EXPLORE
GARLAND ENHANCES TRAILS SYSTEM MAY-JUNE 2021 | VOLUME 29, ISSUE 3 | GarlandTX.gov
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With the recent unveiling of 1.67 miles of new paved paths, a $7 million bond commitment and a new master plan, Garland is “all-in” on trails.
Existing 12' Wide Paved Trail
A new 12-foot wide concrete trail in Winters Park and the Spring Creek Greenbelt is the result of a partnership with the Federal Highway Administration and the Texas Department of Transportation. The federally funded trail features a 225-foot-long bridge.
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Access points to the new paved trailways in and around Winters Park include the parking lot at Halff Park, 4695 Ranger Drive and the Winters Park Playground, 1419 Spring Creek Drive. City and Dallas County officials cut the ribbon to open the trails on April 23. Through support of voters in the 2019 bond program, two major paved trails are in the design phase to enhance parks along Duck Creek. The 12-foot-wide Duck Creek Central Trail will run from Miller Road to Avenue F, an area including Central Park. South of Miller, there will connectivity to the new Rick Oden Park Trail. Still other trails are being initiated in design for construction in partnership with Dallas County. Those will be shared-use paths in Rowlett Creek Preserve and the Duck Creek Trail to Audubon Park. The 2021 City of Garland Trails and Bikeways Master Plan was adopted by the City Council on Feb. 23. The plan is a guide for developing the City’s bicycle and pedestrian network. It recommends off-street and on-street pathways, bike lanes, trails and other facilities to connect to key destinations within Garland and to other cities. The plan was developed with the help of Garland residents, boards and commissions members, staff from multiple departments, adjacent communities and other governmental agencies. A Citizen Steering Committee, comprised of bicycling enthusiasts and advocates, provided valuable insight and unique perspective to help improve the plan. Garland was asked to present the finished plan to the North Central Texas Council of Governments so that other communities could get a sense of best practices for future planning efforts.
Go to GarlandParks.com to see the plan.
NEED THE COVID-19 VACCINE?
Contact Garland Public Health at GPH@GarlandTX.gov or call 972-205-3900 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The City does not require appointments for ages 18 and up. Visit GarlandTX.gov/COVIDVaccine. Additional vaccine supplies can be found at vaccinefinder.org.
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Garland City Press May-June 2021
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BOND HIGHLIGHTS
Inside this Issue Feature
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COVID-19
Recovery Resources Pages
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City Council
City Services
Construction is underway on many of the upgrades being funded through the $423.7 million commitment Garland residents made in May 2019 to improve their city. Many of these projects from that bond election have been in design and now visible change is around the corner:
City Council Meeting Schedule
GP&L Outdoor Electric Safety Tips
CGTV Listings
Upcycling
Recreation Center (above) completing construction summer 2021 • Audubon Renovations to Transportation Maintenance and Operations Facility will start construction • summer 2021 of construction on Holford Road, segment A in late 2021 • Start of construction on bottleneck street improvements in late 2021 • Start Garland Senior Center renovations will start construction late 2021 • Nine playgrounds should complete construction by early 2022 • The next seven playgrounds will start construction late 2021 • Central Library renovations will start construction early 2022 • Street Department facility replacement will start construction late 2021 • The Downtown Square plaza redevelopment construction will start late 2021 • The Animal Shelter (below) is scheduled for completion in early 2022 •
2021 Council Elections
Smoke Testing
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City News
Quality of Life
News from Economic Development Make Your Mark Awards
Library Hybrid Programs
COVID-19 Resources
Hidden Garland Big Art Day Earns Award
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Arts Events
Neighborhoods & Development
What's Being Built There Taking It to the Streets HOA Legal Clinic
Garland@GarlandTX.gov On the Web
GarlandTX.gov MakeYourMarkGarland.com
Note: As Garland venues reopen from the COVID-19 pandemic, check GarlandTX.gov for arts, library, parks and other program listings.
On Social Media
@GarlandTXGOV
City of Garland, Texas Government #MYMGarland
#GarlandTX
May-June 2021 Garland City Press
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Council Elections
CGTV Listings
Channel 16 (Spectrum), Channel 44 (Frontier) or Channel 99 (AT&T U-verse), GarlandTX.tv
» Meeting dates and times
City Council
subject to change.
» Meetings are broadcast at GarlandTX.gov via livestreaming and on-demand, and on CGTV with several rebroadcasts during the week of the meeting.
The Garland City Council will canvass the results of the May 1 election in a special session at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 11. At that meeting, the oath of office will be given to incumbents Robert Vera, Dylan Hedrick and Robert John Smith. All were unopposed in their bids for another two-year term on the Garland City Council. Garland voters were also asked to decide on two-year terms for Mayor, District 1 and District 3 on May 1. The District 1 and 3 races involved more than two candidates. In the case no single candidate gains more than 50% of the vote, a runoff between the top two finishers will be ordered at the May 11 meeting.
