside look.

With today’s hectic schedules, it’s good to know that there are many houseplants that require very little care. Pothos ivy grows well in almost any light—even in dark corners—and can be left alone to grow bushy or can be trained to grow on a trellis or other support. Snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue is a beautiful

upright accent plant that thrives on neglect. Peace lily, ponytail palm, schefflera, dracena, corn plant, philodendron and money tree (reputed to bring financial success to the home they are grown in) are superb foliage plants that look good in low light and tolerate neglect.

For people who have more time to dedicate to indoor gardens, there is a multitude of plants from which to choose. Grouping different types of houseplants has its ad vantages.


Combining plants with a variety of shapes and colors creates lovely displays—just be sure to select plants that have the same light and watering requirements. Ficus trees, rubber plants, fiddle leaf figs and Boston ferns are a bit finicky, but make lovely accent plants in corners or sunrooms. Aloe Vera, otherwise known as medicine plant, is known for its ability

to soothe burns and insect bites. Try growing one on a sunny kitchen windowsill.

Most of the plants mentioned are “true houseplants” meaning they are kept indoors all year round. Though there are many that can be placed outdoors during the warm spring and summer months. There are many out-door plants that can be successfully

wintered indoors as well. Just be sure to follow some precautions before bringing plants indoors during our colder months. Check them for spider mites, fungus, aphids and other potential problems that typically bug your plants indoors and out!

With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, don’t forget about all the lovely holiday plant options. Christmas cactus, poinsettias and amaryllis will add holiday cheer to any room. Forcing bulbs such as paper whites or daffodils is easy to do and is a fun activity for children. They can help plant the bulbs in a shallow pot and watch the plants emerge from the soil.

After you “un-deck” the halls from the holidays, adding a few new houseplants is a lovely way to replace the sparkle of Christmas decorations and add freshness to your rooms. Whether you want to try something new, or stick with the tried-and-true, don’t be afraid to add houseplants to your interior. Wherever you find your inspiration, an indoor garden gives a warm and welcoming appeal to your home.

If you have questions about houseplants visit a trusted nursery professional or contact the Collin County AgriLife Extension office at 972.548.4232, or visit www.ccmgatx.org for more information.

Dawn Bluemel Oldfield is a freelance writer.

For Your HealthMarketPlace


beauty/fashion


When it comes to hair, autumn style calls for a look

that’s more polished and sophisticated than the casual

looks of summer. Even if you’ve had the same hairstyle for

years, trying something new this season, such as a braid or

a ponytail or a slight color change, is a great way to change

your look for special

events such as family

gatherings or holiday

parties.

“Women have a

tendency to get tired of

their look,” says Rene Teague-Osuna, general manager of

Shear Image Salon & Spa by Rene. “And unlike men, when

women look in the mirror all they see are their flaws. So, if

we can do some little changes to that look, it really does

make a world of difference.”

While the trend is leaning towards more sophistication,

luckily this doesn’t necessarily mean that styling has to be

any more difficult. “It is cleaner, but still organic,” says

Teague-Osuna, of the fall

trend. “For example, the

messy bun is okay, but it

has to be done in a more

sophisticated way that

says it was ‘meant to be’

as opposed to an afterthought. If you do a braid and leave

a few tendrils out to frame your face, it needs to look like

that was done on purpose and not like you just slept in the

braid the night before—because you really can tell the

difference.”

“Braids are bigger than ever and

can work for all ages…”

by Nicole Bywater


Ponytails and braiding are both popular styling

options for women looking for something easy to do with

their hair. “Yes, the ponytail is back, and it’s so much

bigger than it ever was,” Teague-Osuna says. “They can

be causal, work-appropriate or an up-do, depending on

how it’s done. It’s really becoming a go-to style for the

fashion elite.”

And just as blow-dry bars became popular a few years

ago, some salons are now offering a ponytail/braid bar.

“Before, you could go and get your hair washed and blown

dry and it will last you a few days,” Teague-Osuna says.

“Now they’re incorporating braiding and ponytails in this

bar, where if you just want a cute ponytail or braid, that

can be achieved without having to commit to chemicals or

a haircut.”

But whether you have a professional do it for you or

you D.I.Y., today’s ponytails are known for their sleekness,

says stylist Debbe Hartwell of Designs by Debbe inside the

Galaxy of Salons of Allen. “I’ve noticed a lot of people

opting for ponytails instead of a traditional up-do,” she

adds. “It’s simple, but can still be a very chic style.”

Putting a little gel or pomade in your hair before pulling it

back can make it easier to achieve that smooth look.

Also, ponytails work best with hair that’s been washed

the day before. Trying to do a ponytail with hair that’s ‘too

by Nicole Bywater


clean’ can be difficult because it’s

generally slippery and pieces start

falling out, especially if you have

layered hair.

For added sophistication, Debbe

recommends leaving a small strand of

hair out from the ponytail, wrapping

it around to hide the ponytail holder

and pinning it in place. Another thing

that can change the look of a ponytail

is how high or low on the head it sits.

Braids can be worn by themselves

or as part of nearly every hairstyle,

whether it be a bun, a ponytail or just

down. “Braids are bigger than ever

and can work for all ages,” Teague-

Osuna says. “And braids within

braids, with different textures of

braids are popular. There are so many

different techniques that people aren’t

aware of that can be done beyond the

traditional braid.”

Just like ponytails, braids work

better with hair that hasn’t been

freshly washed. If you are starting

with clean hair, adding some product

such as mousse or gel can give you

the same benefit.

For color, the trend is moving

away from traditional highlighting

and going more towards an ombre

look. This French-termed hair color

technique features darker, more

natural hues at the roots with

gradually dyed lightening at the ends.

It’s a look that was initially made

popular by actress Sarah Jessica

Parker and one that has now been

seen on numerous other celebrities.

Depending on the shades

incorporated and the boldness of the

change, an ombre look suits a wide

variety of women. “There are a lot of

different techniques,” explains

Teague-Osuna. “You have some

blondes that are actually making their

roots darker and then going lighter as

the color makes it’s way down. Then

you have some women who already

have dark hair that are trying to let

their traditional highlighting grow

out, and will have different colors

brought down. Then, there are the

‘fantasy’ colors like lilacs or other

pastels, which can be done all over

the hair or just done on the tips.”

Just doing the tips of the hair is

also a great way to experiment with

color, or to try a shade that might be

too much if it was done all over. “This

is something you can totally get away

with at work,” Teague-Osuna says.

“And if you have longer hair, you can

even hide those fantasy colors in a

bun if you need to, but still have a

fun look for going out.”

Having so many options is one

reason the ombre look has become

trendy says Dana Collis of Colllis Cut

& Color inside the Galaxy of Salons in

Allen. “It’s completely customizable,”

says Dana Collis. “It’s also pretty low-

maintenance because the roots can be

done to blend better with your

natural hair color so touch-ups aren’t

as critical.”

