NDG Staff | North Dallas Gazette

Books to give moms and grandmothers to be

May 13, 2012 By NDG Staff No Comments

By Terri Schlichenmeyer, NDG Contributing Writer

For years now, your mother has perfected the Art of Unrequested Advice.

It started when she told you not to bring your favorite toy to Show & Tell because you’d lose it – and she was right. You spent your childhood hearing that you “need a sweater,” and she was usually right about that, too. And that boy you dated in high school? The one she hated?

We won’t go there…

Now you have children of your own and Mom’s still at it – but while the advice you get from her might go unrequested, it’s surely not unwelcome. So now that Mom is becoming Grandma, why not give Mom a little dose of her own medicine, in the form of two great new books?

If it’s been awhile since she’s been around little ones – or if you’re a new mother yourself – then How to Rock Your Baby by Erin Bried is a book you’ll want to tuck in the diaper bag, just so you are prepared.

This small but extremely helpful book starts out at the beginning, even before the baby’s born. How do you deal with morning sickness? What, exactly, should you eat “for two?” What do you do about mood swings (and how can people around you help?)? How do you know it’s really labor, and how do you make sure you actually get to the hospital in one piece?

Once the baby’s here, you will want to know how to calm a crier; take a temperature; make toys, baby food, and burp cloths; how to find Mom-Time and get some sleep. You will want to know how to do those other important things that mothers have been advising one another about for generations.

I liked How to Rock Your Baby because I think it’s great for new moms and for Grandmas who want a brush-up. Author Erin Bried also made this a nice reference book for babysitters and honorary aunties, too.

Survival Mom by Lisa Bedford

Every mother, no matter how old her babies are, knows that stuff happens – and it usually happens when you don’t have time to deal with it. Like most moms, you follow the Boy Scouts oath: always be prepared. Just in case, though, you will want to have Survival Mom by Lisa Bedford on hand.

Survival Mom is another one of those super-helpful books that you can use as reference, but this one is for fixing minor annoyances as well as dealing with those huge disasters you hope you never have.

Beginning with water (how basic can you get?) and moving to emergency shelter, food security and gardening, finances, medical crises, power outages, firearms, major disasters and worse. This book takes things step-by-step. It’s very easy to read, includes lots of sidebars and quick-takes, and author Lisa Bedford also includes stories from mothers who have lived through disasters of all kinds. In reading this book, I was astounded at what I didn’t know (gulp!)

If you are someone’s mother or if you need something to help your own Mommy prepare to be the world’s greatest grandmother, How to Rock Your Baby and Survival Mom would both make great gifts.

And that is good advice.

How to Rock Your Baby by Erin Bried (Hyperion, $14.99 274 pages) and Survival Mom by Lisa Bedford (HarperOne, $19.99 323 pages)

Filed Under: Latest News, NDG BookShelf Tagged With: book review, bookshelf, schlichenmeyer

Happy Mother’s Day from a Good Samaritan

May 10, 2012 By NDG Staff No Comments

By Brandy Jones-West, Special NDG Contributor

In Luke 10: 30-37, Jesus tells a tale of a Jewish man who was attacked by bandits, stripped of his clothes and left for dead on the side of the road. Several people, including a priest and a temple assistant, saw the man in need, yet they crossed to the other side of the road and went about their day. Then a Samaritan came along, saw the man lying there, felt compassion for him and showed him mercy. This story is known in the Bible as the Parable of the Good Samaritan.

I had a stroke of bad luck this week. I ran out of gas and faced danger by being stranded in the middle of a busy road. Several people saw me in need, yet they changed lanes and went about their day. Then a Good Samaritan came along, felt compassion for me and showed me mercy. He proceeded to get gas and left a friend behind to make sure I was safe and direct traffic so I would not get rear-ended.

He quickly returned with the gas and when I offered to repay him, he refused and said, No, its okay. Happy Mother’s Day. I did not get his name, but he handed me a business card. I felt compelled to pay it forward, share this story and hopefully send some business his way.