CITY COUNCIL SCHEDULE
City Council Work Sessions
broadcast – 6 p.m. May 3, May 17, June 7 and June 21 • Live the following Tuesday, Thursday • Rebroadcast and Friday – 9 a.m., Wednesday and Thursday – 7 p.m.
Dallas County has set June 5 as the day of its runoff elections. Early voting would be from May 24 to June 1. Only those who live within a council district will be allowed to participate in that district’s runoff.
City Council Regular Meetings
broadcast – 7 p.m. May 4, May 18, June 8 and June 22 • Live Rebroadcast following Wednesday – 9 a.m., • Friday – 7 p.m.,theSaturday and Sunday – 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Visit GarlandTX.gov for updates.
Plan Commission
– 7 p.m. May 10, May 24, June 14 and June 28 • Meetings Meetings rebroadcast the following Tuesday, Thursday • and Fridaywill– 9bea.m.
City Council Members Mayor
Scott LeMay 972-205-2400 214-794-8904 Mayor@GarlandTX.gov
District
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Ricky C. McNeal 214-500-0184 Council1@GarlandTX.gov
District
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Rich Aubin 972-325-2529 Council5@GarlandTX.gov
Keep up with the latest public meetings. 4
Garland City Press May-June 2021
Receive public meeting agendas in your inbox. 1
Visit GarlandTX.gov.
2 Click on the “Public Meeting Agendas” link. 3 Click on the blue “Subscribe” button. 4 Select the agendas you want to receive.
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Deborah Morris Deputy Mayor Pro Tem 214-273-4387 Council2@GarlandTX.gov
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Jerry Nickerson Mayor Pro Tem 972-205-2292 Council3@GarlandTX.gov
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Robert Vera 469-782-4482 Council6@GarlandTX.gov
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Dylan Hedrick 469-560-6099 Council7@GarlandTX.gov
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B.J. Williams 972-898-7672 Council4@GarlandTX.gov
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Robert John Smith 469-223-4723 Council8@GarlandTX.gov
Meetings are broadcast at GarlandTX.gov via livestreaming and on-demand, and on CGTV with several rebroadcasts during the week of the meeting.
CGTV Listings
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Channel 16 (Spectrum), Channel 44 (Frontier) or Channel 99 (AT&T U-verse), GarlandTX.tv
TEXAS MUNICIPAL POWER AGENCY BOARD APPOINTMENT
APPLY NOW FOR
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Do you want to make a difference in your City? Would you like to be directly involved in your local government? Residents who serve on Garland’s 11 boards and commissions have that impact. They serve in an advisory or quasi-judicial capacity, providing information directly to the Garland City Council. From planning and development to multicultural events, boards and commission members advise on a range of City services. The City will accept applications for its boards and commissions from Monday, May 31, through Thursday, July 1. Application forms can be found on the City Secretary’s page at GarlandTX.gov. Submit applications to René Dowl, City Secretary, by email to RDowl@GarlandTX.gov or by U.S. Postal Service to City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., Garland 75040.
NORTH TEXAS MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT BOARD APPOINTMENT
The City Council is accepting applications for a Garland representative to the Board of Directors of the Texas Municipal Power Agency. The term starts Sunday, July 18, and runs through July 18, 2023. To qualify for the position, an applicant must reside in Garland. Applications will be accepted from Friday, May 14, through Friday, June 4, and should include a letter of interest and a resume. Submit applications to René Dowl, City Secretary, by email to RDowl@GarlandTX.gov or by U.S. Postal Service to City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., Garland 75040.
The City Council is accepting applications for a Garland representative to the Board of Directors of the North Texas Municipal Water District. The term starts Tuesday, June 1, and runs through May 31, 2023. To qualify for the position, an applicant must reside in Garland and own taxable property. Applications will be accepted through Monday, May 3, and should include a letter of interest and a resume. Submit applications to René Dowl, City Secretary, by email to RDowl@GarlandTX.gov or by U.S. Postal Service to City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., Garland 75040.
Application forms can be found on the City Secretary’s page at GarlandTX.gov. Submit applications to René Dowl, City Secretary, by email to RDowl@GarlandTX.gov or by U.S. Postal Service to City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., Garland 75040.
NEWS FROM
City News
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT Garland’s growing data center sector, with about 368,000 square feet of storage facilities, is now home to Oklahoma state records. The $110 million initiative includes a center that will house about 2,500TB of information — the equivalent of 300,000 8GB flash drives. It will serve as a backup to Oklahoma’s main data storage.
