for

RamblerNewspapers.com March 28, 2015 50¢ South Irving Library opens to eager crowds

By Jess Paniszczyn features,” said Casey Tate, Irving’s and darker tint to reflect more and feature. will darken. It is a very energy-effi- Families of every description cel- Capital Improvement Programs more of the sun’s rays. When you “I believe this is one of the first li- cient way to keep the heat gain from ebrated the grand opening of the Director. “The heating and cool- are inside you’re not getting much braries in the U.S. to have this glass. growing in the building,” he said. long-anticipated South Irving Li- ing is through geothermal system. light through the window to heat up It is self actuating, so it controls it- As people walk through the build- brary on March 21. There are 180 wells drilled 300 feet the interior of the library, but it pro- self. As the clouds roll in, the glass ing, they find several features they Located at 601 Schulze, the li- deep on the property underneath vides enough light so that it’s nice to will lighten. When the sun peeks out enjoy. brary offers stunning views of Mil- the parking lots. Over 20 miles of see out the windows. It is a real nice from around the clouds, the glass See LIBRARY, Page 8 lennium Fountain, Centennial Park piping circulates the water into the and Veterans Memorial Park. The ground, and the heat exchange of new $9.7 million facility provides the soil provides both heating and an early childhood center, enclosed cooling for the HVAC ventilation teen area, genealogy area, business in the building. It saves anywhere center, computer lab, quiet reading from 25 to 40 percent each year on rooms and meeting spaces. Built to our heating and cooling costs for the be energy efficient, the city antici- building. pates the building receiving a Silver “The glass on the southeast and LEED Certification. west sides is an auto-tinting, re- “The new South Library has flective glass. The brighter the sun some really nice energy efficiency strikes the glass it develops a darker Beer lovers celebrate Bluebonnet Brew-Off by Madelyn Knecht Dobson said. “It’s not just a home Beer connoisseurs from around brew competition, but it’s a beer the nation converged on the Irving festival as well. We sample all the Convention Center for the annual wonderful craft beers that we can Bluebonnet Brew-Off. The event round up around the state of Texas featured an amateur beer brewing and around the country.” judging and pub-crawls. One of the participants and offi- Playing in the South Irving Library’s Discovery Zone early childhood center, Veronica Gonzalez, Gloria Alaguna Participants could taste home- See BEER, Page 2 and Guillermo Garcia explore a unique table with objects inset in the top. /Photo by John Starkey made brews and craft beers as well as smoke cigars during the March 20-21 event. Winners of the brew- ing competition took home coveted Church dedicates flagpole to Lindsey Lear Bluebonnet Steins. A hand painted stein is awarded to the first place By Madelyn Knecht car crash at the age of 20. Lear. “It was standing room only— When asked what this dedication winner of each Bluebonnet Brew- The congregation of Hope Fellow- Lindsey graduated in 2007 from people were even standing outside.” to Lindsey meant to him, her fa- Off category. ship Church marked the church’s Irving High School and had been at- Attending the March 21 dedica- ther’s eyes filled with tears. Coordinating the event this year relocation with a new flagpole and tending the University of North Tex- tion ceremony were many friends “Everything,” Lear said. “She was Richard Dobson, who has been plaque dedicated to Lindsey Lear, a as at the time of her death in 2010. and family of Lindsey Lear, includ- never met a stranger. She could apart of the Brew-Off for 20 years young woman from the Irving com- “Her funeral was the biggest thing ing Pastor Dennis King, and several walk into a room of a hundred peo- and has actively served on the plan- munity who died five years ago in a I’d ever seen,” said her mother, Lori members of AMBUCS, who donated ple and thirty minutes later, every- ning committee for the past 15 years. the plaque in Lindsey’s honor. one would know her.” “The Bluebonnet Brew-Off hap- “It’s my prayer that every time Lindsey’s mother and father were pens to be the biggest amateur we pass by this location and see this grateful for the flag dedication. brew-off in the United States,” Dob- flagpole that we not only remember “It [the dedication] means that son said. “This is our 29th year, so it’s the lives that were lost serving this she’s still not forgotten after five been around this neighborhood for country but also remember the life years,” Ms. Lear said. “It will give a long time.” of Lindsey Lear,” Pastor King said. me something to drive by and think The event started as a friendly ri- Lindsey’s parents Patrick and Lori of her and remember her.” valry between Dallas home brewers Lear raised both the United States Hope Fellowship Church recent- and Fort Worth home brewers. and Christian flag. Those assembled ly moved to 1646 W Irving Blvd. in “We intend to grow this event,” recited the Pledge of Allegiance and Irving. sang the Star Spangled Banner.

In memory of Lindsey, the United States and Christian flags are raised for the first time on a flag pole dedicated by the Hope Fellowship Church to the memory of a beautiful, young lady. /Photo by Madelyn Knecht Column Awards shake boring to its foundations By Windy Lopez during the event at Patty Granville Texas earthquakes are nothing Performing Arts Center in Garland compared to the 16th annual Col- on March 22. umn Awards, Forbidden Columns. The lavish event honored the The musical numbers brought best directors, actors/actresses, down the house as some of the most stage hands, costume designers talented people working in theater and others. With everyone attend- today collaborated to bring the best ing dressed in ball gowns and three of the best together for one night. piece suits, the atmosphere was Casts whose performances were nothing short of stellar. It began selected from around the Metroplex with flashing lights, flamboyant pi- for competition in the best musical zazz, and a number to “Sit Down, category offered audiences a sam- You’re Rocking the Boat.” Imme- ple of the excitement of their work See COLUMN AWARDS, Page 3 Page 2 March 28, 2015 www.RamblerNewspapers.com COMMUNITY CALENDAR

