RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER
MARCH 2014
PAID
AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF IRVING
Spring Break Camps will be available at city recreation centers March 10−14. Camp details are on Page 7.
PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE
Keep Irving Beautiful needs volunteers for the Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off. Get details about this opportunity on Page 6.
IRVING, TX PERMIT NO. 883
March 2−8 has been proclaimed Severe Weather Awareness Week in Irving. See tips for emergency preparedness on Page 4.
VOL 21 . NO 3
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PET SAFETY, PROPER CARE
Irving Dog Park hosts Pet Pawlooza
Pet Picasso creates art at Pet Pawlooza
Activities, Adoptions, Contests Planned for 2014 Pet Pawlooza Irving’s Dog Park will be transformed into an amusement park for canines during Pet Pawlooza. Preceding the pet festival will be Wags and Whiskers Week, when animals without families can be adopted for little or no cost. Pet Pawlooza will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 29 at the Irving Animal Care Campus (IACC), 4140 Valley View Lane. Pet Pawlooza, which celebrates the fourth anniversary of the Irving Animal Care Campus, will be the culmination of a week’s worth of low- to no-cost pet adoption opportunities during Wags and Whiskers Week, March 25−29. u March
25 – Two animals can be adopted for the price of one on Two-Furr Tuesday. u March 26 – Animal adoptions will be discounted by 50 percent. u March 27 – Dogs weighing 40 pounds and heavier will be available for free adoption. u March 28 – Cats, ages 1 and older, will be available for free adoption on Clare Morris Free Feline Friday. u March 29 – Free adoptions for animals ages 4 and older; and half off for younger pets. “It is through special events, like Wags and Whiskers Week, when the IACC experiences a boom in adoptions, donations and visitors,” said IACC Shelter Supervisor Ashley Woolnough. “During the 2013 Wags and Whiskers Week, 220 homeless animals found families; $640 in donations were collected to help Irving animals; and the IACC welcomed 880 visitors on the day of Pet Pawlooza.” Pet Pawlooza, which caps off Wags and Whiskers Week, is the pinnacle of pet-friendly entertainment. Dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes will enjoy an atmosphere that can best be described as a caninefriendly amusement park. The canine-carnival will feature pet product vendors, demonstrations, as well as costume and agility contests. Entry fees
collected from contest participants and other donations will benefit IACC animals. “Wags and Whiskers Week featuring Pet Pawlooza is all about family as many homeless animals will find loving, forever homes,” Woolnough said. “Excitement for Wags and Whiskers featuring Pet Pawlooza is spreading as this year’s events show promise of being the best yet.” At Pet Pawlooza, children can get a free safety kit. The free child ID kits include photos and fingerprints of children, and a personal data form for parents or guardians to update on an annual basis. Admission to the Pet Pawlooza is free and the first 100 Pet Pawlooza attendees will receive a voucher for a free future pet microchipping service (Irving residents only; one voucher per household). Attending dogs must be on a leash with up-to-date vaccinations. Complimentary shuttle service will be available to transport attendees to Pet Pawlooza from the SanMar Distribution Center parking lot, 4701 Northview Drive, as IACC parking is expected to fill up quickly. The IACC, which is a cooperative partnership between the City of Irving’s Animal Services Department and the DFW Humane Society, is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Adoptions must be processed 30 minutes before closing. To see a real-time listing of animals available for adoption or to learn more about the IACC, visit cityofirving.org/animal-services. For other information, call Animal Services at (972) 721-7788 or the DFW Humane Society at (972) 721-2256. n
The city reminds residents of ordinances that protect pets and people from danger. All dogs and cats 4 months and older must be registered with the City of Irving. The cost of pet registration is $5–$15, depending on whether the pet is sterilized and has a microchip. Instructions for pet registration can be found at cityofirving.org/ animal-services. The city’s leash law makes it illegal for animals to run free in the city limits, even with an owner present (unless at city dog park). Dogs must be restrained using a properly fitting leash, chain, collar or harness that is being held by the owner at all times. Pet Waste Cleanup The city requires residents to clean up after their pets. It is against the law to allow an animal’s waste to remain in any public place or on another person’s private property. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria and nutrients to wash into drainage ways and eventually into the Trinity River where it impacts recreational lakes and sources of drinking water. Tethering Dogs The city also has a ban on unattended tethered dogs. Only responsible pet owners who maintain direct physical control are allowed to tether their dogs. This means the owner must be outside with the dog and near enough to exercise control over the animal at all times in the event it should become necessary to protect an animal or human from harm. Residents also are reminded that it is against the law to leave an unsupervised animal in a parked vehicle. Unattended pets can be impounded. The penalty for violating any of these city ordinances could result in a fine of up to $2,000. For more information, contact Irving Animal Services at (972) 721-2256.