Maybe your mother or grandmother needs some handyman services, fence repair and installation, painting, or new wood or ceramic floors. As you think about Mother’s Day gifts this year, be sure to check out the Good Samaritan’s website, www.mylesqualitypaintingandfence.com.

Filed Under: Community Spotlight

The race to fill new Congressional District 33 features 12 primary clients

May 10, 2012 By NDG Staff 2 Comments

By Faith Camp, NDG Contributing Writer

According to the 2010 census the Dallas/Fort Worth area has a total population of approximately seven million people making it the largest community in the South. In fact, Dallas and Tarrant counties experienced tremendous growth during the decade preceding the census.

As a result of this expansion Congress recently added Congressional District 33 to the Texas line-up. On May 29 there is one Republican on the ballot to fill the seat.

The 11 Democrats vying for the seat solicited the support of the District 33 residents during a debate on April 9 at Salon Las Colinas.

Dr. David Alameel said he is running for Congress to restore the American Dream. Dr. Alameel built one of the largest chains of clinics in the DFW area and wants to help Americans achieve their dreams as well. During the debate on April 9, he said he would work on behalf of the people in CD33 to improve economy, provide jobs and education for the people of District 33. Dr. Alameel said he is a devote Catholic and attributes much is his success to his faith.

Chrysta Castaneda said she would help bring equal access to healthcare, especially for women, and “sustainable development that respects the unique character of the communities of District 33.” She specifically mentioned the importance of helping Texans create and keep jobs, especially in the manufacturing sector.

“We need to bring manufacturing jobs, the ability to make things ourselves, back to America,” Castaneda said.

While she has never held a state or national political office, Castaneda described herself as a successful attorney. She pledges to utilize the same skills to stand up for the needs of her constituents.

Former Dallas City Councilman, Domingo A Garcia, served from 1991-1995 and was elected as the first Hispanic Mayor Pro Tem in Dallas history. Following his career in local politics, he became the voice of his community by serving in the Texas House from 1996-2002.

Garcia described himself as a family man, a small businessman and a man of faith. He believes his political and personal experience has given him the necessary skills to serve District 33 constituents well.

“Having worked my way through college and law school before starting a small business that now employs over 100 people, I know what the families of this district need because I live here, work here and have served as a public service here for over 20 years,” Garcia said.

Garcia said he would support President Barack Obama’s American Jobs Act. He favors hiring more teachers and police officers. He would also employ more construction workers to build America’s infrastructure.

“Getting middle class families back to work should be our priority-–not bailing out the rich Wall Street bankers,” according to Garcia.

Garcia is confident his track record speaks for itself. “As State Representative, I passed the Texas DREAM Act and helped pass the “Top 10%” rule to allow African American and Hispanic students greater access to the top colleges and universities in Texas.”

He promises, “In Congress, I will fight from Day 1 to pass the Federal DREAM Act and for increased funding for education.”

Erin Kathleen Hicks was previously a Fort Worth City councilwoman in 2005 and said she is ready to serve the people again.

“I created an advisory committee while on the City Council, consisting of residents from every neighborhood of the council district I represented. I was also raised and educated in District 33. I have long worked on a grassroots level to engage residents in our political process,” Hicks said.

Hicks added, “As congresswoman my three top priorities would be fighting for better education, healthcare and jobs for the people of District 33. I pledge to remain involved in the community and not just be visible during election,” Hicks said.

Attorney, JR Molina said he is running for the District 33 office because he feels he has life and career experience in finding solutions for the challenging problems of the nation.

In 1973 he was a Municipal Court Judge in San Marcos and he served as Assistant District Attorney in Tarrant County from 1974-1979.

“My strong understanding of the legislative process in the House and a clear view of the politics of this nation qualify me to serve the residents of District 33,” Molina said. He added, “I have dealt with people and their families of all walks of life–the very poor and some very rich.”