“Keys to Success” College, located at 3030 N. Dallas Ave. in New in 2015, this egg hunt is located at the Dances with Dvorák Time-of-Day Water Restrictions March 28, 8 a.m. to noon Lancaster. Admission and breakfast are Irving Soccer Complex 3585 World Cup March 29, 3:30 p.m. April 1 – Oct. 31, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. free. Participants can pre-register at http:// Way Irving, TX 75038 and includes bounce A free program – the Las Llaves del Exito The New Philharmonic Orchestra of Irving, As part of the city’s Water Conservation Plan, llavesleadershipsymposium.eventbrite. houses, face painting, photo opportunities (or Keys to Success) Leadership and Career Sergio Espinosa, conductor, continues its Irving residents are reminded that time-of- com and complete a Llaves Passport for a with the Easter Bunny, music, food and more. Symposium – presented by the Dallas Coun- Sundays at the Symphony series at the day water restrictions will go into effect April chance to win a $500 DCCCD scholarship Free admission. Free parking. ty Community College District and the Dallas Irving Arts Center, with “Dances with Dvorák!” 1 to ensure conservation of Irving’s water and other prizes. Independent School District, is designed Assistant conductor and first trumpet player supply. Watering will be prohibited from For more information in English, call (214) specifically for college freshmen, 11th- and Pet Pawlooza Thomas Connely will lead the orchestra in through Oct. 31. Time-of-day restrictions are 378-1738; in Spanish, call (214) 378-1713; 12th-graders, and parents so that they can two of Dvorak’s famous “Slavonic Danc- activated every year regardless of drought and online, visit dcccd.edu/KeysToSuccess. March 28, 10 am - 2 pm explore higher education together and learn Pet Pawlooza at the Irving Animal Care es,”--numbers one and three--followed by conditions as part of the city’s Water Con- about careers, goals and skills that will help Campus will have food, live musical enter- the composer’s “Serenade for Winds in D servation Plan. them plan for the future. Citywide Egg Hunt - North tainment, pet games, pet adoptions, and so Minor,” offered by NPOI’s woodwinds, horns, The program will be held at Cedar Valley March 28, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. much more. The Irving Animal Care Campus a cello and a bass. Meals on Wheels Training is celebrating its 5th anniversary. As a special This March 29 concert is associated with the April 2, 10:30 a.m. to noon promotion, all pet adoptions are only $5. orchestra’s “First Tickets” program, designed to recognize IISD middle school students, VNA Meals on Wheels is hosting a training session at the VNA Haggerty Center located Eggs and Jam the city’s newest orchestra players. This year, students from Lamar and de Zavala at 1440 W. Mockingbird Lane in Dallas. For March 28, 7 – 11 p.m. schools are participating. They are attending every day a volunteer delivers a route, VNA Middle and high school students are invited in-school workshops, and learning about Meals on Wheels saves enough money to an evening of indoor swimming and an un- the instruments of an orchestra and how to feed another hungry senior for a week. derwater egg hunt at this holiday Teen Jam. it rehearses. On March 24, they will see Delivering a route usually takes about an Special prizes will include candy and tickets and hear an NPOI working rehearsal, meet hour and a half, and volunteers may deliver to local attractions including Six Flags. Listen conductor and players, sit onstage with the as often as they wish, be it weekly, monthly or to music and enjoy complimentary pizza and musicians, and ask questions. however best fits their schedule. Volunteers soda on the pool deck at the Heritage Aquatic Finally, the Lamar and de Zavala orchestra may choose the neighborhood where they Center. Free admission with valid IPAR card students may bring their family of up to five would like to deliver meals. Currently, the or school ID. members to the March 29 concert on a free neighborhoods where VNA Meals on Wheels “First Tickets” family pass, valued at $57. most needs help are in Oak Cliff, Pleasant Citywide Egg Hunt - North General admission tickets to NPOI concerts Grove and White Rock. Reservations are preferred to take part in Saturday, March 28 range from $10 to $18. Any unused concert ticket can be applied to a later concert in the VNA Meals on Wheels volunteer training. New in 2015, this egg hunt is located at the series, despite the printed date. Please contact VNA Meals on Wheels Irving Soccer Complex and includes bounce Further information about the New Phil- Manager of Volunteers Melanie Crommett houses, face painting, photo opportunities harmonic Orchestra of Irving, including at 214-689-2685 to RSVP. with the Easter Bunny, music, food and more. full program notes for the concert, can be Hunt will feature over 20,000 candy and toy found on the orchestra’s Web site at www. Citywide Egg Hunt - South filled eggs. One lucky child in each age group npoirving.com. will find the egg with the golden ticket, which April 4 can be redeemed for a great gift basket. Set in the field just south of Heritage Senior Don’t miss out on the fun, arrive at least 15 Irving Police Department Awards Center, this egg hunt includes bounce hous- minutes prior to the hunt time for your child’s Banquet es, face painting, photo opportunities with the age group. *The 11:10 a.m. egg hunt for 9-10 March 31, 6:30 p.m. Easter Bunny, music, food and more. year olds is also open to children ages 3-8 Join the Irving Police Department and the who missed their designated egg hunt time. Family Advocacy Center on Tuesday, March Fire Hydrant Flushing Egg Hunt Times By Age 31 for the 19th Annual Irving Police Depart- The city will be flushing all public fire hydrants ment Awards Banquet. This year’s banquet in Irving during March and April. Irving fire- will be at the Dallas Marriott – Las Colinas, fighters perform flushing to check for proper located at 223 W. Las Colinas Boulevard. water flow and pressure, and to ensure that The evening will honor the men and women hydrants will work properly in case of an that keep Irving safe. Benefits from the emergency. Additionally, fire hydrant flushing banquet help support the Family Advocacy is required by state and federal agencies. Center, which partners with IPD to unite a While the city may be under Stage 1 water wide variety of resources and help provide restrictions, residents need to be aware that assistance to Irving residents and families the flushing of fire hydrants is necessary to who have been victims of crime. Learn more guarantee public health and safety. For more about the event and sponsorship opportuni- information, visit cityofirving.org. ties at cityofirving.org/police. Aljaz Bedene of Slovenia wins Irving Tennis Classic The Irving Tennis Classic crowned Gilles Muller (LUX)/Aisam-Ul-Haq its singles champion, Slovenian Al- Quereshi (PAK), and Aljaz Bedene jaz Bedene on March 22. Ranked (SLO)/Damir Dzumhur (BIH). No. 115 in the world, Bedene won Due to rain Saturday, March 21, his 9th career ATP Challenger Tour afternoon, the semi-finals match up event with a 7-6(3), 3-6, 6-3 victory of Smyczek and Muller was complet- over No. 83 American, Tim Smy- ed earlier Sunday, in which Smyczek czek. upset second seed and No. 36 Gilles In the doubles final, first time Muller (LUX) 6-4, 7-6(8). Smyczek partners Robert Lindstedt of Swe- claimed his 4th ATP Challenger den and Ukranian Sergiy Stak- Tour title in February at the RBC hovsky were triumphant in the Tennis Championships in Dallas, finals against Germans Benjamin and it took Bedene three sets to end Becker and Philipp Petzschner 6-4, Smyczek’s Texas winning streak. 6-4. “It wasn’t easy,” Bedene said. “He Lindstedt has 18 ATP doubles ti- runs well, he is a fast guy, he doesn’t tles and finished in the Top 20 of the have any weaknesses, can hit from doubles rankings for the 4th year both sides, and has a solid serve. It in a row last year after capturing a was a tight match, and I guess I was maiden Grand Slam crown at the better today.” Australian Open. Stakhovsky has a Bedene arrived in Irving after los- career total of 3 ATP doubles titles ing in the qualifying rounds at In- and achieved his most exciting win dian Wells, Calif. On his way to the of his career in 2013 when he de- finals at the Irving Tennis Classic, feated seven-time champion Rog- Bedene defeated Rajeev Ram er Federer in the second round at (USA), upset tournaments 4th seed Wimbledon, ending the Swiss’ run No. 46 Dominic Thiem (AUT), 7th of 36 straight Grand Slam quarterfi- seed No.61 Marcos Baghdatis (CYP), nals. En route to the finals Lindstedt and beat qualifier Kyle Edmund and Stakhovsky defeated [WC] Nate (GBR) in the semi-finals. Eazor (USA)/Chase, Wood (USA), SOURC ATP Irving Tennis Classic BEER Continued from Page 1

