Garland City Press - May 2022 by City of Garland, Texas

CITY PRESS

SHOWTIME

CONCERT SERIES SET FOR AUDUBON AND WINTERS PARKS MAY-JUNE 2022 | VOLUME 30, ISSUE 3 | GarlandTX.gov

Sounds of Summer

Garland’s Sounds of Summer Concert Series returns every other Thursday from May 12 through July 21, with concerts starting at 7 p.m. Along with presenting partner Veritex Bank and artist sponsor Jimmy Wallace Guitars, the City is proud to feature touring on-the-rise artists and lively entertainers who are sure to blow you away with talent and get you dancing in Audubon and Winters Parks. The lineup includes a Grammy-nominated blues artist, a popular Dallas band and the next big thing in Texas music, among many more exciting acts to light up the stage. Bring the whole family, a blanket and chairs for a night of amazing music. Grab a bite from on-site food vendors. We hope to see you under the beautiful Texas stars this summer!

More information at VisitGarlandTX.com.

The City of Garland is proud to host its inaugural Juneteenth event from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 19, at Audubon Park, 342 W. Oates Road. Bring the family out to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people with a celebration of freedom and unification through dance, speakers and live music. There will be food trucks, children’s activities and an opportunity to reflect on the day’s historical significance.

Garland City Press May-June 2022

The Cinco de Mayo festival is just around the corner. Bring the whole family out for a day of fun at this fiesta from 3 to 9 p.m. Sunday, May 8, at the Winters Park amphitheater, 1419 Spring Creek Drive. Enjoy food vendors, a car show, live music and performances, and more! Visit CincoDeMayoGarland.com for band lineup.

Inside this Issue

Feature

Walnut Creek Library rendering by VLK Architects

Bond Highlights The first bottleneck improvements from the Build Garland Bond Program are anticipated to begin this summer. Flow, reliability and capacity improvements will occur in phases at four intersections: Campbell Road at State Highway 190, Garland Avenue at 190, Broadway Boulevard at Interstate 30 and Forest Lane at Jupiter Road.

Preparatory work has begun on Naaman School Road, which will be improved to address congestion issues by widening from two to four lanes, divided by a center median, from Brand Road to just past State Highway 78 (Lavon Drive). The roadway will be raised over Spring Creek to address flooding and will include a pedestrian trail on the north side of the road. The Shiloh Road alignment is approved and the project is moving forward into the detailed design phase. Shiloh is expanding to six lanes from Kingsley Road to Miller Road. Follow the progress at BuildGarland.com/Proposition/A. Phase 1 of the work to transform the Downtown Square into a destination for the community's many interests and needs is nearing completion. Businesses on the Square and surrounding blocks are all open and pedestrian access is being maintained, so be sure to pay them a visit. And yes, there are plenty of public places to park! The project’s anticipated completion is in 2023. Learn more at GarlandTX.gov/DowntownConstruction. Design is well underway for the new Walnut Creek Branch Library at Hollabaugh Park, which will offer more square footage for an extra 10,000 volumes, a technological makeover including more computers and study rooms with video conferencing capability, and designated teen space. Learn more at BuildGarland.com/Proposition/E. More than 10 of the 25 playgrounds from the 2019 bond program are being utilized by Garland families. In addition to the new playgrounds, the Parks and Recreation bond proposition includes many more improvements for parks across the City. These construction activities are well underway in several locations. Garland residents will soon experience a new concession building at Central Park. To minimize cost and construction disruption, this building was fabricated off site. Each piece was trucked to its new home at the park, set in place by crane lift and attached to complete the structure. This process will be used for restrooms and concessions buildings in several other parks, including Audubon, Bradfield and Holford. There are plans in other locations to improve parking lot pavement and install new shade structures. See more at BuildGarland.com/Proposition/D.

For updates on these and all 2019 bond projects, visit BuildGarland.com.

SPOTLIGHT ON GARLAND Pages

08 City Council

In all, 12 intersections where drivers experience delays due to configuration or capacity limitations are being improved as part of the bond program. Other transportation projects from Build Garland are also in motion.

Page

City Services

City Council Meeting Schedule

Where's My Truck?

2022 Elections

Summer Nutrition Program GP&L EnergySaver Program

Water Conservation Credit Program

City News Spotlight on Garland

Quality of Life

New Customer Service Portal

Library Events

Duck Creek Cleanup Events from the Arts

Neighborhoods & Development

Recreation Center Events

What's Being Built There Redevelopment at Las Brisas Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant

Garland@GarlandTX.gov On the Web

GarlandTX.gov MakeYourMarkGarland.com

On Social Media

@GarlandTXGOV

City of Garland, Texas Government #MYMGarland

#GarlandTX

May-June 2022 Garland City Press

CITY COUNCIL SCHEDULE

2022 Council Elections

All meetings are at City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St.

