Fans Celebrate a Sci-Fi Legacy at Whofest 3 by Adam Stephens Come Together and Do Some Good,” Fans of the Long-Running Dr

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By Courtney Ouellette of several career options in vari- It is no secret that Irving is home ous fields like technology, medical, to hundreds of successful business and hospitality. Seminars even ad- owners, civic leaders and entrepre- dressed dressing for success. neurs. The keys to these men and Several powerhouse organiza- women’s success was passed to the tions in Irving participate in the next generation of leaders during Future Leaders of Irving program, the Future Leaders of Irving’s most including the Irving Chamber, city recent sessions that focused on pre- staff, the La Buena Vida Leadership paring the students to choose a ca- Foundation and the Irving Schools reer path. Foundation. Some of the topics included ways At the Future Leaders of Irving to pay for college, such as scholar- class of 2015-2016 graduation cer- ships and military options. In addi- emony on April 20, the students tion, students were offered details See LEADERS Page 2 ‘Best in Irving’ Getting their groove on, Irving's future leaders sing and dance to their class song at the Future Leaders of Irving graduation ceremony. snubs most / Photo by John Starkey Irving businesses North Texas Teen Book By Sarah Bays that. Some find the title ‘Best in Ir- For all their beauty and wonder, ving’ to be misleading. Festival attendees double Rome, London, Paris, Malan share “That obviously isn’t going to give By Trenton Conner ly wholesome and nice, except when During her morning address, one indisputable trait, a timeless the best listing of the best,” Steph- Over 7,000 book lovers united you then have to explain I don’t write Black was honored by Sam Houston jealousy of Irving, Texas. While anie Webb said. “Maybe the ‘Best at the second annual North Texas picture books,” Black said. “Though State University with the Jan Paris bragging is not something we like to of the Chamber,’ but not the ‘Best Teen Book Festival presented at every now and then an interviewer award of achievement in teen liter- do, at times it is unavoidable. of Irving.’ I just looked up the list the Las Colinas Irving Convention asks me, ‘Will you ever write any- ature. Chief among Irving’s stellar as- and most seem more like the best Center on April 23. From all over thing but fantasy?’ The answer, by This event has caught the atten- sets are the businesses that offer of Irving are places that are big box/ North Texas, students and parents the way, is no-never.” tion of several schools around the shopping and services and provide corporation type places versus all alike had the chance to meet some “They reminded me how it em- area with teachers and students hundreds of thousands of people the wonderful small businesses or of their favorite authors and to dis- barrassing it once was to be the kid playing a big role in attracting at- employment every day. Businesses unique, one of a kind places that cover new ones. who liked to make up stories and tendees. including The Ranch at Las Colinas, make Irving awesome.” “It’s kind of crazy but in the best loved magic, and have to justify that “The students are the ones who Sonic, Porter’s Army & Navy Store, Gold’N Carats Jewelers owned by way possible,” said Mary Hinson, to people,” she said. “It was espe- are pushing the books on their Pure Salon and Cavalli Pizza enrich Jim and Lucinda Rogers won the a senior library assistant for Irving cially hard when people around me friends,” Hinson said. “They are the the city, gleaning great reviews from ‘Best in Irving’ award for jeweler in Public Library. “Last year we had thought that I should grow out of it. ones who are helping us promote patrons. 2015. The couple was upset to dis- about 3,500 people. The goal for Obviously I didn’t.” See BOOKS Page 4 Surprisingly, when it does come cover their category had been delet- this year was 7,000.” time to brag about the quality of ed from the 2016 survey. With 75 featured authors, includ- Irving businesses, one place you “When the survey was first post- ing additional authors who helped won’t find these -- and many other ed on the Internet, I observed that moderate panels, students listened -- businesses listed is on the Great- the category for best jeweler was not to influential writers talk about their er Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of listed, and we had won last year,” process, and even worked on their Commerce’s 2016 BEST in Irving Lucinda said. “So I questioned the own writing skills. Awards survey. Chamber office. Their response was Holly Black, author of The Spi- It seems, the names of businesses that the category had been excluded derwick Chronicles, addressed hun- offered on the survey includes only due low participation. dreds of fans in her keynote speech. Chamber members, even though See BEST Page 3 “Writing kids’ books sounds real- the survey mentions nothing about Fans celebrate a sci-fi legacy at WhoFest 3 By Adam Stephens come together and do some good,” Fans of the long-running Dr. Who charity coordinator Beki Brinkmey- franchise gathered at the Westin er said. “It’s created by fans for the DFW Airport Hotel in Irving for the love of the fans. We go out of our third annual WhoFest. For three way to make it the best experience days, starting on April 22, fans met for the fans possible. For instance, with actors from various eras of the at, say, Dallas Comic Con, you nev- show, displayed their own costumes er really have enough time to talk and custom props, and attended to the special guests, but here we panels exploring every facet of the let the fans talk to the guests for a show and its fandom. while.” WhoFest was first held in cel- The special guests include actors ebration of the Doctor Who 50th from multiple eras of the show, Anniversary Special: The Day of including Eve Myles, who played the Doctor, which was produced in Gwen Cooper in the spinoff series 2013. So many fans attended the Torchwood. Script writer Andrew event that the following year saw Cartmel signed copies of his book, the attendance of guests such as Script Doctor — The Inside Story Colin Baker (the 6th Doctor). Un- of Doctor Who 1986-89, which is like other conventions, WhoFest is an account of his work with the se- completely run by volunteers, and a ries. Actors from the “classic” era of great deal of emphasis is put on the Dr. Who included two companions fandom as whole. of the Second Doctor, Frazer Hines “This is a great way for fans to See WHOFEST, Page 5 Page 2 April 30, 2016 www.RamblerNewspapers.com COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Valley Ranch’s EARTHfest Animal Care Campus! Irving Animal Services and docent led tours are offered at 3pm and Community Meeting on the Heritage Park ing plans to expand the Heritage Park area. April 30, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and its partner, DFW Humane Society, are 4pm. Built in 1912, this Recorded Texas May 4, 6 p.m. Council Conference Room at City Hall celebrating National Adopt a Shelter Pet Historic Landmark provides a glimpse of 825 West Irving Blvd. Join us for a day of fun as EARTHfest meets The City is seeking community input regard- Day by waiving adoption fees for all dogs one of Irving’s early families and their home. Cimarron Family Field Day! Enjoy planting, 40 pounds and larger. Visit the IACC, 4140 For more information, visit www.irvingheri- building, and creating at various stations Valley View Lane. tage.com or call 972-252-3838. Group tours surrounding the pavilion. And don’t forget of the Heritage House and Mary’s Playhouse about the face painters! are available by special appointment. Come for the ladybug release and stick Not Too Young to Serve God around for the games. LADYBUG RELEASE April 30, 7:00 p.m. AT 10:30 a.m. in the back field. *FREE Bug “Not Too Young to Serve God” from Styling Cinco de Mayo containers available while supplies last. Diva Productions and presented by the May 1, 7:00 PM Roll out your blanket for a true picnic expe- Irving Black Arts Council, is a stage play See two World Class Mariachi Bands per- rience while listening to the upbeat sounds focused on the events and situations that forming with the Irving Symphony Orchestra of The Boxcar Bandits. Free Hotdogs and young people face at home, at school and at the Irving Convention Center. Pre-Per- Drinks will be provided by the Cimarron in everyday life. Dupree Theater, $10-$15 formance Appearance by Famous Express Recreation Center. Clydesdales Live. Photo-Opportunity & Irving Heritage House Door Prize/Raffle Drawing, 4:30 - 7:00 PM. Take Home a Big Best Friend May 1, 3pm to 5pm Come before the performance to see the April 30, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Clydesdales Team up close. Enter Drawing The Irving Heritage House monthly tours now Free for great Clydesdales gifts & Mexican Want to change the world for a homeless include a tour of Mary’s Playhouse. Located Sombreros. animal? Then adopt a pet from the Irving at 303 South O’Connor. Admission is free City plans to revitalize south Irving with new development By Courtney Ouellette of our city. Planners have a fancy the buying power that comes with Hoping to bring a new type of word called gentrification. Every their pockets, you will then trigger buyer to south Irving’s Heritage Dis- planner that has looked at Heritage the retail that you need in the Heri- trict, a single-family homes develop- District has always concluded that if tage District. This is the beginning of ment broke ground on April 14. The we could get 100 more families with See REVITALIZE, Page 3 20.64-acre tract of land along Dela- ware Creek was previously home to multifamily apartments. The project will be completed in phases led by K. Hovnanian Homes and Hines, a developer with a long- standing history in Irving. Hines’ developments include La Villita, the Lakes of Las Colinas and Riverside Village. Forty homes are planned in phase 1 with an estimated 60 additional homes to follow. “This is a great day for me. It’s kind of like a walk down memo- ry lane,” Councilman John Dan- ish said. “Down the street, here on 6th Street, at the corner of Nursery and 6th, my dad started as a min- ister and he was there for 52 years. When he first came to Irving it was 1,500 people. Today we’re now at 230,000. We’re a city that’s going to produce more jobs than we ever have.” The construction of the new homes will help support the city’s mission to breathe new life into south Irving, according to Danish. “What’s spectacular about this de- While celebrating the official groundbreaking of a new housing development, velopment is that it’s the beginning Councilman John Danish describes the revitalization of the Heritage District. / Photo by of a revitalization of the oldest part Courtney Ouellette Leaders Continued from Page 1 received inspiration for making doctor, why can’t you be a lawyer?’ we have the answers, but we never life-changing decisions from Chuck I knew that was not going to be who really do have the answers. We have Cooperstein. I was.” to be able to learn from others and Cooperstein is best known in the Despite the various pressures grow from others. Dallas area as the voice of the Dal- from an array of sources, Cooper- “Make sure that your mind stays las Mavericks, a position he’s held stein urged the young adults to open enough that something might for the past 11 years. Listeners can find a career that would make them filter in that might make you a better hear him broadcast the Mavs play- happy and to embrace meeting new person or make you produce a bet- by-play action on 103.3 FM ESPN. people. ter product,” Cooperstein said. “The A regular in the Dallas sports scene “Never take for granted the oppor- world does not go nice and smooth. since 1984, he recently moved to Ir- tunity to meet people who might be You just don’t know what’s going to ving. able to help you,” he said. “We think be coming your way.” “It’s really great to be here and see what the future of Irving’s leadership looks like,” Coopertstein said. “I never think of myself as a leader. I think of myself a doer, and I think they probably go hand and hand. If you do and do well, you lead, and people want to follow people who do right. “Part of discovering yourself and hopefully your full potential is to be able to find the aspects of your job that actually do work best for you,” he said. Cooperstein addressed the chal- lenges and realizations students are bound to face at this point in their lives. “There was a time when I was 14, and I realized that I wasn’t going to be 7 feet tall,” Cooperstein said. “I knew I wasn’t going to be able to play golf, because I wasn’t going to spend the time out there on the green. My father, who was a very, very practical man and my mother was the typical ‘why can’t you be a

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The Rambler is Copyrighted 2015 972-870-1992 April 30, 2016 Page 3 Arbor Day Celebration 90th Birthday Celebration John E. Huffman is celebrating his 90th Birthday. He and his wife, Sue Haley Huffman of 67 years, are both lifelong residents of Irving. He shares the wonder of trees began his work career on the family By Trenton Conner farm off Belt Line Road and retired from LTV (Vought) after 37 years. Irving celebrated one of its great- He served in the U.S. Navy during est natural and often unsung re- WWII. John and Sue are long- sources, the tree, during the Irving time members of South MacAr- Arbor Day Celebration hosted at thur Church of Christ (now Christ Heritage Park on April 23. The city’s Church). For those who know parks and recreation department, John, he is a master gardener and water utilities department, and local fix-it man extraordinaire; but most organizations provided demonstra- important, he is a loving husband, tions explaining the importance of father, grandfather, brother, uncle, trees as well as proper tree caretak- and constant friend. ing procedures. “If you plant the tree properly, that eliminates a lot of problems in the future you would have not had to deal with,” said Mike Griffith, Park Superintendent of Irving. The festival celebrated Earth Day week and U.S. Arbor Day. In No- vember, there will be another Arbor Day event where the city directly in- vites local students to join recycling initiatives. “We’ve completed seven years of being Tree City USA,” Griffith said. “To do that you have to have a tree board and spend two dollars per capita for the people who live in Irving. Since our population is 240,000 or something, [the parks department] has to spend like $480,000. We submit that every year in November to apply for Tree City USA, and that shows we are Showing that even adults enjoy climbing a tree, Carlos Fuentes displays climbing safety tree loving people in the Metroplex. and his technique for tree trimming. / Photo by Trenton Conner See TREES, Page 7 Revitalize Continued from Page 2 a momentous step,” he said. nanian Homes, explained that the to the teamwork happening behind The councilman compared the homes will still be a great value de- the scenes. quality and amenities to that of La spite the higher cost. “There’s a lot of other players in- Villita. “We started this about three volved in this,” Opits said. “A lot of it “The homes are going to be built years ago, and it started in the 250s started with some of you sitting out with the latest constructions,” Dan- though it may be a little bit high- there, who attended the meetings ish said. “They’re going to have all er than that though since the costs we had. We had public meetings of the amenities and quality of the have gone up,” Vanderslice said. that were arranged by the City of Ir- homes in a neighborhood up north “We will be in the 200s for a 1,900 ving. You came, you gave us your in- called La Villita. These homes will to 2,500 square foot product. I think put, we listened and we tried to in- rival [La Villita], everything they the views of the Delaware creek are corporate as many of those changes have, will be every bit as comfort- going to be awesome. in to our plan.” able.” “Jimmy Brownlee [DFW Region Opits explained what residents The biggest difference, however, President at K. Hovnanian Homes] can expect as the project breaks will be in price. and I really appreciate being a part ground and construction begins. “The price tag up there is of the team here with the City of “We’ve got a lot of dirt work to do $450,000. For $200,000 less, you Irving. We’ve worked on this for a here,” Opits said. “We’re going to be can come out your front door and long, long time. To see it come to taking four to seven feet of dirt out walk right down to the lake. This this point is very exciting. and putting it back in place and put- lake is what I call the crown jewel of “This will be the third time that ting another three to four feet back the Heritage District. Basically we we’ve built the patio home product on top of it to build the paths and have Centennial Lake, Millennium that we’re going to build here, and everything else, and get the homes Fountain, which is across from the it’s been very successful in the other up where we need them with re- brand new library, and the Irving two communities. We’ve really seen spect to the floodplain. Veterans Memorial Park,” Danish these communities revitalized. We “I would anticipate that you will said. really look forward to doing that,” see the possibility of a model home Initially, the prices for the homes he said. coming up here towards the end of were to be set starting closer to the Danny Opits, Vice President of this year. By this time next year I’m $200,000 range. David Vander- Construction at Hines attributed the hoping you’re seeing some finished slice, Area President for K. Hov- project’s successful establishment homes, and the possibility of some people moving in,” he said. Best Continued from Page 3 “They agreed to reinstate that that a person can be the best over category, but advised me that only and over again. The Chamber has WORSHIP Chamber members would be list- not been fair about the way they do ed on the survey per a super select things.” List your organization here! CHRISTIAN SCIENCE UNITY CHURCH committee vote, and I would be a Wood was happy to be the “Best Call 972-870-1992 First Church of Christ, Scientist Unity of Irving write-in candidate. So I am very, Coffee Shop” until she learned that 2250 W Pioneer Dr., Irving, 75061 Sunday Morning Services: very thankful that my customers the only businesses named on the 972-253-7202 9:30 AM Adult Class UNITED METHODIST wrote us in as Irving’s best jeweler.” survey were Chamber members. www.ChristianScienceIrving.com 11:00 AM Service On the 2016 Chamber survey, She said it seems to her like busi- Oak Haven Sunday & Sunday School 10 am & Children’s Church only a blank box was provided to nesses are “buying their way onto United Methodist Church Wednesday 7:30 pm Reverend Frank Pounders 1600 N. Irving Heights 75061 Reading Room Mon-Sat 10am-1pm voters to list their choice while the survey. That is exactly why I left and Reverend Margaret Pounders 972.438.1431 Dial in to services: 1-857-232-0476 210 Virginia St., Irving, Texas 75061 Chamber members were identified the Chamber. We’re not participat- www.oakhavenumc.org access code 884879 972-253-5083 by name. ing, not until it becomes fair,” she Sunday School 9:45 a.m. For inspiring programs 24/7 call: unitychurchofirving.com The Chamber’s mission state- said. Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m 214-His-Work (214-447-9675) ment declares that its goal it to “cre- A quick internet search shows 10 Ministerio Hispano NISSI ate, advance and promote economic florists within the Irving city limits, Estudio Biblico 1:00 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST growth for our investors and com- but only Kroger and Tom Thumb Servicio Adoracion 2:00 p.m. Belt Line Road munity,” which seems to contradict are listed by name as candidates in First United Methodist Church Church of Christ how the survey is conducted. the “Florist” category on the sur- 211 W. Third, 75060 1202 N. Belt Line Rd., Irving, TX 75061 Joe’s Coffee Shop, a small busi- vey. In other categories, only three 972-253-3531 www.fumcirving.org 1st Century Christianity in the 21st Century ness in South Irving that has been hair salons, two bakeries, and two Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Sunday Bible Classes 9 a.m. a part of Irving for 46 years, was a health/fitness centers were listed. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Chamber member for 25-30 years Each category included an “other” in the Sanctuary Wednesday Worship 7:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. in the Chapel 972-790-8606 but is no longer. choice for write-in candidates. Second and fourth Sundays www.BeltLineChurch.com “I don’t participate in the survey The “Best Pizza” category includ- anymore,” Carol Wood, the owner ed i Fratelli Pizza, Pailio’s Pizza Cafe’ of Joe’s Coffee Shop said. “It’s not and Spin Neapolitan Pizza. Two a good survey. We have been the plumbers were named in their cat- best coffee shop in Irving for many egory, while only three veterinarian years, and we don’t want to be the clinics were listed. best breakfast, the best this, the best Of all the Chambers’ ‘Best in Ir- that. That is just not acceptable.” ving’ winners, only Margie Lou’s A category for “Best Coffee Shop” Sweets, Spring Creek Barbe- is not among the others listed on the que, Magnolia Chiropractic and 2016 survey. O’Connor Animal Hospital were “If you will look at the people who non-Chamber winners that took got the best of last year, it’s the same their categories via write-in votes. people,” Wood said. “There’s no way Page 4 April 30, 2016 www.RamblerNewspapers.com Shaq motivates professionals 2016 City Elections: at leadership seminar Letters to the editor By Matthew Pedersen Funk explained how attendees motivations for doing more with his To the Editor: him in District One. He has been in Express Employment Profession- benefit from the event. life following his NBA career and his Code enforcement was on the the forefront of new development in als hosted Refresh Leadership Live “We hope that they learn some past business experiences. mind of many at the SIPOA forum District One, and in moving forward 2016, a leadership seminar, present- leadership skills,” Funk said. “Our “Ironically, 85 percent of athletes on March 15. One council candi- with improvements Downtown. He ed at the Verizon Theater in Grand company is determined to help our when they’re done playing have date’s response to a citizen having a has pushed to renovate the City’s Prairie on April 6. clients in many of these cities to nothing left, and I didn’t want to be a problem was very forthright by rec- golf course that had fallen into dis- The program offered a number learn how to lead. Many of us have part of that stat,” O’Neal said. “I met ommending he contact his district’s repair and the council is now mov- of speakers who shared their ex- built businesses, but we haven’t Magic Johnson when I was 19 years council person. As I reflected on ing forward on its repair. He has periences with the hundreds in at- been good leaders, and so if they old and we were at an event togeth- this suggestion, a song from the ‘80s strongly supported the Historical tendance and the thousands who learn those leadership skills, we er. They applauded for him; they ap- came to mind. So apologies to Ray Museum and now it has been ap- were watching the event simulcast. know that those companies will be plauded for me. Magic grabs me and Parker, Jr., the man who wrote and proved. John has earned our vote. Among the speakers were Express much better off and will survive for says, ‘It’s okay to be famous, but at scored the theme to “Ghostbusters.” Please vote for John Danish. Elec- Employment Professionals’ found- much longer.” some point you want to start owning “If the grass is tall in your neigh- tion Day is May 7, but early voting er, chairman of the board, and CEO things,’ and in my mind I was like, bor’s yard, takes place until May 3. Robert “Bob” Funk, and former “We have about 10,000 nationally ‘What the hell are you talking about Whadda you call this guy? Code -M/M Gilbert Ornelaz NBA star and doctor of leadership in North America who are attending Magic?’ But then as I got older, I buster! and education, Shaquille O’Neal. this meeting today, this leadership realized that, and I started making To ignore the blight is just too Funk kicked off the seminar as the conference today, with 1,400 local- some tricky investments when I was hard, Elect Anthony Hill first guest speaker, telling the cheer- ly,” he said, young. I invested in Google; I invest- Who you gonna call? City coun- To the Editor: ing crowds the history of Refresh “We’re certainly proud of the fact ed in Facebook.” cil! On May 7th, I will be voting to re- Leadership Live. that your organization, your city, He also shared some advice to I ain’t afraid of no threats, elect Anthony Hill for CISD School “Express created the Refresh and your area are expanding and young entrepreneurs and anyone I ain’t afraid of no threats, Board, Place 3. I first met Antho- Leadership Live event seven years that they believe in entrepreneur- who was looking to start their own If his car’s on blocks and it’s leak- ny Hill about 5 years ago through ago to give back to the business ship. As most Texans are great en- business. ing oil, school events at Austin Elementary. communities in which we do busi- trepreneurs, we’re certainly proud “One thing I would tell them is Whadda you call this guy? Code He is extremely involved on all cam- ness, and to help business leaders of the state and what you’ve done to that you definitely have to educate buster! puses in our district and I continued be the best that they can be,” Funk foment and to enjoy the growth that yourself about finance. You have to If his broken fence, just makes to be inspired by his involvement said. “Being the best takes passion, you’ve had, because you’ve endorsed educate yourself about business, be- you boil, throughout my term as PTO Presi- hard work, and a dedication to life- entrepreneurship,” Funk said. cause it’s not about making money, Who you gonna call? City coun- dent at Austin. As my children be- long learning. “Entrepreneurship is what drives it’s about keeping it. A lot of us make cil! came involved at CMSE and now as “We dream big at Express, but we this country. That’s why we’re so the money, but now we have to in- I ain’t afraid of no threats, one graduates CHS this year, I have know that this is possible because of successful as a country, because of vest and be knowledgeable about in- I ain’t afraid of no threats, been pleased to see Mr. Hill contin- the passion we have for our work, for the medium and small businesses vestments. You just have to be smart Who you gonna call? City coun- ue to be very active and interested in our tireless dedication to education, that want to grow and do a great job and educate yourself,” O’Neal said. cil! all programs at each and every Cop- to training, and our goal to putting in servicing their clients,” he said. Go ahead, pick up the phone, and pell campus. a million people to work annually.” Shaquille O’Neal discussed his call City council!” His passion and his commitment P.S. I am supporting John Dan- to the students and district of Cop- ish, Allan Meagher, and Kyle Taylor. pell is evident in all he does. I have Books I hope you do, too! seen first hand the significance Mr. Continued from Page 1 -Mike Gregory Hill has made in improving our district. When making decisions, he researches and asks the right ques- To the Editor: tions to determine what is the best It is very important to have course of action for our district and strong leadership on the city coun- more importantly, our children. cil. Strong leaders get things done. Please join me in re-electing An- Strong leaders stick to the issues, thony Hill. There is not a better, don’t engage in personal attacks, more informed, passionate candi- and push forward for the benefit date for CISD School Board, Place 3. of the city. John Danish is such a -Kristi Scates, leader and it is important to re-elect Coppell Resident

