allen, tx 2010 community profile and resource guide

www.allenchamber.com 1

Allen Chamber of Commerce2

Welcome to the Best!............................................................................... 4The Allen Event Center Opens .................................................................. 5Business Briefs ........................................................................................ 6Education ................................................................................................ 7Health Care ............................................................................................. 9History .................................................................................................. 11Recreation ............................................................................................. 12Arts & Culture........................................................................................ 14Allen Chamber of Commerce ................................................................. 16Index of Advertisers ............................................................................... 17

tABle of Contents

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Allen,TexasAllen,Texas

Allen,TexasAllen,TexasAllen,Texas


Welcome to beautiful Allen, Texas! Recently named one of the “25 Best Places to Move” by Forbes

magazine, Allen has a population of 82,600 and is located just 25 miles south of Dallas.

Located in Collin County, Texas, one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States. Allen has dedicated itself to the development of a proactive, pro-business community. With its top-ranked educational system, family-oriented residential areas, and innovative rec-reational facilities, Allen has earned a reputa-tion as a premiere location to live, work, and play. According to Forbes, a high percentage of residents have moved to Allen within the last decade, and more than half were born in a different state or abroad.

Allen boasts an excellent workforce profile, a strategic location just north of the Telecom Corridor™, and superior access to regional transportation. Allen’s business parks provide the highest tech infrastructure and amenities that have allowed the city to attract high-tech and telecommunications companies, defense-related and medical-related concerns, and corporate headquarters.

Allen provides an enhanced quality of life for its residents. Special attention has been given to the community as a whole with emphasis on a top-ranked school district, planned greenbelts for recreational activities, cultural events, and retail/commercial services that underscore the community’s commitment to excellence.

Facts from cityofallen.org as of January 1, 2009:

Population: 82,600•Big city: Dallas, 25 miles south•Major airport: Dallas-Fort Worth, •33 miles southwestGlobal employers nearby: EDS (now •Hewlett-Packard), JCPenney, Perot Systems, Raytheon, AT&T, Dr. Pepper, SnappleAdults with bachelor’s degree or higher: 49%•Born in different state or abroad: 55%•White: 73.5%, Black: 8.5%, Asian: 11%, •Hispanic: 10% Came from out of state within five years, •2000 Census: 21%Median family income: $104,174•Median home value: $180,800•

ALLEN FOREIGN & DOMESTIC

112 W Main•Allen, TX 75002

Auto Repair & Free Estimates(972) 727-1494

Welcomet o t h e B e s t !


On November 4, 2009, the city of Allen opened the $50 million Allen Event Center. The joint venture with Global

Entertainment Corporation and The MGHerring Group now offers a venue for concerts, top touring shows, family entertainment, and pro-fessional sports. The project was announced in June 2007, and a groundbreaking was held the following July.

The Allen Event Center, which includes 6,225 fixed seats and 24 luxury suites, is part of The Village at Allen, a 181-acre mixed-use development of The MGHerring Group, located on the southeast corner of U.S. 75 and Stacy Road. In addition to the event center and a full-service hotel, the development features more than 1.5 million square feet of retail, restaurant, and office space.

“A regional event center has been on the Allen City Council’s strategic plan for many years,” said Allen Mayor Stephen Terrell. “This multipurpose facility will have a significant ripple effect through our local economy. The public-private partnership of the project cre-ates a first-class entertainment and sports venue without an impact to local taxes.”

Global Entertainment, an integrated events and entertainment company, has subsidiaries in

sports management, arena and related real estate development, facility and venue management and marketing, venue ticketing, and branded licensing. It operates the 17-team Central Hockey League from its headquarters in Phoenix.

It is anticipated that the Allen Event Center will offer up to 150 revenue-generating events in the center each year, with more than 600,000 visitors annually. The facility is also used for trade shows, community ceremonies, festivals, open-rink ice skating, and high school sporting events and activities.

“This project is the result of a unique partner-ship that continues the council’s commitment to bring quality development and amenities to the Allen community,” said Allen City Manager Peter Vargas.

About the Allen Event Center:Premier multipurpose facility•Located on the southeast corner of U.S. 75 •and Stacy Road inside The Village at Allen shopping district188,000 total square feet•6,225 fixed seats with capacity up to 8,100 •for concerts382 Club seats•201 Loge seats•

24 Luxury Suites•5 Hospitality Suites•Community Ice Rink features a second •sheet of NHL standard ice (85 by 200 feet)Home of Allen Americans, a Dallas Stars’ •CHL affiliate

Community Ice RinkThe Allen Community Ice Rink located

at the Allen Event Center is the city of Allen’s newest family entertainment facility. Enjoy a full-sized, 85-by-200-foot, state-of-the-art ice sur-face; general seating for 300 spectators; locker rooms; an equipment shop; two meeting rooms; an off-ice training room; and skate rental. The Allen Community Ice Rink is open for public skating sessions and offers private and group classes for figure skating and ice hockey. For more information, call 214-912-1097 or visit www.alleneventcenter.net.

Allen Americans Hockey TeamThe Allen Americans Hockey Team, the

Dallas Stars’ Central Hockey League affiliate, began play in the fall of 2009 in the newly built Allen Event Center in The Village at Allen. The Allen Americans are the Central Hockey League’s newest club. With former Stanley Cup champion Steve Duchesne (Detroit 2002) as owner and president, the Americans are sure to deliver on and off the ice. Season tickets, partial plans, and group tickets are available, as are corporate partnerships. Ticket plans start as low as $55 per seat. For information, call 972-912-1000 or visit allenamericans.com.

e v e n t C e n t e r o p e n s

The Allen

The Village at Allen & The Village at Fairview

Stacy Road & U.S. 75www.thevillageshopping.com

The Village at Allen and The Village at Fairview are located on opposite sides of Stacy Road, soon to be connected by a four-mile hiking and biking trail. The Village at Fairview highlights

retail establishments like Macy’s, JCPenney, and Whole Foods Market, and features a fun inter-active fountain, community garden, and beach volleyball courts. The Village at Allen is home to the Allen Event Center, Canine Commons Dog Park, and a Marriott Hotel, as well as unique stores like Allen Village Jewelers and Zeus Boutique. You can find a listing or retailers, events, and attractions at www.thevillageshopping.com.