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STANDARD & POOR’S AFFIRMS IRVING’S AAA BOND RATING Standard & Poor’s (S&P) has affirmed Irving’s AAA rating on the city’s general obligation (GO) debt, citing financial strength and stability. The credit rating agency also revised Irving’s outlook from negative to stable. According to the S&P rationale summary, “The outlook revision is based on changes to the city’s policies and debt issuance plan that have reduced our previous concerns about more aggressive borrowing that could have further weakened the city’s debt profile.” The rating agency also said it viewed the city’s management conditions as very strong with strong financial processes. “We are extremely pleased with the upgraded financial outlook,” said Irving Chief Financial Officer Max Duplant. “The rating allows us to sell bonds at a lower interest rate, which in turn allows Irving to build new projects at less cost, saving taxpayers money on higher rates. Over time, interest savings will total millions of dollars.” S&P says it does not expect to change the rating within the two-year outlook horizon. The agency attributes Irving’s continued AAA GO rating to the city’s large corporate tax base, formal investment and reserve policies, and strong general fund reserves. n
Scholars tour Heritage Senior Center
Senior Center guests take photos
International Scholars Take Note of Senior Center’s Best Practices Irving’s stellar reputation for providing superior senior services has gone global. A delegation of scholars who traveled from Nigeria visited the city to observe the best practices in place at Irving’s Heritage Senior Center. Though it was Bingo Day at the Heritage Senior Center, the seniors and staff did not hesitate to warmly welcome 27 resident scholars from Nigeria participating in the University of North Texas’ (UNT) Applied Gerontology Program. Gerontology is the study of the social, psychological and biological aspects of aging.
delegation explored every aspect of the 29,000-squarefoot facility including the kitchen, ballroom, computer lab, dining area, library and aquatic center. Following the tour, senior center staff hosted a question-andanswer forum for the scholars. The visiting scholars found Heritage Senior Center quite impressive and commended the city for the investment.
Having traveled 6,700 miles, an important part of the scholars’ journey included visiting senior centers to see how facilities, like Heritage, are operated in this part of the world. Familiar with the services Irving offers to its senior community, UNT Applied Gerontology Program Director Dr. Keith Turner brought the scholars to Heritage so that they could see how facilities for seniors should be managed.
“The scholars came to Heritage Senior Center to learn from us, but we learned a lot from them as well,” said Gillespie. “Heritage has been part of the Irving community for 10 years now and we sometimes can take the services we offer to seniors for granted; their visit reminded us of how fortunate we are to have a fine, full-service senior center in our community.”
“They’re here at Heritage Senior Center today to observe best practices, atmosphere, architecture and staffing,” said Turner. “The program here is considered one of the best, and I wanted them to see the best while they are here.” Guided by Heritage Senior Center Supervisor Ann Gillespie and Recreation Specialist Jennifer Grimes, the resident scholars were treated to a comprehensive tour of the amenity-rich facility. Nothing was off limits — the
Heritage Senior Center, 200 S. Jefferson St., is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Friday; 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call (972) 721-2496. n Scan code using a QR application to watch a Irving Community Television report on the scholars’ visit to Heritage Senior Center.
City’s Employee Wellness Culture Earns Platinum Recognition For the fourth consecutive year, the American Heart Association (AHA) has recognized the City of Irving as a Platinum-Level Fit-Friendly Worksite.
“Being named a Platinum-Level Fit-Friendly Worksite recognizes the hard work employees have invested into their personal health and wellness over the past five years,” said DeOrdio. “When you hear the success stories and achievements employees have accomplished in a relatively short amount of time, it’s just amazing.”
Fit-Friendly Worksites are organizations that go above and beyond when it comes to employee health. To earn the platinum recognition, which is the top honor, an organization must offer employees physical activity support, promote a wellness culture and achieve a cost savings based on improved employee health.
Since the inception of the Irving Wellness Incentive Now program, which rewards employees for health behavior, the city has cut employee health risk factors — like cholesterol and high blood pressure — in half. In addition, the number of participants has increased by an impressive 500 percent since the program’s launch. While the majority of employees participate in the wellness program, the city continues to aim for 100 percent involvement. And given the trend, 100 percent participation in the wellness program may soon become a reality for City of Irving staff. n
Irving shares this top honor with well-known organizations including Methodist Health System, Baylor Scott and White Health, Texas Instruments,
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Irving staffers receive recognition
and The Medical Center of Plano. Chief Financial Officer Max S. Duplant, Benefits and Employee Wellness Supervisor Rick DeOrdio, Cigna On-site Health Coach René Cundiff and Human Resources Director Ike Obi accepted the award on the city’s behalf at the American Heart Association’s FitFriendly Symposium held Jan. 29.