Better than traditional speed dating, attendees of the book festival receive their tickets to participate in the Speed Date a Book event. / Photo by Trenton Conner the festival through social media, so we can reach our intended audience.” “All the publicity was done by the teachers and librarians on our partner list,” said Carla Morgan, volun- teer coordinator for the event and the Irving Public Library. “Two of the middle schools here Joey in Irving went together for a bus and Look at me!! I’m Joey. I am a Chi- each school brought 25 students. huahua mix. I came to this shelter One librarian was having class- because my owner got a new job and es come into the library. He was doesn’t have time for me. I love to talking about authors that were go- run, play and investigate. The staff and volunteers here spend time with ing to be here, showing the kids the books, then giving them a form and me and we do have fun. I’m easy going and happy to play with them, but saying the first 25 of these I get back it’s time now for me to move on to my forever family and home. I’ve al- get to go. There were kids asking ready been neutered so I am good to go. Come to the shelter soon to visit to use their cell phones to call their me. I am sure we will bond immediately! parents right then to get their parents to come up to the school to sign the permission slip,” she said. Porsche Z Hello, wonderful people! My name is Some school teachers offered Porsche Z. I am about 11 years old. I know, I know. You’re probably students incentives to attend the event, such as grades for listening to wondering, “how did an 11-year-old beauty queen end up at a shelter?” authors talk about their books and Well, I had a great owner. Sadly, my human fell on hard times and be- writing techniques. came homeless. As it turns out, the awesome angels here at DFW Hu- The festival had 250 volunteers mane Society took me in and have been so kind and generous. I am helping to reign in eager visitors and direct them to anticipated panels. grateful for their compassion. I love for people to stop by and pet me and “We have received a tremendous give me some attention. I’m really good with other cats, and I love amount of support from our local humans. As nice as it is here, I long for a loving home where I can North Texas communities, both spend my senior years with love and care and, of course, naps. teachers and librarians from local schools and public libraries, avid book fans who just want to help, and definitely a lot of friends and family from staff members,” Hinson said. 972-870-1992 April 30, 2016 Page 5

(972) 870-1992 Irving Masonic Lodge OBITUARIES [email protected]

DEATH NOTICES Arrangements by Arrangements by presents Lamar Awards Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home 972-254-4242 972-579-1313 By Courtney Ouellette Jones, Lorenzo de Zavala, Antonio contribute $1 million a day to chari- The practices and purpose of the Navarro, William B. Travis and oth- ties. Local education plays a big role Mary “June” Bailey Evelyn Hlavenka Barath Freemasons are generally unknown ers,” he said. in their philanthropic endeavors. June 1, 1929 - apr. 23, 2016 Dec. 28, 1925 – Apr. 24, 2016 to those who are not associated with As is tradition, the Irving ISD “The fraternity has long support- a Masonic Lodge. One practice peo- Board of Trustees names elemen- ed public schools. In the early days, David W. Davis ple can be certain of, however, is the tary schools after local heroes, the most lodges were two story build- Nov. 24, 1933 – Apr. 22, 2016 organization’s dedication to educa- middle schools after Texas heroes ings. The lodge met on the second tion as demonstrated by the Irving and the high schools after national floor and encouraged local churches DONALD WAYNE and extended family. He had lively Masonic Lodge’s Lamar Awards cer- heroes. and schools to meet on the ground LORENZ interests in recording, photography emony. “Ladybird Johnson is our newest floor,” Geisler said. “Many lodges Donald Wayne Lorenz, 93, died and Volkswagens. He loved music “You may wonder why a Masonic middle school, the other seven are started public schools and even paid April 3, 2016 in his home in Irving. and played the guitar. He was pre- Lodge is making these awards to- named after men who are all Ma- teachers’ salaries, and we’re going Donald was born on January 23, ceded in death by his parents, and day,” former master David Geisler sons,” Geisler said. “I’m sure the back into the 1800s here in Texas.” 1923 in Winner, South Dakota, the his brother Wilbur Lorenz; and said. “The Masonic fraternity has board didn’t name them because The awards program takes its son of William Lorenz and Ame- nephews John Lorenz and George existed in Texas since before the they were Masons, but it just turned name from the second president of lia Wagner Lorenz. He graduated Chatham. He is survived by his wife; from Kingfisher High School in revolution in which we won our in- out that the seven that are represent- the republic, Mirabeau B. Lamar, three children: Leslie and husband Oklahoma. In 1943, he joined the Dale Gibson, Marion and husband dependence from Mexico.” ed here tonight were all Masons.” who was also a Freemason. US Navy, serving as a machinist. Roy Wadsworth, and Alex Lorenz; “In fact, the official charter of the “In 1988, the Grand Lodge of He graduated from Southern Meth- grandchildren Celeste Gibson, Ellen first masonic lodge in Texas was Masonry began in Europe by Texas started a program to honor odist University in 1954. In 1956 Wadsworth and husband Robert carried in Anson Jones’ saddlebags craftsmen and architects, and is public school educators and stu- he married Ina Carolyn Morehead McCullough, Charles, John, Paul, as he fought in the battle of San now the oldest and largest fraternity dents and named it the Lamar Med- in Dallas County and they moved Michael and Annie Wadsworth; Jacinto. Many of the Texas heroes in the world, according to Geisler. al,” Geisler said. “Tonight, we are to Irving in 1957. They are mem- nephew Geoffrey Chatham; nieces were Masons: Sam Houston, Anson All of the Masonic Lodges combined See AWARDS, Page 9 bers of St. Marks Church in Irving. Christina Chatham Cross and Car- Donald had a natural aptitude for olyn Bridges Parrish and husband all things mechanical. He retired Doug; and Susan Stahl Crumpton as a mechanical engineer and spec and husband Brent. A memorial MOVIE REVIEWS writer after 40-year career, but service was held at 10 a.m. Mon- never retired from projects, which day, April 11, at St. Mark’s Episcopal included a carpentry and electrical Church in Irving, under the direc- Video game turned movie is a bust at the church as well as for home tion of Rolling Oaks Funeral Home. By Matt Mungle ti, John Goodman, Sylvester Stal- Thirty minutes into the film and you Synopsis: When the galaxy comes lone) they never truly stand out. are ready to check out. The hook CLASSIFIEDS under the threat of a nefarious space Also the main characters, which that grabs you and engages you captain, a mechanic and his new- may come across as memorable on with the story and characters never LEGALS found robot ally join an elite squad a video console, seem flat and unin- happens. As each new personality is of combatants to save the universe. teresting on the silver screen. Ratch- introduced you think this will be the The CITY OF IRVING, Texas will receive sealed responses in the Purchasing Division, 1st floor, Review: Never judge a book by its et (James Arnold Taylor-Voice) is one that gives you some substance. 835 W. Irving Blvd, until the date and time below and will open responses at the same location for the following items: cover or a movie by its poster. Yet a hybrid fox like animal who has But they soon fizzle out. The look of 1. ITB #120M-16F Park Grounds Maintenance Materials there was something about Ratchet a large heart and larger ears. He the animation doesn’t help. Though Due Date: 5/6/16 @ 3:30 p.m. & Clank that just did not bode well longs to join the ranks of his ga- teeming with bright colors and ex- 2. ITB #125M-16F Purchase of Audio-Video Equipment from the beginning. The thin charac- lactic heroes led by the egotisti- pansive graphics it still evokes a vid- Due Date: 5/9/16 @ 3:00 p.m. 3. ITB #128D-16F General Services Work ters and Saturday morning motif of cal Captain Qwark (Jim Ward). eo game/small screen image. In this Due Date: 5/10/16 @ 3:00 p.m. the animation just screamed, “rent When his home planet comes under day and age, that just will not cut it. 4. RFQ #129D-16F Architectural Services me later!” Based on the original attack he gets the chance to save Ratchet & Clank is rated PG for For Irving Museum and Heritage Center PlayStation Video game and after the day while teaming up with a action and some rude humor. It Pre-Submittal Mtg: 5/5/16 @ 10:00 a.m. Due Date: 5/26/16 @ 3:00 p.m. several failed attempts over the last robot he calls Clank (David Kaye). is kid friendly though not very kid Responses must be received in a sealed envelope with solicitation number and due date on the decade to actually make it to produc- Animation movies must reach a entertaining. If you only want a envelope. Late responses cannot be accepted. Information may be found at www.cityofirving.org tion, it finally limps to the big screen. wide audience from the young tots safe environment for your younger click Departments/Purchasing Phone: 972.721.2631 If you read up on the history of the to the adults sitting beside them. family members, then it does deliv- film, it makes sense why this one We are spoiled by the PIXAR er that. The smaller kids will laugh seems so disjointed. Numerous and Disney franchises that know a little more than the rest but not PUBLIC NOTICE big name directors were attached how to write deep, humorous, much. but then walked away. The main well balanced scripts. This film is I give it 1.5 out of 5 ejection seats. THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IRVING, TEXAS, SHALL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING IN A REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 7:00 P.M. ON THURSDAY, characters are voiced by the actors void of laughs and the attempts at Wait a few months and then rent MAY 12, 2016, AT THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL, 825 WEST IRVING who did the video games which is adult aimed jokes and witty ban- it. If your kids have something else BOULEVARD, IRVING, TEXAS, ON THE DESIGNATION OF AN AREA AS A TAX lost on a normal movie audience ter fall way short. Everything feels to do while this plays in the back- ABATEMENT REINVESTMENT ZONE PURSUANT TO AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH who are used to hearing familiar forced and rehearsed, and at no ground, it will make this go further. TEXAS TAX CODE SECTIONS 312.201 THROUGH 312.209, AS AMENDED. The big name stars. And even though time, do you get an organic line proposed tax abatement reinvestment zone, which, if designated, will be known as this one has a few (Paul Giamat- that evokes a natural response. Tax Abatement Reinvestment Zone No. Fifty-Eight (58) is described by metes and bounds description as follows: WhoFest LEGAL DESCRIPTION 36.826 ACRES Continued from Page 1