Molina said one of the major issues he would fight for is the creation of jobs. One avenue for job creation is improving the infrastructure according to Molina. “There are 10,000 under code and dangerous bridges in the nation. Bridge building is a demand and only government investment will meet this demand,” Molina said.

President and founder of Accion America, Carlos Quintanilla, acknowledged a lack of political experience. However, points to his experience organizing various campaigns on behalf of the Hispanic community of Dallas and creating programs that helped feed 100,000 meals to minority children in the Dallas.

Quintanilla said he will be a concerned advocate on behalf of District 33 if elected.

“I will use my position as a Congressman to encourage jobs, promote corporate reciprocity. If our community spends money on Sprint, on Verizon, on at McDonalds, at Valero and at El Rancho then they must reinvest back into our community,” Quintanilla believes. “We must ask not what our community has done for you, but what have you done for our community,” he added.

Jason Eric Roberts, although new to politics, said if elected he would develop action based, short-term initiatives to address major issues such as public safety in District 33.

“When communities feel unsafe, everything breaks down including the economic and educational structure,” Roberts said. His other three priorities are fighting for a better educational and economic system and better transportation for District 33 residents.

Roberts said he has the track record and the passion to work towards making District 33 a better place. “I’ve developed Better Block projects in cities around the nation that literally turn blighted and underused buildings and blocks into neighborhood destinations complete with businesses, improved infrastructure and a strong focus on safety,” Roberts said.

Steve Salazar, a lawyer and former Dallas City Councilman from 1995-2001, said he is running to continue to serve the people. During the debate, Salazar also said he would work to help create more jobs and improve the educational system for the residents of District 33.

According to Salazar his passion for serving people and getting things done make him qualified to serve the citizens of District 33.

Rev. Kyev Tatum said he has never held a political seat but this was a personal race for him because he was born, raised and lives in the district.

Tatum said as a minister he has experience confronting issues and bringing people together. He said he would focus on jobs and education because there is a dire need of these two things in this district.

“My district is 80 percent minority and two-thirds of them have a median income under $25,000. What kind of jobs are you going to bring to those who are uneducated – minimum wage,” Tatum asked?

Manuel T. Valdez currently serves the Justice of the Peace, a position he has held since 1981. Through this position, Valdez has served a diverse community for 30 years. Valdez suggests his service in the Marine Corps as a combat veteran during Vietnam gives him an invaluable perspective on national defense.

Valdez promises to work to improve jobs and economic development, healthcare and restore confidence in the government. “I will work with the President on these issues and not defund and destroy its [healthcare reform] important provisions as has been promised by the Republican Party,” Valdez said.

Chuck W. Bradley is the sole Republican running for the District 33 Congressional seat.

Bradley described himself as a Christian conservative family man with no desire to be a career politician. He feels qualified to run for this position as a retired small business owner he is knowledgeable about the creation of jobs and economics.

Although Bradley has never served in a political office, he promises to help the residents of District 33 by reducing fuel costs through American energy independence. His pledges include getting a gallon of gas below $2.75 and to create private sector jobs through energy development and reduction of federal regulations.

The primary election is May 29 with the general election on November 6.

Editor’s note: The print edition mistakenly did not include the following:

State Representative Marc Veasey who currently serves the 95th House District said he has advocated for North Texas residents since he became a state representative in 2004. Veasey said he has a record of fighting for strong public schools, creating job opportunities, economic development and improving access to quality health care since he became a state representative in 2004 and he would continue to do so if elected to serve the people of District 33.

“I have a proven record of building strong coalitions and being an effective leader. During my freshmen year in the Texas House of Representatives I was recruited to serve as the floor whip. Additionally, I currently serve in a leadership position in the state legislature, as the House Democratic Caucus Chair,” Veasey said.