For women looking for added

polish and volume this season,

glossing has become a popular

option. Similar to glazing, glossing is

a semi-permanent treatment that


adds shine to hair without altering the color. Done

professionally, the treatment lasts anywhere from four to

eight weeks, Collis says.

“From what I’ve been seeing, this seems to be the big

thing that gives all the qualities people want in their hair:

more shine and a boost to the volume; and it’s something

that doesn’t have to be put in everyday,” Collis explains.

“It’s subtle, but does make a noticeable difference.”

Just as a clear coat is put on a vehicle to enhance the

color and add protection, glossing adds another layer of

protection to the hair shaft, whether it’s been color-treated

or not. Of course, for hair that has been colored, glossing

will extend the life of that color in addition to enhancing

its tone. Using a shampoo specially designed for color-

treated hair will also help make color and gloss last longer.

Glossing makes the hair more manageable and easier to

style, a great benefit during hurried fall and holiday

events.

“In the summer, even if you’re going to an event like a

cocktail party, your hair will have a more casual look,”

Teague-Osuna concludes. “But in winter it’s a different

thing. You bring out the big guns for winter. In general,

you wear heavier jewelry; more accessories. Everything is

more. So with your hair, you need to do more, too.” v

Nicole Bywater is a freelance sriter from Allen.


by Nicole Bywater

business seen

Three years ago Father Joel Prather moved with his family from Chicago to Dallas with the goal of establishing a new Episcopal Church in the area. After taking some time to get to know the region, and much prayer, he and wife Tammy fell in love with Allen. The couple decided that was where they needed to be and Church of the Savior was born. Their mission is simple, Fr. Joel says, “Loving Jesus. Sharing Life. Offering Hope.”

As the church celebrates their one-year anniversary Fr. Joel says its parishioners continue to surprise him. “Their level of commitment is just incredible,” he explains. “They are evidence that our mission statement is true. They love the Lord and they love celebrating Him.” That commitment is also evident through their time spent volunteering and raising money to offer hope locally at Allen Community Outreach and abroad, in places like Tanzania and Peru.

Fr. Joel has been encouraged by the church’s growth and is looking forward to continued expansion. “We want to be a church home for people who don’t have that home already,” he says. “We’re an Episcopal Church which is part of an ancient Christian tradition. Our charge is to continue that ancient way of worshipping in a way that’s fresh for the community, and brings the hope of Jesus to their daily life.”

Church of the Savior currently meets at Kids R Kids at 1223 Alma Dr. in Allen. Visit them at www.ofthesavior.org or 214.785.1612.

Church of the Savior

Finding the time and energy it takes to keep a home in top condition can be both daunting and costly. That’s why Abby Cleaning Services is here, says owner Avigail Morales. Whether you need one area cleaned or the whole house—just one time or on a regular basis, Avigail can help you out. “We clean just about anything inside the house and will even help with your laundry or organization tasks,” she explains. “I know that times are tough and many people are on tight budget, so we make our services affordable by only doing what the customer needs.”

In addition to that customization, Avigail aims at making her services convenient. “We have guys who will do yard work, clean the garage and even haul away your old junk,” she says. “I coordinate it all so there’s only one check to write, plus there’s a discount when you combine services.”

Avigail has 15 years of experience in residential and commercial cleaning, and started Abby Cleaning Services three years ago. The business is fully insured and bonded and Avigail personally oversees the quality of each job. “We try to go out of our way to take care of people,” she says. “It’s all about keeping the house clean and organized and making the customer happy.”

For more information or to schedule a cleaning consultation, visit abbycleaningservices.com or call 214.395.2743.

Abby Cleaning Services

Independent Bank prides itself on offering the small-town feel and personal service of a local bank, and the technology and financial tools you might expect at larger institutions. “Our big advantage is that we’re independently owned—local owners and management,” says Regional President Kevin Griffin. “We understand what our customers need and are able to quickly respond with those products and services.”

Independent Bank is headquartered in McKinney and has over 30 locations throughout the state, with continued expansion planned. “When you come to our bank, the tellers will greet you, expedite your service and thank you for your business,“ Kevin says. “It’s a warm environment and people tell us they like that it feels like an old-town community bank.”

In addition to great customer service, Independent Bank offers a wide range of account types with competitive rates. They have an in-house mortgage department and the lending power to make deals happen. While face-to-face communication is always available, we offer convenient technology that allows customers to make fewer trips to the bank.

Community involvement is also a priority. For example, several of the company’s executives serve on boards within the government or local nonprofits. “We’re here to support our community and are always looking for ways to continue investing in the communities we serve,” Kevin explains. “We make banking the way it’s supposed to be.”

For more information, visit independent-bank.com or call 972.562.3426.

IndependentBank


pet page

This is Rocko, a 1-year-old wire-haired dachshund/schnauzer mix that weighs about 30 pounds. He was found at the All American Dogs shelter in Pilot Point and had been there since December. He was put on the euthanasia list but a volunteer found him and asked CCHS for help just in time.

He is a sweet boy and very playful. He gets along well with other dogs and kids of all shapes and sizes, but he does like to chase cats a bit because he thinks it’s a fun game. He has been working on that and already there has been great improvement.

He knows how to sit, play ball and hide and seek. Rocko is housebroken, sleeps well in his crate and loves to sit in your lap for car rides. He is current on all vaccinations, heartworm negative, currently on heartworm prevention, neutered and microchipped.

He is looking for his forever home. Will that be you? Complete an online application today at: http://collincountyhumanesociety.org/adoption-application.html

Rocko is looking for his forever home!

“Rocko”


calendar


NOVEMBERSt. Jude Craft Fair, Fri. 9 am-5 pm, Sat. 9 am-4 pm, 1515 N. Greenville Ave., Allen. Over 90 vendors display their unique items including decorative glass, jewelry, floral arrangements, boutique clothing, baby gifts, quilts and more. Bake

sale and raffle as well as their famous “baked potato” lunch. For details, visit www.stjudeparish.com.

St. Gabriel Holiday Boutique Craft Fair, 9 am-4 pm, 110 St. Gabriel Way, McKinney. Over 75 “hand-created by the vendor only” artisans including jewelry, pottery, woodworking, clothing & holiday items, snack bar, bake sale & raffle. Free

admission. Visit www.stgabriel.org for more information.

3rd People’s Choice Art Exhibit and Sale, thru the 11th, noon-6 pm, Depot Museum, 100 E. Main St., Allen. Paintings, sculpture, photography, pottery and fabric made by local artists, from students to professionals. Winners announced at a

grand gala, Nov. 10, 7 pm. The exhibit and reception are free. For more information, please contact Steve Warrik, 214.499.1012.