Q and A With Robert Winningham, Executive Director of the Allen Economic Development Corporation

Q: Tell us about economic development suc-cesses Allen has enjoyed in the last year.

A: We have had great success in helping our existing businesses expand. These expansions included projects with Experian, the Halo Group, and Jack Henry & Associates. We have also had a good track record of helping our existing busi-nesses prosper in spite of the current national eco-nomic environment. In Texas, we have maintained a stable government with no budget deficits, and more particularly in Allen, we’ve been able to lower property taxes for the 15th year in a row. Allen was also able to have sales tax revenue that was 5 per-cent above last year, even in a slow economy.

Q: Highlight a new business for 2009.A: In addition to our current clusters of high-

tech, engineering, and financial services, Allen has added a new CISCO Systems data center that will employ 100 people and provide $285 million annually in property tax value with its building and equipment. This addition is due to Allen’s abundant electrical capacity and available land supply by nearby office tenants.

Q: What will be areas of focus for the Allen Economic Development Corporation in the next few years?

A: We are also pursuing companies that make photovoltaic cells that are used in solar panels. Allen also has an interest in finding renewable sources of energy and we are working with companies involved with hydrogen fuel cells. This is a good area for those industries, as we have a highly skilled and educated workforce. We are also working with our health care and biological sciences cluster and are confident in our ability to attract pharmaceutical manufacturing and medical device manufacturing companies.

Business Briefs

COMPANY .........................................................................................................TYPE OF FACILITY ...............................SQUARE FEET ............EMPLOYEESOkmetic, Inc. ..............................................................................................semiconductor manufacturing ............................ 27,000 ................................. 44Blueridge Office Center ...........................................................................................office center ......................................... 35,735 .................................n/aAll Metals Fabricating, Incorporated/K-Flex Systems ................................customized sheet metal fabrication ........................ 70,225 ................................. 45Atrion Corporation/Quest Medical ............................................................ medical equipment manufacturing ........................ 106,880 .............................. 155Color Dynamics .......................................................................................... commercial printer/publisher ............................ 339,924 .............................. 207Graphic Converting .......................................................................................... collectible game cards ................................. 120,000 .............................. 100Available Space ............................................................................................................office .............................................. 70,680 .................................n/aAllen Business Centre ........................................................................................... business park ....................................... 136,000 ................................n/aCornerstone Crossing Corporate Center ....................................................................office park .......................................... 27,777 .................................n/aRESQDebt ............................................................................................................debt counseling....................................... 82,223 ............................... 170

Source: Allen Economic Development Corporation Web site: www.allentx.com

Population: 82,600 (As of January 1, 2009)

Population growth rate: 2.8%

Average household income: $123,879 (2008)

C ost of living index: 90.5 (lower than average)

M edian education level: 2.9 years college (2008)

Median age : 34 (2008 est.)

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Distance to Major CitiesAustin: 220 milesChicago: 897 milesFt. Worth: 32 milesHouston: 267 milesLos Angeles: 1,456 milesNew York: 1,537 miles

Allen, Texas


Whether you are relocating your family or a business to Allen, we understand that the quality of

education is very important to you. As you read further about our schools, we hope you will gain an understanding of what we call the “Allen Way.” The Allen Way is a philoso-phy and attitude that says Allen Independent School District believes in the ability and potential of every child who comes through our doors.

Superintendent Dr. Ken Helvey said one reason Allen students are so successful is the academic program available to them. “The depth and variety of these courses give stu-dents an opportunity to explore and excel in a subject or activity before they graduate high school,” he said. “Another reason why Allen ISD is successful is the long-standing positive relationship between the city and schools. This

partnership benefits residents and ultimately saves taxpayers money.”

Student enrollments at Allen ISD have doubled since 1990, bringing the current size to more than 18,000 students in grades kin-dergarten through 12. These students attend one of 15 elementary schools, three middle schools, the Lowery Freshman Center, and Allen High School.

Strong community support through bond elections has enabled the school district to build a new high school, eight elementary schools, and one middle school since 1999. The community has also supported renova-tion and upgrades to all other campuses to provide quality facilities for all Allen students. Most recently the community approved the construction of a new performing arts center and multipurpose stadium.

Elementary education programs focus on the mastery of basic reading, language arts, and mathematics skills. Throughout our ele-mentary program, the focus is on respect for the rights and property of others, behavioral accountability, and enhancement of self-worth. Middle school students are organized into academic houses for their basic subjects, while allowing them the freedom to join others for their elective subjects. These include band, choir, orchestra, computers, foreign language, art, and leadership.

The Becky Lowery Freshman Center serves as a gateway to high school, but more impor-tantly it serves as an environment in which students can learn about the rigors of high school. The emphasis at Lowery is on helping students focus on academic and career goals as well as personal development while preparing them for the greater demands of high school.

EducationA l l e n I s D – A G r e A t p l A C e t o l e A r n


Allen High School’s varied curriculum and schedule offer students flexibility in choos-ing academic courses while exploring career opportunities and areas of special interest. Students attend classes according to a modi-fied block schedule with a one-hour class at the beginning and end of the day and three 90-minute classes meeting on alternate days.

The high school academic program of studies includes general, college preparatory, and advanced-level courses. The school offers 33 advanced-placement and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses and a range of career-tech courses including agriculture sci-ence, hospitality services, health services, elementary teaching internships, and com-munications media.

