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This Week
Top photo: Rosemary Mills volunteers to help the Little Elm Library at their "Back to School" book and supply sale. Ms. Mills is Also part of the Little Elm Cancer Care Group.
Second photo: Little Elm Adult Seniors and guests meet at the Community Center for their July " Ice Cream Social."
Third photo: Little Elm Chamber of Commerce July Meeting.
Fourth Photo: Karaoke at The Lion's Den.
Little Elm area residents listed
on Texas Woman’s University honors list
Texas Woman’s University has released the Dean’s List and Chancellor’s List for the Spring 2010 semester.
Undergraduate students who complete at least 12 graded credit hours and achieve the minimum grade point average as determined by their particular college or school are eligible for Dean’s List.
Little Elm residents on the Dean’s List include: Kamilla Depaula, Laura Higgins, Amanda Howard, Xin Li, Tori Masters, Jacqueline NeylandAlly Nguyen, Leslie Shaw, Amy Voss and Dawn Wilson-Hawkins.
Little Elm residents on the Chancellor’s List include: Danielle Gabriel, Kimberly Gaffney, Melissa Glenn, Simone Hadowsky, Brenda Hernandez, Molly Maffay, Bridgett Prather, Beverly Slifer, Keri Sparks and Evangelina Stum.
Oak Point residents on the Dean’s List include: April Boyles and Kimberly Kidd.
Oak Point residents on the Chancellor’s List include: Teri Clark, Jacqueline Nicholson, Andrew Smith and Kathleen Stewart.
NTTA Board Chooses Alignment
for Dallas North Tollway Extension
At its regularly scheduled July meeting, the NTTA Board of Directors chose an alignment for the Phase 4B/5A extension of the Dallas North Tollway. The selected alignment straddles the Collin-Denton county line and extends 11.9 miles from FM 423 in Collin County to FM 121 in Grayson County.
“Though planned for well in the future, both Denton and Collin counties will benefit from the economic development associated with NTTA roadways,” said NTTA Board Vice Chairman Victor Vandergriff. “All three alignments studied were comparable in cost and other characteristics. The county alignment provided a greater economic development benefit for more of the region, requires less right of way and follows an existing county road system.”
NTTA followed long-established procedures to study three possible alignments, as well as a no-build alternative, and used established criteria to evaluate characteristics of each alternative. The three alignment alternatives studied were:
A West Alternative through Denton County with the terminus in Pilot Point
A Middle Alternative through southern Collin County and north along the Collin/Denton county line
An East Alternative north through Collin County and the Town of Celina
The DNT extension project is divided into two sections. Phase 4A would extend from U.S. 380 to FM 428. Phase 4B/5A would extend north of FM 428. The alignment selected by the NTTA Board of Directors is part of Phase 4B/5A.
Since October 2009, the corridor management team has conducted eight work group meetings with public and elected officials. An executive work group was comprised primarily of elected and public officials. A technical work group was comprised primarily of public officials within government and agency transportation or engineering departments. Public meetings were held on March 9 and 11, 2010 in Collin and Denton counties. Approximately 700 people attended the meetings. In addition, more than 300 public comments were received.
A formal public hearing regarding the complete schematic design and environmental evaluation is expected early next year.
The North Texas Tollway Authority has continued to extend the original Dallas North Tollway for several decades as communities to the north have continued to grow and request expansions. The high growth rate in both Collin and Denton counties, along with input from both counties, encouraged the NTTA to continue the extensions further north. When complete, the 4B/5A extension will be a limited access toll road with six main lanes and four frontage road lanes and is expected to cost $864 million.
Little Elm Public Library Newsletter
By Tina Hagar, Little Elm Librarian
Summer is normally the time when people travel, whether by car, train, boat, bus or plane. Traveling by plane is my least favorite. What few times I have flown, I believe it is very important to follow whatever rules the airlines ask you to follow. One rule that I have seen ignored on more than one occasion involves the turning on of electronic devices at the appropriate time. I always have this fear that one of these times, there will be so many people turning on their laptops or cell phones at the wrong time it will interrupt the plane mechanisms and we will all perish because someone could not wait a couple more minutes to read an e-mail or text a message. As if this were not bad enough, according to an article in Computerworld, Wi-Fi is available on one in three U.S. planes http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9179181/Wi_Fi_available_on_1_in_3_U.S._planes?source=CTWNLE_nlt_dailyam_2010-07-16
So, if computer use is encouraged, and so many people already turn on their computer before they are supposed to, why continue having the rule? Please email me at library@littleelm.org attn: Tina (plane drain) to share your thoughts.
If you are looking for reading material for your trips, bestsellers added this week include: “Spies of the Balkans,” by Alan Furst; “The Search,” by Nora Roberts; and “The Island,” by Elin Hilderbrand.
Summer is almost over and the countdown to the new school year is starting but there is still time to do some fun things at your library. For example, the Texas Tornado Hockey reading program for all ages starts on Monday, Aug. 2nd. Drop by the library and pick up your reading form, read or listen to ten items, and turn the form back in by Wednesday, Aug. 25th to receive your rewards. Kids ages 2 through 12 who complete the form will receive a free hockey game ticket. Teen and adult entries will be put into a hockey game prize pack drawing.
The library is partnering with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to encourage children ages 5-12 years old to enter the USCIS National Children’s Art Project “We Are America.” There is still time to drop by the library to pick up the entry form and turn in the completed project to the library by Thursday, Aug. 12th at 8 p.m.
There will be cave painting at the library on Tuesday, Aug. 3rd at 5 p.m. and the Teen Advisory Group will be learning about Geology on Thursday, Aug 5th at 5:30 p.m. If you like to dance or would like to learn, Ms. Terri holds a free dance class every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the library for ages 11-19.