Tom Thumb Texas Stampede Rodeo where the biggest names in rodeo will be on-hand to compete against the best of the best at the fourth-largest rodeo event in Texas. There will also be concerts featuring Tracy Lawrence, on Nov. 9,

and Lee Brice on Nov. 10. The Tom Thumb Texas Stampede Western Festival, 10 am-10 pm both days. Includes a petting zoo, pony rides, mutton bustin’, stick horse rodeos and the Texas Stampede Western Marketplace. For more information, visit www.texasstampede.org.

32nd annual Dickens of a Christmas…Home for the Holidays, thru the 25th, 10 am-8 pm Fri. & Sat., 12-6 pm, Sun. Downtown McKinney. An old fashioned holiday family festival with

horse drawn carriages, strolling carolers, visits with Santa, Christmas tree lighting ceremony and activities for all ages. Seasonal music, food and children’s activities. This festive event will launch on Friday with non-stop activity followed by the lighting of the city of McKinney’s Christmas Tree ceremony at 6:15 pm. For more information, please visit www.mckinneytexas.org.

McKinney Repertory Theatre presents A Christmas Carol, thru the 30th. Nov. 23-24, 2 & 5 pm, Nov. 25, 2 pm & Nov. 30, 7 pm, McKinney Performing Arts Center, 111 N. Tennessee. For tickets and

information, please visit www.mckinneyrep.org.

Believe! Run, 7 am, in Downtown McKinney, Mitchell Park. 5 & 10K runs and a 1 mile holiday walk and many other fun activities. Benefits scholarships for Holy Family School. For information visit www.

believemckinney.org.

City of Allen Christmas Tree Lighting, 7-9 pm, Allen Civic Plaza, 301 Century Pkwy. Celebrate the grand lighting of the 35-foot Christmas tree featuring more than 20,000 lights. Expect surprises, live

entertainment and even a visit from Santa and his elves. All ages welcome! For more information, contact Tiffany Harben, Special Events Coordinator at [email protected] or 214.509.4707.

Nativity Exhibit by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 10 am-9 pm, Nov. 30 & Dec. 1, 1324 W. Exchange Pkwy., Allen. The hall is decorated with 1000 nativity sets, Christmas trees, sparkling lights and poinsettias. The event is free and open to all ages.

DECEMBER2012 Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast with Santa, 7-11 am, First Baptist Church, Cedar St., Allen. Special visit and photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Proceeds benefit the many programs of the club—Dictionary Project, Kids

Against Hunger, and others. For more information, visit www.allenkiwanis.org.

City of Allen Rudolph Run begins at 100 E. Main in downtown Allen with a non-competitive one-mile run at 8:15 am and concludes with the USATF registered Rudolph Run. Chip timing will be used for best results. There will also be an overall male/female Master’s division for 50+ winners. Call 214.509.4810 or visit www.allenparks.org for more information.

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NOVEMBER1-30 Food Drive Contest. Bring your

canned/packaged food to McDermott Chiropractic in West Allen to help support ACO’s Food Pantry through the Holidays. Drop off & sign up to win a free one-hour massage. For more info: 214-547-1336 or www.mcdermottchiro.com.

Christ the Servant Lutheran Church presents Dr. Melody Steed on the organ, 7:30 pm, 821 S. Greenville Avenue, Allen.For more info: www.christtheservant.com.

8 Be Holiday Smart, 9:15 am, Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, 17360 Coit Road, Dallas. Registration, silent auction, refreshments and raffle for handmade quilted wall hanging. Speakers discuss gifts from the kitchen. $5 admission and raffle tickets $1 each or 6 for $5. Proceeds provide youth and adult educational scholarships and supplies to make comfort pillows for cancer patients, lap robes for seniors and baby shirts and blankets for newborns of indigent families. For more info: Carrie Brazeal at 972.424.1460, Ext. 4233 or [email protected].

10 Lovejoy Preschool PTA Fall Party, 3-5 pm, Lucas.The Lovejoy Preschool PTA (LPPTA) is an organization for families with infants, preschoolers and kindergarteners in Lovejoy ISD. Come celebrate fall with pony rides, bounce houses, crafts and more!For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA/, or send us an email at [email protected].

11 Oscar-winning Winds at the Dallas Wind Symphony, 2 pm, Allen Performing Arts Centre, 300 Rivercrest Dr. From sorcerers and sharks to skywalkers, it’s the legendary music of John Williams.For more info: www.org or 214-428-2263.

CITY OF ALLENAllen Event Center

Tickets on sale now through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at the Allen Event Center Box Office. For more information, visit www.alleneventcenter.com.

2 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Tulsa Oilers 3 Dallas Sidekicks Soccer Season Opener vs.

Harrisburg Heat. The Dallas Sidekicks make their triumphant return in 2012 with their first game since suspending operations in 2004. Don’t miss this historic night as the famed club, led by the legendary Tatu, takes the field for the first soccer match ever played at Allen Event Center.

9 Tom Thumb Texas Stampede Rodeo and Concert featuring Tracy Lawrence. He has released nine studio albums, three compilations, a live album, and a Christmas album, with his studio albums accounting for more than thirty


singles on the Billboard country music charts. Of these, eight have reached number one, including: “Sticks and Stones” (1991), “Alibis”, “Can’t Break It to My Heart”, “My Second Home” (all 1993), “If the Good Die Young” (1994), “Texas Tornado” (1995), “Time Marches On” (1996) and “Find Out Who Your Friends Are” (2006).

9-10 Tom Thumb Texas Stampede Western Festival, 10 am-10 pm. Will include a petting zoo, pony rides, mutton bustin’, stick horse rodeos and the Texas Stampede Western Marketplace.For more infio: www.texasstampede.org.

10 Tom Thumb Texas Stampede Rodeo and Concert featuring Lee Brice. Country Music Awards nominee for 2012 “Best New Artist of the Year.” Though audiences may be familiar with this Sumter, South Carolina, native for his number-one hit and sixth single, “A Woman Like You”, the first release from his album Hard 2 Love, Brice actually began in country music as a songwriter, working with talents such as Jason Aldean, Keith Gattis and Cowboy Crush.

16 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Missouri Mavericks

17 Allen Americans Hockey vs. Tulsa Oilers21, 23-25 Disney On Ice Presents Treasure Trove.

Get tangled up in Disney’s 50th animated feature with Rapunzel and Flynn, then enter the worlds of Tiana, Cinderella, Jasmine, Ariel, Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Mulan and Snow White. Set sail with Peter Pan, Tinker Bell and Captain Hook and his pirate pals on an adventure beyond Neverland! Trek the wilds of Africa with Simba, Nala, Pumbaa and Timon. And don’t be late to a very important date with Alice and the Madhatter as they march with the Queen of Hearts’ Army of Cards.