Filed Under: Community Spotlight, Lead Story Tagged With: election 2012, vote

Why your vote matters Part 2

May 10, 2012 By NDG Staff No Comments

NDG’s View, Editorial

It’s election time again. Time to cast your vote. An incessant barrage of political ads via television and radio commercials, billboards, and bumper stickers surrounds us. Each touting who is the best man or woman for the job. Who will it be, Obama or Romney? That is the question everyone is asking. That is the race everyone is focusing on.

But what about who is going to be the next city council member for Dallas, Garland, Irving, etc. Who is going to serve on the State Board of Education or the County Commissioner’s Court? All of these are key officials with a direct impact on the day-to-day lives of your family and the education of your children.

If you have a teenager who is out walking the streets or driving in a vehicle with their peers after midnight what are the repercussions? Are there zoning changes being implemented which will impact your neighborhood? These every day choices and rights from how often you can water your lawn, what textbooks your child will be using, or the local and state abortion related laws. They are put into office by your vote – if you vote.

It was the elected predominantly Republican Christian Texas Board of Education who in 2010 moved to change Social Studies textbooks, which basically whitewash slavery. That’s right. The good GOP Christians didn’t want the founding fathers being depicted as evil, abusive slave-owners but rather God fearing, patriotic bible toting Christians who merely sought to expose their Black slaves, who insignificantly were quite happy while picking cotton, to the way of Christ.

Conservative board member Cynthia Dunbar had the following to say about the decision. I believe no one can read the history of our country without realizing that the Good Book and the spirit of the savior have from the beginning been our guiding geniuses. Whether we look to the first charter of Virginia, or the charter of New England, or the charter of Massachusetts Bay, or the fundamental orders of Connecticut, the same objective is present, a Christian land governed by Christian principles.

Well, images of White men lynching Black men and raping Black women would definitely contradict that assertion.

Christian values are always the alleged reason and motivation behind the GOP’s legislative agenda. Such is the claim for the passage of a state law in 2011, requiring women to undergo a sonogram while listening to the doctor’s medical description of the fetal image before an abortion can be performed.

This important sonogram legislation ensures that every Texas woman seeking an abortion has all the facts about the life she is carrying, stated Governor Rick Perry.

Perhaps we are cynical, but it is doubtful facts are the impetus behind the GOP’s push for the law. And for a group of people who are constantly screaming smaller government, this is quite an overreach of big brother’s arm into the personal lives of women.

That seems to be the case with much of the legislation the Republican Party is advocating these days. Probing into and stripping away the rights of the disenfranchised, specifically Blacks and Latinos, while turning a blind eye to corporate malfeasance. Imposing austerity on the middle class and poor while creating loopholes and tax breaks for the wealthiest.

This is why despite the first African-American holding the most senior office in the land; things have not significantly changed in the day-to-day lives of Blacks. Black unemployment remains the highest. The median wage for Blacks is still lagging behind their peers. More Black men are incarcerated and victims of police brutality and fatal killings. The life expectancy for Black men remains the lowest.

All of these startling realities are in no way an attempt to downplay the election of President Barack Obama or the significance of who sits in the oval office. But it has never been about one man.

Take the time to vote Saturday, May 12. Each community throughout DFW is hosting school board, justice of the peace, and city council elections. On May 29 the primary elections will be held to determine who will fight to represent you in Washington.

Filed Under: Community Spotlight, Feature Story Tagged With: Dallas, election 2012, Garland, Irving, voting

Three candidates vying for County Commissioner District 1 seat

May 10, 2012 By NDG Staff No Comments

By Ruth Ferguson, NDG Editor

For Dallas County Commissioner Court District 1 the Democrats have three challengers in the upcoming election. They are Daniel Clayton, Theresa Daniel and Gloria Levario. The Republican primary features two candidates: Cecile Fernandez and Larry Miller. District 1 was redrawn and is expected to ultimately be a Democratic victory.