(Jamie McCrimmon) and Wendy proving them.” show. BEING a tract of out of the John Cox Survey, Abstract No. 219, the Antonio Hernandez Survey, Abstract No. 551 and the Able Moore Survey, Abstract No. 909, in the City of Padbury (Zoe Heriot). A group of younger fans also got “Doctor Who has one of the best Irving, Dallas County, Texas, being part of the 56.052 acre tract of land described in “Being part of this show is just some recognition at the convention. fandoms out there,” Sharla Break- deed to GTE Realty Corporation recorded in Volume 97179, Page 4254 of the Deed amazing,” Padbury said. “Originally, The Lamplighter School’s Dr. Who way said. “We all connect with the Records of Dallas County, Texas and being more particularly described as follows: it was made for children’s television, fan club had a special presentation Doctor on some level. It’s great es- but it appealed to everybody. It’s talking about their club’s project: capist fun. It’s like this sub-cult—it’s BEGINNING at a 5/8” iron rod set with a plastic cap stamped “KHA” in the north right- an absolute phenomenon. When I creating an episode guide of the small, strong, and powerful. Every- of-way line of Hidden Ridge (110’ ROW) for the southeast corner of a 3.8390 acre joined the show in 1968, I couldn’t series. Currently, they have written one has a favorite Doctor and we tract of land described in deed to Dallas Area Rapid Transit recorded in Instrument imagine that I’d still be talking about guides for 95 episodes out of over are all very passionate about specific No. 200900352746 of the Official Public Records of Dallas County, Texas, said iron it in 2016. The doctor’s regenera- 800. episodes, and it’s great that we can rod being the beginning of a curve to the left having a central angle of 4°56’14”, a radius of 644.75 feet, a chord bearing and distance of North 6°51’05” East, 55.54 feet; tion is absolutely brilliant, because Their guide has attracted over 600 all celebrate the show and what it’s it means the show could just go on subscribers. At the end of their pre- created.” THENCE with the easterly and southerly lines of said 3.8390 acre tract, the following and on.” sentation, the kids were surprised The high spirits and fun of courses and distances to wit: “Working on this show was three with the announcement that their WhoFest 3 were marred on April In a northeasterly direction, with said curve to the left, an arc distance of 55.56 feet of the happiest years of my life,” club would be featured as the cover 23 when the event’s co-founder, Ed to a 5/8” iron rod set with a plastic cap stamped “KHA” for corner; Hines said. “Fifty years ago, I’d have story for the Celestial Toyroom, the Dravecky passed away. He was 47 North 4°22’58” East, a distance of 985.94 feet to a 5/8” iron rod set with a plastic never thought that a children’s tele- official magazine of the Doctor Who years old. Also known for co-found- cap stamped “KHA” at the beginning of a tangent curve to the right having a central vision show would take me all over Appreciation Society. ing FenCon, Dravecky was well angle of 58°25’06”, a radius of 640.75 feet, a chord bearing and distance of North the world. In some ways, American Throughout the convention, a known among those who host Dal- 33°35’32” East, 625.37 feet; In a northeasterly direction, with said curve to the right, an arc distance of 653.30 feet fans are more appreciative of meet- charity auction was held to raise las area cons. to an X in concrete found for corner; ing with the cast than British fans. money for Habitat for Humanity. Donations to help the family with North 27°11’54” West, a distance of 10.00 feet to a 1/2” iron rod found at the beginning Americans seem to be very grateful Many of the guests donated auto- the sudden expenses related to his of a non-tangent curve to the right having a central angle of 25°44’35”, a radius of that we would come all this way to graphed paraphernalia and other loss are being accepted at pages. 650.75 feet, a chord bearing and distance of North 75°40’23” East, 289.93 feet; meet with them.” items to the cause. Various fans also giveforward.com/remembrance/ In a northeasterly direction, with said curve to the right, an arc distance of 292.38 feet Fans were also given a chance to sold handmade crafts related to the page-h3qs533/. to a 1/2” iron rod found for corner; showcase their talents, including South 4°22’04” East, a distance of 6.32 feet to a 1/2” iron rod found for corner; the volunteers responsible for orga- North 85°37’48” East, a distance of 212.51 feet to a 5/8” iron rod set with a plastic nizing the event. Master craftsman cap stamped “KHA” for corner; Max Kirkland showed off his phone THENCE leaving the south line of said 3.8390 acre tract, the following courses and controlled, screen accurate (mean- distances to wit: ing the same measurements and South 15°30’59” East, a distance of 952.63 feet to a 5/8” iron rod set with a plastic hardware as the original prop used cap stamped “KHA” at the beginning of a tangent curve to the left having a central in the show) model of the Tardis, the angle of 35°07’47”, a radius of 300.00 feet, a chord bearing and distance of South Doctor’s iconic vehicle. 33°04’52” East, 181.07 feet; Paul Barrett brought a working In a southeasterly direction, with said curve to the left, an arc distance of 183.94 feet model of the Doctor’s robotic dog to a 5/8” iron rod set with a plastic cap stamped “KHA” for corner; companion K-9. The robot incorpo- South 50°38’46” East, a distance of 29.50 feet to a 5/8” iron rod set with a plastic cap stamped “KHA” for corner in the north right-of-way line of said Hidden Ridge rates three different processors, and LEGO gears are used for some of the THENCE with said north right-of-way line, the following courses and distances to wit: parts. The robot is even equipped South 39°21’14” West, a distance of 543.21 feet to a 1/2” iron rod found at the with sonar, which lets it recognize beginning of a tangent curve to the right having a central angle of 60°33’52”, a radius obstacles. Naturally, these models of 595.00 feet, a chord bearing and distance of South 69°38’10” West, 600.07 feet; got a lot of attention from children In a southwesterly direction, with said curve to the right, an arc distance of 628.95 at the convention. feet to a 1/2” iron rod found for corner; “You can’t buy the props they North 80°04’55” West, a distance of 392.01 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING and use in the TV show, so you’ve got to containing 36.826 acres or 1,604,125 square feet of land. make them yourself,” Kirkland said. Donning an outfit the Doctors themselves would approve, fans stop by to get their Bearing system based on the Texas Coordinate System of 1983, North Central Zone “It takes a lot of time, and I really (4202), North American Datum of 1983. love building these things and im- books signed by Andrew Cartmel. / Photo by Adam Stephens Page 6 April 30, 2016 www.RamblerNewspapers.com FUN & GAMES ple who would be willing to gain enough experience in that field 3. Blitzen to be able to debate the matter. 4. 24 hours 5. Seven * Hong Kong has more Rolls Royce cars per capita than any oth- 6. “The Morning After” er city in the world. 7. Marvel 1. GEOGRAPHY: On what continent is the nation of Sierra Leone 8. Notre Dame located? * The main cabin of Air Force One, the airplane in which the 9. Uranus * A proverb of unknown origin states, 2. TELEVISION: Which TV character was known for the saying, “The length of a piece of wood can only be president flies, is 4,000 square feet. That’s more than many people’s “Live long and prosper”? homes. Air Force One has seven bathrooms and 16 TVs. And there too short on one end.” 3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Which of Santa’s reindeer comes first, (c) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc. is enough food aboard to serve 2,000 meals. alphabetically speaking? * Scotsmen and their descendants 4. MEASUREMENTS: What is the time frame indicated in “circadi- make up almost half of the signers of the * There is a popular, bright green melon liqueur, “Midori,” which an rhythm”? Declaration of Independence, and almost is used to make fruity drinks such as melon balls. The name is very 5. MATH: How many sides does a heptagon have? CLUBS three-quarters of American presidents. descriptive -- in Japanese, “midori” means “green.” 