Category: News

Anyone visiting the State Fair of Texas between September 26 and October 19 will be greeted by the familiar voice of Big Tex calling out “Howdy folks!” At The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) there’s someone who knows that greeting better than most…resident John Lyon once brought Big Tex to life!

John’s story began in 1986 when he entered a Big Tex look-alike contest at the fair. “No one really looks like Big Tex,” he likes to say, “but I had the voice.” When he stepped up at the contest and delivered a hearty “Howdy folks,” the crowd erupted and he won the contest.

Afterward, it took him more than an hour to leave the fair grounds because people kept stopping him and asking him to take photos. Not long after he was offered a job as the walking Big Tex. For 12 years John walked the fairgrounds greeting visitors, posing for pictures and chatting with people from all over the country.

He even helped design Big Tex’s larger-than-life cowboy boots for the version of Big Tex that sadly burned in 2012 – he also had a pair made for himself. “The human-size version of those boots cost about $3,000 back then,” he recalls. “And the belt was about $4,000. My own boots were 18 inches tall.”

John’s favorite fair treats at the fair are the classics…corn dogs, fudge and candy apples. “You can’t beat a Fletcher’s corn dog,” he said.

Over the years, John also took on other infamous roles. He says he spent time as the Marlboro Man in the early 90s and later appeared as the Kool Aid Man in the 2000s. “I guess I just like characters,” he jokes.

Now retired, John enjoys sharing stories from his Big Tex days with friends and neighbors at OAW. As this year’s State Fair fills the air with music and the smell of fried favorites, he remains proud of the role he once played in bringing its most famous cowboy figure to life.

When fairgoers hear Big Tex’s booming voice this season, we hope they remember there’s a member of the Forefront Living family who once gave that greeting a personal touch – John Lyon, The Outlook at Windhaven’s own Big Tex.

Photos by: Sarah Macias

by Wendy Van Bemmel

Summer ended on a high note at The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) with a Sunset Luau, which brought together residents for an evening of tropical food and entertainment. Dressed in their favorite Hawaiian prints and festive attire, residents gathered to enjoy island-inspired hors d’oeuvres, frozen piña coladas and traditional Polynesian dancers. OAW neighbors celebrated the end of summer in true aloha spirit. The fun night wrapped up with an exciting Hawaiian fire performance that lit up the courtyard.

The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) residents continue to enjoy the community’s weekly “Line Up and Dance” line dancing class, taught by OAW teammates and dancing queens, Katie and Courtney. The class’s popularity led to a growing resident interest in learning new dance styles. By request, OAW residents are now trying something new during a six-week Ballroom Dance class led by professional dance instructor, Lisa Solomon.

Open to everyone, no matter the skill level, the dance class combines fun and fitness while teaching something new. Residents are learning classic ballroom dances like the waltz, tango and foxtrot, while building balance and coordination. The class also helps boost confidence and provides a fun way to spend time together. About 20 residents attend the weekly class where no dance partner is needed, instead participants just bring their readiness to move!

This class is another example of how OAW residents are enjoying community life and learning new skills at every stage.

By Amee McGough

Teammates from the Forefront Living Foundation (FLF) joined The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) residents for the community’s September 10 happy hour to share details about two upcoming fundraising events benefiting FLF: North Texas Giving Day (NTGD) on September 18, and the Each Moment Matters (EMM) Luncheon at the Hilton Anatole on October 16.

A gift to FLF on NTGD makes the extraordinary possible by providing essential funds for specialized programs, integrated therapies and compassionate care that empowers individuals to thrive. Click here to make a NTGD gift to FLF through September 18.

OAW residents were enthusiastic to learn more about these vital fundraising efforts directly from the FLF team. One couple even purchased a table for EMM and look forward to inviting friends to join them for the occasion. EMM, FLF’s signature fundraising event benefiting Faith Presbyterian Hospice, helps fund compassionate end-of-life care and grief support services for families. Discounted luncheon tickets are available to all residents of Forefront Living communities and sponsorship opportunities are still open. For details on resident pricing, please contact Sarah Jones, FLF Philanthropy Officer, at (214) 355-9584.

For more than 40 years, FLF has supported the mission and vision of the Forefront Living family of organizations, which today includes Faith Presbyterian Hospice, the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center, and three senior living communities: Presbyterian Village North in Dallas, The Outlook at Windhaven in Plano and Bella Vida, currently under construction in San Antonio. Through community support, FLF helps individuals live with dignity and compassion at every stage of life.

On September 11, The Outlook at Windhaven hosted a special luncheon to recognize and thank Plano’s first responders. The event took place on Patriot Day, a National Day of Remembrance for those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Plano firefighters, police officers and other local emergency personnel were invited to join residents and teammates for a meal prepared by OAW’s culinary team as a small gesture of appreciation for the daily work they do. This luncheon is part of OAW’s ongoing quarterly effort to acknowledge the important role first responders play in keeping the community safe.

By Amee McGough

At The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), August was packed with fun-filled events and activities for Independent Living (IL) residents. From socials to engaging events and activities right on campus, there was no shortage of opportunities to connect and wind down the summer season. Here’s a look back at some of the memorable moments that made this month extra special.