A brief look at the Democrats facing off in the primary on Saturday May 29:

Daniel Clayton, 35 years old, has lived in the district for eight years and holds a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Clayton has worked in various roles on behalf of the Democratic Party in Dallas County, going back to his days as a young volunteer with his father on the late Texas Governor Ann Richards. For over five years he has served as a senior staff member for State Senator Royce West.

Clayton’s website indicates he had an active role in helping to develop policy involving Health and Human Services, State Affairs, Veterans Affairs and Military Installations, redistricting, voting rights and ethics legislation.

Locally Clayton has advocated on behalf of Dallas County citizens in his role as a social worker. Fair housing, protecting the rights and benefits of those unemployed, disabled, or receiving Social Security are issues he addressed in that role.

Throughout March and April Clayton hosted a “Listening Tour” where he listened to the voters concerns. He plans to focus on building a strong local economy with transportation being a key component. Clayton asked the voters about their concerns related to Parkland Hospital promising to ensure affordable and accessible health care is available to all residents of District 1. Public safety is an issue Clayton is involved in as a steering committee member for Ferguson Road Weed & Seed (a federal crime prevention and community revitalization program). The program works with federal, state and local law enforcement in partnership with community and neighborhood organizations to reduce crime and rejuvenate neighborhoods.

For more information visit http://www.claytonforcommissioner.com.

Theresa Daniel has lived in Dallas County for 35 years and is a manger for Dallas Independent School District. Daniel holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy & Public Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages. She has been involved in numerous organizations including the League of Women Voters, Dallas County Democratic Party Advisory Committee, North Dallas Texas Democratic Women and the Stonewall Democrats of Dallas.

According to her website, “I am able to build coalitions because working in groups is part of the fabric of my life, whether on the job at DISD, or working as a volunteer or board member with the many community groups I have been involved with over the years.” Daniel feels this is critical because of the balanced racial diversity of the district.

If elected, Daniel promises transparency, integrity and to effectively utilize taxpayer dollars. She is confident her management skills developed throughout our career will help to serve the citizens in District 1.

She is quoted as saying, “Helping people has been at the center of my family’s values from day one.” Daniel believes Dallas County can do better and with her extensive management experience and volunteer work with diverse groups throughout Dallas County Daniel believes she is the right candidate for District 1.

For more information visit http://www.theresadaniel.com/.

Gloria Levario holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology, minor in Philosophy from Texas Tech University. Her community involvement includes membership in LULAC, participating in R.L. Turner High School’s Mentoring Program and serving as a board member for the Homeward Bound: Substance Addiction Rehabilitation Center.

In addition to organizing voter registration drives, Levario has been actively involved protecting civil rights for minorities, services for the elderly in the community and poverty and food issues for the underserved.

According to her website, Levario platform includes promising proven leadership, and a focus on results and the future of Dallas County. She promises to bring decorum back to the Commissioner’s Court.

For more information visit http://www.gloriafordallas.com/.

Filed Under: Community Spotlight, Latest News

Irving City Councilman calls for investigation related to mayor’s comments in political advertisement

May 10, 2012 By NDG Staff No Comments

Following Irving’s Mayor Beth Van Duyne comments published on a political flyer, City Councilman Dennis Webb is calling for an investigation into alleged wrongdoing.

Tom Spink is running for one of the city’s at-large city council seats. His opponent in the election on Saturday May 12 is incumbent Rick Stopfer. On a flyer, which includes an endorsement of Spink by Van Duyne she is quoted, “I am confident Tom will help me finally put an end to the backroom deals and high-dollar payoffs from special interest groups.”

Van Duyne has rejected Webb’s call for more details and indicated her comments were related to private meetings between city council members and the private developers of the Las Colinas entertainment center. The project is expected to cost $252 million with funding a combination of taxpayer dollars and support from the private developer the Las Colinas Group.

Despite agreeing with Webb about the need for an investigation into possible wrongdoing by members of the city council members in a private meeting with the developers, Van Duyne has not provided any additional information or named any of the members.