Extracurricular activities allow students to pursue special areas of interest and apply what they have learned in school. Students in grades nine through 12 compete in 19 differ-ent interscholastic sports, including baseball, basketball, cross-country, football, golf, soc-cer, swimming, tennis, track, volleyball, and wrestling. Most notably, the Allen Eagles won the Texas 5-A State Championship in foot-ball in 2008 and two state championships in women’s golf.

Allen High School’s choir, orchestra, and band programs have earned the school numer-ous state and national awards. Students also compete throughout the year in areas such as art, FFA, robotics, foreign language, broadcast-ing, speech, and debate.

Placing technology in the hands of students and teachers is the goal of Allen ISD’s technol-ogy initiatives. The school district maintains more than 8,500 computers and replaces outdated computers on an as-needed basis. The district maintains a robust technology infrastructure that brings high-speed data and video streaming into every classroom. Ceiling-mounted LCD projectors, a Safari media sys-tem, audio systems, and document cameras have been installed in all classrooms at every campus.

District FactsStudent enrollment: 18,091 students•Fifteen Allen ISD campuses were rated as •Exemplary and four earned a Recognized rating under the accountability standards set by the Texas Education Agency. The ratings are determined by the spring 2009 TAKS results.

Allen Public Library300 N. Allen DriveAllen, TX 75013214-509-4900

The Allen Public Library is dedicated to improv-ing the quality of life of its users by supporting their lifelong learning and information needs. Opened in 1967 as an all-volunteer organization, the Allen Public Library became a city department in 1971. It now has a collection of approximately 117,000 books, 5,500 DVDs, 8,600 CDs (music, books on CD, books on cassette, and playaways), and 173 periodical subscriptions.

The library has reading programs for all ages and supports home-school efforts with the Bluebonnet Home School Program. Adults can get in on the reading action with a choice of three book clubs: Online Book Club (with multiple categories), Noontime Pageturners, and Readable History.

If you want to make new friends, join the Friends of the Allen Public Library. They support Bach to Books, ALLen Reads, Day of the Child, Chocolate Friendzy, staff development, and much more.


Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Allen

1105 Central ExpresswayAllen, TX 75013972-747-1000www.texashealth.org

Texas Health Resources is one of the larg-est faith-based, nonprofit health care delivery systems in the United States and the largest in north Texas in terms of patients served. The system’s primary service area consists of 16 counties in north-central Texas, home to more than 6.2 million people.

Texas Health was formed in 1997 with the assets of Fort Worth-based Harris Methodist Health System and Dallas-based Presbyterian Healthcare Resources. Later that year, Arlington Memorial Hospital joined the Texas Health Resources system.

Texas Health has 13 acute-care hospitals and one long-term care hospital that comprise 3,355 licensed hospital beds, more than 18,000 employees, and more than 3,600 physicians with active staff privileges. Texas Health is also a corporate member or partner in six additional hospitals and surgery centers.

A full-service, 62-bed community hospital, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Allen has been serving residents in Allen, McKinney, and the surrounding Collin County communities since 2000.

Twin Creeks Hospital1001 Raintree CircleAllen, TX 75013972-908-2000www.twincreekshosp.com

Founded in 2007, Twin Creeks Hospital is a 42,000-square-foot physical rehabilitation hospital that increased the level of patient service available in the northeast quadrant of the DFW metroplex. The 40-bed, all-private suite facility provides state-of-the-art ameni-ties and rehabilitation facilities for patients requiring a specialized level of acute reha-bilitative care.

Twin Creeks strives to be the area’s pro-vider of choice as a center of rehabilitation excellence: compassionately coaching and assisting individuals and their families in the rehab process, thus restoring hope in their ability to function at a desired level of inde-pendence, performing daily tasks safely within the constraints of their medical condition. By demonstrating compliance with the Joint Commission’s national standards for health care quality and safety, Twin Creeks Hospital has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval.

Baylor Regional Medical Center at Plano

4700 Alliance Blvd.Plano, TX 75093469-814-2000www.baylorhealth.comBaylor Regional Medical Center at Plano

brings residents of Collin County and north Texas the benefits of an acute-care medi-cal and surgical facility that meets adult health care needs. Baylor Plano opened in December 2004 and is an award-winning 128-bed hospital.

Collin County residents can find compre-hensive diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and follow-up care on this smoke-free cam-pus. Services include treatment for advanced spine deformities at the Baylor Scoliosis Center, neurosciences, orthopaedics, medical and radiation oncology, surgical weight loss, women’s services, gynecology, urology, gastro-enterology, pulmonary, sleep disorders, pain management, and diabetes management.

As part of Baylor Health Care System, Baylor Plano offers patients access to innova-tive treatments and clinical trials performed through Baylor Research Institute in areas such as oncology and cardiovascular ser-vices. In addition, the Baylor Plano campus is home to THE HEART HOSPITAL Baylor Plano, the first dedicated heart hospital in Collin County.

Health Care


Children’s Medical Center1935 Medical District DriveDallas, TX 75235214-456-7000www.childrens.com

Children’s Medical Center is private, not-for-profit organization, and is one of the largest pediatric health care providers in the nation. As the only academic health care facil-ity in north Texas dedicated exclusively to the comprehensive care of children from birth to age 18, Children’s provides patient care ranging from simple eye exams to special-ized treatment in areas such as heart disease, hematology-oncology, and cystic fibrosis. In addition, Children’s is a major pediatric kid-ney, liver, intestine, heart, and bone marrow transplant center. As the primary pediatric teaching facility for the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, the medical staff at Children’s conducts research that is instrumental in developing treatments, therapies, and greater understanding of pedi-atric diseases.

The Children’s system is licensed for 559 beds and has more than 50 subspecialty programs. The Dallas hospital was the first designated Level I trauma center for pediatrics in Texas. To better serve the region’s growing pediatric population, the 72-bed Children’s Medical Center at Legacy opened in 2008.