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Men’s Group Welcomes Plano Fire-Rescue Chief

Plano Fire-Rescue Chief Chris Biggerstaff joined OAW’s Friday Men’s Group for a visit. Residents had the chance to ask questions, learn about new initiatives and strengthen the connection between the OAW community and the Plano Fire Department.

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Fresh Blooms

Residents got creative with fresh blooms during a hands-on workshop with Fiore x 7 Flower Bar! Guided by a pro, everyone crafted their own beautiful arrangement to take home.

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Mahjong Mavericks

OAW’s Mahjong Mavericks group meets twice a week and welcomes players who know the basics but are still honing their tile skills. Residents enjoy lively games, friendly competition and lots of fun.

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Crafts Corner

Residents got crafty with fabric wreaths and adorable watermelon button art. It was fun way to spend the afternoon and show off their creative handiwork.

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Cheers and Beers

Residents enjoyed raising a glass at the 5th Floor Happy Hour! Weekly happy hours are a wonderful way for residents to unwind and catch up with friends.

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Sweet Scoops

Scoops, smiles and a little sweet indulgence at OAW’s summer ice cream social!

By Amee McGough

August has been a fun and lively month for residents in Assisted Living (AL) and Memory Support (MS) at The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW). From special celebrations to creative activities and time spent together, there’s been no shortage of meaningful moments. Here’s a quick look at some of the highlights.

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Love on a Leash

Love on a Leash® is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing an avenue for volunteer teams to engage in meaningful and productive pet therapy. These pet therapy dogs bring comfort, happiness and healing during their monthly visits to the OAW AL and MS residents.

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Green Thumbs with Eldergrow

Eldergrow, a therapeutic horticulture and nature experience designed especially for senior living, is a weekly favorite activity. MS residents dig in to planting flowers, herbs and veggies in our indoor garden and enjoy seeing what pops up each season.

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Cheers to Crafting

To celebrate National Prosecco Day, these AL residents got creative with a bubbly twist – by painting mini bottles. Cheers to fun crafting!

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Trivia and Treats

It was a fun Monday afternoon featuring trivia, tasty snacks and good company!

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Sunflowers and Smiles

In honor of National Sunflower Day, residents arranged some beautiful bouquets!

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Ladies Who Lunch

These lovely residents enjoyed a ladies lunch outing to Jason’s deli.

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Sweet Scoops

Scoops, smiles and a little sweet indulgence at OAW’s summer ice cream social!

By Amee McGough

In celebration of National Dog Day on August 26, The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) rolled out the red carpet for its furry, four-legged residents. To mark the occasion, the community collected donations for the City of Plano Animal Shelter, gathering food, pet toys, blankets, towels, cleaning supplies and treats for shelter pets still waiting to find their forever homes.

The tail-wagging festivities kicked off with a morning pet parade and walk around the community that ended in The Courtyard where OAW’s Director of Spiritual Life, Shane Barnes, blessed all the beloved pets. Later in the day, the stage was set for a talent and fashion show and ice cream social. Residents and their pups strutted their stuff or performed tricks to delight the audience.

A panel of judges awarded top honors to:
Best Wag: Gus
Best Dressed: Cookie
Crowd Favorite: Peaches

While residents enjoyed refreshing ice cream, the pups were treated to frozen dog-friendly delights as well as homemade treats prepared with love by OAW residents from Assisted Living and Memory Support.

It was a paws-itive day reminding everyone how much joy furry companions bring to our lives and community!

By Amee McGough

Residents at The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) gathered for a White Linen Summer Social, a evening filled with great music and food and neighborly company. Stylishly dressed in crisp white attire, OAW residents enjoyed a gourmet dinner buffet and the smooth sounds of a live jazz band. The music had people on their feet and the dance floor stayed busy.

“White Linen Night is a cherished tradition celebrated in several cities, most famously New Orleans and Houston. Think of it as a sophisticated block party with delicious food, refreshing drinks and the best company,” shared Katie Snezhkova, OAW’s Director of Resident Services.

The evening struck just the right note with residents and teammates, reminding everyone just how special community life at OAW can be.

By Amee McGough

Bea Lorenzen, a beloved resident of The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), turned 107 years-young on August 22! To celebrate this incredible milestone, Bea enjoyed an early birthday party surrounded by her friends and neighbors from Independent Living and Assisted Living, OAW teammates and a few special family members.

The afternoon was filled with lots of joy as Bea was presented with a festive birthday crown and sash, which she proudly wore. The celebration featured cheerful decorations, a champagne toast, a delicious birthday cake, light snacks and live music including a few of Bea’s favorite songs. To make the occasion even more memorable, she was also surprised with a giant stack of heartfelt birthday cards.

Yashica Washington, OAW’s Director of Assisted Living, shared this about the elegant birthday girl, “Bea is living history, walking wisdom and 107 years strong!”

It was a special honor to celebrate this remarkable woman whose life continues to inspire everyone around her.

To cap off the celebration, Bea received a special birthday shout out on Fox 4 News’ Good Day.

By Amee McGough