A Writer's Life: A Tribute
Once in a while we come across someone who leaves an indelible mark on us. And sometimes that mark is so unforgettable, we feel obligated to turn and impress it onto the next closest person. And they will turn and do the same. So on, and so forth. This is the way a legacy is born – starting quietly with one incredible someone who doesn’t realize the impact they are making by just being them.
For DFW Writers’ Workshop, our incredible someone was Jack Ballas
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Jack passed away this month at the age of ninety-one as a war hero, a father, a husband, an author, and as a DFWWW icon. On the surface it would seem the legacy he left us could be found in the nineteen published books resting in our trophy case. But, he actually bequeathed us something much bigger than books. He is very much responsible for the culture which we live and love every time we gather. As we sit around the critique table, we’re channeling our inheritance from him. Honest, thoughtful critique. Eager, obliging advice. Tact. Selflessness. Respect. Wisdom.
Jack Ballas showed us how it’s done, and we’ve been striving to do it like him ever since. And though not all of us had the pleasure of meeting him, we have all -- in a way -- had a chance to get to know him.
The comments below are a tribute to his indelible mark on us. Like his books, they are worth a read.
For DFW Writers’ Workshop, our incredible someone was Jack Ballas
.Jack passed away this month at the age of ninety-one as a war hero, a father, a husband, an author, and as a DFWWW icon. On the surface it would seem the legacy he left us could be found in the nineteen published books resting in our trophy case. But, he actually bequeathed us something much bigger than books. He is very much responsible for the culture which we live and love every time we gather. As we sit around the critique table, we’re channeling our inheritance from him. Honest, thoughtful critique. Eager, obliging advice. Tact. Selflessness. Respect. Wisdom.
Jack Ballas showed us how it’s done, and we’ve been striving to do it like him ever since. And though not all of us had the pleasure of meeting him, we have all -- in a way -- had a chance to get to know him.
The comments below are a tribute to his indelible mark on us. Like his books, they are worth a read.
Workshop recognizes contributions of longtime member Jack Ballas
At the December 3rd meeting during our annual holiday dinner, the Workshop recognized one of its very special members for years of service to the organization and for his accomplishments as a writer. Jack currently holds the Workshop record for most published novels, with 19 titles to his credit. A member since the 1980s, he has served on the Workshop board and was a voice of authority during the weekly read and critique sessions for many years. He doesn't get to attend as often as we'd like these days due to health reasons, but we wanted Jack to know how much he appreciate him. And we caught him totally by surprise! We made sure he was there for the meeting, but he had no idea we were going to present him with something. Thanks for all you've done for the Workshop, Jack!