Children’s enjoys a stellar reputation as one of the finest pediatric facilities in the United States. Children’s is accredited by the Joint Commission, and is a Magnet-designated facility, the highest national recog-nition granted to a hospital or medical center for nursing excellence. In addition, both U.S. News & World Report and Child magazine have named Children’s as one of the nation’s top pediatric providers, and in 2006, the Dallas Business Journal recognized Children’s as a

“Best Place to Work.” Children’s makes life better for the patients it sees during more than 360,000 visits each year.

The Medical Center of Plano3901 West 15th StreetPlano, TX 75075972-596-6800medicalcenterofplano.com

Since opening its doors in 1975, The Medical Center of Plano has provided Plano and Collin County with superior health care. It has built a reputation on the exceptional compassion offered to all its patients, a legacy preserved from our simple beginnings as a small community hospital. Now, as a world-class medical facility offering the latest in technologies and a comprehensive range of health care services, The Medical Center of Plano continues its growth to maintain its position as a leader in health care.

The Medical Center of Plano is a full-service, 427-bed acute-care facility with more than 1,300 employees and over 900 physicians on staff, representing more than 70 specialties and subspecialties. The main campus in the heart of Plano includes the main hospital and medical offices, an outpatient surgery center, a comprehensive cancer treatment center, an emergency trauma center, a radiology/imaging center, a comprehensive cardiovascular pro-gram, the Center for Lifestyle Enhancement, and complete women’s and children’s services including a high-risk antepartum unit and a neonatal intensive-care unit.

The medical staff at The Medical Center of Plano is a diverse group of the best profession-als available. They are dedicated and commit-ted to using new technologies and keeping up-to-date on recent advancements in health care. Every member of the staff — including nurses, radiologists, therapists, pharmacists, support

staff, management, and administration — is focused on the health and comfort of every patient who comes through the doors.

Accredited by the Joint Commission, The Medical Center of Plano continued our legacy of firsts in 2007 by becoming the first hospital in Collin County to achieve elite Magnet recognition from the American Nurses Association.

Medical Center of McKinney4500 Medical Center DriveMcKinney, TX 75069972-547-8000medicalcenterofmckinney.com

Medical Center of McKinney (MCM) is committed to providing you and your fam-ily with excellent, full-service health care. Its highly trained physicians, clinical excellence, and consistent customer satisfaction enable MCM to continually exceed the growing health care needs of area patients and their families.

Over the past several years, MCM has strengthened its medical foundations and enhanced its acute-care services by adding a number of all-inclusive specialty services pre-viously unavailable in the community. A few of its services include:

Full-service 24/7 emergency department •Outpatient services including ambulatory •surgery, women’s imaging services, general imaging services (64-slice CT, MRI, nuclear imaging, etc.), sleep lab, and rehabilitation therapiesCardiovascular services including cardiac •catheterization and interventional lab, open heart surgery, and vascular surgery Orthopedic services including total and •partial joint replacement programs and sports medicine servicesNeurosciences including neurosurgery, •stroke care, pain management, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s careLabor and delivery suites, neonatal level II •nursery, and maternal fetal medicine

It’s important to know if your hospital is meet-ing national quality standards when it comes to your care and safety. Rest assured, MCM has achieved numerous accreditations by the Joint Commission, including specialty certifications that no other hospital in the area has achieved.

Total hip and total knee replacement •certification Primary Stroke Center certification •Chest Pain Center accreditation Cycle II •Sleep Lab accreditation•


Allen was first platted in 1876 by an agent for Houston and Texas Central Railway, though earlier eyewitness

accounts place landowners and a stagecoach stop in Allen in 1854.

In 1844, George Washington (“Uncle Wash”) Ford and Parmelia Langston became the first Anglo couple to marry in Collin County. Wash Ford helped dig a mass grave to bury victims of the Muncy Massacre along Rowlett Creek, the last documented Native American dispute with Collin County settlers.

In the face of impending Civil War, Collin County was one of a handful in Texas to vote against secession. The Quantrell gang, never sanctioned by the Confederacy but infamous for atrocities against the North and against Northern sympathizers, were known to hide out locally. The gang stopped at Allen-area homes for provisions, and Wash Ford was recorded as ceding seven sheep to them.

The city was named for Ebenezer Allen, a former Texas attorney general and railroad promoter. With the advent of cheaper and faster rail transportation, Allen’s black clay blossomed with cotton, corn, wheat, and other grains, which could be quickly delivered to northern markets and beyond.

Sam Bass, according to prominent Texas historian Walter Prescott Webb, committed the state’s first documented train robbery at Allen in February 1878. The Bass Gang had already clinched their fame in Nebraska in 1877. Many of young Sam Bass’ characteristics captured the public fancy: He spoke in a gentlemanly manner to train passengers; he was known to have given money and possessions back to some elderly; and he never killed anyone until the day of his own death on July 21, 1878.

An important Allen historical site is the stone dam along Cottonwood Creek, designated in 2001 as a State Archaeological Site. Constructed

by the Houston & Texas Central Railroad in 1874 or 1875, it is Texas’ only recorded stone dam built as a water station for railroads, accord-ing to author Tom Keener.

The railroad figured prominently, too, in the only trip to Allen by a sitting U.S. president. On April 5, 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt’s “Rocket” train made a brief but well-received and documented late-afternoon visit on its whistle-stop tour across the state.

An electric railway, the Interurban, debuted in Allen in 1908 when Texas Traction Company, which later merged with Southern Traction to become the Texas Electric Railway, opened a line between Dallas and Denison. Pulled by overhead electric cable lines, northbound trol-leys ran every hour and southbound trolleys ran every half-hour.

Source: Information for this article was provided by Tom

Keener, Allen Public Library, Allen Heritage Guild, and the

Handbook of Texas Online.

History


Allen Parks and Recreationwww.allenparks.orgFor information on the public parks and recreation facilities of Allen, visit www.cityofallen.org/departments/ parks_recreation/ or call 214-509-4700.