6. MUSIC: What was the Oscar-winning theme song of “The Poseidon Adventure”? American Legion Post #218 * Most people know that a human has 46 chromosomes, but 7. COMICS: What company created “Avengers,” “Spider-Man” and * An adult human has 60,000 miles of Heritage Park Building blood vessels. how do we compare to other living things? Not surprisingly, an ant “Hulk”? has only two. A fruit fly has eight. A garden pea has 14. Your pet 8. HIGHER ED: What private university’s main campus is in South 215 Main St. Downtown Irving Bend, Indiana? * There was a scientist once who made it dog has 78. And a garden fern? It has 1,260 chromosomes! 3rd Thursday of each month. 9. ASTRONOMY: What was the first planet to be discovered using Recruiting/Questions call 469-621-7878 his mission to taste as many different kinds the telescope? of meat as he possibly could. In his opinion, * The state with the highest percentage of people who walk to Answers Buttons & Bows Square the worst tasting was mole meat. I won’t ar- work is Alaska. 1. Africa & Round Dance Club gue. There probably aren’t very many peo- (c) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc. 2. Mr. Spock, “Star Trek” 1st & 3rd Saturdays at 8:00 pm Senter Park East 228 Chamberlain Circle I - Square & Round Dance Club 2nd & 4th Fridays at 8pm Senter Park East 228 Chamberlain DFW Scroller Saw Club Last Saturday of each month 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM Georgia Farrow Rec Center 530 Davis St. www.dfwscrollers.net / 214-995-9270 Evening Lions Club 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 7:00pm Community Bible Church 2301 Texas Drive Greater Irving Republicans Meets the first Tues. each month @ Spring Creek BBQ at 7 p.m. Irving Amateur Radio Club Fourth Thursday of the month 7:30 to 9 PM Senter Park East 228 Chamberlain www.irvingarc.org Irving AMBUCS Thursdays @ 11:30 a.m. at Spring Creek BBQ Irving Garden & Arts 2nd Thursday, 10am Irving Garden & Arts Building 906 S. Senter 214.435.9876 Irving Masonic Lodge #1218 Second Tuesday each month @ 7:30 P.M. 132 E. Second St. Irving, TX 75017 [email protected] / 972-253-5600 Irving Noonday Lions PH 972-409-9940 Every Wed. @ Noon Golden Corral, 1701 N. Belt Line Rd. Irving Republican Women’s Club Monday, May 9th, 6:30 pm Texas Center for Proton Therapy 1501 W Royal Lane Irving Retired School Personnel Association First Christian Church 104 W. Grauwyler Rd. Second Thursday every month Irving Rotary Club Thursdays at 12 pm Las Colinas Country Club [email protected] Irving Sunrise Rotary Thursday at 7 am Las Colinas Country Club 4400 N. O”Connor Rd Irving Texas Democratic Women Meet the first Tues. each month 7 p.m. To 8:30 p.m. East Buffet Rest. Irving Women’s Network Las Colinas Country Club Fourth Tuesday of every month 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. Metroplex Glass Club Every 2nd Tuesday At Oak Haven UMC 1600 N. Irving Heights Saturday Singles Lunch Bunch 1st & 3rd Saturdays 469-348-5023 Sticks and Strings Community Knitting Group First and third Tuesdays 2:00-4:00 pm S. Irving Library, 2nd floor boardroom Beginners and Crocheters welcome www.sticksandstrings.org TOPS TX #58, Irving Thursday at 9:30 a.m. Chateau on Wildbriar Lake 1515 Hard Rock Road VFW Post 2494 IRVING Post Meeting – 1st Thursday at 7pm Ladies’ Auxiliary -1st & 3rd Wed at 7pm Men’s Auxiliary – 4th Wed at 7pm Junior Girls – 2nd Sun at 12:30pm 3375 Belt Line Rd Widowed Persons Service Every Saturday @ 8:30 a.m. at Wonderful World of Cooking Karen – 972-986-4056

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(972) 870-1992 OPINIONS [email protected]

EDITORIAL

My email is filled with messages awakens the gentle sleepers of our more than a dog and pony (or chick- issue worthy of their time. roads, muddy ditches and watch- reminding me that May 4 is Inter- kind abode from their restful slum- en and rooster) show meant to dis- After years of hollow promises ing their children play in the streets national Respect for Chickens Day, bers, then I suggest an ordinance tract voters from the real problems by the city council and pretty ren- with chickens. There is nothing the which seems oddly appropriate as so banning construction. How annoy- in south Irving and to absolve the derings paid for by taxpayers, Fire council can do to help.’ many Irvingites seem caught up in a ing is it to be awakened bright and members of the city council from Station Number One remains a tiny, I like chickens. I like roosters. I political ‘chicken dance.’ early on a Saturday morning by a not acting to solve them. undermanned and underequipped like eggs. Most of all I like the people Certain members of the city coun- crew repairing your neighbor’s roof? South Irving roads are in need of fire station in the heart of Irving. who choose to keep chickens as pets, cil sparked this time honored jitter While few of us have memories of repair. Much of the sewage system is Meanwhile, Irving tax money pays because they are interesting. bug by squawking about dirty birds having been awakened by roosters, antiquated and inadequate. In many for the state of the art Fire Station I don’t like being manipulated and crowing roosters. I feel obligat- we’ve all been rudely awakened by places, open ditches rather than Number 12 to be built, which will while watching a group of good peo- ed to point out that as long as Ir- hammers. closed drains are used to mitigate serve Coppell’s residents as well as ple run through the wringer for pet- ving, Texas is in the migratory path Chickens have been here since water overflow from rains. Some Irving’s. ty political agendas. of grackles, starlings, sparrows and before Irving was established. The neighborhoods have no sidewalks I don’t want to see my Coppell If the city council wants to im- Canadian geese, there will be bird truth is no one, besides the own- at all, meaning that children and neighbors suffer because of a lack prove south Irving, they could pass droppings in our fair city with or ers, cares about chickens. The ordi- adults are forced to walk, ride bicy- of fire equipment. However, on the an ordinance that stipulates that without the presence of pet chick- nance, the public meetings and all cles and play in the streets. These flip side, I would really like to see 50 percent of all economic develop- ens. this hen pecking is a bunch of chick- are a few of the real problems the the new Fire Station Number One ment monies (a.k.a. your tax mon- If the members of the city council en poop. city council should address long be- the city council has been promising ey) spent in the city must be spent are truly opposed to anything that This contrived debate is little fore they consider chickens to be an Irving residents since Herb Gears in south Irving. Therefore, if $400 was mayor. million is spent on economic devel- Fire stations vs. chickens: as a opment in the Urban Center, $200 topic of importance, I think fire sta- million would be required to be tions wins. spent on economic development in Irving ISD’s staff named While Mayor Van Duyne claims south Irving. not to “have a c*ck in this fight,” I The council could go further and guarantee you she has a red her- require that at least half the eco- ring in the scuffle. The longer she nomic development money going TALAE “Teachers of the Year” can keep people fighting over things to south Irving must be dedicated to Irving ISD Adult Education and that don’t matter, the longer she can small businesses. Nationwide, small Literacy instructors Sandra Lane postpone putting in the hard work businesses hire more people than and Gregory McCarthy have been to fix problems that do matter to large businesses. named Teachers of the Year by the people’s lives. There are a lot of things the city 2016 TALAE (Texas Association If the chicken ordinance is voted council could do to help improve for Literacy and Adult Education)/ down, council members can always south Irving picking on people who COABE (Commission of Adult Ba- say, ‘We try to help south Irving, raise chickens is not one. sic Education). They received the but those folks are so backwards, Stacey Starkey, honors at a joint conference of the so stuck in their ways, they like liv- Editor two associations held earlier this ing the way they do. They like bad month. Each received $2,000 from The Dollar General Literacy Foun- dation. Trees Irving ISD’s Adult Education and Continued from Page 3 Literacy Instructors, Sandra Lane and Gregory McCarthy, are joined Trees are important.” “If a tree is pruned correctly, it by program director, Delia Wately Tree City USA is a nationwide likely will not need to be pruned (center) to accept TALAE’s “Teach- movement that provides the frame- again until it’s old and has dead ers of the Year” award. Celebrating a job well done, IISD Instructors Sandra Lane and Gregory McCarthy show work necessary for communities limbs,” said Sara Beckelman, Dal- SOURCE Irving ISD off their awards with program director Delia Wately (center). /Courtesy photo to manage and expand their public las citizen forester and member of trees, according to the Arbor Day the tree board. “You should never Foundation. The Tree City USA en- trim more than 20-25 percent of the terprise has been around since 1976, leaves’ surface.” Receive shade trees by joining and has over 3,400 active members. Residents of Irving attended