Electronics manufacturer Micropac Industries is planning a new facility off State Highway 66, between Tuckerville Park and Milano Hats. The 77,000 square foot facility will serve as both central headquarters and operations hub for Micropac, which has been operating in Garland since the 1960s. Detailed plans for The Draper, urban-style apartments along Garland Avenue near Downtown, were approved in March. The apartments are a component of a larger redevelopment plan that includes renovation of the adjacent Chase Bank tower, announced in October 2020 in partnership with GroundFloor Development. Construction is scheduled to begin this fall. Specialty iced tea company HTeaO is coming to the intersection of Buckingham and Jupiter roads. Founded in Amarillo, HTeaO has expanded to 30 locations in Texas, Oklahoma and Florida.
GarlandEDP.com May-June 2021 Garland City Press
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The Garland Foodies set out in late 2018 to offer a friendly conversation on where to eat. Instead, they found themselves serving up a vital link to help local businesses survive a pandemic.
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The Recycling Center, Transfer Station, Hinton Landfill and EWS Administration are closed in holiday observance. Environmental Waste Services holidays are subject to change. Check GarlandEWS.com for updates. 6
Garland City Press May-June 2021
The Garland Foodies were recognized Monday, March 29, with the City’s second annual Make Your Mark Awards. “They’ve played a significant role in keeping some of our restaurants open,” Mayor Scott LeMay said in presenting the award to Garland Foodies founders Julian Olalde and Jason Collard.
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The group uses social media to share members’ discoveries of local restaurant gems. And when COVID-19 threatened the restaurants and workers’ jobs, the Garland Foodies took it to another level. Their audience went from virtual to live, showing up as customers and providing a lifeline.
While the crystal trophies bore their individual names, Collard stressed the Garland Foodies success has been in numbers. “Y’all made this happen,” he said to the gathering of supporters, backed by a live band on Main Street as the Foodies celebrated. “And without you, there would be a lot more casualties in the local restaurant business.” The Garland Foodies momentum, nearly 11,000 followers strong on Facebook, continues to lead to even better things for the community. Following the Make Your Mark Awards presentation, the group donated $2,500 to Good Samaritans of Garland to help provide food assistance for neighbors. The money came from the sale of Garland Foodies T-shirts. “It hasn’t just been about eating,” Olalde said. “It’s been about building relationships in the Garland area and finding ways to support business owners.” The awards were originally announced to a virtual audience as part of LeMay’s second State of the City Address. The platform for the annual speech was the City’s 2020 accomplishments. However, the Mayor also took time to recognize lives lost and lives changed in the COVID-19 pandemic. He discussed how many City services went virtual, curbside or drive-thru in 2020. And he encouraged Garlandites to support local businesses and nonprofits.
Temporary Disaster Exemption Available Following Winter Storm The Dallas Central Appraisal District is offering a temporary disaster exemption following this winter’s devastating storm. Property owners must apply for the exemption by May 28, 2021. The one-time tax exemption is available for business and residential properties that sustained at least 15% of their value in damage. This exemption only applies to damage to buildings or structures, not land value. The exemption is only good for the current year and will not change the market value of the property. To apply, go to dallascad.org/forms.aspx and fill out the Exemption Application for Temporary Disaster form. Additional explanation of the application and exemption process is available at dallascad.org. For questions or additional information, email disasterex@dcdad.org.
City News
COVID-19 Recovery Resources
The City of Garland and other community partners are facilitating access to recovery programs for residents who have been impacted by COVID-19.
FEMA has extended its application period to May 20, 2021, for Garland residents and business owners who sustained losses in the winter storm. Apply for assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362 or 800-462-7585 TTY.
Financial victims of COVID-19 may apply for assistance with rental and mortgage payments during the pandemic. Rental assistance is available through the following partners:
The Garland Building Inspection Department is waiving permit fees for work related to winter storm repairs. The City also has programs to assist income-eligible homeowners with emergency home repairs such as frozen pipes, HVAC repairs and electrical repairs. Call 972-205-2130 for information and to apply.
Charities of Dallas Inc.: Leave a message at 214-257-0674 with • Catholic questions or to meet one-on-one for assistance with the application process, and a representative will contact you as soon as possible; visit GarlandTX.gov and click “Recovery Resources” for a link to the application
Army: 214-637-8204, mark.sliter@uss.salvationarmy.org • Salvation (non-COVID assistance available) • Under 1 Roof: 214-343-4000, Under1RoofDallas.org • Transcend COVID Rental Assistance: 800-758-9151, transcendstem.org
TRAPS REGIONAL DIRECTOR Heather Lambert, Senior Recreation Services Supervisor at Holford Recreation Center, was installed March 10 as North Region Director for the Texas Recreation and Park Society. During the term as regional director that runs to 2023, Lambert (pictured center) will lead and plan scholarships and events such as the annual regional conference, golf tournament and park maintenance rodeo. She will also serve on the organization’s Leadership Board.