MARCH 2014
SIGNING OPPORTUNITY: DECLARE THE RIGHT TO LIBRARIES Every day, libraries touch the lives of people ― young and old. Now, Irving residents can show their support of the positive impact libraries make in the community by signing the Declaration for the Right to Libraries.
Displaced books during renovation
Valley Ranch Library Re-Opens Renovations are complete and the community is invited to come check out the bigger, better Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail. After a short hiatus, the Valley Ranch Library reopens March 1 and resumes normal business hours. a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday u Noon to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday u 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday
entrance to the children’s area and two new study rooms. Glass walls also were added around the children’s area to create quiet zones. With the grand re-opening also comes the roll out of a dynamic series of Spring Break events for children, teens, and a new “I’m PINTERESTed” series for adults, which begins at 7 p.m. March 13.
Returning patrons will be able to explore 5,000 square-feet of newly renovated space designed to enhance the customer experience. The added space allowed for more shelving, an expanded meeting room, a digital creation lab for teens, a high-tech
Regularly scheduled programs such as storytimes, sewing classes, the Saturday Family Movie Matinee also resume this month. Library staffers encourage residents to see the changes firsthand. For more information, call (972) 721-4669. n
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The declaration, developed by the American Library Association, highlights how libraries across the nation empower people economically, support literacy and lifelong learning, advance scholarship, and protect the public’s rights to be informed. The Irving Public Library provides literacy programs like preschool storytime, Summer Reading Challenge and the Big Read, hosting thousands of children and adults in celebration of reading. An official declaration proclamation was held Feb. 20 during the City Council Meeting. At the meeting, Mayor Beth Van Duyne and Irving City Council led a public signing. This month, the community is invited to join in the celebration and affirm its support by signing the declaration. The declaration’s travel schedule is listed below. u Saturday,
March 1 at Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail u Monday, March 10 at East Branch Library, 440 S. Nursery Road u Saturday, March 15 at West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road For more information, call (972) 721-4612.
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Library Offers Fun Programs for Children, Teens During Spring Break This Spring Break, young people are invited to step out of the classroom and into a world of scientific exploration, technology and high-quality entertainment at Irving Public Library locations March 10–15. Children u Engineering for Kids – 4:30 p.m. March 10, East Branch Library, 440 S. Nursery Road. Participants will learn the basic principles of building and construction by testing the strength of a simply, sturdy house students will make using an assortment of materials. Open to students, grades K−8. u Spring Break Magic with Todd McKinney – 2:30 p.m. March 11, West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road. Magician Todd McKinney uses magic with a dose of side-splitting humor to encourage young children to read. u STEM Break: Hands-On Science – 3 p.m. (grades K–2); 4 p.m. (grades 3–5) March 12, Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail. Celebrate Spring Break with fun science activities. Registration is required. For more information, call (972) 721-4669. u Fancy Nancy Tea Party – 4:30 p.m. March 13, East Branch Library, 440 S. Nursery Road. Celebrate the Fancy Nancy series with a très elegant tea while wearing exquisite party attire. Guest performance by Momentum Dance Company. u Science in 30: Eggs Away! – 2:30 p.m. March 13, Central Library, 801 W. Irving Blvd. Kids who love adventure and science can experiment with the concepts of free-fall, force and gravity in a competition to design a device that can keep an egg from breaking when dropped at differing elevations.
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electronic accessories, such as USB drives and earphones, and learn how to turn their smartphone into a projector for watching videos with friends. u Photoshop Basics for Teens – 4 p.m. March 13, Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail. Trent Tidmore of Tidmore Portraits demonstrates basic steps to make professional-quality digital photos. u Minecraft Marathon – 2 p.m. March 15, Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail. Enjoy eight-bit fun playing Minecraft on library computers. Make “Steve and Creeper IRL” crafts and enjoy snacks at the hunger bar. Attendees may bring their own devices due to limited availability of computers. Teens u Best of Vines Teen Video Contest – Teens are encouraged to use the Vine app for the iPhone or Android to create a six-second video promoting Irving Public Library’s sci-fi/steampunk themed Teen Summer Reading Challenge: Spark a Reaction. To submit, tag the video “#BestofVinesIPL”. Entries are due by 6 p.m. March 15, and will be judged based on theme originality and creativity. Prizes will be awarded to the top Vines. u iPad Exploration for Teens – 2 p.m. March 12, West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road. Teens will spend a fun afternoon learning iPads inside and out. Teens may use library iPads, but are encouraged to bring their own. u DIY Geek Chic – 4 p.m. March 12, Central Library, 801 W. Irving Blvd. Teens can “bling-out”
Visit cityofirving.org/library for a complete listing of events and classes offered at Irving Public Library locations. n
Gamers at Spring Camp
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EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS GUIDE An Emergency Preparedness Guide is available at cityofirving.org/oem to assist residents in preparing for potential disasters. The guide includes information about the most threatening natural and man-made disasters in North Texas. By being prepared, residents will be able to act with confidence and help neighbors should an emergency arise. For more information, call (972) 721-2100. Outdoor Warning System Reminder Following are tips for residents if sirens are activated during inclement weather. DO − Take cover inside a building on the first floor, in an interior room, a closet or a bathroom that does not have any windows. DO NOT − Call 911, police or fire dispatch for information. If there is inclement weather in the area and the sirens are activated, assume there is the possibility of a tornado and take cover immediately. Tornado Warnings A steady tone means a tornado warning. Sirens will be activated when there is a threat of a tornado in the area. Siren Testing The sirens are tested on the first Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m. unless the sky is overcast or there is inclement weather in the area. n
Scan the code using a QR application to learn more about the city’s siren system.