cers, Kelly Harris, was also present and the pub crawl. to sell his wares. This was the first “Half the people, if not more, year the festival allowed vendor don’t even enter the home brew booths, so he took the chance to competition,” Harris said. “They’re give people a sample of Homebrew just here because they like a good Headquarters, his retail store that beer, and they have a good time at has been around since 1979. the event. So to them, to a lot of peo- “[The event] sells out every year,” ple, it’s a vacation.” Harris said. “It’s so big now that we With over 1,300 entries in the have to limit the number of entries, competition plus craft and regional because we don’t have enough beer beers available, there were plenty judges to run the program properly. of new brews for beer lovers to con- “We’re all about running a quali- sume, and the new vending area will ty program and just not having the no doubt continue to expand. biggest one. It happens to be the big- “Come out and join us,” Dobson gest one, because we run a quality said. “If you’re interested in the hob- program. It’s all volunteer. No one’s by of home brewing, this is a great paid. These are true beer lovers and place to get acquainted with people aficionados that come to this event.” who know what’s going on, and even Even if someone is not interested if you’re not, it’s a great place to get in creating their own beer at home, your feet wet in terms of tasting craft there is plenty of allure for beer lov- beer.” ers at this event, including taste tests www.RamblerNewspapers.com March 28, 2015 Page 3 COLUMN AWARDS Continued from Page 1

diately following was Liam Taylor standing new work went to Annie entertainment lingered in the air. and artists. We put so much of our mystery of Edward Drood” and performing the hit song “Let It Go” Benjamin, Katen Cale, Lorena Dav- The “Legally Blonde” performance hearts into this, and we also risk “The Little Shop of Horrors” also from the movie Frozen. ey, Terry Ferguson, and Shelby Ad- had the audience on their feet, as did our health, our finances, our rela- provided spectacular entertainment Trich Zaitoon won an award for dison-Hibbs. the very talented cast of “Cabaret.” tionships and our lives because we with dancing, strong vocals and out- best play, non-equity, and also pre- Another prestigious award hon- The crowd then paid their re- love it so much.” standing wardrobe. This event was sented the award for best actress in ors the late Rudy Seppy, who was spects with a moment of silence for Another musical performance of intriguing and is certain to be fol- a musical equity. tragically killed while working in the the fallen soldiers of the industry. the hit “Xanadu” wowed the crowd lowed by an even more flamboyant “I was a late bloomer and started Dupree Theater. His wife, Maria, “What I love most about this event followed by “The Musical Parody of and well executed Column Awards performing when I was 40,” Zaitoon presented the award to winner Deb- is that you never know who is going the Fellowship of the Ring.” “The show next year. said. “But when you are on stage, orah Green. to be nominated,” Garcia said. “We you can’t explain what it feels like to After another musical number, strive to stay away from popularity perform and change lives.” “Hair,” and a wardrobe change from and mainstream. This opens up so The Steve Lovett award for out- host John Garcia, the energy and many doors for our local theaters

Big hair, roller skates and Greek gods, the cast of Xanadu leaves the crowd breathless with of a mere taste of their musical, which played last summer at ONSTAGE In BEDFORD. /Photo by Bryan Chatlain A new generation celebrates knitting arts at DFW Fiber Fest

By Madelyn Knecht DFW Fiber Fest brings vendors, teachers, dyers, and spinners alike together to buy yarn, take classes, and have a good time with people with similar hobbies. Men and wom- en of all ages gathered at the Irving Convention Center March 20-22, to celebrate their 10th annual event. Lynette Vierra, the social media director for DFW Fiber Fest, has been knitting for around 15 years, and says that the hobby of knitting and crocheting never really went away, despite the media’s portrayal Dyeing to try something new, Denise Bell and Chris Dykes interests in the of these hobbies as belonging to the world of fiber began with hand dyeing and continued to grow into a passion. older generation. /Photo by Madelyn Knecht “I’ve heard a lot like ‘it’s back,’ but for us, it hasn’t gone anywhere,” Vi- vending. She sells yarn she person- the festival, and agree that the only Store Closing erra said. “It just hasn’t really had ally dyed in her kitchen. She plans to real downside is loading and un- a venue to the public. Most of it is move the business out of her house loading the trucks. online.” eventually. “The everyday person will see a After three years, Angels & Moore There is a large community of A couple who has been vending wide variety of handcrafts when is sorry to announce the closing knitters online who share informa- for several years was also present they come to this show,” Bell said. tion and projects with each other. at the event selling their wares, and “Everything you see in our booth is of our Fabric Store located at 118 One person who knows the power- agreed with Jimenez that the stereo- dyed by me or designed by me.” W. Irving Blvd. ful platform the Internet can pro- type is well played out. DFW Fiber Fest also features the vide is video blogger and dyer Laura “The media tends to think that New Start Project, where visitors, April 1 -11 April 20 -25 Jimenez, who owns Gynx Yarns. knitting is an old lady thing, and vendors, and staff are able to donate “I get so many people who come when you see older women knitting, knitted, crocheted, woven or hand- 20% off all fabrics 40% off all fabrics up to me,” Jimenez said. “They’ve chances are they’ve been doing it made washcloths. The washcloths April 13 -18 April 27 -May 2 watched my videos and want to in- all their lives,” said Denise Bell, co are given to patients at medical troduce themselves.” owner of Lost City Knits, “We’re cre- cancer radiation facilities follow- 30% off all fabrics 50% off all fabrics IRVING SUNRISE IRVING SUNRISE IRVING SUNRISE The 24 year old Jimenez also dis- ating new knitters who will be doing ing their final treatment as a gift to ROTARY ROTARY ROTARY putes the stereotype that knitting it for another forty or fifty years.” wash away the markers used during Additionally: and crocheting has no appeal to She and her partner, Chris Dykes, radiation. The program includes UT Clearance prices on sewing notions and select store fixtures. See our younger crowds. have been vending together since Southwestern and Parkland Hos- website for more information. www.angelsandmoore.com “I don’t feel that people in the they began seven years ago. pital and will be expanding to Chil- (972) 579 - 0535 knitting community feel that way,” “She said, ‘I want to dye yarn,’” dren’s Dallas in the near future. Jimenez said. “I feel like more and Dykes said, “and I was like, ‘Sure. MEETINGS 7 a.mmore. Thursda youngy morning peoples are getting intoJOIN What’s US the worst that couldJOIN hap US- Las Colinasit.” Country Club each weekpen?’” each week 4400 N.O'Connor Blvd Irving,This Texas is 75062 Jimenez’s fourth yearfor of interesting They both enjoyed theirfor interesting time at and motivational and motivational A Reminder about what speaksomeers of our goals are... speakers MEETINGS MEETINGS 7 a.m. Thursday mornings 7 a.m. Thursday mornings Las Colinas Country Club Las Colinas Country Club 4400 N.O'Connor Blvd 4400 N.O'Connor Blvd Irving, Texas 75062 Irving, Texas 75062

