Library Awards Given to Eloise Sherman, Maxine Holmes
Eloise Sherman received the second annual A.C. Greene Award recently in honor of her contributions toward advancing reading and literacy in Dallas. Maxine Holmes, a Dallas Public Library staff member for 49 years, received the Lillian M. Bradshaw award, which recognizes an outstanding staff member.
Both award presentations were made at the Friends of the Dallas Public Library annual luncheon.
Eloise began volunteering in the library 12 years ago. She spearheaded fundraising projects for the Lakewood Branch Library oral history project and to publish the book “Reminiscences: A Guide to Old East Dallas.” The projects led to formation of the Friends of the Lakewood Library group, and Eloise served as the organization’s first president.
“I’ve always had, in the back of my mind, the need to be associated with community organizations that help people,” she says.
Eloise also helped found the library’s literacy program, which led to organization of the Literacy Volunteers of America-Dallas. More than 500 adults currently participate in the one-on-one program, receiving free reading tutoring. The program is funded largely by private donations of money and time.
“You can find the time to do anything you want to,” Eloise says. “If you want to commit yourself to whatever you think is good, you can find the time to do it. You don’t have to give that much time to make a difference. People who say they don’t have the time are just using a crutch.”
“If, as you get older, you are committed to something greater than yourself, maybe that’s the secret of a long, happy life,” says Eloise, who at 80 is president of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and the Literacy Volunteers of America-State of Texas. To volunteer for the literacy program, call 670-7836.
The Greene Award and accompanying cash prize were presented to Frederick Meier last year.
Meanwhile, the Bradshaw Award caps a 49-year Dallas Public Library career for Maxine. She began as a clerk in the children’s department, later became the library director’s administrative assistant, and currently oversees most library special events and works with the Municipal Library Advisory Board.
Woodrow Group Advances to State One-Act Contest
Woodrow Wilson’s One-Act Play group advanced to state competition this year, picking up District and Regional honors along the way.
Fifteen actors and four crew members presented “One” by Texas playwright Ramsey Yelvington, marking the third consecutive year a Woodrow group has advanced to state competition. The group is directed by Monty Holamon.
YWCA Plans Summer Teen Leadership Club
The YWCA on Ross Avenue is organizing a Teen Leadership Summer Club from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. weekdays. The Club is open to students ages 11 to 15.
Activities include field trips to radio and television stations, skating, bowling, leadership development activities, and guest speakers with topics such as drug and alcohol abuse, decision-making and conflict resolution. Registration is $30, club membership is $15 and weekly fee is $55. For information and registration, call 827-5600 or visit the YWCA, 4621 Ross Avenue.
Lakewood Library Hosts Summer Storytelling Series
The Lakewood Library Friends and the Lakewood Branch Library are sponsoring a “Family Summer Storytelling Series” on several Sundays in June.
Elizabeth Ellis will lead the program on Father’s Day, June 16. Joe Hayes will tell stories and folktales from Hispanic, Anglo and Native American cultures Sunday, June 23. Both presentations begin at 7 p.m.; admission is free. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket and picnic dinner for the outdoor programs.
The library also is sponsoring “Capers for Kids,” an education creative and performing arts organization, for a July 25 workshop at 3:30 p.m. Children ages six to 10 will be asked to read an adventure book prior to class; upon arrival at the library, the children will choose costumes and bring the characters to life.
Admission is free. Enrollment is limited, and advance registration is required. Register at the library, 6121 Worth Street at Abrams Road, or call 670-1376 for information.
Crime Commission Seeks Donated Office Equipment
The non-profit Greater Dallas Crime Commission, which offices in the First Interstate Bank building near the Lakewood Shopping Center, is seeking donated office equipment and furniture to help continue its programs.
Among items needed are a photocopier, fax machine, letter-quality computer printer, desk and credenza, typewriter stand, secretarial chairs and reception-area furniture.
The Crime Commission, led by executive director Mary Poss, helps sponsor the Crime Stoppers program, in addition to lobbying the State Legislature for effective crime-fighting measures.
Call 828-1722 for more information.