30 Dallas Sidekicks Soccer vs. Rio Grande Valley Flash.

Parks and Recreation Events3&17 Saturday Night Rec and Roll, Joe Farmer

Recreation Center offers fun and safe social program for students grades 3-6. Gym games and dancing with music provided by a DJ, dodge ball, pool table tennis, theme nights and contests with prize giveaways. Supervision provided & concessions available. Party Packs $12—includes a $5 concession credit for only $4 (20% savings). An ID card (one-time $5 fee) is required to participate and must be purchased at JFRC anytime before 5:30 pm on the day of the event.

3 Try Hockey for Free Clinic, 2:45-3:45 pm, Allen Community Ice Rink. Kids age 4-9 can experience ice hockey for the first time and learn basics. Bring hockey equipment if you have it, but each participant should bring (at minimum): helmet (bike is okay), pair of gloves and hockey stick.

9 Veterans’ Day Celebration, 8:30-10:30 am, Allen Senior Rec Center. Celebrate our veterans with this annual program that is FREE and open to the public. All local veterans are invited to attend this recognition featuring patriotic music from the Marion Elementary Choir as well as a Remembrance Rescue Project special presentation. A Meet and Greet with Mrs. Texas International, Rachel Hedstrom, will be held between 8:30- 9:00 am during this unique Flapjack Friday breakfast.

Dance for Adults with Disabilities (Texas Country Theme), Recreation Hall, 7-10 pm. Live music, snacks and a photo mailed to each participant’s home. For complete information or to get on the email distribution list, email [email protected] or call 214.509.4707.

14 Thanksgiving Luncheon, 11 am-1 pm, Allen Senior Rec Center. Come enjoy a traditional


Thanksgiving meal courtesy of Dickey’s Catering. Prepare to be dazzled by the Dallas Tap Dazzlers, who perform a variety of jazz and tap routines in dazzling costumes. Registration is due by Nov. 9. Call 214.509.4820 for more information.

24 Thanksgiving Turkey Open Skate, 12-4 pm, Allen Community Ice Rink.Various Thanksgiving themed on-ice games and activities. Admission is $5/person; skate rental $3/person. Bring in a non-perishable item receive a FREE skate rental! All on-ice participants must wear skates.

For more info: 972.912.1097 or www.AllenParks.org.

Adult Athletic Leagues & Special Registation

For more info: www.allenparks.org or call Athletic Information Hotline: 214.509.4810.

Athletic Leagues—Registration for adult leagues will begin in January 2013 while Quick Start Tennis programs continue in November.

Rudolph Run Registration—Be sure to register for Rudolph Run on Dec.1. Non-competitive one-mile run and USATF registered Rudolph Run. Chip timing will be used for best results. There will also be an overall male/female Master’s division for 50+ winners.

Exotic Costa Rica Trip—Join the Allen Senior Recreation Center Allen Adventurers as they travel to Costa Rica May 20-29, 2013. The trip includes airfare, hotel, transportation, admission, sightseeing and meals for just $1995. Visit Arenal, San Juan, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio and experience: EcoTermanales Hot Springs, Cano Negro Boat Tour, Arenal National Park, Costa Rican Coffee Farms, Manual Antonio National Park and a Catamaran Cruise. Register by November 30 and save $100 per person!

ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARYChidlren

Baby and Me: Pre-walkers with adult, Tue. & Thu, 10:15 am.

Fun Ones: 1-year-olds with adult, Mon. & Wed., 10 am; and Tue. 6:30 pm.

Together Time: 2 & 3 year-olds with adult, Tue. & Thu., 11:15 am; Wed. 10:45 am.

All by Myself: 4 & 5 year-olds, Wed. 11:30 am.Family Storytime: 2-6 year-olds & family, Mon. 11:15

am; Thu. 7 pm.

Children’s Programs7 beTween the Lines Book Club, 4 pm,

Children’s Program room. Grades 4th-6th. Come by the children’s desk to borrow your copy of this month’s book (while supplies last).

10 Crafternoon, 2:30-4 pm. Recommended for ages 3+. Caregivers must stay with children under age 9. Come craft your afternoon away! A come-and-go program.

13 Globetrotter’s Book Club, K-1st grade, 4 pm, Children’s Program room. Space is limited.

19 Family Sing Along, 11-11:45 am. Preschoolers and younger are welcome to a family sing along.

20 Kids Explore Books, 4 pm, Children’s Program room. Grades 2nd-3rd. Space is limited.

Teens 15 An Anime Afternoon, 4:30-5:30 pm, 2nd floor

Program Room. Join us for an hour of anime, pocky, and more anime!

20 Game On, 4:30-5:30 pm, 2nd floor Program Room. Come show off your incredible gaming skills on our Xbox.

Adults1 “Discover a Healthier You,” noon, 2nd Floor

program room. Join us for a series of 6 monthly programs. Introduction to T’ai Chi with Carole Booth, Lu T’ai Chi Players, Allen Chapter. Age 18+. Free. Reg. requested; walk-ins welcome, space permitting. For more info: www.allenlibrary.org or Debbie Vavra 214-509-4913 [email protected] or Kara Phillips 214-509-4905 [email protected].

7 Noontime Pageturners Book Club, noon, Allen Public Library, Adult Program Room. The Weird Sisters by Eleanor Brown. Bring lunch and a friend and join us for a lively discussion! Please note meeting day is now Wednesday.

8 Talking History—Mexico and World War II, 7 pm, 2nd floor Adult Program Room. Dr. Monica Rankin, from UTD, will discuss Mexico’s role in the war, how pro-Axis and pro-Allied factions, used propaganda to build support among the Mexican people, and how the war altered Mexican society. Dr. Rankin is the author of the book ¡Mexico, La Patria! Propaganda and Production During World War II. Reg. required. For more info: 214-509-4905.

27 Armchair Travelers Visit Hawaii, 7 pm, 2nd floor Adult Program Room, David Bouldin will share stories, pictures, and anecdotes from his time in Hawaii. Hawaiian-inspired refreshments will be served. Reg. required.For more info: 214.509.4905.

Connemara ConservancyConnemara Meadow Preserve

3 Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 8-11 am, Allen. Bring your binoculars and field guides if you have them, and learn


what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, both with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. All ages are welcome. We recommend wearing long pants, closed-toed shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

10 Habitat Walk, 9 am, Connemara Meadow Preserve.

11 Astronomy Walk, 9-11 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve, Join Clyde Camp for an Astronomy walk. Meet at the Suncreek Park circular parking lot at 9 pm sharp and walk to the Meadow the back way.

11 Open House, 1 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve, join us to wander (and wonder) at the Meadow by hiking the trails, watching the flora and fauna. Enter at Wooded Gate on East side of Alma, south of Bethany.For more info: www.connemaraconservancy.org.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONSSupport Group? Wanted: Anyone interested in

starting a support group for Trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder?) Please contact Megan at [email protected].

City of Allen offers a variety of affordable recreational classes and programs. Register at Joe Farmer Rec Center, 214.509.4750 or Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 214.509.4770.For more info: www.allenparks.org.

Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents and caregivers of preschoolers. A new calendar each month with fun activities for all. Activities—play groups, park days, lunch with friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads and Kids, and other great events. Come play with us!For more info: www.aecpta.com or [email protected].

Heart Link Women’s Networking group. Industry specific, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days and locations vary.For more info: http://75002.TheHeartLinkNetwork.com.

MOMS Club of Allen. New group for moms and their children who live in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips and local business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out, and more. For more info: http://momsclubofallentx.weekly.com or [email protected]

Baylor Health Care System offers support groups, medical information and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com.

Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www.planobicycle.org.

Texas Health Presbyterian, a variety of events.For more info: www.texashealth.org.

Urban Explorers, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups throughout Dallas area. Something for everyone!For more info: www.meetup.com/getoutandabout.

Divorce Care, 13-week courses—biblical teaching for recovering from divorce. For more info: Kim Tedford: 214.544.8050 ext. 109, [email protected] or www.creekwoodumc.org.

MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, holiday parties, babysitting co-op, etc. Monthly bus. meeting.For more info: [email protected].

American Cancer Society, Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to

appointments. If you have a car and can spare time 9-5, you can help.For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711.

Kids Helping Kids, bring new or gently-used toys to Kids Pediatric Dentistry, donate to kids in the area. Receive chance to win prize.For more info: 972.727.0011 or www.kidspediatricdentistry.com.

Every Monday-Friday The Shores AA Group, noon, Raceway

Profesional Building, 200 W. Boyd, Suite C (Adjacent to Dayrise Recovery), Allen. Open AA discussion group. Everyone welcome.For more info: 469.854.9593.

Every Monday Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club,

12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcomeFor more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or [email protected].

Allen Toastmasters’ Club, 6:30 pm, Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen.Guests welcome.For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100.

Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC.For more info: [email protected]

Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany, Ste. 208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free.For more info: [email protected].

Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, 7:15 pm, Custer Road United Methodist Church, Rm B2, 6601 Custer Road, Plano.For more info: Ed Meissner, 469-323-0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www.prestonpersuaders.org.

Every Monday, Thursday & Saturday Allen AA meets, 601 S. Greenville.

For more info: 972-359-7383.

Second Monday The MOB (Men of Business), 11:30 am-1 pm,

TopGolf USA, Allen for male bonding and networking over lunch. $20 chamber members; $25 non-members/general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

McKinney Childcare Association, non-profit org. of state-listed, reg. and lic. home childcare providers McKinney area, 7 pm, locations vary.For more info: Alice Lang, 972.346.2280 or www.mckinneyareadaycareassociation.org.

Collin County Early Childhood PTA, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery res. required.For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634.

Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, 7 pm, Tino’s Too Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, school programs, etc. Open to anyone interested.For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982.

McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm, Edwards Floral in McKinney, www.edwardsfloral.com. Come join the ladies as they learn floral arranging techniques, enjoy food, drinks, and give back to the community. For $25, you can participate in their “make and take” of a Thanksgiving arrangement. Only 20 spaces available. Prepay by sending your $25 to MLA PO Box 1972, McKinney 75070 and mark Edwards on your check. The November outreach project is canned goods and appropriate Thanksgiving fixings.For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org


Heard Museum Collin County Hobby American Association of University Women-Plano/Collin County Branch, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior Living Center, 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with bachelors or assoc. degree interested in helping women.For more info: Carol, 972.862.3460 or www.aauwplanocollin.org.

Beekeepers, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney.For more info: 972.562.5566 or www.northtexasbeekeepers.org.

Third MondayCollin County Aggie Moms, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, Coit between Bush Tollway & Campbell.For more info: 972.382.3124 or www.collincountymoms.aggienetwork.com

Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome.For more info: www.K5PRK.net.

Allen Retired Educators, meets monthly, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. Anyone with a heart for education is welcomed.For more info: or RSVP: Jerri Caldronia@ [email protected].

Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family & friends, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney.For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984.

Allen Retired Educators, meets monthly, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. Anyone with a heart for education is welcomed.For more info: or RSVP: Jerri Caldronia@ [email protected].

Fourth Monday Texas Democratic Women of Collin County

meets at 6:45 pm, Collin College, Frisco campus, Rm F148.For more info: www.tdwcc.org or Barb Walters, 214.477.5183.

Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be a member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402.

Plano Photography Club, 7 pm, Grace Presbyterian Church, 4300 W. Park Blvd., Plano. Visitors welcome.For more info: www.planophotographyclub.com.

Legacy 4-H Club (Allen and Lucas), 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas.For more info: [email protected] or 214.616.2460.

Every Tuesday Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce

Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102, (Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/$7 non-mem. 1st visit free.For more info: 972.727.5585.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas.For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www.tops.org.

Toastmasters Creative Expressions, 11:15 am- 12:30 pm. Raytheon, McKinney. Guests welcome.

2ChangeU Toastmasters, 7-8:45 pm, Custer Rd. United Methodist Church, Rm B5, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome.For more info: www.2changeu.org.

Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 7 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. Offers strength and hope to friends & family of alcoholics.For more info: 214.363.0461 or www.al-anon.alateen.org.

Every Tuesday & Thursday Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping

& gardening advice, 9 am- 4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney.For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460.

First Tuesday Heard Museum Native Plant Society meeting, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney.

For more info: 972.562.5566.

First and Third Tuesday Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Twin Creeks Golf Club,

501 Twin Creeks Drive.For more info: [email protected].

Common Threads of Allen, 7pm, A Real Bookstore, 113 Praire Rd., Village at Fairview. Share needlework projects, learn new techniques, make friends.For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or [email protected].

Second Tuesday Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library

parking lot, 5024 Custer, in Plano, 7 pm.For more info: www.planopacers.org.

Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, 7 to 9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome.For more info: www.bptmn.org or email [email protected].


Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville.For more info: 214.509.4820.

Allen Democrats, 6:30 pm, Reel Thing Catfish Cafe, 600 E. Main St., Allen.For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214.893.3643.

Collin County Archaeology Society, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney.For more info: [email protected].

Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group of Collin County, 7-9 pm, parlor, First United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen.For more info: Shirli Salter, [email protected].

Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, 9:30 am refreshments, 10 am meeting, SMU in Plano, 5228 Tennyson Parkway, Plano. Enjoy conversation and mini-concert with Maestro Hector Guzman, of the Plano Symphony Orchestra, together with Cellist Oliver Schlaffer and Harpist Yumiko Endo. Guests welcome!For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org.

Third Tuesday McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, Welcomes

new residents, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. Speakers, prizes and refreshments each month. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers.com.

Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group provides support & resources for parents of children with autism & related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/autismparentsupport.

Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter meets Aug.-May.For more info:[email protected].

Fourth Tuesday Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce monthly

luncheon and speaker, 11:30 am-1 pm. $20 member/$25 guest.For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society meets at 7 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney.For more info: 972.562.5566.