For the adults who would like to improve communication and leadership skills, the Little Elm Toastmasters is the group for you. Meetings are held on the first and fourth Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. and on the first Saturday of every month at 1 p.m.
For more information about anything, contact the library at 214-975-0430; e-mail library@littleelm.org; or visit the website at www.littleelm.org/library. We look forward to hearing from you.
Hunter Safety and Education
By Eddie Baggs, Denton County Extension Agent
Texas is a big state with extended unpopulated regions. These regions are home to many wildlife species, most of which are game for recreational hunting. Hunters in Texas spend over 25 million days hunting and contribute over one billion dollars a year to the state’s economy. Also, 95 percent of hunters in Texas are residents of the state. With so many Texans participating in the sport of hunting, firearm safety is very important. The diversity of the different types of hunting in Texas also factors into the safety issue. Within our boundaries, there are deer, turkeys, feral hogs, dove and quail to name a few. While public hunting opportunities exist, private leased lands make up the majority of hunting areas.
While hunting provides many Texans with a sporting and recreational hobby, vacation or even a job... it can be dangerous if safety education does not come first. The Texas Hunter Education Manual lists several safety precautions (commandments) when hunting. The first of these is to treat every firearm or bow with same respect you would show a loaded gun or nocked arrow. Also, hunters are encouraged to always point the muzzle of a gun in a safe direction. Hunters are also encouraged to be sure of the target, both what is in front of and beyond the target. Firearms should always be unloaded when not in use. It is also advised to be extremely careful when handling firearms, arrows and ammunition. Hunters should always control emotions when it comes to safety to avoid careless mistakes. Hearing and eye protection is also a must especially on firing ranges. Never drink alcohol or take drugs before or while handling firearms, bows or arrows.
Hunting Safety is taken very seriously especially in Texas. Hunter Education is required to obtain a hunting license if you were born after Sept. 2, 1971. The minimum age to take the course is nine years old, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian if under 12 years old. Participants are also required to pass an exam at the end of the training course. In Denton, a Hunter Safety Course is being hosted at the County Extension Office on August 28 and 29, 2010 (Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.) Attendance is required for both days. The cost for the course is $15 with limited seating available. You can reserve a spot by calling the Denton County Extension Office at 940-349-2880 or email Pamela.Hill@dentoncounty.com.
Cook Inspiration
By Christie Northrup
It’s not what you cut; it’s the way you cut it!
Great recipe when you harvest summer vegetables.
The Recipe
Vegetable Ribbons
2 large carrots
2 medium zucchini
1 Tablespoon cooking oil
1 clove garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon cumin
½ cup water
2 Tablespoons finely chopped pecans
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Cut carrots and zucchini into long, thin strips, which will curl and become ribbons. Heat oil over medium-high heat then add garlic, chili powder and cumin. Cook 2 minutes; stir occasionally. Add carrots and water. Cover and cook until almost tender, about 4 minutes. Add zucchini strips and cook another 4 minutes. Sprinkle with pecans and cilantro and serve.
The Message
My kids and husband often remind me when I get cross with them that they don’t mind the words I use, but they don’t like the way I say them using a harsh tone. Two persons can read an exact paragraph, and because of their intonations, accents, rhythm and tone, the meaning can actually be different.
If you want a different flavor from common vegetables like the carrot and zucchini used in this recipe, simply cut or slice them a different way. Most people shred these two familiar veggies or cut them into slices. Yet, when you make long, thick slices running a sharp potato peeler down the entire side of the long, skinny veggies, you’ll create a ribbon effect. The vegetables will be thin and billowy; the flavor is accented by the southwest seasonings. You’ll experience a taste sensation you’ve never had before simply because you chose to change the way you cut a vegetable.
This copyrighted recipe and message taught in Pair-A-Bowls are compliments of Christie Northrup, owner of CookINspiration.com, where you’ll find more recipes and The Lake Cities Sun. If you have a recipe to share or comment to make, please send an e-mail to Christie@CookINspiration.com.
Engle named Executive Director
of Business and Operations
The Little Elm ISD School Board approved the superintendent’s recommendation of Linda Engle as the Executive Director of Business and Operations. Bill Moeller who served as the assistant superintendent of business services retired in June, but will rejoin the district on a part-time basis as the director of finance.
For four years, Engle served as the Assistant Superintendent of Business Operations/Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the Nacogdoches Independent School District. She was also the CFO in the Howe Independent School District for three years.
Engle began her career in Allen as the city tax assessor/collector before joining the Allen Independent School District. While with Allen ISD, she served as the executive director of budget and risk management, and the assistant superintendent of human resources.
She earned a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in American Studies from The University of Texas at Dallas and a Master’s in Business Administration from LaTourneau University.
Porter to oversee district’s
curriculum and instruction
The Little Elm ISD School Board approved the superintendent’s recommendation of Dr. Jennifer Rhea Porter as the Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction. She is the first in this newly created position following the district’s cost-saving, re-organization that was announced in June.
Dr. Porter joins the district from Garland ISD where she has served as principal of George Washington Carver Elementary for the past three years. She also served as an assistant principal in the district for five years. She began her career and subsequently taught for five years in the Dallas Independent School District.
During her career she has worked on numerous research projects with the New York University College of Education and the National Center for Restructuring Education, Schools and Teaching at Columbia University’s Teachers College. She was in the first cohort of 100 Texas principals to attend The Principal’s Center at Harvard University's Graduate School of Education.
She earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from Texas Tech University and Master’s of Education degree in Developmental Psychology from Columbia University. She earned her doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Texas.
Dr. Porter is currently an adjunct faculty member with Concordia University.
Little Elm residents earn
Texas Woman’s University degrees
Several Little Elm residents received degrees from Texas Woman’s University during the Spring 2010 graduation ceremonies.