City officials have indicated it is unlikely their suggestion will lead to an investigation. They view the mayor’s comments as a part of political rhetoric, according to City Manager Tommy Gonzalez’s response to the Dallas Morning News last week. She is invited to submit a formal request through the proper channels.

According to Van Duyne, her comments were not meant as a direct accusation against any member of the council. Instead she was referring to the culture of City Hall.

Webb is concerned that unless this matter is clarified everyone’s reputation is tainted by such broad charges. As a minister and community leader, this is a serious allegation and Webb does not want his reputation or credibility impacted by innuendo.

Filed Under: Community Spotlight, Latest News Tagged With: Irving

Collin County files criminial mischief charges against Deion Sanders

May 3, 2012 By NDG Staff No Comments

By Ruth Ferguson

Deion Sanders is now facing criminal mischief charges according to a statement released by The Town of Prosper this afternoon It is a Class A Misdemeanor Criminal Mischief filed by the Collin County District Attorney’s Office for review. If convicted, Sanders faces up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.

The former Dallas Cowboy has not been arrested and because the investigation is on-going the city does not plan to release any additional information. According to news reports earlier today, the charges stem from him allegedly breaking or damaging the cell phone of his estranged wife Pilar’s friend when they allegedly attacked him on April 23.

According to USA Today, Pilar’s attorney, Larry Friedman, Sanders repeatedly called the police on his client until finally they arrested her. They are suggesting this was a campaign by Sanders to have Pilar removed from his home. His attorneys have reportedly stated that she is unfit to have custody of their three children.

When someone tweeted that a warrant was issued for his arrest earlier today, Sanders responded “its a lie my man.”

Filed Under: Community Spotlight, Crime, Latest News, National Tagged With: crime, deion sanders

Why your vote matters

May 2, 2012 By NDG Staff 1 Comment

NDG’s View

“He who does not move does not notice his chains.” – Rosa Luxemburg

The right to vote, is a privilege for which African-Americans fought and died. This is hard to believe given today’s apathy and lack of involvement by our community, particularly our younger generations. But in 1965 when the United States Congress passed the Voting Rights Act enforcing the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution it marked a pivotal point in the Civil Rights Movement. Prior to President Lyndon Johnson signing the bill into law Blacks by and large had no political voice. They had no say in deciding what laws their elected officials would enact to affect their everyday lives. This was one of the main reasons for such a push by organizations such as Congress of Racial Equality or CORE and the Southern Christian Leadership Council (SCLC). They understood without the law on their side, backing them, their fight could never be won.

During this era, the fight was clear, the tactics were overt, and our enemy was in plain sight. There was no double talk or coded language. White America had very strong feelings about keeping Black America oppressed and was not shy in vocalizing their sentiments. There was no guessing where one stood. You knew.

I have always argued this is a far better predicament than the current one we find ourselves in today. See when you can spot your enemy and see from which direction they are coming, you know how to arm yourself. You can prepare. More importantly, you can defend yourself.

Today the enemy is hidden. We do not easily see him. We cannot easily recognize him. He is even among us. We have become so lethargic many of us do not even realize there is a fight. We are not even aware of the assaults that are taking place on our liberties. Those same liberties for which our ancestors and community were beaten, jailed and killed to obtain.

All across the U.S. voting rights are under attack by the Republican Party. Legislation is being pushed by GOP Senators that would completely infringe upon your ability to exercise your constitutional right to vote. Just recently Texas legislation requiring voters to show government-issued identification at polls was blocked by President Barack Obama’s administration. The law was under review by the US Department of Justice, who also blocked a similar law in the state of South Carolina in December.

In March of this year in the state of Ohio, the GOP attempted to circumvent voters the right to vote against harmful legislature. In other words, laws, which would strip citizens of their rights, would not even make it to the ballot for citizens to be afforded the opportunity to vote against it.

In the state of Maine, Tea Party Republican Governor Paul LePage, with the help of his GOP allies in the Senate, were able to push through legislature reversing a 38 year old law enabling voters the ability to register to vote the day of elections.