Stay Prepared for Emergencies Create a Family Disaster Plan u Meet with family members and discuss the need to prepare for a disaster. u Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen. Explain what to do in each case. u Pick two places to meet. u Develop an emergency communication plan. u Ask an out-of-town relative or friend to be a “family contact.” u Discuss what to do if authorities request evacuation. u Be familiar with escape routes. u Plan how to take care of pets. Preparation A. Disaster Kit The kit should include enough supplies to meet needs for at least three days. Store supplies in a sturdy, easy to carry, water-resistant container. Keep a smaller kit in the car trunk. The disaster supply kit should include: u A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day) and food that will not spoil. u One change of clothing and footwear per person. u One blanket or sleeping bag per person. u A first aid kit, including prescription medicines. u Emergency tools, including a battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries. u An extra set of car keys. u Cash. u Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members. u An extra pair of glasses. u Those who take medicine will need enough on hand to make it for at least a week. Keep a copy of prescriptions and dosage information. If a weeklong supply is not possible, keep as much on hand as possible and talk to a doctor about what else should be done to prepare.
u Auto
emergency kits should contain blankets and warm clothing, booster cables and tools, bottled water, canned fruits and nuts, first aid kit, flashlight and batteries, traction mats or chains, a shovel, and emergency prescription medication.
B. Safe Room When severe weather threatens, individuals and families need protection from the dangerous forces of extreme winds. Specific guidance is available from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) by calling the Office of Emergency Management at (972) 721-2100. Ask for information on the construction of a residential safe room. C. Evacuation Plans Plan how to escape from the house in the event of an emergency. Identify at least two exits from each room. Clear doors, hallways and stairs of obstructions. Conduct emergency drills. D. Driving Tips Disaster driving is one part preparedness, one part common sense and one part learning from experience. Following are a few helpful tips for motorists. u Be aware of the changed environment and stay away from downed power poles. u Do not attempt to drive through water. u If possible, avoid driving in severe winter storms; however, if caught in a storm and the car becomes immobilized, stay in vehicle and wait for rescue. Learn More For more information, visit any Irving library location and check out the free DVD produced by the Office of Emergency Management. For other emergency preparedness materials, call FEMA at (800) 480-2520. Additional resources can be found at ready.gov and knowhat2do.com. n
Residents Encouraged to Register for iALERT
Outdoor Warning System Keeps City Safe
The city’s iALERT notification system provides residents with critical information during emergencies or critical situations. It allows public safety officials to notify some or all of the city’s population about gas leaks, boil water notices, power outages, crime alerts or other high-priority events.
The Outdoor Warning System is activated in case of emergencies, such as severe weather. The system consists of 25 strategically placed sirens that are activated for one or more of the following conditions: u Tornado warning issued by National Weather Service u Tornado or funnel cloud reported by a reliable source u Sustained winds in excess of 70 miles per hour u Reports of hail larger than 1.25 inches in diameter
Residents can specify what areas of the city they want to receive information about by adding addresses such as their home, schools or daycare centers for children, nursing homes of elderly relatives or job locations. “The service is completely customizable,” said Emergency Management Coordinator Jason Carriere. “Residents can pick and choose what areas they want to be notified about. It’s within their power to sign up and receive up-to-the-minute information to keep their families safe during an emergency.”