For mortgage assistance, call the Salvation Army at 214-637-8204 or email mark.sliter@usssalvationarmy.org. Assistance in meeting food supply needs is available from Good Samaritans of Garland. Call 972-276-2263 or visit goodsamofgarland.org. Seniors and disabled adults may also qualify for meal delivery services through the Meals on Wheels program. Call 214-689-2681 or visit vnatexas.org. Additional utility, food and basic needs assistance for Garland residents age 62 or older who are experiencing a loss due to COVID-19 is available through The Senior Source Elder Financial Safety Program. Call 214-823-5700 or email efsc@theseniorsource.org. Assistance is also available for those who need job training and placement, or medical and counseling services, or who are domestic violence victims or homeless because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Visit GarlandTX.gov and click on “Recovery Resources.” May-June 2021 Garland City Press
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WHAT’S
Garland is buzzing with new development. 1
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Under construction at 801 E. Interstate 30 is a Sonic Drive-In restaurant, as well as a new convenience store and gas pumps.
Under construction at 2902 Lavon Drive is a Take 5 Oil Change.
Taking It to the Streets Projects scheduled to begin in May-June
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Carroll Drive, Douglas Drive to Glenbrook Drive Street reconstruction
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Bridge foundations will begin to take shape along Interstate 635 at Northwest Highway, Centerville Road, LaPrada Drive and other places as the $1.7 billion LBJ East project continues into May and June.
In June, the first steel girders will be erected at the Interstate 30/I-635 interchange. Utility work and drainage construction continue throughout the 11-mile I-635 corridor between I-30 and Central Expressway.
Removal of the former I-635 pavement and more bridge construction on the new main lanes will also take place.
Visit 635East.com for information about the project. Visit GarlandTX.gov/Garland635Info for information specific to Garland.
Garland City Press May-June 2021
Arcady Drive, Linda Drive to south cul-de-sac Street reconstruction
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Carroll Drive, Lamesa Drive to Saturn Road Street reconstruction
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Neighborhoods, USA Conference
Neighborhoods & Development
• May 20-22 | Virtual Conference | Cost: $250
Neighborhoods, USA is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to building and strengthening neighborhood associations and promoting productive communications and collaborations with both the public and private sectors. For the past 44 years, the organization has served these broad principles through its annual conference. The conference provides an opportunity for people from all locations and sectors to discuss the pressing issues of the times, share experiences, and offer assistance, motivation and encouragement. Neighbors and practitioners from Garland and cities nationwide will participate as workshop presenters as well as top-notch keynote speakers. You won’t want to miss it! This year’s conference, hosted by the City of Fort Worth, will be virtual. Learn more and register at NUSA.org. Limited registration assistance is available for neighborhood groups registered with the Office of Neighborhood Vitality. Email Neighborhoods@GarlandTX.gov for more details.
DART Zoom Community Meeting Dallas Area Rapid Transit is redesigning its bus network. New routes, more hours of service and greater coverage are included in a five-year bus service plan to be implemented in January 2022. A series of 15 meetings, DARTzoom: A New Bus Network, is in motion to collect public input. Each meeting targets a specific coverage area. The Garland meeting will be at noon Monday, May 24. To hear the meeting, call 469-676-0717 and enter phone conference ID 995 449 184#. Visit DARTzoom.org to read the draft bus network report, participate in a survey and find other information about the five-year bus service plan.
• 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 12 | Virtual Event The Office of Neighborhood Vitality will host the 2021 HOA Legal Clinic in partnership with the cities of Plano and Rowlett and the Community Associations Institute’s D/FW chapter. Sessions will equip you with the tools needed to confidently manage your homeowners association. Speakers will include attorneys, banking associates, community managers and more. Representatives of mandatory homeowners associations are encouraged to attend for advanced board member training. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.
Visit GarlandNeighborhoods.org to learn more and register!
Garland Housing Waiting List
NEIGHBORHOOD VITALITY Using the City’s Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant program, the Camelot Neighborhood Association in April erected a stone monument and bench to commemorate 40 years of service to Garland and to remember lives lost in the COVID-19 pandemic. In the same median, the association planted a tree and installed lighting as part of the project.
The Garland Housing Agency (GHA) is accepting applications for the Housing Choice Voucher Program. Apply for rental housing assistance at waitlistcheck.com/TX982 or by scanning the QR code with your phone. APPLICATION START DATE & TIME Wednesday, June 9, 2021 | 5 p.m.