Porcelain Art Guild of North Texas, meets at 9:30 am, Carriage House, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Open to anyone, beginner to expert, interested in china painting and porcelain art.For more info: Gayle Harry 214.509.0787.

Every Wednesday Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, “Become the

Speaker and Leader you can be”, 7 pm, 5th Street Pizza inside Stacy’s Furniture, McDermott & Hwy. 75, 1223 W. McDermott, Allen. For more info: Marlene Byndon, 816.456.6803.

Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, 7 am, Twin Creeks Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle.For more info: 972.673.8221 or www.asrotary.org.

McKinney Chess on the Square, 4-7pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. Chess promotes creativity, imagination and strategic thinking. For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org.

Allen Rotary Club, Noon, Courtyard by Marriot, 210 East Stacy Rd. For more info: www.allenrotary.org.

First Wednesday Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:30-1:30 pm,

Heard-Craig Carriage Hosue, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch and enjoy.For more info: 972.569.6909 or www.headcraig.org.

Collin County Master Gardeners Assoc. guided tour of Myers Park, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney. Res. requested.For more info: 972.548.4232 or go to [email protected].

Allen Heritage Guild, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main St, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www.allenheritageguild.org.

First and Third Wednesday MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community

Church, 9:30-11:30, 3405 Custer, Ste. 200, Plano.For more info: 214-762-0037 or www.mopsofhope.com.

Second Wednesday Collin County Genealogical Society,

7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. Sept.-June.For more info: [email protected].

VFW Post 2195, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen.For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www.vfw2195.org.

Every Thursday Allen Classic Cars, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central,

parking lot of Chipotle and Stacy Furniture.


Allen Kiwanis Club, Noon, Twin Creeks Clubhouse, 501 Twin Creeks Blvd. Visitors welcome.For more info: Sandy McNair, 214.548.5483 or www.allenkiwanis.org.

Community Bible Study, (September 13, 2012 to May 9, 2013), 9:30–11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Registration required. For more info: [email protected] or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness of Collin County), Recovery support group for adults living with mental illness. Led by trained individuals. Free, 6:30-8:30 pm, Custer Road UMC, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano.For more info: 214.509.0085 or www.namicco.org.

Weight Watchers, 12:15 and 6 pm, First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Enter at the south entrance, second floor.

Speak Up! Frisco Toastmasters Club, 7-7:30 pm social, 7:30-8:30 meeting. U of D-Frisco campus, Frisco Chamber, 6843 W. Main St.For more info: http://speakupfrisco.freetoasthost.ws.

Sweet Adelines, NoteAbly North Texas Chorus, 7 pm, Grace Evangelical Free Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy, Allen. Women of Allen & surrounding area invited.For more info: [email protected].

First Thursday Allen Garden Club, meets 7 pm, monthly

gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main Street.For more info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www.allengardenclub.org.

W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking & discussion of women’s issues. Fun & informative meeting for women in Allen & surrounding areas. $20 member/$25 guest. Payment expected unless reservation cancelled 48 hrs. in advance.For more info: www.allenchamber.com

North Dallas Newcomers, 11 am, Glean Eagles Country Club. We will have a fashion show by Talbots featuring holiday fashions and everyday wear for all sizes. We love to have new members join the many fun activities that this group offers. Guests are welcome.For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers.net.

Second Thursday McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, 7

pm, Collin County GOP Headquarters, 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location sometimes varies.For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com.

Lovejoy Preschool PTA is an organization for families with infants, preschoolers and kindergarteners in Lovejoy ISD. Monthly genersal meetings at Creekwood United Methodist Church, 261 Country Club Road, Fairview. Different topic and guest speakers each month. Lunch is provided free of charge and babysitting is available for nominal fee. A list of speakers is available on website or on our meetup.com site.For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup.com/Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA/.

Osteoporosis Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, Community Education Rm-Medical Office Bldg. 2.For more info: 972.747.6036.


Legal Aid Clinic, 6 pm, First United Methodist Church.For more info: www.lanwt.org or 1.888.529.5277.

PSA:NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness] of Collin County, 7:30 pm, Custer Road UM Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano. Enter at the SE end, room B2. Peer support group,B6, and Family support group,B1, meet from 6:30-7:20.For more info: www.namicco.org.

First and Third Thursday Allen’s Community Theatre hosts Improv, 102

S. Allen Dr. For more info: [email protected].

Second and Fourth Thursday Allen Area Patriots, 7-8:45 pm, New Heritage

Church, 8 Prestige Circle, Allen. Local Tea Party presents speakers, enlightening and motivating citizens to participate in the political process. For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots.com.

Allen High Noon Lions Club, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S.For more info: Tony Pritchard, 214.293.1598.

Third Thursday Live @ 5 Business After Hours, 5-6:30 pm at

various member businesses. Free.For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber.com.

Allen Quilters’ Guild, 6:30 pm, First Presbyterian Church, 605 S. Greenville.For more info: www.allenquilters.org.

Knights of Columbus, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen.For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc.org.

Collin County Republican Men’s Club, 7 pm, locations vary.For more info: www.ccrmc.org.

Cancer Support Ministry, 7 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. Our goal is simple—to support you any way we can.For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241.

Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new & expectant moms’ forum, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330.

Breast Cancer Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, 1105 Central Expwy. N., Community Education Room-Med.Office Bldg. 2.For more info: 972.747.6036.

Fourth Thursday Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, 10 am,

Heard-Craig Hall Gallery, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas. Meet new people and enjoy social activities.For more info: [email protected].

Every Other Thursday North Texas Referral Group, 11:45 am, Friday’s

(121 & Preston by the mall). Beginning April 1.For more info: www.ntrg.info.

Every Friday Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages

50+. Members free/Non-member Allen resident $3. Non-Allen residents $24/annually. Allen resident annual membership/$5.For more info: 214.509.4820.

McKinney Chess Club meets 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney.Adults 50+(Free).For more info: 972.547.7491.


Every Other Friday MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), non-

denominational support group for moms with kids birth to 5 years, 9:30-11:45 am, First Baptist Church in Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241.

First & Third Friday Classic 55+ Game Night, 6:30 pm, First Baptist

Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games (dominoes, Skip Bo etc.). Open to the community, no reservations are required.For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at [email protected]..

Every Saturday McKinney Chess Club meets 10:30 am-1:30 pm,

McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Any age. Free.For more info: 972.547.7491.

Second Saturday Heard Museum Nature Photography Club

meeting. 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, One Nature Place, McKinney.For more info: 972.562.5566.

Department 56 Village Collectors Club meets in the Plano/North Dallas area to share ideas.For more info: www.bigd56ers.com.

Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, service organization to teach children to serve their local community.For more info: 972.396.8010.

Third Saturday Allen Folk Music Society, 7-10 pm, The Blue

House, 102 S. Allen Drive, Allen. Musicians aged 15-100. Bring snacks to share.For more info: www.twiceasfar.com.