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The application contacts any communication device added by a resident including mobile phones, landlines, smartphones, email, SMS and instant messaging in the order specified by a user’s account. Residents and businesses with listed telephone numbers have already been included in the system. However, they are encouraged to use the registration link to include additional ways to be contacted such as cell phone numbers or email addresses. All information provided will be kept confidential. The system was purchased as part of a Homeland Security Grant received by the city. For more information, call (972) 721-2100. n
The Outdoor Warning System is tested at 1 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month, unless conditions are favorable for severe weather. To stay informed while indoors, it is best to purchase a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) radio. NOAA radios can be programmed to provide location-specific emergency information. The codes for Dallas County is 048113. To see a map of the Outdoor Warning System, visit cityofirving.org/oem. For more information, call (972) 721-2100. n
MARCH 2014
FIRE HYDRANT FLUSHING IN MARCH, APRIL
Lifeguard training drill
Lifeguards Needed for Summer Interested in fun and flexible summertime employment? The Parks and Recreation Department is making its annual call for summer lifeguards. Help Wanted The Parks and Recreation Department will hire up to 60 service-oriented lifeguards by Memorial Day as city aquatic facilities prepare to welcome thousands of summertime guests looking to cool off at city pools. Seasonal opportunities are available to Red Cross-certified lifeguards, ages 16 and older. Lifeguards are in the business of safety and prevention. In addition to enforcing all the rules and regulations of the pool, lifeguards are responsible for the maintenance and operation of the assigned facility. Irving lifeguards also will get a lot of customer service experience such as registration responsibilities. Training Available While certified lifeguards are welcome to apply, Red Cross Lifeguarding Classes will be held at North Lake Aquatic Center, 5001 N. MacArthur Blvd. Interested parties can choose from the following sessions: u 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. March 9−12 u 5 to 9 p.m. March 31−April 3; 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. April 5−6 (Skips Friday, ends Sunday) u 5 to 9 p.m. April 28−May 2; 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. May 3 u 5 to 9 p.m. May 12−16; 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. May 17 Recertification Requirements Those who have successfully completed Red Cross training in the past are reminded that recertification is required every two years to remain eligible for employment with the Irving Parks and Recreation Department. A recertification course will be held at
the North Lake Aquatic Center on the following date: u 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 13−15 “In the aquatics industry, the Red Cross certification is very much the gold standard for lifeguards,” said Aquatics Coordinator Lynn Harper. “Those who earn a Red Cross Certification are able to use these skills when applying for lifeguard positions in Irving and other organizations.” Register for any of the Red Cross lifeguarding classes from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday at the North Lake Aquatic Center, 5001 N. MacArthur Blvd. Certification classes are $200, and recertification classes cost $100. Cash and checks (payable to the City of Irving) must be received at least one week prior to class start date. Full refunds are available if notice is given before 5 p.m. one week before the start of scheduled class; cancellations received after that time are subject to a $75 processing fee. Application Process Red Cross-certified individuals, as well as candidates with pending certification, are encouraged to apply. New hires must be available for orientation, which will be held in May prior to the opening of seasonal pools set for Memorial Day weekend. Beginning March 3, lifeguard hopefuls can complete an employment application at cityofirving.org. Applications also can be picked up from the Human Resources Department at City Hall, 825 W. Irving Blvd., during normal business hours. For more information, call (972) 273-3531. n
Archery Clinic Hits the Bull’s Eye with Irving Youth Free archery clinics will be held at the Irving Police Athletics/Activities League (IPAL), 1550 Rock Island Road, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on the following dates. u March
4 and 18 u April 1, 15 and 29
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May 13 and 27 Sept. 2, 16 and 30
At the clinics, young people, ages 10 to 18, can learn the fundamentals of archery. The free Archery Clinics are offered as part of Irving PAL’s comprehensive Urban Outdoors Program, which also brings camping, fishing, hunting, kayaking, mountain biking and rock climbing opportunities to local youth throughout the year. For youth to participate in IPAL programs, a parent or guardian must sign a waiver available at irvingpal.org. To learn more about free, family-centered IPAL programs available, call (972) 254-4659. n
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During March and April, employees will be flushing all public fire hydrants throughout the city. Irving firefighters perform flushing to check for proper water flow and pressure, and to ensure that hydrants will work properly in case of an emergency. State and federal agencies require water utilities workers to flush fire hydrants to circulate water, and to remove rust and other debris from lines. This process helps ensure fresh, quality water arrives at each house and business. While the city may be under Stage 3 water restrictions, residents need to be aware that the flushing of fire hydrants is necessary to guarantee public health and safety. For more information, call (972) 721-2281. n
Archery clinic
Scan the code using a QR application to watch a video report by Irving Community Television Network showcasing the archery clinic.