The students included: Angelina Marie Gracian, DPT in Physical Therapy; Caesar Tantay Mermogeno, MBA in EMBA; Charles Franklin Johnson, BS in Government-Legal Studies; Christine J. Kunkel, BS in Interdisciplinary Studies; Dwayna Hicks Griffin, BS in Nursing; Erica Cherell McDaniel, MBA in EMBA; Hong Thanh Phuong Nguyen, BS in Psychology; Italo Ribeiro de Paula Filho, BS in Nursing; Jamie Kirby Lange, BS in Interdisciplinary Studies, Cum Laude; Kamilla Boman, BS in Dental Hygiene, Cum Laude; Megan Elizabeth Glenn, BS in Nursing; Rachel Ruth Block Smith, MAT in Teaching; Stephanie C. Moreno-Hart, BA in Art; Wesley Gabe Vaughan, BS in Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude.
Little Elm residents earn
University of North Texas degrees
Several Little Elm residents received degrees from the University of North Texas during the Spring 2010 graduation ceremonies.
The students included: Mandell D. Allen Jr., BAAS in Applied Arts and Sciences; Kimberly Elise Ambuter, BA in Economics; Joseph Aaron Barnes, BA in Political Science; Michael Garrett Broadus, BBA in General Business; Christin Lynn Bundy, BAAS in Applied Arts and Sciences; Lashundia D. Estes, BA in Psychology; Jami Alisa Feltner, BS in Criminal Justice; Matias J. Gonzalez, BS in Electrical Engineering; Lacey Hailey, MED in Educational Administration; Blake Geoffrey Jameson, BS in Kinesiology; Michael Craig Jones, BSET in Manufacturing Engineering Technology; Lily X. Nguyen, BS in Hospitality Management; Adrian Ramirez, BS in Hospitality Management; Brian Tony Rawlins, BBA in Risk Management and Insurance; Matthew Jacob Robinson, BBA in Finance; Stephen Charles Roberts, BA in Anthropology; Naveid Shahbizi, BA in Biology; Steve Truong, BA in Sociology; Kiannah Rene Williams, BS in Kinesiology; Amber Renee Wilson, BS in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Little Elm Public Library newsletter
By Tina Hagar, Little Elm Librarian
How many people does it take to eat a box of crickets? At Tuesday’s Food Fear Factor it took about eight. Other items on the menu included fortune cookies, astronaut cinnamon apple wedges, potted meat, baby food, smoked oysters, sardines in hot sauce, prepared horseradish, goat cheese, pickled okra, pickled pig’s feet, anchovies and dried larvae. Though the program was initially for teens “with parental permission,” the youngest of the 17 participants was three and there were even four adults who participated. The idea is to start out with simple, easy to eat foods and work up to the more grosser and harder to eat foods such as the horseradish, pig’s feet, cricket and larvae. The benefit of programs such as these is to increase people’s awareness of various types of food that they might not normally try on their own. One thing that we allow after contest participants finish is for observers to try some of the foods they have never eaten before. Except for the crickets, because we ran out before the contest was over. If you would like to suggest food for the next Food Fear Factor, email me at thager@littleelm.org.
Another way to learn about new things is by reading. Bestsellers added this week include: “Delivering Happiness: a Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose,” by Tony Hsieh; “Foreign Influence,” by Brad Thor; “Ice Cold,” by Tess Gerritsen; “Private,” by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro. Large print bestsellers added include: “Whiplash,” by Catherine Coulter; “In the Name of Honor,” by Richard North Patterson; “The Burning Wire,” by Jeffery Deaver; “The Spy,” by Clive Cussler and Justin Scott; and “That Perfect Someone,” by Johanna Lindsey. New large print Christian Fiction added this week includes: “Morning’s Refrain,” by Tracie Peterson and “Take Four,” by Karen Kingsbury.
Another library program that enables you to shop and or learn about businesses and different products and opportunities is the monthly business fair. The business fair provides many types of opportunities for people who attend including speaking with actual representatives of the business in a one on one interaction; learning about job opportunities, both self employed and regular employment; networking; shopping for upcoming events such as birthdays, holidays or other special events; and also learning about resources in your area because even though you may not need the service or product now, you never know when you might need it.
Vendors that will be in the Saturday, July 24th business fair include Little Elm Friends of the Library (promoting literacy and membership); Sam’s Club (will be providing goodie bags and a $20 gift card for those who become members); Camelot Books, Music and Games; Organo Gold (will be giving out free samples and selling bags of coffee); Avon; Homemade Gourmet; Cookie Lee Jewelry; 3-Net Solutions (marketing business); Aflac; and Peaches N Melons (homemade preserves and sauces). The business fair runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
There is still room to register for the free Home Sellers workshop being held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 24. Call the library at 214-975-0430 to reserve your spot now!
Cook Inspiration
By Christie Northrup
We all SCREAM for…
You might think the end of this statement is ice cream, but you’re only half right
The Recipe…
Ice Cream Stacks
8-10 rectangular-shaped ice cream sandwiches made with vanilla ice cream
2 cups chocolate ice cream
2 cups strawberry ice cream
(or use two flavors of your choice)
Place ice cream sandwiches in the bottom of a 9” bread pan; cut to fit and place in freezer. Stir both ice cream flavors in separate bowls so the ice cream is soft enough to spread. Remove bread pan from freezer. Spread chocolate ice cream over the sandwiches and then place another layer of ice cream sandwiches on top of it. Spread softened strawberry ice cream over the sandwiches and top with another layer of ice cream sandwiches. You should have six layers of ice cream and ice cream sandwiches. Freeze 12-24 hours. Remove from freezer 10 minutes before serving. Slice in 1”slices.
The Message…
The end of this article title could be “ice cream.” However, I think a mom who has been with her kids all summer long could end the statement with “everything!” Now that summer is more than half over, parents all over are counting the days until the commotion in the house will subside. By this time, kids (and parents) are getting tired of summer, perhaps bordering on boredom. So when a parent asks a simple question, like “What do you want to do today?” Everyone screams out a different answer.