Hiking/Biking TrailsAllen currently has more than 40 miles of

paved hike and bike trails. As new trail segments are built, Allen gets closer to having a genuine trail system that connects the entire town. The trail segments that will comprise the city-wide trail system are:

Allen Parkway Loop: main loop 14 miles; •includes Ridgeview, Rowlett Creek, Cottonwood Creek, and MustangRowlett Creek Loop: 9 miles•Watters Branch Loop: 10 miles•Cottonwood Creek Loop: 7 miles•

Don Rodenbaugh NatatoriumLocated at Rivercrest and Exchange, the

Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium is home to 7,000 square feet of leisure waters, a competition pool, and a 5,000-square-foot fitness center with top-of-the-line fitness equipment that includes a climbing wall. Not only is the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium a family fitness center, but it is also a complete community center. You can rent space to have a bridal shower, birthday party, or other types of gatherings.

Joe Farmer Recreation CenterBuilt in 1997, the Joe Farmer Recreation

Center is located at 1201 E. Bethany. Amenities include a professional-size gymnasium, rac-quetball courts, an indoor track, a game room, and a fitness room with top-of-the-line fitness equipment. Getting fit with the family is easy with such a great selection of exercise

classes, health education classes, and camps offered at the facility.

Allen Senior Recreation CenterThe Allen Senior Recreation Center is a

recreation center for persons 50 years of age and older. Offering a variety of programs, trips, and special events, activities and classes are low-cost or absolutely free. Membership to the center is just $5 a year for residents and $24 a year for non-residents.

The Edge Visitors CenterLocated on the south end of Allen Station

Park, the complex features a concrete skate park, two roller-hockey rinks, a BMX track, and a visitor’s center. The skate park is now the largest outdoor facility of its kind in the state. Use of the outdoor amenities is free and open to the public.

Connemara ConservancyP.O. Box 793808 Dallas, TX 75379-3808214-351-0990 www.connemaraconservancy.org

Connemara Conservancy was founded in 1981 with a gift of 72 acres by Frances (Montgomery) Williams on the border of Allen and Plano called the Connemara Meadow Preserve or, simply, the Meadow. Ahead of her time, Frances became concerned that her fam-ily’s land was in jeopardy of succumbing to the almost unstoppable urban sprawl. The Meadow will forever remain in its natural state as an open window to the environment where we live.

After the initial gift, Connemara soon realized the need for large-scale conservation throughout the north Texas area. As a result, it became one of Texas’ first land trusts, a

qualified organization to hold conservation easements on private land in partnership with willing landowners. Connemara is now one of over 40 land trusts working to pre-serve natural lands throughout Texas. It is also the only regional land trust focusing solely on north Texas preservation.

Lakes

Lake Lavonwww.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/lavon/972-442-3141 Camping reservations: 877-444-6777

Lake Lavon is an artificial freshwater lake located on the east fork of the Trinity River in Collin County. Completed in 1953, the lake was designed for flood control, conservation storage, and recreational use. Lake Lavon’s dominant fish species are largemouth bass, white bass, blue catfish, and crappie. The 21,000-acre lake has 120 miles of shoreline with numerous parks and campsites that are available by reservation only.

Lake Ray Hubbardwww.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/ fish/recreational/lakes/ray_hubbard/800-792-1112

Lake Ray Hubbard is the largest recre-ational facility in north Texas, offering year-round opportunities for fishing, sailing, water skiing, and picnicking. With 21,671 acres of water, it is known for hybrid striped bass and blue catfish, though largemouth bass, white bass, channel catfish, and white crappie can also be found in its waters.

Recreation


Ray Roberts Lake State Park

www.tpwd.state.tx.us/ spdest/findadest/parks/ray_roberts_lake/940-686-2148

The 30,000-acre reservoir Ray Roberts Lake State Park Complex consists of two state park units (Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch). In addition, the park includes six satellite parks (Jordan Unit, Pond Creek, Pecan Creek, Buck Creek, Sanger, and Elm Fork), wildlife man-agement areas, wetlands, waterfowl sanctuar-ies, and the 20-mile Ray Roberts Lake/Lake Lewisville Greenbelt Corridor. Whether you enjoy bird watching, water sports, horseback riding, or backpacking along a scenic trail, Ray Roberts has something for everyone.

Golf

Chase Oaks7201 Chase Oaks BoulevardPlano, TX 75025214-509-4653 (GOLF)www.chaseoaks.com

Chase Oaks, one of the finest public golf facilities in the United States, offers 27 holes of championship challenges. Designed by architects Robert von Hagge and Bruce Devlin, the courses feature tiff eagle Bermuda greens, tiff fairways, creeks, lakes, hills, and scores of trees. The Blackjack Course at Chase Oaks is a beautiful, 18-hole cham-pionship layout that can be very demand-ing, especially from the back tees. Blackjack often rewards strategic shot-making instead of strength. The course is ranked annually in the Top 10 North Texas Courses by PGA members. Other accolades include being rated among the “Top Ten Municipal Courses

in the State” by Texas Golfer Magazine in 2005 and as “One of the Top 25 Overall Courses” by AVIDGOLFER magazine in 2005.

Twin Creeks501 Twin Creeks DriveAllen, TX 75013972-390-8888www.twincreeksgolf.com

The Golf Club at Twin Creeks offers an award-winning golf course that winds its way around two natural, free-flowing, tree-lined creeks. Known for its peaceful setting and as one of the most naturally preserved golf courses in the state, Twin Creeks has become a favorite of Collin County. It is an Arnold Palmer Signature Course and is said to be one of his favorite designs. Twin Creeks has received a four-star rating through Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play.” It was also named “Best Neighborhood Club” and one of the “Top Five Best Semi-Private Courses” by AVIDGOLFER.