IRVING POLICE DEPARTMENT TO HOST BANQUET The Irving Police Department, in partnership with the Family Advocacy Center (FAC), will host the 18th annual Police Awards Banquet on March 27 at the Mariott-Las Colinas Hotel, 223 W. Las Colinas Blvd. A silent auction will kick off the evening at 6:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. The public is invited to attend. Banquet proceeds support the Irving FAC. For the past 12 years, the FAC has partnered with the Irving Police Department to provide critical family support to the community including the following services: u
Family counseling Family violence counseling u First offender program u Parent education classes u Play therapy for young crime victims u
Visit irvingpd.com or call (972) 721-2598 for more information or to purchase tickets. n
WARRANT ROUNDUP CONTINUES IN MARCH During March, the Irving City Marshal’s Office and the Irving Police Department are participating in the Texas Warrant Roundup. More than 220 agencies across Texas are participating in this event. Across the state, law enforcement officials are focusing on defendants with outstanding warrants for Class C misdemeanor violations. Offenders can be arrested anywhere, including their place of employment. Those with outstanding warrants are urged to contact the Irving Municipal Court at (972) 721-2671, or visit the Irving Municipal Court, located at 305 N. O’Connor Blvd., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. n
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RESIDENTS REMINDED OF DISABILITY PARKING REGULATIONS The Irving Police Department wants to remind motorists of parking regulations regarding marked disability parking spaces. Violations can result in fines of up to $515. It is illegal to park vehicles: u In
a disability parking space without displaying the appropriate plate or placard, even if a driver or passenger of the vehicle has a disability. u In a disability parking space while displaying an expired plate or placard, even if a driver or passenger of the vehicle has a disability. u In a disability parking space when neither the driver nor any passenger has a disability, even if the vehicle displays the appropriate plate or placard. For more information, call the Irving Police Department at (972) 721-2518. n
Keep Irving Beautiful volunteers at cleanup event
Volunteers Needed for Texas Trash-Off at Trinity View Park Join Good Samaritans all across the state in making Texas the cleanest and most beautiful state in the country as part of the Great American Cleanup — the nation’s largest community improvement program. Keep Irving Beautiful invites all residents, businesses and civic groups to make a clear and clean difference in the community by participating in the 2014 Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off from 9 a.m. to noon April 5 at Trinity View Park, 2298 East Sixth St. The annual trash-off is Texas’ signature event for the Great American Cleanup. “We’re looking for as many volunteers as possible to meet us at Trinity View Park next month for the Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off,” said Keep Irving Beautiful Coordinator Rick Hose. “Cleanup events are fun and rewarding experiences for individuals and groups, and the result of our collective efforts will be a cleaner, greener Irving.” Part of a national movement, Keep Irving Beautiful is one of more than 1,200 organizations that will engage millions of volunteers in improving their communities through litter-abatement events and activities on or around April 5. Here in Irving, volunteers will focus
on Trinity View Park, part of Campión Trail, which borders the Elm Fork of the Trinity River. Removing litter from Trinity View Park is critical because the adjacent waterway, which supports the water needs of 9 million people, equates to about 40 percent of all Texans. “Millions of Texans depend on the Trinity River for their water needs, and they are counting on us to keep its surrounding areas clean and free from litter for our needs as well as the needs of future generations,” Hose added. Volunteers will be provided with gloves, litter grabbers, as well as bags for trash and recycling. In addition, volunteers will be treated to a free lunch after the event. For individual or group registration, visit rockthegreen.org and locate the “Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off/Great American Cleanup” link. All ages are welcome. For more information, email info@rockthegreen.org or call (972) 721-2175. n
Think Green … Be Green The Office of Environmental Stewardship is reminding the community to keep Irving green this spring. Register for the following free eco-friendly classes or activities at cityofirving.org or call (972) 721-2355. Eco-Film Feature “Wings of Life” (Rated G) Released as part of Walt Disney Studios’ DisneyNature banner, filmmaker Louie Schwartzberg’s documentary, “Wings of Life” employs macrophotography to show moviegoers a world they’ve likely never experienced. Meryl Streep narrates as the secret lives of bats, butterflies, hummingbirds and bumblebees come to life. Tuesday, March 6 | 6 to 7:30 p.m. West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road
Discussion: Bats in the City Bats, the only true flying mammal, are fascinating animals. Come and learn more about the nearly 1,000 species of bats in the world. Participants will learn about the benefits of bats and how they play an important role in keeping ecosystems healthy and in balance. The purpose of this class is to combat those batty myths and find out how useful these animals really are. Thursday, March 20 | 6 to 7:30 p.m. West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road
Texas Stream Team Activity Learn about the natural quality of Irving’s creeks, ponds, streams and the Trinity River. Participants will watch a Texas Stream Team program representative conduct basic water quality testing and data gathering at the water’s edge. For more information, call (972) 721-2772.
Smart Springtime Water Usage Participants will learn about the basic concepts of indoor water conservation. Students also will learn about basic drip irrigation design and installation, choosing the right components, watering techniques and system maintenance for landscaping.
Saturday, March 15 Location provided upon registration.