Housing Choice Voucher Program
APPLICATION END DATE & TIME Friday, June 11, 2021 | 5 p.m. or when 5,000 applications are received, whichever comes first.
Garland Housing Agency 210 Carver St., 201B Building 3, Garland 972-205-3393
For application assistance, visit the GHA from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 9, 2021. May-June 2021 Garland City Press
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UPCYCLING: Creatively Keeping Things Out of the Trash Stay safe around electricity by following these rules: go near a downed power line. Call Garland Power & Light • Never (972-205-3000) and the police (911) to report the downed line. touch a fence, tree or anything else that has come into contact with • Don’t a fallen power line. and pad-mounted transformers contain high voltages of • Substations electricity. Don’t climb or play around either. • Keep pool skimmers, ladders and other long tools away from overhead lines. fly kites, balloons, drones or other objects near overhead lines. A kite • Don’t or balloon string can conduct electricity to the ground.
For more electric safety tips, visit gpltexas.org/safety.
Have you ever cut the pant legs off an old pair of jeans to create shorts? Maybe turned an old tire into a swing? Or sewed some favorite shirts together to create a quilt? If you’ve ever saved an item from the trash, or even the recycling cart, by turning it into something else useful, you’ve upcycled. Upcycling is also known as creative reuse and is a favorite of DIYers, crafters and side hustlers. By finding ways to use items again and not throwing them away, you help keep materials out of our landfill.
Upcycling can even prevent food waste by using ingredients usually left behind. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, more food is landfilled than all other items. But did you know snack foods can be made from the byproducts of the coffee and beer industries? Check out upcycledfood.org to learn more.
Upcycling is different from recycling. Upcycling turns items into something new without processing them into the raw materials first. Benefits of upcycling include minimizing landfill waste, conserving resources, and reducing air and water pollution.
Do you practice upcycling at home, either for yourself or for others? The possibilities are endless. And you might just find yourself with a fun new side hustle! Before placing anything in your carts, consider ways to use it all just a little longer. Remember, there is no actual "away" when you throw things away.
Friendly Reminder
GP&L Recognized Again as Tree Line USA Utility
DRAINAGE CHANNEL Please remember City Ordinances require…
Each property owner shall keep the drainage channels and/or drainage and floodway easements traversing or adjacent to their property clean and free of debris, silt and any other substance, which may impede the flow of storm waters or result in unsanitary conditions. This includes all necessary mowing, weeding, litter pickup and other normal property owner responsibilities.
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Garland City Press May-June 2021
For 11 years, Garland Power & Light has been recognized as a Tree Line USA utility for its commitment to proper tree pruning, planting and care in the service area.
Tree Line USA, a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters, recognizes public and private utilities for pursuing practices that protect and enhance America’s urban forests. GP&L achieved Tree Line USA recognition by meeting five program standards: Following industry standards for quality tree care Providing annual worker training in best tree care practices Sponsoring a tree planting and public education program Maintaining a tree-based energy conservation program Participating in an Arbor Day celebration
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For more information about Tree Line USA, visit arborday.org/TreeLineUSA.
Garland Uses Smoke to Test Sewer Pipes The Garland Water Utilities Department conducts annual leak-detection tests on the pipes of the City sanitary sewer system during the months of July, August and September. Smoke testing will take place in two areas of west Garland. One is between Walnut Street, Forest Lane, Yale Drive and Plano Road. The other is between Lawler Road, Walnut, Purdue Drive and Forest Ridge Drive. You can see a map of the areas at GarlandWater.com. Because this encompasses a fairly large area, testing may continue into October. The tests are performed by the department’s Inflow & Infiltration section by pumping a special non-toxic, non-staining smoke into the sewer lines a section at a time. If there is a crack or break anywhere in the pipeline, the smoke will rise to the surface and the crew can visually see the exact location where repairs are needed. Water from rain events or even naturally occurring ground water can seep into pipes that are broken or cracked, which adds to the flow of water going to the wastewater treatment plant. More flow means increased processing costs. Keeping this water out of our pipelines saves money and prevents unnecessary high flows through the equipment at the plant.
City Services
The smoke is created using a mineral oil base that does not cause harm to humans or animals. It won’t leave a residue even if it gets into a house. This test may also help a resident discover a plumbing problem in the house. Smoke will come up in weak spots (plumbing issues) even if the P-trap is full. If a resident has not used a drain or P-traps for 10 days or more, the water has probably evaporated. It is recommended that residents run the faucet for about 10 seconds to fill the P-trap so smoke does not come into the house. When the crews plan to work in your neighborhood, an information tag will be hung on your front door three days before the work is started. Rain or high winds can affect test results, so there are times when testing will be postponed. Residents will be notified if defects are found on private property.