IRVING SUNRISE ROTARY JOIN US each week for interesting and motivational speakers.

MEETINGS: 7 a.m. Thursdays Las Colinas Country Club 4400 N.O'Connor Blvd. Irving, Texas 75062

972-870-1992 | [email protected] | [email protected] | [email protected] The entire contents of this newspaper are the sole You can subscribe to The Rambler for $45 per The Publication of columnists’ views, as well as ad- property of Rambler Newspapers, with all rights reserved. year. The Rambler is also distributed in businesses and vertising, does not constitute endorsement. The Rambler Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or public areas. reserves the right to reject or edit any advertising. The graphic content in any manner is prohibited. Deadline for the submission of articles and adver- Rambler, its publisher, and editor are not responsible for If you have an upcoming event, game scores, a tising is noon Wednesday, prior to the publication date. errors in advertising. press release, or interesting story, please let us know. The All submitted articles are subject to editing. Opinions The Rambler Volume 12 Issue 13 is published weekly Rambler encourages submission of articles, facts, and expressed in submitted advertisements, articles, editorial, for $45 dollars a year by Rambler Newspapers, 627 S. Owners Stacey & John Starkey photographs pertaining to the people, life, business, and or commentary are those of the writer, and not necessarily Rogers, Irving, TX 75060. Periodicals postage prices paid entertainment of Irving, Texas. those of The Rambler, the publisher, editor, or any staff at Irving, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to To reach an Advertising Representative, please call 972-870-1992. The Rambler #024981 is published weekly by member. All articles, press releases, photographs and other The Rambler, P.O. Box 177731, Irving, TX 75017. Rambler Newspapers, P.O. Box 177731, Irving, TX 75017. materials submitted become the property of The Rambler. The Rambler is Copyrighted 2015 Page 4 March 28, 2015 www.RamblerNewspapers.com

(972) 870-1992 CLASSIFIEDS [email protected] Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott visits LEGAL Irving ISD elementary school Notice is hereby given that application is being made with the Texas First Lady Cecilia Ab- Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Wine and Beer bott, an experienced teacher Retailer’s Permit by Texas Music Group, LLC., doing business and principal, toured Thomas as The Neon Armadillo, to be located at 222 E. Irving Boulevard, Haley Elementary School for a Irving, Dallas County, Texas. Managing Member of LLC is: first-hand look at the instruc- Thomas Kreason. tional practices in Irving ISD. Irving ISD was recently recog- nized by Governor Abbott in PUBLIC NOTICE OF AUCTION OF SURPLUS MATERIALS his State of the State Address The Irving ISD, 2621 West Airport Freeway, Irving, Texas 75062 is offering surplus for earning the distinction as materials for sale by online auctions through Lone Star Auctioneers, 4629 Mark IV the 2015 National Advanced Parkway, Fort Worth, Texas 76106. Website is at http://www.lonestarauctioneers.com/ Placement School District of Auction will begin no later than March 27, 2015 ending no later noon on April 6th. Please the Year. see the Lone Star auctioneers website for exact details and dates. Inspection is by “It is both rare and wonder- appointment only starting Monday, March 30th to Monday, April 6th at 7:30 a.m. – 10:45 ful when students have the a.m. and from 11:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Service Center, at 3620 Valley View Lane, First Lady of Texas visit their or Pioneer Salvage Building at 3209 W. Pioneer, Irving, TX. Goods are sold as is and school and spend time in their where is and no warranties express or implied apply. Categories of goods in lots are likely classrooms,” Irving ISD Super- to include but not limited to: materials, furniture, equipment, and miscellaneous items. For appointment: contact [email protected] or 972-600-5132 or 972-600-5105. intendent Jose L. Parra, Ed.D. said. “That rare and wonderful experience took place today for the students of Thomas Haley PUBLIC NOTICE FOR Vue Las Colinas Addition Elementary School. It is not an (PL14-0037) exaggeration to say that First Lady Abbott’s visit made a last- PUBLIC NOTICE BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IRVING, TEXAS, TO ing impression on students due CONSIDER RESUBDIVISION OR REPLATTING OF A RECORDED SUBDIVISION WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF IRVING, DALLAS COUNTY, TEXAS. to her genuine interest and en- thusiasm.” Notice is hereby given for the following public hearings to consider resubdivision or replatting of First Lady Abbott’s tour of recorded subdivisions as hereinafter described which will be held in the City Council Chambers the school included a stop at of City Hall, 825 West Irving Boulevard, Irving, Texas: the reading fair in the school Vue Las Colinas Addition (PL14-0037) library; a kindergarten class; a Being a replat of Lot 1, Block A of the Las Colinas, Area 1 Revised Thirteenth Installment Addition first-grade, two-way dual-lan- and Lot 3, Block A of the Allstate Insurance Company Addition and is zoned S-P-2 (Generalized guage class; and a fifth-grade, Site Plan) for R-6 (Single Family) uses. The applicant is replatting the property into 133 single Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott meets fifth-grade students at Thomas Haley Elementary family lots and 8 open space lots for residential uses. bilingual class taught by the Irving ISD Elementary Teacher School. This was the first school Abbott visited as First Lady of the state./Courtesy Photo City Council: Thursday, April 16, 2015, 7 p.m. of the Year Christine Scovill. “Thank you to Dr. Parra and back in a school today and have administrators, teachers and The application is on file for public examination in the Planning and Community Development Department at 825 West Irving Boulevard, Irving, Texas. For additional information, please contact Principal Zavala for the warm the opportunity to visit with parents across our great state the Planning and Community Development Department at (972) 721-2424. Please reference the welcome to Thomas Haley El- teachers and students. As a to create the best education sys- name of the plat or case number when requesting information. ementary,” Mrs. Abbott said. former teacher and principal, tem in the nation.” “I’m so proud of what you have I know that the path to success “We are grateful the First All citizens or interested parties desiring to be heard concerning this replat may speak. This facility is wheelchair accessible and accessible parking spaces are available. Requests for achieved - Thomas Haley Ele- begins with education. Gover- Lady chose to make an impact interpretation services or assistive hearing devices must be made 48 hours prior to the meeting. mentary is home to the Irving nor Abbott and I are commit- on the lives of our students sim- Contact the City Secretary’s Office at (972) 721-2493 for assistance. ISD Teacher of the Year, and ted to making sure that all Tex- ply by giving of herself and her the school district was the Na- as students have access to the time,” Dr. Parra said. tional AP District of the Year. best education possible, and we SOURCE Irving ISD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS PROPOSED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND ZONING CHANGES “It was so wonderful to be look forward to working with CITY OF IRVING PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION AND CITY COUNCIL