During the event, families en- throughout the day, coming and go- joyed tree climbing lessons from the ing on their busy Saturday to join in forestry crew, learned about snakes the festivities. The free saplings were the Arbor Day Foundation and various reptiles, and entered a quickly given out, and people en- drawing to win tree saplings. joyed the benefits of walking around National Arbor Day is Friday, The free trees are part of the with enclosed planting instructions “It’s a workout,” Said Pedro Jau- Main Street and seeing not only tree April 29, and the Arbor Day Foun- Foundation’s Trees for America at the right time for planting in April regui, a city employee who showed specialists, but local businesses. dation is making it easy for anyone campaign. or May. The 6- to 12-inch trees are residents proper tree climbing and Taking advantage of a free event to celebrate the annual tree-plant- “These trees provide shade in the guaranteed to grow or they will be limb removal. “But after ten times, that will get kids off the couch and ing holiday. Join the Foundation in summer and vibrant colors through- replaced free of charge. it’s easy. outside of the house, Irving mom April and receive 10 free shade trees. out the fall,” said Matt Harris, chief To become a member of the Foun- “We’ll teach them how to do the Diana Piccolo brought her family to By joining the Foundation in executive of the Arbor Day Foun- dation and receive the free trees, knots, and a bunch of techniques the event. April, new members receive the dation. “Through the simple act of send a $10 contribution to TEN to go up. But we’ll be beside them, “We saw the city of Irving’s an- following trees: red oak, sugar ma- planting trees, one person can make FREE SHADE TREES, Arbor Day seeing everything that happens,” he nouncement, and I brought the boys ple, weeping willow, baldcypress, a difference in helping to create a Foundation, 100 Arbor Avenue, Ne- said. out to go tree climbing and to get thornless honeylocust, pin oak, riv- healthier and more beautiful planet braska City, NE 68410, by April 30, In addition to tree recreation safe- some trees,” she said. “We were reer birch, tuliptree, silver maple, and for all of us to enjoy.” 2016, or visit arborday.org/april. ty practices, the tree board offered ally excited about it.” red maple. The trees will be shipped postpaid SOURCE Arbor Day Foundation advice on caring for trees. Page 8 April 30, 2016 www.RamblerNewspapers.com Clodecott Awards recognize students’ original kids' stories By Jess Paniszczyn Maddie Pelletier. deny that it is absolutely young ly speak to them in those books. The “Students learn in the Children’s Snails, fairies, mice lost in the “This is the first time in years and adult literature,” she said. language of children is special. They Literature class key elements of snow, family trips to Rome, and fly- years that I have felt the need to Barbara Khirallah, a University have to speak that language in order good children’s literature, and then ing through the solar system were a have two Clodecott Awards,” Clod- of Dallas Department of Education to engage them in the books. The they spend a lot of time trying to few of the topics explored through felter said. “[Matty’s Accidental Ad- faculty member, has taught the students work really hard. See STORIES, Page 9 original stories written by students venture] is young adult literature, Children and Young Adult Litera- in the University of Dallas’ Children which means [Quinlan] doesn’t ture class in the past and has ad- and Young Adult Literature class. have to have a picture on every page. vised students endeavoring to write Works composed for the spring and The story is not told through the pic- their books. Irving Heritage Society fall 2015 semesters competed for tures. “I am always stunned by the tal- the coveted 2016 Clodecott Awards, “In Little Mouse, everything that ent of the young people who go to which were presented April 14. is said in the text is shown in the pic- this University, because this is an hosts 12th annual fish fry “It was very, very hard judging tures. That is why Little Mouse is for amazing accomplishment in terms this year,” Education Department the younger child. of not only the story itself, which Professor Emeritus Cherie Clod- “[Matty’s Accidental Adventure] is so meaningful, but the literary felter, Ph.D. said. “There was only is for the older child but could eas- craft,” Khirallah said. one book you could consider a fail- ily be read to the younger child by “Through this class, students ure, and it was pretty bad.” someone. I couldn’t find a thing have discovered the challenge of the After months of suspense, Lisa wrong with Little Mouse. It was whole publication process, but more Saman won the Clodecott Award for perfect. Then I got to Mary Grace’s importantly how important it is to her children’s book, Little Mouse, book, and I thought you cannot know children in order to adequate- which was illustrated by her brother, Jonas Saman. In a surprise turn Call today about advertising of events, Mary Grace Quinlan also won the Clodecott Award for her in the Rambler! young adult literature book, Matty’s Accidental Adventure, illustrated by 972-870-1992 University of Dallas I&TM The Irving Heritage Society hosts its12th Annual Fish Fry and Cake Auction on Friday, April 15 at Heritage Park. Guests enjoy the fish and fresh spring air, while also helping program named ‘Best Value’ to raise funds for the Irving Heritage Society. / Courtesy photo Value Colleges has announced its sionals have found it necessary to go list of the nation’s best value online back to school for further credential- project management graduate pro- ing to set themselves apart on the job grams and the University of Dallas’ market or to qualify for promotion.” Master of Science in Information and The “Top 50 Best Value Online Technology Management program Project Management Graduate Pro- is on that list. The program’s num- grams of 2016” ranking is based ber 19 ranking places it among other on the U.S. News & World Report leading schools such as Northwest- Ranking, Payscale’s 2015-16 Salary ern University, Penn State Univer- Report and tuition costs for each sity and the University of Maryland. university. Bonus points were also “We’re extremely proud of our given to institutions with GAC Ac- practice-based Master of Science creditation (Project Management in Information and Technology Institute). The Best Value ranking Management as it allows our stu- considers only regionally accredited dents to learn relevant topics in universities and colleges and ranks class today, then practice them at them accordingly. work tomorrow,” Interim Dean For more information, visit www. Brett Landry of the Satish & Yas- valuecolleges.com/. www.gloryhousecatering.com min Gupta College of Business SOURCE University of Dallas said. “This recognition affirms what we have known all along: that our graduate business programs are among the nation’s best for working professionals. Students learn these topics in class today and can practice them tomorrow at work.” The STEM-designated 30-credit-hour program offered by the Satish & Yasmin Gupta College of Business was designed for IT professionals pursuing leadership positions. It equips students with an intensive education in enter- prise architecture, strategy and governance, project management, business analytics, ethics and sustainability that well prepares graduates for careers as project managers, information systems managers, systems software managers and chief information officer. Project management, one of the world’s fastest-growing profes- sions, is expected to increase nationally by nearly a million jobs from 2012 to 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Capable project managers are needed everywhere because experi- enced managers [are] aging, retiring or stepping back from their careers,” Value Colleges Editor Carrie Sea- ley-Morris said. “Working profes- 972-870-1992 April 30, 2016 Page 9 Stories Continued from Page 8 integrate those elements into the “Ninety percent of the books that also have a section of books that Something’s Missing, by Made- Illustrated by the author and Emily book. are in the children’s library were were written in another language line Oi. Johnson. “Probably more important is the sent to Dr. Clodfelter by reviewers, and then translated into English. The Snail Story, by Martin Cro- Mayhap We’ll Meet the Good inspiration of the books. These are so she would review those books We have young adult literature. nin, illustrated by Elena Naccari. People, by Mara Borer, illustrated kids who have something to say and have a voice in the quality of We have a separate section of FYI, The Word Troll, by Teresa Roach. by the author and Eva Kuehler. and often it’s about their families. children’s literature that was being which are information books. It is life-giving to find what is in the published that year,” Khirallah said. “There is an entire wall of books heart of my students. It’s one of the “The library has almost 20,000 that were written in the child and few places in our curriculum where volumes. It has been growing since young adult literature course. And a student gets to take something of Dr. Clodfelter came in 1970. In that we have a special place for all the call himself or herself and put in a form library, not only are there rows winners. It is wonderful. that expresses all the commitment and rows of picture books and easy “More than anything, she is my they have toward the future of the