If you have any questions about the City’s smoke testing program, call 972-205-3210 or email WaterOps@GarlandTX.gov.
Visit GP&L’s Online Outage Center Thunderstorms and other weather events can lead to power outages. Please take time to check out some useful resources within Garland Power & Light’s Outage Center.
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View current power outages on the Power Outage Map. A lightning bolt icon indicates the general area of an outage and number of customers affected. Learn how to report a power outage by text message. Find tips to prepare for power outages and information on electric safety. Learn what to do if a home’s electric meter base is damaged in a storm. Watch a video to learn about GP&L’s outage restoration process. To access these resources, click on “Outage Center” in the main navigation of GP&L’s website, gpltexas.org.
May-June 2021 Garland City Press
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Hybrid Programs, Online Resources and Downloadable Items this Summer at the Library
With these precautions in place, library locations have extended hours of operation. In order to limit large gatherings, spring library programs were staged in a virtual format. These events consisted of educational, informational and recreational programs for children and teens. Events for adults included online book club meetings via Zoom, video craft tutorials and additional informational programs. For summer, the library hopes to offer similar virtual programs, as well as hybrid programs, such as in-person programs held outdoors. The library plans to host its annual Summer Reading Program from May 30 through July 31. This year’s program, Tails and Tales, celebrates animals and animal stories and is open to all ages. Participants receive an activity card to log their progress and earn a prize when completed. To register, visit the Summer Reading page at Library.GarlandTX.gov or come in to any of the four library locations beginning May 30. Be sure to check back all summer long for updates on activities, programs and special prize drawings.
Due to COVID-19, Garland libraries continue to operate with some slight service changes this summer. The libraries are still offering curbside materials pickup, online card registration, downloadable books, and online resources. Patrons are encouraged to wear masks and maintain social distancing when possible. Disinfecting wipes and sanitizer will be available upon a patron’s request. With these precautions in place, library has extended its hours of operation in an effort toward complete reopening.
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Garland City Press May-June 2021
As always, e-books, audio books, magazines and newspapers are also available for checkout through the library website or through the OverDrive and Libby apps. In addition to downloadable media, the library continues to provide access to other online resources, such as HelpNow’s online tutoring, Mango Languages, Brain HQ, the Gale Virtual Reference Library and Universal Class online courses, all available remotely at Library.GarlandTX.gov. Free public Wi-Fi is accessible both inside and outside of each library location, and online library card registration remains an option on the library website. For the most up-to-date event schedule, information on what library services are currently available, and access to downloadable materials and online resources, visit Library.GarlandTX.gov, or follow the library on Facebook at Facebook.com/GarlandLibraryTX.
Quality of Life
Events from the Arts
GARLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 7 Granville Arts Center, 200 N. Fifth St. Concert VIII of Garland Symphony Orchestra’s A Ludwig Shindig Season features pianist Daniela Liebman. Tickets: 972-205-2790, GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com or at the door.
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GARLAND PARKS, RECREATION & CULTURAL ARTS AND GARLAND ISD WIN ARTS AND HUMANITIES AWARD On March 10, 2021, the Texas Park & Recreation Society awarded the Garland Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department the 2020 Arts and Humanities Achievement Award. Garland Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts, along with the Garland Independent School District, hosted Big Art Day in Audubon Park on March 5, 2020. This hands-on event focused on art education and featured many activities for the more than 1,000 attendees to enjoy and engage in, including steamroller art, make-and-take art and live music performances. Big Art Day was created to raise awareness of art education and art as a creative force in Texas communities. The Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) set a goal to engage all art educators, their students and communities in a single-day art event. This inaugural event focused on art education with live art demonstrations, performances by Garland ISD students, games and food trucks. By joining with the TAEA, the City of Garland Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department and the school district met the goal of bringing art educators, art students and the community together in the park for a celebration of all things art. Garland is proud of its multicultural heritage and seeks to actively support its talented residents. Big Art Day was a great way of showcasing the talents of those who call Garland home while cultivating the appreciation and importance of art in the community. Another Big Art Day is being planned for late 2021.
“GREASE” June 11-20 Granville Arts Center, 200 N. Fifth St. Garland Summer Musicals presents the Broadway and film smash hit “Grease.” Follow Danny, Sandy, the Pink Ladies, and the Burger Palace Boys as they navigate high school to an unforgettable soundtrack. Tickets: 972-205-2790, GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com or at the door. Tickets will be available beginning 10 a.m. Monday, May 10.
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The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) “THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED)” May 7-16 Granville Arts Center, 200 N. Fifth St. Witness this irreverent, fast-paced romp through all The Bard’s 37 plays, as written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield and performed by Garland Civic Theatre. Tickets: 972-205-2790, GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com or at the door.