Public hearings are held to consider applications for amendments to the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance and the Official Zoning Map of the City of Irving, Texas for the properties described herein:

LOCATION, DATES & TIMES OF PUBLIC HEARINGS: City Council Chambers of City Hall, 825 West Irving Blvd., Irving, Texas Planning & Zoning Commission: Monday, April 6, 2015, 7 p.m. City Council: Thursday, April 16, 2015, 7 p.m.

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING CASE ZC14-0074 AND MF14- 0007: Approximately 0.51 acres located at 3029 Medina Street. The applicant is requesting a We Buy Austin Middle School Comprehensive Plan Amendment from Medium Density Residential to High Density Residential, a Multi-Family Concept Plan and a zoning change from Site Plan (S-P) for Two Duplexes to S-P-1 (Detailed Site Plan) for R-MF-2 (Multifamily 2) district uses to redevelop the property with eight Property & multifamily units. HOUSES students lobby at ZONING CASE ZC15-0006: Approximately 0.17 acres located at 2431 Trinity Street. The applicant is requesting to rezone the property from R-6 (Single Family) district to S-P-2 (Generalized Site in any condition Plan) for R-6 (Single Family) district uses to allow a carport in the front setback. the State Capitol ZONING CASE ZC15-0012: Approximately 0.35 acres located at 2908 Warren Circle. The applicant is requesting to rezone the property from R-7.5 (Single Family) district to S-P-2 (Generalized Site Sugey Mar and Valerie Vazquez In committees, they presented and Plan) for R-7.5 (Single Family) district uses to allow modifications to the side yard setback on a corner lot. proposed bills during the Texas defended their bills as well as ques- CASH Youth and Government State Con- tioned and argued for and against LOCATION, DATES & TIMES OF PUBLIC HEARINGS: ference at the State Capitol Feb. bills presented by other students City Council Chambers of City Hall, 825 West Irving Blvd., Irving, Texas immediate closing 27 - March 1. In addition, Mar was from across the state. Planning & Zoning Commission: Monday, April 6, 2015, 7 p.m. City Council: Thursday, May 7, 2015, 7 p.m. recognized with the Distinguished Before attending the conference, Bruce Burns - Broker Delegate Award for being an out- the duo researched the topic of their COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING CASE ZC14-0084: Approximately 972-322-9999 standing leader and role model for choice, organized arguments and 4.98 acres located at 1811 Hard Rock Road. The applicant is requesting a Comprehensive Plan her community. She was selected wrote a bill to enact changes in cur- Amendment from Medium-Density Residential to Low-Density Residential and a zoning change from S-P-2 (Generalized Site Plan) for R-TH (Townhouse) district uses to S-P-2 (Generalized Site based on her leadership, commu- rent Texas law. They learned and Plan) for R-6 (Single Family) district uses to allow single family development. Waitresses Needed nity service, research and organiza- followed parliamentary procedure, Experience preferred. Apply in person, tional skills. utilized leadership skills in presid- All interested persons are encouraged to attend the public hearings and express their opinions on 425 W. Irving Blvd., Irving Tx 75060 Mar proposed a bill which re- ing over discussion and bill commit- the zoning change request. Written response for the record may also be submitted to: quires a 30-minute period during tees and utilized debate skills as they City of Irving – Planning & Community Development Dept., the day as a break for both teachers prepared to present their bills. Mar 825 W. Irving Blvd., Irving, TX 75060 and students. Vazquez lobbied to and Vazquez presented their bills allow 15 year olds to have a driver’s at a district conference in Sachse in The applications are on file for public review in the Planning & Community Development Dept. at Route Carrier needed the address listed above during normal business hours. For additional information, please contact license. Vazquez’s bill passed at the December and were then invited to the Department at 972-721-2424. Please reference the case number when requesting information. today state level; however, Mar’s bill did attend the state conference in Aus- not pass by a slim margin (7-8). tin. This facility is wheelchair accessible. Accessible parking spaces are available. Requests for During their visit, the two worked SOURCE Irving ISD interpretation services or assistive hearing devices must be made 48 hours prior to the meeting. 972-870-1992 Contact the City Secretary’s Office at (972) 721-2493 for assistance. in the House of Representatives.