Heritage Ranch465 Scenic Ranch CircleFairview, TX 75069972-886-4700www.heritageranchgolf.com

Heritage Ranch Golf & Country Club fea-tures a championship golf course designed by Arthur Hills, one of the nation’s leading golf course architects. The course features roll-ing terrain, strategically incorporated water features, and fairways lined with aged pecan, oak, and cedar trees. This scenic par-72 course measures 7,040 yards from the back trees, demanding accurate shot making, while four sets of tees and a wide variety of challenges promote playability for all skill levels.

Ed’s Body Shop, Inc.

Est 1976

607 BelmontAllen, TX 75013

Ph (972) 727•3091 Fax (972) 727•9584

Allen Premium Outlets820 W. Stacy RoadAllen, TX 75013972-678-7000

At Allen Premium Outlets you will find an excit-ing collection of 100 outlet stores from the world’s finest designers and name brands. Save 25 to 65 percent every day at Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, Coach, Cole Haan, Guess, J.Crew, Kenneth Cole, Liz Claiborne, Michael Kors, Nautica, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Polo Ralph Lauren, and many more. The shops are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.


Arts of Collin County Arts Park305 Century Parkway, Third FloorAllen, TX 75013214-495-5800www.artsofcollincounty.org

The Arts of Collin County is made pos-sible by a unique public-private partner-ship working together toward a common goal: to make the Arts of Collin County the premier regional arts experience in north Texas. Plans are under way for the Arts of Collin County Arts Park, which will be a place where painters, sculp-tors, actors, and musicians can work in harmony in a 100-plus acre park central to Allen, Frisco, Plano, and McKinney. The park will allow people of all ages to enjoy world-class concerts and shows in a sustainable setting.

Briar Ridge Investments donated the land for the park, valued at $22 mil-lion. This was the largest donation of its kind in Collin County history. The Arts Park and Performing Arts Hall are being jointly developed by the complex’s owner cities of Allen, Frisco, and Plano, along with member cities Fairview and Melissa. Public commitment to the project includes $57 million in bonds approved by residents of the owner cities. With an additional $3 million in county grant funds and more than $10 million of pledged support from private businesses, foundations, and indi-viduals, almost $70 million of the proj-ect’s $80 million Phase 1 cost has already been committed.

Allen Arts AllianceP.O. Box 1209Allen, TX 75013972-727-7272allenartsalliance.org

Founded by the city of Allen in 1998, the Allen Arts Alliance is a nonprofit orga-nization that serves as the umbrella organi-zation for all of the arts organizations in the Allen community. The Allen Arts Alliance believes that support for the arts is crucial to the health and vitality of any city. Art enhances the quality of life for every citizen and helps build a stronger sense of com-munity identity. The Alliance promotes, nurtures, and celebrates the arts in our community through interactive participa-tion with our schools, civic organizations, businesses, and citizens.

Allen Philharmonic Symphony102 S. Allen DriveP.O. Box 508Allen, TX 75013972-359-0656www.allenphilharmonic.org

Established in October 1997, the Allen Philharmonic Symphony provides sym-phonic concerts to entertain, educate, and enrich the cultural life of the Allen com-munity. Established in October 1997, the 70-member orchestra and 50-member cho-rus performs at 7:30 p.m. on selected Friday or Saturday evenings throughout its season, which runs from September through May

of each year. Tickets can be purchased by the season or for individual concerts. The Allen Philharmonic is led by Music Director Rich Giangiulio and Choral Director Kevin Holland.

Allen Civic Ballet206 N. Greenville, Suite 400Allen, TX 75002972-727-5959www.allencivicballet.org

The Allen Civic Ballet is a nonprofit organization funded in part by the city of Allen, Texas. The company is dedicated to providing affordable and enjoyable dance performances for audiences of all ages, while providing valuable experience to young dancers considering a career in the profession. The company is open by audition and utilizes the talents of local dancers and professional guest artists. It presents two productions per year: The Nutcracker in December and the spring Allen Dance Festival, which showcases sev-eral local dance groups in a variety of styles. Company dancers also perform at various dance festivals.

The Allen Conservatory of Dance, located in Allen Towne Center, offers the finest in classical ballet instruction. The curriculum also includes modern, tap, and jazz. Performing provides dancers of all ages the joy of accomplishing their goals, and the Allen Conservatory of Dance holds a dance recital for all students at the end of each school year.

& C u l t u r eArts


Allen Heritage Museum & GuildP.O. Box 226Allen, TX 75013972-727-2772 or972-390-7688www.allenheritage.org

The Allen Heritage Guild was established in 1996 to create a sense of community spirit by pro-viding service and implementing projects that cre-ate a distinctively positive image of Allen. In addi-tion, the guild helps assure tomorrow’s heritage by recording past, recent, and current milestones.

Past projects have included a photographic display, driving tour, antique appraisal fair, preservation of Allen Station Dam, place-ment of historical markers, participation in the revival of the Central Business District, creation of the Allen Heritage Village, the restoration and renovation of St. Mary Baptist church, re-creation of the Train Depot, and the production of historical videos.

Festivals and Events

Eggcellent Family AdventureMarch 27

This event features a unique format where kids can visit tables hosted by civic organiza-tions and local businesses for eggs, candy, and other goodies. Kids can “trick or treat” Easter-style. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance and mingle with event-goers. This free event is held at the Civic Plaza and fea-tures crafts, games, and a bounce house, as well as face painters and caricature artists.

Summer SoundsMonday Nights in May and June214-509-4700

The annual Summer Sounds Concert Series takes place for six consecutive weeks on Monday nights from May 17 to June 21. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. in the amphitheater at Joe Farmer Recreation Center. All concerts are free and provide a wonderful family expe-rience where you can bring your blanket and relax to a diverse set of great music. For more information, call Allen Parks and Recreation.