“CHARLOTTE’S WEB” Fridays-Sundays, May 28-June 6 Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St. Determined to save Wilbur, Charlotte begins her campaign with the “miracle” of her web in which she writes, “Some pig.” Presented by the Company of Rowlett Performers. Tickets: CorpTheatre.org or 972-977-7710.
“THE CACTUS CHRONICLES” 3 p.m. Saturday, May 15 Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St. The story of one family’s profound and enduring mark on the Garland community and its culture. Presented by Friends of Garland’s Historic Magic 11th Street. Inperson seating is SOLD OUT. Live stream tickets are available here: showtix4u.com/event-details/47599
“9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL” July 16-25 Granville Arts Center, 200 N. Fifth St. Garland Summer Musicals presents “9 to 5: The Musical,” based on the classic Dolly Parton film. Three unlikely friends learn there’s nothing they can’t do, even in a man’s world. Tickets: 972-205-2790, GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com or at the door. Tickets will be available beginning 10 a.m. Monday, May 10.
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Staff wear masks or shields and the facility is cleaned thoroughly before and after each production. Seating is assigned with two seats in between each party. Patrons are encouraged to wear masks. May-June 2021 Garland City Press
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SPOTLIGHT ON GARLAND Quality of Life
If you want to become a homeowner, Garland may just be your place regardless of age, according to a recent report published by real estate marketplace Point2Homes. The study used income and home price data to figure how long it would take different generations to save for a down payment in the nation’s 100 most populous cities. Garland’s ratings:
events Recreation Center
SPHERO ROBOTICS
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, May 4-25 • Ages 10 to 15, $40 per child Bradfield Recreation Center 1146 Castle Drive Expand your imagination and skills by learning about computer science with Sphero, a sphere-shaped robot. 972-205-2770 or BRC@GarlandTX.gov
STRONG NATION
6 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays, May 5-26 • Ages 18 and up, $30 per person Granger Recreation Center 1310 W. Avenue F Combine high-intensity interval training with the science of synced music motivation. 972-205-2771 or GRC@GarlandTX.gov
POWER-LATES
a.m. to 12:20 p.m. Tuesdays, • 11:30 May 4-25
Ages 18 and up, $20 per person Holford Recreation Center 2314 Homestead Place This fusion class implements elements of traditional Pilates along with some heartpumping and strength-training exercises. 972-205-2772 or HRC@GarlandTX.gov
PRODUCED BY ZEON
2 to 3 p.m. Saturdays, May 1-22 • Ages 10 and up, $100 per month Hollabaugh Recreation Center 3925 W. Walnut St. Make a movie score or an instrumental body of work using the FL Studio with a Garland legend. 972-205-2721 or HHRC@GarlandTX.gov Audubon Recreation Center, 342 W. Oates Road, and Gale Fields Recreation Center, 1701 Dairy Road, are closed for construction.
Register now!
Visit PlayGarland.com or call your local recreation center for more events.
@PlayGarland 14
Garland City Press May-June 2021
65 and older: No. 7 overall, No. 2 in Texas (3.8 years to save for a • Ages down payment) 55-64: No. 8 overall, No. 3 in Texas (2.9 years) •• Ages Ages 45-54: No. 8 overall, No. 3 in Texas (2.7 years) 25-44: No. 18 overall, No. 6 in Texas (3.4 years) •• Ages Ages 15-24: No. 3 overall, No. 1 in Texas (4.6 years)
Garland ranked 22nd among the top 100 U.S. cities in personal finance resource GOBankingRates’ study of Where Your Paycheck Goes Furthest. That study looked at median household income, biweekly cost of necessities and how much is left over when the bills for the necessities are met. Garland is among about half of those largest American cities where the median household income is just below $60,000. And among those cities, Garland was No. 3 in the GOBankingRates study. Texas fared well with eight cities in the overall top 40. In another recent study, Forbes ranked Garland as the 24th best city for renters out of the most populous 100 in the country. Apartment data, weather and disaster risk data, and park information were among the factors used in the study.