EMPLOYMENT Freelances Needed Rambler Newspapers is currently seeking inquisitive individuals with experience in: Editing - Writing - Photography To apply send resume, clips and image samples to: [email protected] For more information call 972-870-1992

Outside Sales Representative Wanted Rambler Newspapers is currently seeking outgoing individuals who enjoy working closely with community business leaders. To apply send resume to [email protected] For more information call 972-870-1992 www.RamblerNewspapers.com March 28, 2015 Page 5 CHS Band plans trip to London in March 2016

By Susan Edgley be Coppell High School Band Day the CHS Band’s big celebration and Coppell, TX– The Coppell High in the City of Coppell. The Mayor their plans for this time next year,” School Band is buzzing about their urged residents to encourage and Mayor Hunt said. “It is truly an hon- invitation to march in the 15th annu- support the students as they prepare or to have the CHS Band represent al London St. Patrick’s Day parade over the next year for the trip. The the City of Coppell.” on March 13, 2016 and to perform proclamation also recognized the “This is a trip of a lifetime,” Scott in concert at Westminster’s Great accomplishments and talents of the Mason, Director of Instrumental Hall. Plans are already underway to high school band members and the Music for Coppell ISD, said. “Lon- attend these events as well as tour City’s appreciation of each student don is an unbelievable city and the some of London’s best attractions. as they represent Coppell and the students will remember this for the During the CHS Band Boost- State of Texas. rest of their lives.” ers meeting, Coppell Mayor Karen “I am very excited to be a part of SOURCE Coppell High School Hunt proclaimed March 17, 2015 to Celebration recognizes outstanding CTE students, teachers, partners

The Irving ISD Career and Tech- boards, providing aviation contacts because of your support. We’d like nical Education (CTE) program and giving facility tours. to recognize several of our partners celebrated its successes during the The following businesses received for going above and beyond to work annual Celebration of Excellence a crystal award for their contribu- with CTE programs this year.” Mayor Karen Hunt, along with CHS Band Director Scott Mason, proclaims March 17 to be SOURCE Irving ISD March 19 at Singley Academy. Stu- tions: Coppell High School Band Day. /Courtesy Photo dents from all of Irving ISD’s CTE Aviation Institute of Maintenance programs displayed their work in for use of their facility and equip- an exhibit, which was followed by ment by aviation students every a luncheon served by CTE culinary week during the school year; OBITUARIES arts students and presentation. North Lake College for use of During the presentation, various their facility, tools and equipment Steve Crouch DEATH NOTICES students shared their experience in by the construction classes Monday Steve Crouch, age 62 and longtime Arrangements by: Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home, 972-579-1313 CTE programs. through Friday; Irving resident, died on March 19, MacArthur High School Lead iT’Z for sponsoring perfect atten- 2015. He was born in Belleville, Carrie Lee Colvin: Dec. 22, 1940 - Mar. 19, 2015 Counselor Julie Soberanis was dance rewards; Illinois on June named Outstanding Counselor for Citigroup for cash donation to 17, 1952 to Bill Savannah Rose Clark: died Mar. 20, 2015 her service on multiple CTE com- CTE programs; Crouch and mittees, “and always putting the Irving Police Department for Doris Zellner students first.” equipment donated to the law en- Crouch. Steve The CTE staff also recognized forcement program; retired after a several businesses for their contri- Dallas County Schools for dona- long and re- butions to the CTE program. UT tion of two school busses to the die- warding career Southwestern was named Post Sec- sel mechanic program; as maintenance ondary Partner of the Year for its Fluor Corp. for multiple cash do- director for El participation on the biomedical ad- nations and participation in the ACE Centro College and in the Irving visory board, providing equipment, (Architecture and Civil Engineer- Schools. He also owned and oper- financial assistance for summer ing) program; ated Genesis HVAC. Steve will be camp opportunities, teacher men- Irving Schools Foundation for forever missed by his son Logan toring, faculty tours, and sponsoring grants; Crouch; his brothers Randy and the biomedical science fair. Northrop Grumman Corp. for David Crouch and wife Melinda; The U.S. Navy received the cash donations to the STEM (Sci- sister Suzanne Weller and husband Non-Profit Partner of the Year ence, Technology, Engineering and David; parents Billy and Doris award for donating equipment and Math) programs; Zellner Crouch; former wife Kathy supplies, sponsoring the SeaPerch REC (Robotics Education and Mantooth, all of Irving, along with water robotics competition and Competition) Foundation for cash nieces, nephews and grand neph- providing training for engineering donation to the STEM programs; ews. A funeral service was held for teachers and students. Simio for specialized software for Steve at 11am on Monday, March Irving ISD CTE honored Dallas/ the aviation academy; and 23, 2015 in Brown’s Memorial Fort Worth International Airport as U.S. Navy for donation of equip- Funeral Home Chapel immediate- its Business Partner of the Year for ment and supplies for robotics and ly followed by interment in Oak helping launch the aviation program STEM programs. Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving. four years ago, serving on advisory “Whether you’re mentoring students, supporting an advisory ROBERT REYNARD “CURLY” board, serving on district advisory RICHARDS, SR. committees or providing financial Robert Reynard “Curly” Richards, support through equipment or labs, Sr., age 95, a resident of Irving you’re supporting our programs and for over 45 years, died Saturday, we are very thankful for that,” said March 21, 2015 Shawn Blessing, program director at Crestview of CTE. “CTE students are thriving Court Rehab. Born January 2, 1920 in Mc- Clendon Coun- Market Street makes apples ty, Texas, he was the son of Charles Daniel donation to food banks Richards and Ruth Ann Blackman Richards. He was a retired estima- LUBBOCK, Texas - The United ed the Take a Bite out of Hunger™ tor for commercial trucking trail- Family®, parent company of Mar- campaign to help feed the under- er construction. A veteran of the ket Street, recently delivered a do- served while bringing attention to U.S. Navy during World War II, he nation of 5,600 pounds of apples to the problem of food insecurity in the served in the Pacific Theater. He the North Texas Food Bank in Dal- United States. was a member of the VFW Post in las-Fort Worth, as part of its annual “Year after year, we are humbled Irving. The last of nine children, participation in the Take a Bite Out to learn the impact our program he is preceded in death also by his of Hunger™ program. makes in communities nationwide,” wife Maxine and two step-sons For the fourth year in a row, The Robbin Erickson of FirstFruits Mar- John Duncan and Charles Eaton, a United Family is providing food for keting of Washington said. “The step-daughter, Diana Poteete, and the hungry in its local communi- number of households fed through a son-in-law Archie Johnson Feb- ties by donating more than 39,000 our program exponentially increas- ruary 2015. Survivors include a pounds of apples to seven local food es with the consistent support from daughter Peggy Johnson of Grand banks across Texas and New Mexi- our retail partners like The United Prairie; son Robert R. Richards, co. Family.” Jr. and wife Mary of Cedar Hill; “The United Family’s continued Since Take a Bite out of Hunger step-daughter Elaine Carty of Aus- participation in the Take a Bite Out was introduced in 2010, approxi- tin; grandchildren, Wayne Johnson, of Hunger program is a way for us mately 1 million pounds of fresh ap- Rick Johnson, Robert Armstrong, to show our commitment to those ples have been donated to local food David Richards, James Richards, in need in our local communities,” banks in the name of the participat- Leanne Young, Paul Carty, Chris said Joseph Bunting, Produce Di- ing retailers. This year more than Carty, Tessa House, Renee Oli- rector for The United Family. “We ten retailers have joined the Take a ver and Douglas Poteete; 15 great are proud to stand with these food Bite Out of Hunger effort with do- grandchildren; and 9 great-great banks as they seek to eliminate nations going to local food banks grandchildren. Visitation was 1pm widespread hunger.” throughout the U.S. and Canada. with service at 2pm, both Wednes- In Dallas County, 1 in every 5 Through the program, United has day, March 25, 2015 at Donnelly’s people are food insecure, as are 25 provided almost 150,000 pounds of Colonial Funeral Home Chapel. percent of North Texan children apples to area food banks during the Burial with military honors fol- (304,000 children). Each day, the past four years. lowed at Shady Grove Cemetery in North Texas Food Bank provides Apple donations were also de- Grand Prairie. access to 170,000 meals for hungry livered to the Food Bank of West families, seniors and kids through Central Texas, Abilene; High Plains a network of more than 1,000 pro- Food Bank, Amarillo; South Plains grams and 262 Partner Agencies. Food Bank, Lubbock; West Texas Place your obituaries in This donation is part of The Unit- Food Bank, Midland/Odessa; Food ed Family’s participation in the Take Bank of Eastern New Mexico, New the Rambler a Bite Out of Hunger™ program Mexico; and Wichita Falls Area sponsored by FirstFruits Marketing Food Bank, Wichita Falls. 972-870-1992 of Washington. FirstFruits creat- SOURCE The United Family Page 6 March 28, 2015 www.RamblerNewspapers.com Huff’s legacy WORSHIP honored BAPTIST Heart of Worship Baptist 2201 W. Shady Grove Rd Entertainment Series of Irving Irving President Richard Worship 9 am Knoll congratulates Irving S. S. 10:30 am Arts Center Executive Di- Pastor Mike Blalock 214-864-0635 rector Richard Huff, who was honored by the Enter- BIBLE CHURCH tainment Series during the Pecos River Brass Band’s Heritage Church-PCG 1501 S. Briery Rd. concert on Sunday, March Irving, TX 75060 22. Phone # 972-986-4200 or Huff has served as Exec- www.heritagechurchpcg.com utive Director of the Irving Arts Center since Aug. 1, CHURCH OF CHRIST 1995, and has been instru- Belt Line Road mental in bringing highly recognized international exhibits to the Arts Church of Christ Center. He was also recognized for his role in numerous accomplish- 1202 N. Belt Line Rd., Irving, TX 75061 ments by the Arts Center and the Irving Arts Board. 1st Century Christianity in the 21st Century Sunday Bible Classes 9 a.m. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday Worship 7:30 p.m. 972.790.8606 www.BeltLineChurch.com