In my opinion, this is when Neapolitan ice cream (the combination of vanilla, strawberry and chocolate) was invented. One day a mom got tired of her kids all wanting different flavors, so she combined them so everyone could enjoy some of one another’s favorite. The same tactic can be done when families are asked if where they want to go out to dinner and everyone screams a different place. You could go to a taco place for the main meal, a second restaurant for some fries and a third place for a hot fudge sundae.
Or, you can head home and create this ice cream snack; it’s almost a torte. It’s so simple, yet looks very fancy. It’s a great recipe when everyone wants something different and no one wants to compromise. When everyone screams, work together, even stack activities or tastes, and create your own dessert that everyone will be screaming for.
This copyrighted recipe and message taught in Pair-A-Bowls are compliments of Christie Northrup, owner of CookINspiration.com, where you’ll find more recipes and LittleElm.com. If you have a recipe to share or comment to make, please send an e-mail to Christie@CookINspiration.com.
Little Elm Lions Club makes presentation
The Little Elm Lions Charities presented the owner of Grape Escape an award for his support of the organization. Pictured from left to right are Maryellen Mitchell, Director, Pam Alnaguer, Secretary, Rick, owner of Grape Escape and incoming President, Carol Marszalek.
Comptroller Susan Combs distributes Monthly Sales Tax Revenue
Texas Comptroller Susan Combs today announced that state sales tax revenue in June totaled $1.61 billion, a 2.2 percent increase compared to June 2009.
“Total sales tax collections have now slightly exceeded year-ago levels for a third consecutive month,” Combs said. “Net collections in the oil and gas and manufacturing sectors expanded, but collections from the all-important retail sector were down from the year-ago level. While overall economic activity is no longer contracting, a resumption of solid growth in sales tax collections is not yet in evidence.”
On July 12, Combs will send July sales tax allocations totaling $442.8 million to cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose taxing districts, up 3.8 percent compared to July 2009.
Texas cities will receive $297.2 million, up 4.5 percent compared to July 2009. So far this calendar year, city sales tax allocations are still down 2.9 percent compared to the same time period last year. Texas counties can anticipate sales tax payments of $27 million, up 3.9 percent compared to last July. So far this year, sales tax allocations to counties are down 6.4 percent compared to this point in 2009.
Combs will send $18.3 million to 170 special purpose taxing districts, up 10.6 percent compared to last July. Ten local transit systems will get $100.1 million in sales tax allocations, up 0.5 percent compared to a year ago.
State sales tax revenue in June and local sales tax allocations in July represent sales that occurred in May.
Little Elm’s payment for June 2010 was $254,084.20, up 13.16 percent from the June 2009 payment of $224,525.27. Total payments to date for 2010 are $1,762,533.88, up 7.92 percent from last year’s total payments to date of $1,633,152.57.
Oak Point’s payment for June 2010 was $8,718.01, up 25.20 percent from the June 2009 payment of $6,963.09. Total payments to date for 2010 are $74,488.73, up 15.91 percent from last year’s total payments to date of $15.91.
Every baby to receive
Ringling Bros. ticket
Every baby born in the United States is entitled to receive his or her first ticket to The Greatest Show On Earth® absolutely free!
The program began in 1993 and the response was overwhelming. Ringling Bros. received more than 600,000 responses in the first year alone. The circus feels strongly about commitment to family and believes The Greatest Show On Earth is a unique part of America. Every child born in this country should have an opportunity to see America’s Living National Treasure.
The free admission offer is good for one ticket that is redeemable at any time during the lifetime of the child, whether at age 2 or 92.
To receive the child’s first free Ringling Bros. ticket, parents need only complete the registration form in the "Special Offers" section of www.Ringling.com or mail their name, address, newborn child’s name and date of birth to:
Baby's First Circus Program
Feld Entertainment, Inc.
8607 Westwood Center Drive
Vienna, VA 22182
The parents will in turn receive a certificate exchangeable for one admission ticket for any Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey performance in any city in any year.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents ZING ZANG ZOOM, is coming to American Airlines Center, July 28-August 8, and Fort Worth Convention Center, August 11-15.
Police and Fire Reports
(Police reports not available)
Monday, July 5
12:06 a.m. – A carbon monoxide detector was activated at the 2600 block of Waterdance Drive.
7:16 p.m. – A carbon monoxide detector was activated at the 2600 block of Pine Trail Drive.
9:50 p.m. – A carbon monoxide detector was activated at the 2300 block of Elm Valley Drive.
Tuesday, July 6
3:10 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of Doe Creek Drive and Highway 380.
Wednesday, July 7
8:05 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of King Road and Sycamore Drive.
8:15 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of Paloma Creek and Highway 380.
Thursday, July 8
7:05 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident occurred at the 100 block of Eldorado Parkway.
Friday, July 9
6:25 p.m. – A building fire was reported at the 2800 block of Eldorado Parkway.
Sunday, July 11
12:37 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of Walker Lane and Woodlake Parkway.
4:20 p.m. – A garbage dump was reported at the 1600 block of Mark Tree Lane.
Little Elm Public Library Weekly Newsletter
By Tina Hagar, Lake Cities Librarian
I don’t know if you have noticed it or not, but things are not made as well as they were “back in the day.” Luckily the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has a site that you can check for recalls and also sign up for free recall announcements by email. Visit www.CPSC.gov to register for the emails. While there you will also find their “Most Wanted” list, along with links to their “especially for kids” site (complete with gift ideas), ways to report an unsafe product, and they even have job announcements. I was pretty impressed with the amount of information available to consumers regarding product safety so I recommend taking the time to “check it out” and let me know what YOU think.