Allen USA CelebrationSaturday, June 26214-509-4700

Allen USA celebration is Allen’s largest and most spectacular community event. Centered

on the theme of being “First to the Fourth,” Allen USA serves as the community’s Fourth of July celebration. Held in Celebration Park, activities include food, a Kids Zone with a vari-ety of bounce houses, and an Activity Zone for children and youth of all ages. On the Main Stage, entertainment will take place all day and will conclude with a national recording artist. The evening ends with one of the largest fireworks shows set to music in north Texas. Admission is free.

Dog Days at Ford PoolSeptember 11

Come help us celebrate the end of summer at Ford Pool with our favorite four-legged friends! All dogs are welcome, but the owners MUST provide updated vaccination information! Owners with dogs living in Allen must present the COA registration. If your dog is not registered with the City of Allen, on-site registration will be available. There is no charge for people wanting to swim at this event — just for dogs!

Ms. Senior Allen PageantOctober 2

The third annual Ms. Senior Allen Pageant, “The Age of Sophistication,” is celebrating women who share a positive outlook on life, inspire oth-ers, and contribute to their community.

Tree Lighting CeremonyFriday, December 3214-509-4700

Kick off the holiday season by helping Allen light more than 20,000 lights on its 35-foot

tree. Community organizations and local school groups will join in the celebration. Make sure to have your picture taken with Santa and stay to enjoy a Christmas movie.

Rudolph RunSaturday, December 4214-509-4700

Relieve that seasonal stress with appear-ances by Santa and his friends! The Rudolph Run features music, face painting, and fam-ily activities, along with 3,200 runners from across the north Texas area. The day begins with a non-competitive 1-mile Elf Fun Run and concludes with the USATF-registered Rudolph Run. Chip timing will be used for best results.


The Allen Chamber of Commerce is the primary source of business advocacy for the area. It is an organization dedi-

cated to supporting Chamber members with programs that promote business development and encourage economic growth, educational excellence, and legislative advocacy.

Mission and TeamworkThe Chamber’s goals are facilitated by an

elected board of directors, which means that member voices are always heard and projects and programs are conducted with community involvement, utilizing the philosophy of a free exchange of ideas. The executive committee is composed of carefully selected individuals who facilitate the leadership of the chamber. The board meets regularly to review all programs and the benefits of chamber membership. Board members also devise the business plan for the coming year and implement improvements.

At the Allen Chamber of Commerce there is a strong belief in team efforts and member par-ticipation. The Allen Chamber of Commerce is more than simply promotion of business; it is a promotion of the ideals and values that shape success.

LeadershipThe Allen Chamber of Commerce is an

advocate for leadership skills. The best form of leadership is leadership by example, and the Allen Chamber promotes that quality through a myriad of programs designed to give community leaders the skills and motivation that help make Allen so prosperous.

Now in its 21st year, Leadership Allen is a program that has made a major impact on the

community. Leadership Allen is a nine-month community education program that teaches leadership skills and also directly contributes to the community. Each leadership class works on a community project so that the whole community sees immediate results. Past proj-ects have included:

A community promotional video•The Allen Heritage Guild•The Allen Art Alliance•Sponsorship of the first Springfest celebration•Revitalization of Allen’s central •business districtCitizen survey for the City of Allen’s •Comprehensive Plan

VisionBusiness development is the primary rea-

son local businesses choose membership with the Allen Chamber of Commerce. It provides the essential connections to grow your busi-ness successfully as well as access to busi-nesses that are already successful in the com-munity. Events include monthly luncheons, quarterly legislative breakfasts, membership directory and Web site listings, member-only referrals, ribbon-cutting and groundbreaking ceremonies, and numerous other networking and business-building opportunities.

SuccessAt the Allen Chamber of Commerce, success

doesn’t just mean money; it means giving back to the community with opportunities to influence change for the better. Success is achieved by the sharing of information, and the chamber is a one-stop shop for a wealth of community knowl-edge and understanding. When your business

succeeds, everyone in the community benefits from employment opportunities and expanded or enhanced customer services. The chamber is a member-driven organization that is continuously exploring ways to benefit its member investors, including providing access to city economic planning and input on relevant legislative issues.

SupportThe Allen Chamber of Commerce hosts

several annual events designed to promote local business. The chamber utilizes members of a task force to work on special projects and pro-mote the goals of the chamber and members. Events include:

Celebrate Allen (Volunteer & Community •Recognition Banquet and Auction)New Teacher Breakfast•Fill the Bus School Supply Campaign•The Annual Chamber Golf Classic•Taste of Allen & Business to Consumer Expo•Women’s Expo•

Solid CitizenshipNot only does the Chamber support local

business and member development, but it also plays a key role in the joint planning of the com-munity. The Allen Chamber of Commerce has a key partnership with the Allen City Council, the Allen Independent School District board of trust-ees, the city manager, and the Allen Economic Development Corporation. This trusted partner-ship assures members that their ideas will be given a voice, and it is a direct link to community participation and planning. Membership with the Allen Chamber of Commerce will give you a voice in the future — a future your family can count on to be successful.

C h A m B e r o f C o m m e r C e

Allen


InDexofADvertIsersAccountAnt

Newton Buckley CPA — Page 13103 West McDermott, Suite 200Allen, TX 75013972-727-3341www.buckleycpa.com

• New Business Start-Ups• Bookkeeping Services• Professional Quickbooks Advisor• Accountable Financial Statements• Individual, Corporation, Partnership Tax Returns• Other Returns: State, Trusts, Estates• IRS Audits and Representation• Reviewed Financial Statements

Attorney

Sandifer Law office — Page 2201 A West MainAllen, TX 75013972-396-1118fax 972-396-7675www.sandiferlawoffice.com

With broad civil litigation experience since 1981, Sandifer Law Office provides representation in business formation and issues, family law, personal injury, real estate, wills, probate, and other matters.