City Council Work Sessions

broadcast – 6 p.m. May 2, May 16, • Live June 6 and June 20 the following Tuesday, • Rebroadcast Thursday and Friday – 9 a.m., Wednesday and Thursday – 7 p.m.

City Council Regular Meetings

Visit dallascountyvotes.org for voting times and locations.

broadcast – 7 p.m. May 3, May 17, • Live June 7 and June 21 the following Wednesday • Rebroadcast – 9 a.m., Friday – 7 p.m., Saturday and

The City of Garland will hold a general election The following individuals are listed in the order on Saturday, May 7, to elect council members for they appear on the Council ballot: Districts 2 and 5. Early voting by personal appearance ends on District 2 Tuesday, May 3. Garland residents may vote from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at any polling location in Dallas County on Saturday, May 7. Incumbents Jeff Bass (District 1) and B.J. Williams (District 4) were unopposed and declared elected to two-year terms.

District 5

Trayc Claybrook Koni Ramos-Kaiwi Deborah Morris Cle D. Kimble Margaret Lucht Jon Dehn

If no candidate receives a majority of votes in the three-way races, there will be a runoff between the top two finishers on Saturday, June 18.

Garland voters will also decide school board and Dallas County Community College District races on May 7. But only those who reside within a Garland City Council district can vote in the Voters will also decide runoffs in the statewide Council races. primary races on Tuesday, May 24.

Sunday – 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Plan Commission

– 7 p.m. May 9, May 23, June 13 • Meetings and June 27 will be rebroadcast the following • Meetings Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 9 a.m.

City Council

City Council Members District

Mayor

District

OAD ELL R

OR GE

TO L

LW AY

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Scott LeMay 972-205-2400 214-794-8904 Mayor@GarlandTX.gov

HWAY

COUNTRY CLUB ROAD

78 � LA VON D

RIVE

AV E

B CAMP

SHILOH ROAD

STAT E HIG

BUCKINGHAM ROAD

Deborah Morris 214-273-4387 Council2@GarlandTX.gov

District

Ed Moore 214-243-3053 Council3@GarlandTX.gov

District

B.J. Williams Deputy Mayor Pro Tem 972-898-7672 Council4@GarlandTX.gov

District

CASTLE DRIVE

GARLAND AVENUE

WALNUT STREET

LL E RV I

Rich Aubin 972-325-2529 Council5@GarlandTX.gov

LE RV IL TE

Robert John Smith 469-223-4723 Council8@GarlandTX.gov

DISTRICT 3 TOWN HALL p.m. Thursday, May 12 • 6:30 Dallas County Road and Bridge Office, 715 Rowlett Road

H SE

RD VA

Dylan Hedrick Mayor Pro Tem 469-560-6099 Council7@GarlandTX.gov

E UL

H RT NO

IL L

W H

AD RO

T ES AY W

E AT ST

INT

Keep up with the latest public meetings. Garland City Press May-June 2022

Robert Vera 469-782-4482 Council6@GarlandTX.gov

AY W AD O BR

RO AD

FIRST STREET

RO AD

MILLER ROAD

EN TE

FOREST LANE

Jeff Bass 469-831-5620 Council1@GarlandTX.gov

Join Council Member Ed Moore for updates on projects in District 3. Briefings on Boards and Commissions are also planned. Council Member Moore and City staff will be available.

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.

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

Channel 16 (Spectrum), Channel 44 (Frontier) or Channel 99 (AT&T U-verse), GarlandTX.tv

SPOTLIGHT ON GARLAND City News

The City of Garland’s Public & Media Relations Department (left) was recently recognized by the City Council for the Lone Star Regional Emmy® earned by its video “A Look Back at The Wall That Heals.” The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, was on display at Audubon Park and attracted more than 13,000 visitors from across the state and beyond who paid their respects. The City video captured The Wall That Heals arrival, setup, opening and official ceremony, visitors, disassembly and departure.

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 May 31 through July 1. Application forms can be found on the City Secretary’s page at GarlandTX.gov.

NORTH TEXAS MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT BOARD APPOINTMENT 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 June 1 and runs through May 31, 2024. To qualify, an applicant must reside in Garland and own taxable property. Applications will be accepted from May 3-24 and should include a letter of interest and resume.

TEXAS MUNICIPAL POWER AGENCY 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 July 18 and runs through July 18, 2024. To qualify, an applicant must reside in Garland. Applications will be accepted from May 16-31 and should include a letter of interest and a resume.

DALLAS AREA RAPID TRANSIT BOARD APPOINTMENT The City is accepting applications for a place on the Board of Directors for Dallas Area Rapid Transit. The term will be for two years, expiring June 30, 2024. To qualify, an applicant must reside in Garland. Applications for the position will be accepted from May 16-31. Please include a letter of interest.

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.