Saturday, March 22 | 9 a.m. to noon Valley View Municipal Complex, 333 Valley View Lane
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MARCH 2014
Creativity Shines at Arts Center Creations by young artists are on display at the Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd. For details, visit irvingartscenter.com or call (972) 252-7558. March 2 | Dave Tanner Band 2:30 p.m. l Carpenter Performance Hall l $20; $5 students with ID Enjoy a performance by the Dave Tanner Band. A fifth-generation Texan, Tanner resides in Irving. March 6 | JumpstART Stories and Art – Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss! 10 a.m. l Suite 200 l Free This storytime celebrates the creator of “Green Eggs and Ham,” and Theodore Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss. Fun craft-making activity follows. Ages 2 and older. Call (972) 252-2787 to register groups of 10 or more. March 7−8 | Mariachi Vargas with the Irving Symphony Orchestra 8 p.m. l Carpenter Hall l $50 Irving Symphony Orchestra performs with the internationally known Mariachi Vargas. March 7−8 | Kanjush, Dallas Bangla Theater 8 p.m. l Dupree Theater l $10 Enjoy a Bangla adaptation of Moliere’s “The Miser” by Tarique Anam Khan. March 15 | Las Colinas Symphony presents Sara Daneshpour, piano 8 p.m. l Carpenter Hall l $15–$45 Featuring Mozart, Piano Concerto No. 20 in D Minor, K. 466.
arch 27 – Elementary Reception M u April 3 – Middle School Reception u April 17 – High School Reception u May 1 – Senior Portfolio Reception
Sara Daneshpour
March 21–April 5 | Solid Gold Cadillac 8 p.m. Thurs.−Sat. and 2:30 p.m. Sun. l Dupree Theater l $16–$21 MainStage Irving-Las Colinas offers an old-fashioned root-for-the-underdog comedy. The story about corrupt men and corporate greed proves yet again a woman on a mission should never be underestimated. March 21–30 | The Human Comedy 8 p.m. Fri.–Sat. and 2:30 p.m. Sun. l Carpenter Hall l $25–$53 Lyric Stage presents this musical based on a William Saroyan screenplay. Making its Broadway debut in 1984, the tale is set in a small California town following World War II and is often called “America’s greatest pop opera.”
Gallery Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. n
All are welcome at this annual festival where there will be activities for the entire family including vendor exhibits, entertainment, food and a children’s area. For more information, call (972) 721-2641. n
March 22
Spring Break Camp
Heritage Senior Center 200 S. Jefferson St., (972) 721-2496 u Chair-Assisted Yoga. This class will assist seniors, age 50 and older, who want to enroll in an exercise class, but may need additional support or help with balance issues. Cost is $35 per month. Registration begins April 1. For more information, call (972) 721-2496.
Georgia Farrow Recreation Center 530 Davis Drive, (972) 721-2519 u Parents’ Night Out. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. March 21. Parents can enjoy an evening out by registering their children for an evening of games, food and crafts. Event open to grades K–5. Cost is $15. Register by March 14.
Lee Park Recreation Center 3000 Pamela Drive, (972) 721-2508 u Homeschool Dodgeball Tournament. 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. March 20. Teams will compete in a series of dodgeball games with prizes being awarded. Cost is $5 per child; lunch is included. Registration is required by March 13. Lively Pointe Youth Center 909 N. O’Connor Blvd., (972) 721-8090 u Teen Jam. 7 to 11 p.m. March 8 and 22. Youth will enjoy an evening of music and games. Complimentary snacks and soda will be served. This event is open to all middle and high school students. Free admission with a valid IPAR card.
CITY OF IRVING . ORG
Origami Cranes, Schulze Elementary Fifth Graders
COMMUNITY FEST
Cimarron Park Recreation Center 201 Red River Trail, (972) 910-0702 u Teen Spring Bling. 7 to 11 p.m. March 7. Youth, ages 12 to 17, will enjoy a night of music, dancing, food and sports activities. Admission is free with a valid parks and recreation ID card. Concessions will be available for an additional charge. Advanced registration is required.
Snake lesson at camp
Annual Exhibition of Irving Independent School District (ISD) Student Artwork March 21–May 4 | Main Gallery | Free Exhibition features two- and three-dimensional works from Irving ISD students. Receptions for various levels will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on the following dates: u
Parks and Recreation Briefs Spring Break Camp City recreation centers will offer a Spring Break Camp March 10–14 for grades K–5. A variety of activities will be offered in a fun and safe environment, including arts and crafts, gym games and field trips. Campers are asked to bring a sack lunch each day, but will be provided with morning and afternoon snacks. Camp hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Cost is $95 per child. Spaces are limited and registration must be made in advance with an IPAR ID card. Call neighborhood recreation centers for more details.
NEW IN THE GALLERIES
Mustang Park Recreation Center 2223 Kinwest Pkwy., (972) 556-1334 u Friday Night Out. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. March 21. Parents can take this opportunity to enjoy date
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Senter Park Recreation Center 901 S. Senter Road
night while staff watches the kids. Pizza, drinks, gym time and other activities will guarantee that your child has a great time. Free. Northwest Park Recreation Center 2800 Cheyenne St., (972) 721-2529 u Homeschool Scavenger Madness. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 21. Participants, grades 1–12, will take part in a scavenger hunt, create a craft project, enjoy lunch and take home goodie bags. Cost is $5 per child. Advance registration required.