After checking out the CPSC site, don’t forget to make time to pick up a new book to read at your library. Bestsellers added this week include “Lowcountry Summer,” by Dorothea Benton Frank; “Frankenstein: Lost Souls,” by Dean Koontz; “The Overton Window,” by Glenn Beck; “Whiplash,” by Catherine Coulter; and “Medium Raw: a Bloody Valentine To the World of Food And The People Who Cook,” by Anthony Bourdain. Bestselling audio added is “The New Good Life: Living Better Than Ever In An Age Of Less,” by John Robbins.
Reading is a great way to spend some of your free time. Another thing that is fun to read and do is word puzzles. Here is one that I saw in one of my email newsletters the other day. Name a word of more than two letters that both begins and ends with the letters "he" in that order. There are two possible answers. Send an email to me at thager@littleelm.org if you think you know the answer.
Another fun way to spend free time is by entering contests. The Little Elm Cultural Arts Council has completed their judging of the Picturing America art contest that the library was holding. Thanks to everyone who participated and congratulations to the first place winners that included: adult Carlos Torres, photography category; adult Martha Caraballo, literature category; teen Rashad, literature category; and youth Cole in literature category. Stay tuned for future contests and if you are interested in finding out more information about the Little Elm Cultural Arts Council, contact Ivan Langford at ilangford@littleelm.org.
Upcoming programs of interest include the 1 p.m. Knitting Club on Saturday, July 17; and the monthly business fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 24. Also at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 24 there will be a free Home Seller’s Workshop. Registration is required so please call 214-975-0430 to reserve your spot today. We look forward to hearing from you. Is there a topic that you would like to see in the weekly library newsletter? Send an email to me at thager@littleelm.org and let me know what you have in mind.
Cook Inspiration
By Christie Northrup
No burn barbecue
Great recipe and message so your food and relationships are cooked just right
The Recipe
Juicy, Fruity BBQ Chickey
1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple with juice
¼ cup catsup
1 Tablespoon brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 chicken cut up (or use chicken pieces with skin and bone of choice)
Mix pineapple, catsup, brown sugar, salt, and chili powder together in a small bowl; set aside. Place chicken on outdoor grill, overlapping the pieces and cook for 35-40 minutes, turning as needed. During last five minutes, brush spread the sauce over the chicken. You can also pre-cook the chicken in a 350°oven for 20-30 minutes and then grill for 10-15 minutes.
The Message
We live in a condo and on both sides of our home there are units that are rented out for tourists, so we have a variety of “neighbors” during the year. Some of the neighbors visit to perform in a local pageant and stay for at least two weeks. Their schedule is demanding from 7 a.m. until nearly midnight with a few hour-long breaks in between. Even though my husband and I work long hours as we own and operate two businesses, we decided to treat the neighbors to a cookout last Sunday — their only day off from practice and performing.
Because I was cooking for 10 people instead of our normal two, I choose to barbecue chicken legs and thighs purchased at a great price. I opted to precook them in my oven, which helps me so I don’t burn the meat — my biggest hurdle to outdoor cooking!
Years ago, I learned the technique of placing the chicken pieces so they overlap each other. This way, the pieces are protected from full exposure while being grilled and completely cooked. As I was grilling yesterday, I thought of how we protect each other as neighbors when we reach out on both sides of our homes to get to know each other, if only for a few hours or days, or for decades. We might be afraid that if we open our doors or hearts, we might get burned by someone who is not friendly or happy to know us. Yet, those folks are often the ones who might have been burned in the past and really need the protection and care of others. Enjoy this recipe as you reach out and meet a new friend or neighbor and invite them to a barbecue that’s juicy and fruity!
This copyrightedrecipe and message taught in Pair-A-Bowls are compliments of Christie Northrup, owner of CookINspiration.com, where you’ll find more recipes and LittleElm.com. If you have a recipe to share or comment to make, please send an e-mail to Christie@CookINspiration.com.
Staffing change at Little Elm ISD
The following actions were approved by the Little Elm ISD School Board
at the Tuesday, July 6 meeting.
Lowman named principal at Chavez Elementary
The Little Elm ISD School Board approved the superintendent’s recommendation of John Lowman as principal of Chavez Elementary. He comes to the district with 10 years of experience as a campus principal, and six years as an assistant principal. Kathy Cawthron has accepted a principalship with another district for the new school year.
Previously, Lowman was the principal of Lee Middle School in Grand Prairie ISD. He was the principal of Sam Houston Elementary School in Ennis ISD for seven years and principal of Christian Academy of Guatemala, in Guatemala City, Central America for two years.
Lowman served for three years as an assistant principal at Corsicana High School, and three years as an assistant principal at Ennis High School.
Lowman earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Physical Education and Master’s of Science degree in Education from Stephen F. Austin State University. He also holds a Master of Art’s degree from the Dallas Theological Seminary.
Ward named principal of Oak Point Elementary
The Little Elm ISD School Board approved the superintendent’s recommendation of Misty Ward to serve as only the second principal of the district’s newest elementary school Oak Point Elementary School. She served for two years as the assistant principal with Principal Martha Werner who has moved to another district.
Ward joined the district in 2003 as a career/technology teacher at Little Elm High School, and was named the campus Teacher of the Year in 2006. She joined the campus administration the following year, and served for two years as the assistant principal for the eleventh and twelfth grades.
Ward began her career in Gunter ISD where she taught business and coached at Gunter High School. She earned a Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree in Management from The University of North Texas and Master’s of Education degree in Administration from Texas Woman’s University.
Ward resides in Pilot Point with her husband, Greg Ward, and their three children.
Margraves elevated to principal at Powell Intermediate School
The Little Elm ISD School Board approved the superintendent’s recommendation to elevate Betsy Margraves, assistant principal, to the principalship of Colin Powell Intermediate School. She replaces Principal Dee Owen who announced her retirement in late May.