CATHOLIC Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church One block north of Hwy 183 on Esters Rd. Sat. 5:30pm, Sun. 8am, 10am, 12pm, 5:30pm 972-252-5521 www.HolyFamilyChurch.net DISCIPLES OF CHRIST First Christian Church 114 West Grauwyler Rd. 75061 972-579-0911 Sunday School for all ages-9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship- 10:45 a.m. Western Heritage Church LUTHERAN Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 2620 W. Grauwyler Rd 75061 972-790-2121 www.gslcirving.com Sunday Worship at 9:00am Adult Bible Study Sunday 10:30am UNITED METHODIST

First United Methodist Church 211 W. Third, 75060 972-253-3531 www.fumcirving.org Sunday School 9:00 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary 6:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall

Oak Haven United Methodist Church 1600 N. Irving Heights 75061 972.438.1431 www.oakhavenumc.org Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m Ministerio Hispano NISSI Estudio Biblico 1:00 p.m. Servicio Adoracion 2:00 p.m. Northgate United Methodist Church 3700 West Northgate, 75062 972-252-8519 www.northgateumc.org Worship Service 8:15 AM in the Dome Sunday School 9:30 AM Worship Service 10:45 AM in the WAC at the rear of the complex

UNITY CHURCH

Sunday Morning Services: 9:30 AM Adult Class 11:00 AM Service & Children’s Church Reverend Frank Pounders and Reverend Margaret Pounders 210 Virginia St., Irving, Texas 75061 972-253-5083 unitychurchofirving.com www.RamblerNewspapers.com March 28, 2015 Page 7 FUN & GAMES

ment, we in the United States still stubbornly cling to the archaic units of measurement derived from the old British Imperial sys- Answers tem. This hodgepodge ranges from the mile (originally the dis- 1. 22 tance a Roman soldier could march in 1,000 double steps) to the 2. South America foot (originally the length of Emperor Charlemagne’s foot, later 3. Love and beauty You probably won’t be surprised to “standardized” to the length of 35 barleycorns laid end to end) to 1. LITERATURE: How many publishers rejected James Joyce’s “The 4. 1964 learn that when author (and noted wit) a yard (the distance between King Henry I’s nose to his extended Dubliners” before it finally made it to print? 5. Nosebleed Oscar Wilde arrived in the United States in fingertips) to an inch (the length from the tip to the first joint of 2. GEOGRAPHY: The Falkland Islands are located off which continent? 6. The Sunday after Easter 1882, he told the customs officers, “I have a man’s thumb). 3. MYTHOLOGY: What does the Greek goddess Aphrodite represent? 7. Maria nothing to declare except my genius.” 4. PRESIDENTS: When was Lyndon Johnson elected president? 8. Muddy or cloudy Brazil nuts do come from Brazil, but they’re not technically 5. MEDICAL TERMS: What is the common name for “epistaxis”? 9. Maine A pregnant goldfish is called a twit. nuts; they’re seeds. 6. RELIGION: In the Christian calendar, what is Low Sunday? 10. The state or district where the applicant 7. THEATER: What was the name of the female protagonist in the resides If you’re planning a summer vacation in When you think of the band ZZ Top, you probably think of play “West Side Story”? Maine this year, you might want to keep in long beards -- that’s become a sort of signature for them. The 8. LANGUAGE: What would “turbid” water look like? mind that in that state, it’s against the law drummer, though, is beardless -- and his name is Frank Beard. 9. U.S. STATES: What state’s nickname is the Pine Tree State? to tickle a woman under the chin with a 10. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What do the first three numbers of a feather duster. A ground squirrel typically has a heartbeat of around 300 Social Security number signify currently? (c) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc. beats per minute. During hibernation, though, that drops dra- Despite the fact that 95 percent of the matically -- to only three or four beats per minute. world uses the metric system of measure- (c) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc.