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PRACTICE SAFETY FOR DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME Residents are reminded to advance clocks one hour for Daylight Saving Time on March 9. As part of the Irving Fire Department’s Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery campaign, it is recommended that residents also replace smoke detector batteries when changing clocks. n Customer pays bill online
Customer pays bills by phone
Easy Online, Pay-by-Phone Bill Pay Options Save Time, Money With postage rates and gas prices on the rise, residents are reminded of alternative ways to pay municipal bills that will save time and money. FREE RABIES VACCINATIONS Irving Animal Services is sponsoring free rabies vaccination clinics in partnership with the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection. Clinics will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Irving Animal Care Campus, 4140 Valley View Lane on the following dates. March 28 u June 27 u Sept. 26 u
The free rabies vaccinations are available to dogs and cats of Irving residents. Additional recommended vaccinations will be offered for a fee. All pets must be on a leash or in a carrier. For more information, visit cityofirving.org/animal-services or call (972) 721-2256. n
Convenient phone and online payment options are available to all City of Irving utility customers at no additional charge. Online payments are credited to accounts within two to three business days, and the pay-by-phone option allows customers to handle transactions in real time. “Gone are the days when people had to come to City Hall or waste a stamp to pay their bills,” said Customer Service Supervisor Susan Adams. “Technology has allowed Irving to offer more options for customers than ever before.” Online customers will need a personal identification number (PIN), as well as account and credit card numbers to complete transactions. Like a password, PINs help maintain the security of accounts. To make a payment online, visit cityofirving.org, locate the “payments” tab and choose “Municipal Services.” Customers can obtain a PIN by calling (972) 721-2411. To complete transactions by phone, customers will only need their account and credit card numbers.
City to Welcome More Than 5,000 for Marathon On your mark, get set, go ― more than 5,000 runners are expected to participate in the 2014 GE Irving Marathon starting at 7 a.m. April 5. The marathon course begins at the copper-clad Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas and leads runners to the majestic Campión Trail. Approved by U.S.A. Track & Field, runners will enjoy a completely paved course, free from grass and levees. Six levels of participation are available for this year’s event including the fulland half-marathon, 10K, 5K, 1 mile fun run and the corporate challenge 5K. Participants who complete any timed event will receive a finisher medal. Events like the Irving marathon are possible because of the city’s work to develop and maintain a world-class running trail for residents and visitors. Last year’s event was classified as a Boston Marathon qualifying event, and event organizers are working to secure the same accreditation for the 2014 event. To support runners who may be tackling their first marathon or simply walking, the course will remain open for 6.5 hours. Marathon participants must be age 15 or older.
PINs are not required to exercise the pay-by-phone option. Payments by phone should be completed by 10 p.m. to receive same business day credit. Payments by phone can be made 24/7 by calling (972) 721-3774. “Customers also can settle municipal accounts at any Fiesta Mart in Irving as long as the account is not past due,” said Adams. “In addition, payments can be made for Irving utility accounts at any ACE Cash Express or Western Union location in the nation.” Online and phone payments are accepted 24/7. Customers should allow two to three business days for payments made at ACE Cash Express or Western Union locations to post. Accepted forms of payment for the online and pay-by-phone options include Discover, MasterCard and Visa. n Scan code using a QR application to watch a special PSA for online and phone payment produced by Irving Community Television Network.
Traffic Updates Keep Residents in the Loop The City of Irving wants residents to be aware of infrastructure updates and other projects that could impact traffic. In light of the number of ongoing Capital Improvement Program projects, the City of Irving launched an email service to keep residents and motorists informed. This free email alert service is available to residents, businesses and commuters who would like to receive frequent updates on projects impacting motorists in Irving.
2013 Irving Marathon
Spectators also are welcome to cheer on marathon participants. Choice views for spectators include the start and finish lines, as well as California Crossing Park. Proceeds from the GE Irving Marathon will benefit Our Children’s House at Baylor in Irving. For more marathon details (e.g., course maps, volunteer opportunities, etc.) or to register as a participant, visit irvingmarathon.com. n
To subscribe for traffic updates and stay in the loop, visit cityofirving.org/join. n
“City Spectrum” is published by the City of Irving Communications Department to keep residents informed. This award-winning publication is distributed monthly to more than 93,000 Irving households. Derrick Thompson / Editor Heather Taylor / Design Supervisor Tammy Hanson / Editorial Coordinator
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Interact with Irving Online Rush-hour traffic flow in Irving
MARCH 2014