She joined the district last summer from Carrollton – Farmers Branch ISD where she served as an assistant principal for six years and a teacher for seven years. Margraves began her career in 1998 as a first grade teacher.
Margraves earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A & M University – Commerce and Master’s of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Texas at Arlington. She holds a mid-management certification in School Administration from The University of Texas at Arlington.
She resides in Little Elm with her husband, Ben Margraves, and two sons.
Grief expert to speak
at Ann’s Haven luncheon
Grief expert Glen D. Herrington, Ed.D., will speak on "The Seasons of Grief" at the Tuesday, July 13 hospice family luncheon hosted by Ann's Haven VNA.
The luncheon is from noon to 1 p.m. at the Denton Elks Lodge on 228 East Oak Street in Denton. There is no cost to attend the luncheon, but reservations are requested and can be made by contacting Molly Harrison, Ann's Haven VNA bereavement coordinator, at 940-349-5900 or harrisonm@vnatexas.org.
Ann's Haven VNA hospice family luncheons offer supportive company from friendly and understanding people to individuals who have suffered the loss of a loved one.
Elementary student fitness
levels improve
A greater percentage of elementary school students achieved "healthy zone" benchmarks this year, according to results of the third round of fitness assessments established under 2007 legislation authored by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound. Gains were measured for students in grades 3-8. At the high school level, the percentage of students who met target levels on all six tests declined slightly from the previous school year.
"The improvements for our younger students are encouraging, but overall fewer than a third of Texas students recorded overall physical fitness," Senator Nelson said. "The high school results are alarming and show why this is a bad time to be cutting PE requirements."
Senator Nelson has authored legislation in several sessions that resulted in increased physical education requirements for elementary and middle-school students. In 2007, with the passage SB 530, Texas became the first state to conduct annual fitness tests.
Little Elm Public Library newsletter
By Tina Hagar, Little Elm Librarian
One thing for sure, if you’re surrounded by strangers and want to strike up a conversation, an easy and ever changing topic is the weather. This year you could easily talk about weather in other states and countries as well because this is the most unusual year for weather that I have ever seen. The comment I like to make to people who talk about the heat in June and July is “this is nothing, wait until August. If you can survive August in Texas, you can survive anything!” Actually, August last year was pretty mild. I personally think that this year is going to make up for it and then some. If you like making weather predictions send an e-mail to thager@littleelm.org and let me know what your August forecast will be.
It is important to know about and be ready for any kind of weather and the library has books that can help you be prepared. Speaking of books, there are a couple of book sales that might be of interest to you. First of all, the Little Elm Public Library is holding its annual Scholastic Book Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 10; from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday, July 12; and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 13. The book fair is a good way to purchase great books at reasonable prices and help the library at the same time. There will be other items available for sale including bookmarks, pens, pencils, erasers, posters, computer games and craft kits to name a few. These are new items and as far as I know, we should have some new books that will be available for $1 also.
A used book sale you should consider attending is the Friends of the Plano Public Library sale that’s being held July 15th (6-10 p.m. first nighter sale admission is $5 for individuals and $10 for families, free for Friends members); July 16th (9 a.m. to 9 p.m. - free admission) and July 17th (9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - free admission) All items are $2 or less. For more information visit www.friendsofplanolibrary.org or call 972-941-7193. Library used book sales are a great way to get fantastic bargains and help libraries.
Speaking of books, James Patterson has another one out… we now have Private in audio CD. New books added this month include “The Burning Wire,” by Jeffery Deaver; “The Bourne Objective,” by Robert Ludlum; “The Passage,” by Justin Cronin; “S--- My Dad Says,” by Justin Halpern (I have started reading this one and have come to the conclusion that this guy must have had the same Dad I did); and “The Lion,” by Nelson DeMille.
There is still time to sign up for the Saturday, July 10 activities that require registration. At 11 a.m. the Little Elm Crafters Guild will be making cross pendants as their jewelry project ($10 suggested donation) and at 1 p.m. that same day the Homemade Gourmet Dinner Boot Camp for ages 14 and up will be putting together four meals ($20 suggested donation). Call the library at 214-975-0430 by 5 p.m., Thursday, July 8 to reserve your spot. Two free upcoming events that you may want to register for include the Writers Group presentation of Basic Spanish at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 15 and a Home sellers Workshop presented by RE/MAX and Leader One at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 24. We look forward to hearing from you!
Little Elm Police & Fire Report
(Police reports not available)
Monday, June 28
12:35 p.m. – A gas leak was reported at the 200 block of Woodgrove Drive.
2:51 p.m. – A lock-out was reported at the 2800 block of Eldorado Parkway.
6:51 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident was reported at the intersection of FM 423 and FM 720.
Tuesday, June 29
9:07 p.m. – A smoke detector was activated at the 2600 block of Winterbury Lane.
Thursday, July 1
3:23 a.m. – A carbon monoxide incident was reported at the 100 block of Alice Drive.
12:55 p.m. – A lock-out was reported at the 2600 block of Salt Maker Way.
Friday, July 2
2:50 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident was reported at the intersection of Highway 380 and Providence.
9:24 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident was reported at the intersection of FM 423 and Little Elm Parkway.
10:42 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident was reported at the 10000 block of FM 423.
Saturday, July 3
6:17 a.m. – A lock-out was reported at the intersection of Bradford Pear Drive and Peach.
7:21 a.m. – A motor vehicle accident was reported at the intersection of Paloma Creek and Highway 380.
Sunday, July 4
7:25 p.m. – A carbon monoxide incident was reported at the 2900 block of Paint Horse Trail.
10:51 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident was reported at the intersection of Eldorado Parkway and FM 720.