CLUBS American Legion Post #218 Heritage Park Building 215 Main St. Downtown Irving 3rd Thursday of each month. Recruiting/Questions call 469-621-7878 Buttons & Bows Square & Round Dance Club 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 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 Noonday Lions PH 972-409-9940 Every Wed. @ Los Lupes In the Irving Mall Irving Republican Women’s Club Meets the second Monday of each month at 7pm at IHOP Restaurant Hwy 635 @ MacArthur Irving Retired School Personnel Association First Christain 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 972-254-3525 TOPS TX #58, Irving Thursday at 9:30 a.m. Berean Memorial Church 1000 E. 6th Street 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

Organizations are required to re-submit their information on a monthly basis to insure that the Irving Rambler will have accurate information. Listings are limited to the Organization’s name, meeting location and time. If an organization wishes to have more information than the free listing offers, we will continue to offer other advertising opportunities. Page 8 March 28, 2015 www.RamblerNewspapers.com New library hosts old fashion tea party 11th Annual Irving Heritage Society Fish Fry & Cake Auction Friday, April 10 5 pm - 7 pm Heritage Park - 217 S. Main Ready to party like it’s 1800, Lit’s Alive! presents a Pride and Prejudice tea and dance at the South Irving Library, March 22. The multigenerational event explored Jane Austen’s classic work “Pride and Prejudice,” provided crafts, parlor games and English Country dancing amidst a backdrop of extravagant Regency-era decorations in the li- Tickets avalable at: brary’s “grand ballroom.” /Photo by John Starkey Adults: $12.50 in advance Clothing Quarters - 142 S. Main LIBRARY $15 at the gate Mustang Museum - Williams Square Continued from Page 1 Children 3-8 $5 “I’m really excited about how the any Heritage Society Board Member kids area turned out. It has its own little flavor in there, and it’s really For more information: call 972-252-3838 or www.irvingheritage.com tailored to the kids,” Tate said. “I found myself on opening day sitting upstairs in a quiet reading room enjoying a view of the duck pond across the street at Centennial Park. I have a lot of fond memories of building Centennial Park. To be able to sit and enjoy that view and watch the ducks fly in and out was pretty cool. “On the first floor, the library has a large space that can be divided into four separate spaces. One of those is set up as a craft room for the kids. Demonstrating some of the building’s special features, Casey Tate (mid- On the second floor, it has four in- dle) explains to Donna and Bob Bourgeois how the water circulating through dividual small meeting rooms that 180 pipes helps the library remain cool in the summer and warm in the win- will seat anywhere from 4 to 10 or ter. /Photo by John Starkey 12 people. So there are a variety of meeting spaces. like community centers. There are zone. You can actually make a but- “It has a whole teen section on the so many different activities that this ton while you are here today. first floor. It has a teen learning lab building is designed to allow to take “I was a little bit nervous about where you can go in and make your place. If you walk through the build- the new library being too much like own recordings or work on different ing, there is technology in every West, but it’s going to be really fun. crafts.” room. There is a lot of technology It’s different in its own way. This one The entire useable space of the that’s going to help everybody in this looks really cool. It is not just about South Irving Library is 52,570 community in all the different parts books when you’re at a library. It’s square feet. This space includes the of this building. It is very diverse,” about the people and the environ- first and second floors, which are he said. ment while you’re there. open to the public, and a basement Keeping up with their eight year “I like that this library has a larg- book storage area accessible only old daughter and four year old son er young adult section for the teens. to library staff members. The West at the South Irving Library’s grand Last time it was an itty-bitty little Irving Library is 25,000 square feet, opening was proving to be a full place that was separated by shelves. and Valley Ranch Library is 26,000 time job for Theresa Harbin and her Now we have our own little room. square feet. husband. We have a lot more books in the “I think the basement is about “The kids looked forward to the li- manga section too,” she said. 6,800 square feet, so the first and brary opening more than any movie second floor are about 46,000 coming out or anything else,” Har- square feet give or take,” Tate said. bin said. “They were super excited “The books that are in the basement to wake up this morning and see the get checked out one or fewer times ribbon-cutting. per year, but the books are valuable “The children’s section upstairs assets to the library system, and they is fabulous. They love the lava floor don’t want to get rid of them. By put- and the touch screens, I think be- ting those books in the basement, we cause they are new. But my daugh- are not spending a lot of money to ter is already headed to the book fix that space up and have the pub- section to figure out what she is go- lic roaming through it. Those books ing to do for the rest of the day. are down there, and if you want that “The library is big and bright, and book, you can put in an order at the I love the fact that it is so energy-ef- South Library and within a matter ficient. Our kids come every other of a couple of hours they will have week to the library, and we bring the book for you. If you’re in Valley home huge stacks of books. They Ranch and you want to check that love the day that they go to the li- book out, all you need to do is put brary. They are wrapped up in their the order in they will pull the book, books for the entire day,” she said. send it through the interlibrary loan, One of a group of teens trying and you will be able to get it within to leave with the entire library one a day. It is pretty cool that you have book at a time, Gretchen Larsen that collection of some 200,000 vol- (14), claimed she would check out as umes, which most libraries would many books as she could carry. She cull or send out, but we are keeping usually reads 10 to 11 books a week. because we believe there are assets “The library is amazing, and it is to the system. really big,” Gretchen said setting her “Libraries are much more than pile of books down and catching her libraries these days. They are more breath. “I like the make it yourself

See: http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/11/us/auto-repair-investigation/ for more information. Welcoming everyone to the new library, Irving Public Library Directory Chris Dobson says a few words during the grand opening celebration of the South Irving Library. /Photo by John Starkey