Fourth Saturday.

American Sewing Guild, 10 am-noon, Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Rd (at Parker), in Plano.For more info: Jane Johnson, 972.841.6854 or www.planoasg.org.

Last Saturday Plano Pacers run at Bob Woodruff Park on San

Gabriel Rd., Plano, 8 am.For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www.planopacers.org.

Every Sunday Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited

Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out live to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free.For more info: [email protected].

First Sunday Scleroderma Support Group, 3 pm, Allen

Presbyterian Hospital, Conference Rm 1.For more info: 972.396.9400 or www.scleroderma.org.

Please keep us informed of any local activities or events of general interest to our readers by fax to the Allen Image at 972.396.0807 or email to [email protected].

For Your Health


by Peggy Helmick-Richardson


cover story

From May through September of 2010, Cold Facts Paranormal, joined by other friends involved in paranormal studies, investigated the Muncey site and found what may be more ethereal remains from that fateful day.

This Allen-based group has studied other sites around Northeast Texas, and in September of this year, they expanded their local research to another historical Allen site—the buildings at Allen Heritage Park. Meet Cold Facts Paranormal

David Madrid and Nate Hernandez, both of Allen, and Al Waltzz of Josephine make up the Cold Facts Paranormal team. Contrary to the Hollywood “ghost hunter” image, these three men emphasize learning answers that can be substantiated rather than creating sensational stories.

Because they choose not to charge for their services, the three also have full time careers and limit their paranormal studies to those cases they feel have genuine merit. A 1992 graduate of Allen High School, lead investigator David manages a local restaurant. Tech specialist Nate, who was raised in Plano, works in IT support for a business in Richardson. Growing up in Dallas, investigator Al has had a 15-year career in inventory control.

“I think my first encounter with the paranormal was when I was 11 or 12 years old,” David recalls. “I was spending the weekend with a friend of mine at his grandmother’s house in Lucas. My friend said his grand-mother’s house was haunted and I thought, ‘Whatever.’“ David then goes on to tell of a lawn mower that started by itself and footsteps coming down the hallway in the middle of the night, and one by one, bedroom doors being closed. He laughingly concludes, “And there was no sleeping then!”

“Mine is a bittersweet story,” Nate recounts. “About three months after I was born, my uncle was shot during a robbery at the gas station at Parker and 75. He died shortly after being taken to the hospital.” As a child, Nate lived at his grandmother’s home and in the middle of the night he would often hear bootsteps going down the hallway or the living room television go on and then off. “Then when I was in middle

school I almost got hit by a truck when I was on my way to the Science Center,” he continues. “I got to the middle of the road and felt a pair of hands gently set me down. A truck almost ran over my foot but I was okay.” That rescue by an unseen force left him with more questions than answers.

Al attributes his initial interest in the paranormal to both his fascination with genealogy and his Native American roots as well as growing up in a Victorian-era home where the family often experienced unexplained activities. Then one striking and still unexplainable experience aboard the USS Lexington motivated Al to start asking serious questions about the paranormal. “It was something I am still trying to wrap my head around, and it happened 20 years ago,” he notes. So, following his divorce Al opted to explore his long-held interest in the subject and initially started working with a group in Greenville six years ago.

Likewise, David’s delving into paranormal research followed his divorce. “I always had a fascination with it but my ex didn’t want anything to do with it. I was now looking for something to occupy my time, and through Facebook I ran into someone I went to school with and she had a group that was going out to cemeteries. I thought it sounded like fun. That’s where I met Al and we decided to start our own investigations.”

“David and I have similar ideas on how the paranormal works, and how we thought investigations should be conducted,” Al continues. “Some groups bring in psychics, and there’s nothing wrong with that. We wanted to go in a more scientific direction.”

Nate was invited to join the group a year later.

Shortly after teaming up five-and-a-half years ago, Al and David decided to check out the twice-a-year “History, Haunts and Legends” event in Jefferson, a town famous for its many notable specter-inhabited buildings. Hosted for eight years by The Historic Jefferson Ghost Walk owner Jodi Breckenridge, it offers daytime presen-tations on a variety of paranormal topics, as well as evening investigations

at several of Jefferson’s famed haunted sites led by experi enced and respected paranormal organizations.

Jodi readily enlisted Cold Facts Paranormal to conduct one of the evening’s ghost tour locale sessions. “She invited us back the next time, and then asked if we could speak at the next. We’ve presented five times now,” David notes. For this year’s November event, Cold Facts Paranormal will again be daytime presenters as well as leaders of one of the evening group investigations.

Other noted participants include paranormal author Mitchel Whitington who lives in The Grove, considered one on the most haunted homes in Texas; Jennifer Broussard, director of Louisiana Spirits Paranormal Investigations; and author and founder of Arkansas Paranormal and Anomalous Studies Team, Larry Flaxman.

“I’ve always enjoyed history and ghost stories, and Jefferson has a lot of both of these,” Jodi states. “I thought it would be neat to let people come together for a fun weekend and rotate to different locations. They get to go in with recorders and cameras and see what it is like to do a real professional investigation.” She says of Cold Facts Paranormal, “They are great guys and always do a good and honest job, using common sense, along with their skills.”Cold Facts Findings

Prior to conducting a paranormal investigation, the Cold Facts team researches the site—either through interviews or library materials and sometimes both. Then following the site visit and evidence collecting, they painstakingly review their collected audio and video recordings. When questionable anomalies are detected, these portions are then run through an editing program to remove background noise and sometimes slowed down or sped up for clarity. These clips may result in sounds like music or knocking or EVPs—Electronic Voice Phenomena.

Nate estimates that each member of the team devotes a minimum of four hours of evidence analysis for each hour of investigation.

“We don’t go overboard with this,” Al emphasizes. “I have to see it, hear it and experience it before I can actually say, ‘Yes, it did happen.’ If I


can’t, I throw it out. And we all run it through each other to come up with the data we present.”

This philosophy has stood them in good stead. Hours of research and collecting have been tossed because they could show that simple issues such as faulty wiring were the culprits. But they also have bragging rights to some amazing para normal discoveries along with fascinating stories with which to regale fans.

David, Al and Nate demonstrate that not only does paranormal research not require great sums of money, but also that one need not travel far to find fascinating spots for potential paranormal investigation. The nearby Muncey Massacre site serves as a prime example.

During one of their late night outings at this locale their recordings captured what sounded like horse hooves on a bridge, distant screams, and a muffled voice that seems to say “Jameson.”

A visit at the Muncey Massacre site serves as the one time Al admits that he found himself getting frightened. Standing at the burial site marker that sits in front of a tree line, the group could hear voices coming from the trees and he describes the experience as “unnerving.”