BioBlitz
Yard Waste Is... Yard waste is natural. It’s biodegradable. It isn’t a pollutant … or is it? When we think of pollution, most of us picture leaking chemicals, oil spills or industrial discharges. Pollution does not have to be synthetic. Even natural, biodegradable materials — like yard waste — can cause pollution. When yard waste is dumped, blown or left in the street (this is against City ordinance), it is eventually washed by rain and sprinklers to a nearby waterway via storm drains — which leads to our local lakes. Grass clippings, leaves and other yard waste contain nitrogen and phosphorus, nutrients that act as fertilizer in the lake. Excess nutrients fuel the growth of lake weeds, algae and even harmful algae blooms, which are toxic to humans and animals. Additionally, the decomposition of excess weeds and algae in the lake can use up the oxygen that fish and native plants need. So how do you keep your yard from polluting the lake?
up – Sweep or blow grass clippings, leaves and fertilizers that • Clean get on the driveway or sidewalk back onto your lawn to keep them out of our storm drains. Use a mulching mower – Leave grass clippings and leaves on the lawn. • Run over them with your lawn mower to cut them up more, and then leave them there. They provide nutrients and are the best fertilizer for your lawn. Lawn service – Speak with your service and let them know to keep the • yard waste out of the street as it is against City ordinance and will pollute our waterways. Compost – Dispose of lawn waste in compost piles. Making compost • results in a rich natural fertilizer for your plants or garden, productively
reusing yard waste rather than throwing it away — and saving you money in the process.
GarlandStormwater.org
MOWING AND EDGING TIPS As spring and summer approach, we fire up those lawnmowers, blowers and string-trimmers. But do we take the time to make our yards as appealing as they could be? City ordinances are generally written to meet minimum health and safety code standards. Basic yard maintenance may be enough to be compliant. However, with just a few more minutes of work, we can enhance the curb appeal of our homes and our community. Here are a few suggestions:
on a regular schedule – Cutting a lawn every week takes less time, • Mow collectively, than mowing when it is overgrown. hedges to not block points of egress – If a fire occurred, could your • Trim loved ones easily exit the window? Trimmed hedges keep a home looking tidy, too. Blow grass clippings back onto your lawn – This keeps them from polluting • our creeks and improves lawn thatch. For more information, visit GarlandStormwater.org. Edge sidewalks and keep the walkway clear – It is a violation to allow any • structure, object, tree, shrub or other vegetation to encroach a sidewalk
in a manner that impedes passage of pedestrians. This extra effort also greatly enhances the visual appearance of the places we call home.
The Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest jumps into spring May 1-2 with scheduled nature walks and a BioBlitz at the Spring Creek Forest Preserve, 1770 and 1787 Holford Road.
Using the iNaturalist app, BioBlitzers will help identify organisms that are essential to the local ecosystem and also invasive species that present potential harm. Participants will take photos from several angles and then identify their finds using the iNaturalist app. The goal is to identify as many plant, insect and animal species as possible. To date, 266 naturalists have collected 6,800 observations featuring nearly 1,000 species in the Spring Creek Forest Preserve. The BioBlitz is all day, both days. Individuals decide how much time they want to spend on the project. Volunteers and participants are asked to wear masks and practice social distancing. Master Naturalist Judy Aschner will be at the park pavilion from 10 a.m. to noon both days to assist in identifying the finds. Help with the iNaturalist app will also be available. The iNaturalist app is available from the Apple app store or Google Play store. Or create an account at iNaturalist.org (must be 13 or older) and use your laptop or desktop computer to upload your observations. The local event is part of the City Nature Challenge, which drew 244 regional participants from six continents in 2020. For more information, email barbara_baynham2005@yahoo.com.
Nature Walk Schedule: BIRD WALK 8 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday, May 1 8 to 9:30 a.m. Sunday, May 2 1787 Holford Road Master Birder Reba Collins will lead a spring migration bird walk. Limited to 15 participants per session. Bring binoculars and, depending on the weather, rain boots. RSVP required to rcollins20@verizon.net.
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BUTTERFLY WALK Noon Saturday, May 1 1787 Holford Road Learn about the Texas Butterfly Monitoring Network while walking the trails of a limestone prairie for an introduction to some of the common butterflies of North Texas. Led by David and Sharon Parrish.
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FOREST SYSTEMS WALK 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 1 1770 Holford Road Learn the different layers and relationships that make up a healthy forest. Walk through the forest to examine how forests thrive. Led by Dana Wilson.
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FROGS AT NIGHT 6:30 p.m. Saturday, May 1 1787 Holford Road Listen to and look for frogs along Spring Creek, one of the cleanest creeks in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Walk leader Jessica Crowley will also bring frogs from her personal collection. Wear appropriate footwear.
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INVASIVE PLANT ID AND REMOVAL 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 2 1770 Holford Road Walk down the trails and identify invasive plant species and their impact in the Spring Creek Forest Preserve. The Preservation Society’s removal strategies will be discussed. Led by Master Naturalist Rob Kaaa.
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May-June 2021 Garland City Press
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Garland City Press City of Garland P.O. Box 469002 Garland, Texas 75046-9002
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Garland City Press is produced and funded by the City of Garland and contains information about the City, as well as details on City-sponsored events. Send comments or questions to: Dorothy White, Public & Media Relations, City of Garland, P.O. Box 469002, Garland, TX 75046-9002.