In Colorado, Wisconsin, Mississippi and several other states strict voter identification laws are emerging which seek to target and affect people of color. One must ask the question what here is at stake? Why after almost 50 years is there such a tenacious attack on voting rights? More importantly, how does this impact you and what is your role?

Exercising your right to vote is one of the most fundamental liberties in making your voice be heard. Corporations and the super wealthy speak with their wallets. We do not have that option. Our only option is at the polls. And it is not only our civic duty, but our responsibility as humans to stand and be accounted for, to not just have a voice but let that voice be heard.

As the old saying goes if you do not use it, you lose it.

Filed Under: Community Spotlight, Latest News, Op Ed Tagged With: election 2012, Irving

Is Irving really ready for change?

May 2, 2012 By NDG Staff No Comments

NDG View

Is the City of Irving ready for a change? That’s the question that seems to be resonating throughout communities in our vastly populated metroplex. From all points within the Dallas and Fort Worth metro areas, it seems that everyone is familiar with the slow to change processes of Irving. Granted, the Irving Independent School District was once recognized as one of the best in North Texas. Yes, Las Colinas and Valley Ranch, communities in Irving, are being held as the mecca for the headquarters of corporations but change to make the entire City of Irving a hub is slow, if not stagnant. Remember, Irving already lost the world famous Dallas Cowboys due to this stagnation. How long until the corporations begin to follow suit?

There is a band of 500 plus individuals based in the Las Colinas area and North Irving who have been providing misinformation, creating a serious obstacle to diversity as Irving seeks to live up to its potential to offer opportunities to all of its citizens. There is a quintessential lack of leadership that has led to the current gridlock that is undermining development and full citizen participation.

If the leaders of Irving don’t find a common ground and learn to work together with all residents for the good of Irving, we will soon have empty palaces in their beloved Las Colinas area and developers that are seeking to do business in their communities will bi-pass them just as Jerry Jones chose to take the Cowboys to Arlington.

But the real question is, can this fast growing city – the 2010 Census reported a 12 percent increase – provide all of its residents with safety, quality education and a stronger economic system? It seems a myriad of candidates have emerged, claiming ideas to make Irving better. The following candidates appeal to the North Dallas Gazette due to their qualifications and willingness to get beyond the gridlock at the council and Irving Independent School Board Level.

These seven candidates are throwing their hats in the ring for the two single-member district seats (Place 4 and Place 6), one at-large seat (Place and the top spot for the Mayoral and Place 2 seats. While the race for these seats is in full swing for the upcoming May 12 election and early voting continues until May 8, Irving voters are still pondering the swiftly approaching decision. Who is the right person to represent all of Irving and its residents? Who will make the necessary changes to make Irving a better city for safety, economic stability and education?

The stand out candidates for Irving City Council includes William “Bill” D. Mahoney, Rick Stopfer and Fran Bonilla. Voters have had several chances to meet their candidates but here is a brief review of each stand out candidate willing to do more for Irving than just make empty promises.

Mahoney is a retired U.S. Army Captain and the founding partner of Boteler, Mahoney and Gray, LLP in Irving. He has served as the Irving Commissioner for six years which will aid him in his bid for Irving City Council, Place 6. His experience as commissioner has provided a true understanding of what Irving means to the residents and surrounding communities. He knows how much these communities rely on the corporations that call Las Colinas home. His platform promises to expand the tax base, including targeted retail; lower property taxes; limit influence of special interests; take advantage of Irving’s assets to improve its future; provide sound decision making and common sense to the issues effecting Irving residents; and be pro-business fiscal conservative.

Stopfer is a long-serving city council member, since 1998, and has larger plans for Irving with his bid for the Place 8 Council seat. His plans include completing the Comprehensive Development Agreement to receive $2.6 billion for the reconstruction of SH 183; job creation for a private hotel to support the Irving Convention Center; advancing major development and redevelopment opportunities in both the commercial and residential sectors; and continuing plans to meet future water demands by encouraging and supporting conservation.