“We heard voices right in front of us and we thought someone was going to come out of the trees!” Al recalls. “We couldn’t figure out exactly what they were saying; it sounded almost like they were under water. When you are in a natural environment and have running water like a creek, these things seem to happen—like the energy is recorded into the places where they are at.”

Most of their paranormal findings are far from frightening. Nate and David laugh as they share their experience at Churchill’s in McKinney. During their preliminary legwork, Churchill’s employees told them tales of knives flying across the kitchen, stuck doors suddenly slamming shut and shadowy figures.

When listening to an EVP they recorded of the after-hours night they spent in Churchill’s upstairs pub, Nate recounts, “You can hear the faucet turning and David setting a glass of water on the bar, and that’s when you hear this deep voice say, ‘Uh, No!’ And [the owners of Churchill’s] have a story of who they think it is—a patron who frequented that bar every night and was murdered. He had the same gruff voice.”

One favorite from Jefferson is an EVP captured in the Segal-Wharton house of a woman with a slow Southern drawl clearly announcing, “I’m here, in here!” Friends of Sibyl, the eccentric widow who lived in the house until her death, insist the distinct voice is hers.

Al shares that another of his more interesting outings was with his initial paranormal investigation team at a building in Greenville, Texas, that housed an antique store at the time. In the 19th century the same spot had served as a brothel.

“We went in several times and caught on our recorders a piano and a disembodied voice that was yelling,” he states. “There was also an antique mirror and we heard someone knocking on it four or five times—hard! We would ask them to move marbles and they would find their way into our backpacks. And we captured an EVP that says plain as day ‘Madison.’”

For David, one of his more decisive

finds was almost six years ago on his first paranormal investigation. He went twice with a research team to the East Texas graves and memorial to the 18 members of the Killough family killed in an Indian attack in 1838.

At the first visit he captured a photo on his digital camera of a mist-like form that appears to be a headless woman in a long dress. When the group returned a second evening, David caught an even more startling picture.

He explains, “There is a monument with a few headstones around it. And

at the back there is a fence, then a ravine that leads to a creek. There is a trail to the creek and the other investigators wanted to explore that. But when I crossed the fence I suddenly got real sick so I decided to stay there.

“Once I got back inside the fence I felt fine, so I was standing at the fence snapping pictures,” he continues. “After [the group] was out of ear shot I could hear footsteps, like someone walking in leaves, and it sounded like it was right in front of me. So I stepped back and snapped a picture.”


The resulting photo captures a white translucent figure of what appears to be a tall man at arms length from where David was standing when he took the picture.

But don’t let Cold Facts Paranormal’s professional approach lead you into assuming they are always

deadly serious. Despite the long hours and hard work, they are still in it for the fun and readily laugh at those moments when things go awry.

David shares the time he captured a late-night recording in one of Jefferson’s most haunted hotels that “sounded like a little girl saying

‘Mommmmmy.’” Shaking his head in mock dismay, he admits his exciting find was debunked a few months later after discovering his video camera made the same “mommmmmy” sound when the cassette compartment opened.

Nate chuckles, “We don’t let him live that down.”


Both Al and David point out that when dealing with a young entity, Nate’s the one sent in because these spirits seem to have a rapport with him. One of Nate’s favorite encounters with a ghostly child was a time he “played tag” with a girl in a Jefferson antique shop. “I would feel pinpricks on the top of my arm and hand, and then it would go away, and then come back and then go away…” he grins.Allen Heritage Haunts

This summer, Allen Heritage Guild agreed to let David, Al and Nate conduct the first paranormal investi-gation at Allen Heritage Village. They, in turn, consented to the Allen Image covering the study.

On an initial daytime visit, Tom Keener led a tour through the park pointing out the different buildings, their historical significance and any details that might be useful for the investigation.

It was decided then to eliminate the renovated Bolin House as an investigation site because all three concurred there was no hint of

paranormal activity there. But St. Mary’s Baptist Church as well as three homes closed to the public were deemed potential paranormal sites.

On the first of the two Saturday late-night outings in September, the Cold Facts Paranormal team and four observers—AHG representative Ken Byler, my husband Gene, friend Monica SeMarier and I—started in St. Mary’s Baptist Church. Inside, Al set up a video recorder at the back of the church while the rest of the participants settled in at the front. David wielded a hand-held video recorder as well as a digital voice recorder, and Nate also brought a voice recorder with him. An EMF [Electromagnetic Field] meter was also placed at the front.

After the 50-minute session at St. Mary’s, Al’s video recorder was left running in hopes of catching activity while the space was seemingly empty. The group


moved on to the Lynge House and then on to what is referred to as the Yellow House. Although David, Al and Nate expressed the possibility for interesting finds at the Yellow House, the group opted not to conduct an investigation on the upper floor due to safety issues.

Because of some intriguing finds at the beginning, the evening ended with a follow-up session at St. Mary’s.

The next Saturday night, Tom Keener and I met up with Cold Facts Paranormal for an investigation of the I House at Allen Heritage Village. Built in the 1850s, it is not only the oldest home in Allen, but one that has a history of paranormal activity. A previous owner reported of being wakened nightly by the sound of heavy boot steps on the inside stairs.

David, Nate and Al opted to do one group session followed by a series of solo sessions inside the house. For

these latter studies, the others waited at a far enough distance so their voices would not be picked up by the inside recording devices.

With ample materials in hand, Cold Facts Paranormal would be dedicating the next month to reviewing

the audio and video recordings collected at Allen Heritage Village.

An unexplained light was captured on video at St. Mary’s Baptist Church. “It is definitely not a reflection from anything and seemed to move with a purpose—not erratic movement like with a bug,” David explains. “It came down from the bell tower to where the chalkboard is, and moving from right to left, it passed in front of the double doors and then disappeared by Al who was sitting in the back pew.”

As was suspected, David also reports that they found several very likely recordings of paranormal activity at the I House. While Nate was standing just a few feet from the rotted piano in the living room, there was a distinctive “plink” from one of the piano keys. And while investigating the second floor, David tells that the stairs creaked so loudly he first thought one of us had entered the house and was coming up the stairs. In addition, EVPs may have been collected both evenings at the I House as well as the Yellow House.

So now we have to wait to find out what evidence the three choose to keep and what must be discarded. In the end we may find there are unexpected inhabitants at Allen Heritage Park, residents who have been waiting far longer than any of us. v

Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.

A l l e n I m A g e x N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 2 65A l l e n I m A g e x N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 2 65

BUSINESSCARDS

Want to hear additional and updated reports on the materials collected by David, Nate and Al at the Allen Heritage Village site? Want to know more about paranormal investigation or additional details on sites they have investigated?

Bach to Books is sponsoring a presentation about Cold Facts Paranormal with David, Nate and Al at

7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, at the Allen Public Library. The free program will include photographs, audio and video clips from some of their investigations including some of their recent findings recorded at Allen Heritage Village.

For more information, contact Tom Keener at 214.509.4911.

allen image november 2012

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