July Jubilee set for Sunday
The Town of Little Elm will present its annual “July Jubilee, A Celebration of Our Nation’s Independence” from 5 to 10 p.m. Sunday, July 4th at Little Elm Park.
Festivities include food, vendors, music by Days of Grey and a spectacular fireworks display over the lake.
Days of Gray, will begin playing at 6 p.m. Opening ceremonies by town officials, the American Legion and others will begin at 7 p.m. The band will resume following the opening ceremonies and will play until the fireworks.
Parking at the park will be limited. A free park and ride shuttle will be located at the Little Elm ISD Athletic Complex located at Eldorado Parkway and Hart Street. with buses running from 4:30 until after the fireworks.
Attendees are not allowed to bring personal fireworks or glass containers but coolers are permitted.
Denton County Transportation Update
After running a series of public meetings designed to gain feedback from potential and non-potential riders, the Denton County Transportation Authority is working to quell concerns hours and the number of trains that will be run.
The DCTA A-train will be limited to running Monday through Friday, during peak times when traffic is busiest. There will be about 30 trains running per day, significantly less than about 50 trains that were expected. The trains will not run at night and are not expected to be used for special events.
DCTA’s vice president of communications and planning, Dee Leggett, said original estimates in 2008 were made with the caveat that it is based on available funding.
“When in 2009 the economy tanked,” Leggett said. “We had to revisit our sales tax projections. We had to go into a contingency plan.”
Sale tax revenues that fund the project dropped below expected levels, despite DCTA planning for an 8 percent reduction. Leggett said it won’t be until about 2014 when sales tax revenue returns to the 2008 level.
“If you total that lost revenue, that’s a $23 million number we assumed we’d have in 2008,” she said.
Leggett said the Authority could revisit the times if demands for service change.
“We felt like we could get the most bang for our buck getting the most passengers for the peak periods,” Leggett said.
Lake Cities rail construction continues to progress
DCTA is making headway in completing the crossing construction it has been working on for the past several months. Each rail crossing has been scheduled at different times, as to keep traffic flowing. The sound walls are being completed as well and will be painted soon.
“They’ll reduce the noise down to a tolerable level,” Leggett said, estimating that the sound will be reduced to about three to five decibels.
In Lake Dallas, work on the Carlisle Street should begin soon.
“We hoped to have the Main Street crossing open by now,” Leggett said. “There have been minor utility issues.”
DCTA has begun pouring sections of a new bike trail in Corinth, to run near the train tracks. Originally, a bike trail was put in where the train is set to operate.
Two workers die during
station construction
While not in Lake Cities, an event did set construction back at the Hebron Park and Ride station. When workers were pouring concrete for a 400-space parking lot, the contractor’s concrete truck’s boom collapsed and killed two men and injured two more.
“It somehow experienced an equipment failure and collapsed,” Leggett said. “The two injured workers were taken to hospitals, were one had surgery. I do not know the condition of the others.”
The incident happened Wednesday, June 24. The new station is located at Hebron Parkway and Lakeside Circle.
Police & Fire Reports
(Police Reports not received)
Sunday, June 20
9:12 a.m. – A carbon monoxide detector was activated at the 2900 block of Lakemont Drive.
1:51 p.m. – A grass fire was reported at the intersection of FM 134 and FM 133.
Monday, June 21
5:47 p.m. – A motor vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of Lake Vista and Lake Ridge.
Tuesday, June 22
11:27 a.m. – A gas leak was reported at the 3000 block of Replay Lane.
6:29 p.m. – A power line was down at the 100 block of Hardwicke Lane.
Wednesday, June 23
4:45 p.m. – A carbon monoxide detector was activated at the 2400 block of Northwind Drive.
Saturday, June 26
5:09 p.m. – An outside fire was reported at the 700 block of Eldorado Parkway.
9:35 p.m. – A lock-out was reported at the intersection of Highridge Drive and Hillside Drive.
Sunday, June 27
12:56 a.m. – A smoke detector was activated at the 2000 block of Hideaway Pointe Drive.
10:10 p.m. – A carbon monoxide detector was activated at the 2400 block of Canyon Lake Drive.
Cook Inspiration
By Christie Northrup
Red, White, Blue…Who knew?
This recipe might sound odd to you… so did beginning a new country more than 134 years ago. The Recipe
Red, White, Blue is Cool Dessert
1 sleeve graham crackers or half a package of vanilla wafer-type cookies
½ gallon vanilla ice cream (some packages are slightly less; that’s fine)
2 cups coconut
Few drops blue food coloring
12-oz can frozen fruit punch concentrate, thawed
Crush the graham crackers and place in the bottom of a 13 x 9 pan. Place the coconut in an air-tight container or jar; add the food coloring, cover and shake well until the coconut is tinted blue. Scoop ice cream into balls and quickly roll into the coconut so it doesn’t melt. Place the ice cream balls on top of the graham cracker crumbs. After forming all ice cream into balls, pour the fruit punch concentrate over the top and freeze until ice cream is firm. You can also crush additional crackers/cookies and sprinkle over the top. The Message
Before you read this recipe, did you know you can tint coconut many different colors using this simple method? Had you ever made an ice cream topping out of fruit punch? Did you ever consider using ice cream as an ingredient to a recipe like this rather than simply eating it out of a bowl or a cone?
Before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, settlers in our great country might never have considered that they could create their own country and form a “more perfect union” with “liberty and justice for all.” Certainly our founding fathers had greater difficulties in their lives than making ice cream balls and freezing them before they thawed. Thankfully they, and millions of others through the last century plus, have given their all — even their lives — so we could enjoy independence every day of our lives as citizens of the United States of America. Happy Independence Day! This copyrightedrecipe and message taught in Pair-A-Bowls are compliments of Christie Northrup, owner of CookINspiration.com, where you’ll find more recipes and www.LittleElm.com. If you have a recipe to share or comment to make, please send an e-mail to Christie@CookINspiration.com.