The final candidate is Bonilla, a candidate for the District 4 Council seat and a longtime resident of Irving. Her familiarity with Irving puts her in the right position to know about the communities and what needs to be changed to benefit all. Her plans if elected include the new development of quality corporations and businesses; to continue bringing new development and revitalization to Irving, creating a “green friendly” city; and addressing the basic revitalization of the South part of Irving.

These candidates realize the city is now predominantly Hispanic at 41 percent. Therefore, it is important not to exclude any resident but rather give all residents – Hispanics, Whites and African Americans – a fair chance at business development and partnerships with the city, jobs created by the Irving Convention Center and other economic development plans and the best education system in the DFW.

About Irving ISD

According to the 2010 Census, there were 33,563 students enrolled in Irving ISD (IISD). While the educational scores for IISD were good, candidates for both Irving City Council and IISD believe they can and should be better.

If Irving doesn’t get busy educating students, they will not have qualified residents to take advantages of the opportunities from the Fortune 500 companies positioned in the Irving area. Without an eligible workforce, corporations will be forced to flee Irving in search of communities that can meet their employment needs. The candidates for the IISD elections who are positioning themselves to make IISD better include A.D. Jenkins and Valerie Jones.

Jenkins and his wife have put three boys through the Irving school system and have been very involved from the PTA to starting youth organizations. He pledges to make Irving ISD a school district that includes ALL children. His platform for Place 3 includes determining the best course to improve student performance and mastery of core subjects by raising the bar in the classrooms; identifying and implementing the best ways to get more parents involved in their student’s achievement plan; and instituting a plan for cultural sensitivity by establishing a reputation for respecting cultural differences.

Jones, a current Irving ISD trustee seeking re-election, is passionate about education. She has a history of creating successes in IISD. She plans to implement, if elected to Place 4, the following changes to IISD: getting every student in IISD ready for college and/or career placement; reducing the dropout rate; financially strengthening Irving ISD by reducing spending when necessary; ensuring the State of Texas pays its fair share for educating students; and creating a school district that supports teachers and learning.

Whether on the city council or serving IISD, these candidates are the most qualified to make the changes necessary to Irving’s future development. Residents of Irving should run, not walk, to the polls during early voting or on the May 12 election day, so that Irving can once again be the hub for business, education and safety it once was. All residents in Irving want to be included in the economic growth of their city from job opportunities to business ownership. The candidates above are passionate about education, business development and economic growth. More importantly, they are passionate about Irving and ALL of its residents.

Go vote May 12 or early vote through May 8.

Filed Under: Community Spotlight, Feature Story, Op Ed Tagged With: election 2012, Irving

Celebrate Healthy Kids Day with the Y!

May 2, 2012 By NDG Staff No Comments

With summer right around the corner, this is a perfect time to get moving! For most kids, the end of the school year means more free time for adventures, outdoor activities, and fun with friends. At the same time, we know that a few months of inactivity can lead to critical gaps in health and education that put kids at risk for childhood obesity and learning loss. For parents, keeping their kids healthy and active during the summer requires planning and preparation.

Kids participate in fun group exercises at one of the YMCA's Healthy Kids Day® events. Healthy Kids Day, the largest health day for kids, will be celebrated at Y's nationwide on April 28. (Photo by YMCA of the USA)

To encourage kids to keep their minds and bodies moving this summer, Y’s across the country celebrated Healthy Kids Day® on Saturday, April 28.

As part of Healthy Kids Day, the Y is encouraging kids to “Take on Summer” through free events at more than 1,900 Ys across the country. These events will feature fun and educational activities designed to inspire healthy habits and learning. Y’s will provide resources and tips for parents to begin thinking about simple ways to keep their kids active throughout the summer.

Filed Under: Health, Latest News Tagged With: children, Let's Move