Automotive - DeAlership/repAir

Allen foreign & Domestic — Page 4112 West Main St.Allen, TX [email protected]

• Auto Repair• Free Estimates

Ed’s Body Shop, Inc. — Page 13607 BelmontAllen, TX 75013972-727-3091fax 972-727-9584

Ed’s Body Shop opened in 1976. The main reason we’re still here is because we consistently produce a quality repair. Come see us; we’ll be here.

churches

fellowship Baptist Church of Allen — Page 9FBCA Main Campus200 West Belmont DriveAllen, TX 75013972-359-9956fax 972-359-6048www.fbcofallen.org

Mission: To spread God’s word through Jesus Christ that equips, elevates, and empowers people through a holistic ministry. The focus is on the spiritual, physical, mental, economical, social, and political well-being of the individual.

first Baptist Church – Allen TX — Page 7201 East McDermottAllen, TX 75002972-727-8241fax 972-727-6481www.fbcallen.org

First Baptist Church Allen is a dynamic and growing fellowship of believers in Jesus Christ. We encourage discovery of next steps of faith and commitment in your relationship with God.

creDit reporting

Experian — Page 9701 Experian ParkwayAllen, TX 75013972-390-3528fax 972-390-3824www.experian.com

Check your consumer credit score, free credit report, credit history, business credit reports, and marketing solutions from Experian.com.

Dentistry

Kids Pediatric Dentistry — Page 11335 N. Allen Dr.Allen, TX 75013972-727-0011fax 972-727-0707www.kidspediatricdentistry.com

Kids Pediatric Dentistry is more than just our name … it’s the focus of our specialty. Caring for the dental health of your children is the heart of our practice.

Main Street Dental — Page 1720 E. Main St.Suite AAllen, TX 75002972-727-5001www.main-street-dental.com

Maryam Mojdehi-Barnes, DDS, MS, PA — Page 71223 W. McDermott Dr., Suite 15Allen, TX 75013972-390-1100fax 972-390-1104www.allenorthodontist.com

Our team has been creating healthy and beautiful smiles since 1999. We provide the highest quality of orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults in a friendly and professional environ-ment while emphasizing preventative and interceptive therapy.Visit www.AllenOrthodontist.com for more information.

Dentistry – peDiAtric

Tammy Gough Pediatric Dentistry — Page 4201 N. AlmaAllen, TX 75103972-727-0737fax 972-727-5833www.allenkidsdentist.com

New Patients WelcomeInsurance AcceptedSedation Available• Movies • Balloons • Prizes • Video Games

eDucAtion

Collin County Community College District — Page 1300 Rivercrest Blvd.Allen, TX 75002972-377-1060fax 972-727-9423www.collin.edu

Collin College serves more than 46,000 students annually and offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs partnering with business, government, and industry, providing customized training and workforce development.

Primrose School of East Allen — Page 151604 E. Exchange ParkwayAllen, TX 75002214-547-7267fax 214-383-3002www.primroseeastallen.com

Primrose School of West Allen106 Tatum DriveAllen, TX 75013972-359-8805www.primroseschools.com/westallen

electronic engineering consulting

Mustang Technology Group — Page 13400 West Bethany Drive, Suite 110Allen, TX 75013-3714972-747-0707www.mustangtechnology.com

eye cAre

Modern family Vision — Page 2906 W. McDermott DriveAllen, TX 75013972-396-2021fax 972-396-0242modernfamilyvision@sbcglobal.netwww.modernfamilyvision.com

We specialize in vision needs for the entire family age 6 months and up. We not only have optometrists on-site, but we also have opticians and a large assortment of frames. We have an on-site lab for your convenience.

golf course

The Golf Club at McKinney — Page 83191 Medical Center Drive #GMcKinney, TX 75069972-540-6880www.thegolfclubatmckinney.com

The Golf Club at McKinney is a private golf club that offers memberships with inclusive pricing and may be DFW’s best-kept golfing secret. It is a Lyndy Lindsey-designed course that opened for play in 2002.

heAlth cAre

Baylor Medical Center at McKinney — Page Inside front Cover5252 West University Dr.McKinney, TX 75071800-4BAYLORwww.baylorhealth.com

Services at the 95-bed, six-story Baylor Medical Center at McKinney, which opens in summer 2012, will include obstetrics and gynecology; general surgery; cardiovascular care; gastroen-terology, including endoscopy services; orthopaedics; neurology and neurosurgery; internal medicine; an emergency department; and extensive outpatient services.

Healthcare Center of Craig Ranch — Page 138080 State Hwy. 121, Suite 360McKinney, TX 75070214-383-6676fax 214-383-6677www.healthcarecentercraigranch.com

Dr. Reena Daniel is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Now accepting new patients. Most insurances accepted. Located 6 miles west of Medical Center of McKinney in the Craig Ranch area.

hotels/motels/BeD & BreAkfAsts

LaQuinta Inn & Suites — Page 31220 N. Central ExpresswayAllen, TX 75013214-667-6772fax 214-667-6783www.lq.com

• Free Bright Side Breakfast ™ • Free Wireless High-Speed Internet• Outdoor Swimming Pool• Fitness Center • Business Center• Free Local Calls • Free Parking• Meeting Facilities Available• Express Checkout Available• Pets Welcome

insurAnce

State farm – Johnathan Williams — Page 91504 North Greenville Avenue, Suite 130Allen, TX 75002972-912-3000 fax [email protected]

Save up to 40 percent when you combine both your auto and homeowner’s insurance. State Farm’s mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.

office leAsing

Allen Executive Suites — Page 11202 North Allen Drive, Suite EAllen, TX 75013972-396-1377fax 972-396-1565

We lease single/double private executive offices for reasonable prices. On-site management, friendly atmosphere. Full-time receptionist to assist tenants and the public. Color laser printer available.


Allen Chamber of Commerce210 W. mcDermott

Allen, tx 75013

972-727-5585

w w w . a l l e n c h a m b e r . c o m

allen, tx 2010 community profile and resource guide

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