DCTA adds hike and bike trail along rail route
In an area where walking and biking can be difficult due to a lack of set pathways, cycling and walking enthusiasts will have the opportunity to take advantage of their own path that was taken away from them during the Denton County Transportations Authority’s A-train construction process.
The city of Denton struck a deal with the Authority when the city gave its right of way for the train project, allowing for the stipulation that when all of the construction was completed, residents would still have a hike-and-ride trail.
DCTA Vice President of Communications and Planning Dee Leggett said the trail itself will run alongside the A-train down the same corridor, weaving through the Lake Cities and Denton. There will be about 25 feet of space between the tracks and the pathway. The exact completion date was not given.
“What we’ve done is push the bike trail largely to the east side of the train corridor,” Leggett said.
The new trail is routed to connect Denton to Swisher Road in south Corinth.
Leggett said the capital budget for the construction of the hike-and-bike trail is set at about $3 million.
“There are some planning, design and engineering dollars that are not included in that number but they are nominal,” Leggett said.
Scott Franklin, president of the Corinth Cycling Club, hailed the project as a route to Denton with less traffic.
“Once they get the new track, it’ll make a big difference,” he said. “You’ll be able to ride to Denton’s Square without any traffic. It’s a challenge sometimes to find roads to ride on.”
Franklin said some areas in Shady Shores and Lake Dallas often have low traffic spots that give good riding conditions, however crossing from one side of Interstate Highway 35 to the other, still presents dangers.
“I don’t think there’s a bike lane in Corinth, Lake Dallas or Hickory Creek,” he said. “It does make it a little tough. Luckily there are a few areas where we can ride where there’s not lot of traffic.”
One of the reasons traffic can be tough to navigate is often because of narrow roads and a lack of shoulders and bike lanes.
“All the overpasses that connect Lake Dallas to Hickory Creek are really narrow,” he said. “Trying to cross there with no bike lane and narrow roads makes it difficult because of the flow of traffic. Just having a shoulder would help. A lot of these roads don’t have shoulders.”
Franklin added that for the most part drivers in the area have been respectful toward cyclists.
“Usually when we have issues, it’s with teenagers or young drivers who will gun their engine or pass by us,” he said. “For the most part drivers in the area are really considerate of riders.”
Franklin is the founder and president of Corinth Cycling Club, which he estimates has about 300 members on his mailing list. With no membership fees for the organization, most people just show up and ride. On some group rides more than 70 people may show up at a time. The club is in its sixth year of operation.
“It’s been a slow growth for us but there are a lot of people getting in to cycling lately and our numbers are really increasing,” he said.
Members of the club ride in different, smaller groups, with a ride leader setting the pace. Some are more competitive about their training than others, where members may ride anywhere from about 20 to 60 miles at a time.
In the future, Franklin hinted the city of Corinth may embrace its community
Little Elm Public Library Newsletter
By Tina Hagar, Little Elm Librarian
Every morning I try to watch the news so I am ready for any questions that might come our way during the day. It is also helpful to have current event information that I can share with others. One story that caught my attention was about plastic flag decorations that were being sold for a dollar that had 61 stars. When the marketing office received a complaint they said that it was sold as a banner decoration, not the real thing. I would think that when it comes to the United States flag, decoration or not, there should be 50 stars, nothing more, nothing less. The amount of stars and stripes on the flag is black and white or in this case, true red, white and blue. What are your thoughts on this?
Another place to get interesting information is online newsletters. For example, according to ComputerWorld, the Top Five best places to work in IT for 2010 are: University of Pennsylvania (IT training progress measured quarterly); General Mills (90 percent of IT interns become full-timers); JM Family (R&D program launches IT pilot projects); Booz Allen Hamilton (Offers more than 50 tech focus groups); and the number one best place to work in IT is USAA ($400 million spent annually on benefits). View the complete list at http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9176791/Best_Places_to_Work_in_IT_2010
Of course, the best place to get interesting books and information is your local library. Interesting bestsellers added this week include: “The Spy,” by Clive Cussler and Justin Scott; “Bullet,” by Laurell K. Hamilton; and “To Save America: Stopping Obama’s Secular-Socialist Machine,” by Newt Gingrich. Large print titles added include “Beyond the Night,” by Marlo Schalesky and “Green,” by Ted Dekker. The latest audio book added is “Sizzling Sixteen,” by Janet Evanovich.
If you enjoy buying books, don’t forget that the Little Elm Library has an ongoing book sale where you can make a monetary donation and take any items that you want. If you like to buy new books at a great price, the library will be having their annual Scholastic book fair Saturday, July 10th (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.); Monday, July 12th (10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) and Tuesday, July 13th (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.). There will be many items available. We are also looking for volunteers to help run the fair. For more information, contact the library at 214-975-0430.
Looking for something fun to do this holiday weekend? The Town of Little Elm’s annual July Jubilee celebration will be on Sunday, July 4th at Little Elm Park from 5 to 10 p.m.. There will be food and merchandise vendors, music by Days of Grey, and a spectacular fireworks display over the lake. For more information, visit www.littleelm.org.
Upcoming July library events that you might want to attend include the Friends of the Library election of officers meeting on Thursday, July 8th at 7 p.m. If you are interested in serving as an officer during this exciting time, we encourage you to attend this important meeting. On Saturday, July 10th, there will be a jewelry making class (11 a.m. to 1 p.m., suggested $10 donation with registration) and a Homemade Gourmet Dinner Boot Camp (1 to 2:30 p.m., $20 suggested prepaid donation with registration). For more information or to register for anything call the library at 214-975-0430 or email library@littleelm.org. Remember the library will be closed Saturday, July 3rd and Monday, July 5th for the holiday weekend.