readers, there is also a special sec- hero and education, so just don’t world by reaching out to engage tion dedicated to her mother, Bea ever cross her,” she said. children,” she said. Clodfelter, who was a first grade Authors honored as Clodecott Dr. Clodfelter taught at UD for 37 teacher for over 60 years. The Bea Honor Award Winners are as fol- years. During that time, she profes- Clodfelter Collection is a collection lows: sionally reviewed children’s books of books that were part of her moth- A Christmas Home in Rome, by and established the Education De- er’s library in her classroom for all of Christina Norton, illustrated by the partment’s Cherie A. Clodfelter those years. author, Kimberly Zamora, and An- Children’s Literature Library. “We have a bilingual section. We gelica Hayes. Awards Continued from Page 5 pleased to honor two educators and during the day to keep them alert being able to do something like this eight students of our Irving public and interested and refers to this as is really one of the highlights of the schools with this Lamar Award.” ‘desks on wheels.’” year, because we have tons of good Jimmy Walters gave out the Lively Elementary School Prin- kids in Irving ISD and tonight we’re awards and told guests about each of cipal Sean Flynn sang Johnson’s celebrating the cream of the crop. the recipients, including Elementary praises, describing her as a school “Violet is no shrinking violet. She Teacher of the Year, Jared Johnson. leader and passionate educator. is a confident leader who inspires “[Johnson] grew up in Irving and The second Lamar Medal for ed- her peers to be their best. Her kind attended Nimitz high school, in ucators recipient was Tracy Wal- creative spirit produces thought which she was part of the first grad- ters, a teacher from Bowie Middle provoking and detailed projects. uating class,” Walters said. “She at- School. In addition to teaching ESL She is the type of student a teacher tended Abilene Christian University to grades four through eight, Wal- dreams of having in her class. on a full scholarship where she grad- ters has served as the new teacher “Her amazing character makes uated in 1976. She has a full teaching mentor, a cheerleader sponsor, a her the perfect representative for certificate for grades one through summer school teacher, and a de- Travis Middle School. She brings eight.” veloper of co-teaching models and light, laughter and liveliness to ev- Johnson now teaches fourth AVID programs. eryone’s day and her spirit is conta- grade students at Lively Elementary The student awards winners are gious. She is committed to her en- School after starting her career with called the “Good Kids” recipients. deavors and walks through the door speech and language pathology. She One of the recipients was Tra- ready to go above and beyond every teaches all subjects to fourth grad- vis Middle School student Violet single day. When I grow up, I want ers, from special needs students to Brentham, who was introduced to be Violet Brentham,” she said. the gifted and talented. and praised by Principal Laurie Gil- The seven other exceptional mid- “Her approach is to teach out- crease. dle school students who received side of the box, and she’s open to “As a principal and getting to work the Lamar Award were as follows: new ideas in teaching,” Walters with kids every single day, there’s Jaryn Townery, Sierra Ragan, Sarah said. “She teaches the same group a lot of highlights in the day,” Gil- Andrews, Jereni Lambert, Daysha of children all day long. She rotates crease said. “Some days are a little Durley, Josie Satiesteban, and Mi- and keeps them moving in the room bit long, other days are shorter, but chael Garza. Page 10 April 30, 2016 www.RamblerNewspapers.com ExxonMobil and employees contribute more than $10 million to Texas colleges and universities IRVING, Texas -- ExxonMobil and universities are encouraged to to American institutions of higher Matching Gift Program. women and minorities, to consider and its employees contributed $10.2 designate a portion to math and sci- learning. In addition to the Educational and pursue careers in science, tech- million to higher education insti- ence programs supporting student “Quality education is the foun- Matching Gift Program, ExxonMo- nology, engineering and math, as tutions across Texas as part of the engagement. dation for individual opportunity bil and the ExxonMobil Foundation well as teacher training initiatives. ExxonMobil Foundation’s 2015 Ed- The program matches donor and economic prosperity,” said Ben support and develop programs that SOURCE the ExxonMobil Foundation ucational Matching Gift Program. pledges on a 3:1 ratio up to $7,500 Soraci, president of the ExxonMobil encourage students, particularly In 2015, ExxonMobil employees, to qualified colleges and universi- Foundation. “We have a long history retirees, directors and surviving ties in the United States, along with of supporting education excellence spouses contributed $2.8 million the American Indian College Fund, in the country. It’s a shared priori- Irving, Singley FCCLA to 83 Texas colleges and universi- Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the ty, year after year, with ExxonMobil ties, which was matched with $7.4 United Negro College Fund. Since employees.” million unrestricted grants from the the Educational Matching Gift Pro- Nationwide, more than 850 in- ExxonMobil Foundation. Although gram began in 1962, more than stitutions received $45.4 million advance to nationals grants are unrestricted, colleges $600 million has been contributed through the 2015 Educational Eight FCCLA teams from Irving er, and Jennifer Rocha (2nd at state) ISD clinched bids to Nationals with Singley Academy top-two finishes at the State Confer- Applied Math for Culinary Man- Grant provides much-needed ence in Corpus Christi earlier this agement – Abelardo Villegas, Steph- month. Nationals will be held in San anie Guerrero, Juan Altamirano (1st Diego in July. The national-qualify- at state) ing teams are listed below by school, Hospitality, Tourism, and Recre- boost to Texas homeowners category, team members and plac- ation – Hope Cachay, Eileen Rome- ing at state: ro Victoria Martinez (1st at state) Irving High School Life Event Planning – Emily Al- Applied Math in Culinary Man- varado, Adrianna Kalakone, Suaha- in danger of foreclosure agement Senior – (2nd at state) na Ganchi (2nd at state) Applied Math in Culinary Man- Nutrition and Wellness – Jeremi- Springboard Nonprofit Consumer “Foreclosure prevention coun- higher than the national rate of 1 in agement Occupational – (2nd at ah Turner (2nd at state) Credit Management, Inc. (“Spring- seling is a lifeline for homeowners 1,353. In Dallas there were 1,686 state) Food Innovations – Jocelin Gar- board”) recently announced that who are experiencing any level of properties in some stage of foreclo- MacArthur High School cia, Celeste Pozo, Janie Lopez (2nd help is available for struggling difficulty in making their mortgage sure as of March 28th; in Houston, Hospitality, Tourism & Recre- at state). homeowners in Texas at no cost payments” said Melinda Opperman, that number was 2,090; and in San ation - Maria Limon, Mikayla Join- SOURCE Irving ISD thanks to grant funding from the Springboard’s Chief Relationship Antonio, 2,398. National Foreclosure Mitigation Officer. “Whether families are about While national headlines move Counseling (“NFMC”) Program. to miss a mortgage payment or are away from the devastating fallout of Because 2016 marks the final year already far behind, Springboard’s the housing crisis, it is crucial that for the federally-funded Making counseling delivers support, direct struggling homeowners are made Home Affordable (“MHA”) pro- access to available resources, and aware of the resources and programs, this opportunity addresses tangible help to relieve mortgage grams that are still available. Early an urgent need to connect home- and other related financial strug- intervention is key to successfully owners with these valuable relief gles.” preventing foreclosures, and the programs before time runs out. To Although much has been writ- sooner a homeowner reaches out – be considered for assistance through ten about a rebound in the housing even before missing a payment – the MHA, a complete initial package market, the fact is, not all commu- more likely it is that a counselor will must be submitted on or before De- nities and homeowners are bounc- be able to help. cember 30, 2016. ing back at the same pace. Research Borrowers who need help saving Since the housing crisis of 2007, shows there are still pockets of ex- their home from foreclosure are Springboard, a U.S. Department of traordinary need across the coun- encouraged to contact Springboard Housing and Urban Development try, and Texas continues to be one by calling (877) 752-6722 or find a approved housing counseling agen- of the most affected states. Accord- certified housing counselor online cy and annual recipient of NFMC ing to RealtyTrac, Terrell County is by visiting http://www.homeown- funding, has provided an invaluable struggling the most with 1 in every ership.org. Singley FCCLA students Abelardo Villegas (left) and Stephanie Guerrero, (right) along free service to well over 250,000 797 homes receiving a foreclosure SOURCE Springboard with Juan Altamirano (not pictured) won first at state and a bid to FCCLA Nationals in homeowners and their families. filing last month. That is 41 percent Applied Math for Culinary Management. / Courtesy photo

y. / Courtesy photo