Garland’s Community Development Department (above) was recognized by the National Community Development Association (NCDA) for its efforts to partner with community organizations and federal housing funds to provide a home to an Army veteran on Veterans Day 2021. The City is regularly cited by NCDA for its exemplary uses of federal housing money and its partnerships to assist low-income persons. By recommendation from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, NDCA reached out to Garland to help develop a curriculum for other large municipalities on how to run a successful mortgage program. Garland’s Budget & Research Department received the Government Finance Officers Association’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2021-22 Annual Operating Budget document.

Garland’s Purchasing Department (above) was recently recognized with its 23rd consecutive Excellence of Achievement in Procurement Award from the National Procurement Institute. The award recognizes organizational excellence by measuring innovation, professionalism, e-procurement, productivity and leadership attributes. For the 20th consecutive year, Garland’s Nicholson Memorial Library System received the Achievement of Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association. Only 10% of Texas’ public library systems receive the award. The award requires excellence in 10 service areas, including providing services to underserved populations, offering programming for adults and families, and promoting digital inclusion.

“The Wall That Heals” and “Vet Gets HOME!” videos can be found on the City’s YouTube channel.

NEW CUSTOMER SERVICE PORTAL COMING SOON The Customer Service Department will soon introduce a new customer account web portal. When the new system is launched, City of Garland utility customers who use the existing web-based tool will be required to create a new username and password. The new portal will provide additional utility billing detail, customer account information, options to make a payment and many new features that will enhance users' online experience.

Username Password Remember me

Forgot Password

Visit GarlandUtilities.org for updates. May-June 2022 Garland City Press

WHAT'S BEING

Subscribe to Street Talk, a monthly enewsletter containing street project updates.

BUILT THERE? Garland is buzzing with new development.

1 2

Raising Cane’s is under construction at the southeast corner of State Highway 190 and North Garland Avenue.

Taking It to the Streets Projects scheduled to begin in May/June

An existing building at 5225 N. Garland Avenue is undergoing a significant remodel to be reused as another bank.

Street.GarlandTX.gov

Coming soon at 5801 Broadway Blvd., near the Taco Bell, is Dutch Bros. Coffee.

Carolyn Drive, First Street to Fifth Street Street reconstruction

Cliffwood Drive/Duck Creek Drive alley, Oak Tree Lane to Wynn Joyce Road Alley reconstruction

Fifth Street, Travis Street to Walnut Street Concrete street repair

Ridgewood Drive/Vista Drive alley, Cumberland Drive to Dairy Road Alley reconstruction

Tennyson Circle, Miller Road to north end Street reconstruction

Ongoing projects

O C

Celeste Drive/Vista Drive alley, Cumberland Drive to Dairy Road Paving previously unpaved alley

Cliffwood Drive/Redwood Drive alley, Oak Tree Lane to Wynn Joyce Road Alley reconstruction

Country Valley Road/Hollow Way alley, Country Valley to Scott Drive Alley reconstruction

Duck Creek Drive, Broadway Boulevard to Centerville Road Concrete street repair

Field Knoll Drive, Clover Valley Drive to south end Street reconstruction

Forest Lane at Shiloh Road Railroad approach repair

Lynn Drive/Taylor Drive, First Street to Miller Road Street reconstruction

Oates Road, Broadway Boulevard to city limits Concrete street repair

Ridgewood Drive, Cumberland Drive to First Street Street reconstruction

Shiloh Road, Buckingham Road to Walnut Street Concrete street repair

K L E A N D F

B G I M

Texas Department of Transportation Projects

635 East More information about the project can be found at 635east.com.

K Forest Lane at Shiloh Road

The City’s contractor has started removing and replacing the concrete pavement on both sides of the Dallas, Garland & Northeastern Railroad, Inc., railroad crossing on Forest Lane just east of Shiloh Road. Various lanes of the roadway will be closed throughout the repair. Please expect traffic delays and seek alternate travel routes to avoid this work zone. If you have any questions or concerns, email Street@GarlandTX.gov.

Garland City Press May-June 2022

Neighborhoods & Development

Redevelopment at Las Brisas

The City continues to gather input from neighbors as it continues with the process of redevelopment of 1002 Marion Drive. The site was known formerly as Las Brisas Residence Club and, before that, as Garland Clinic & Hospital.

"I'd like to see a green space so people around here can have a park," said Linda Speegle, Dr. Speegle's wife and 60-year resident of the neighborhood. "They put up with ambulances coming and going all those years. It was noisy."

Neighbors, planners and City officials met at the site on Thursday, March 24, to celebrate its 70-year history. The building was demolished that week.

She said that running the city's first emergency room made for a lot of sleepless nights for Dr. Speegle, who died in 2019. "The phone rang all the time." Babies, appendicitis and broken bones don't stick to a 9-to-5 timeline.

Dr. Robert Speegle developed the site in the 1950s as Garland Clinic & Hospital. It provided surgery, lab work, X-ray technology, an emergency room and Garland residents’ first alternative to Dallas hospitals. For more than a decade, the hospital was a central element as Garland grew and the nation's baby boom raged.

"He was not from a wealthy family," Robert Shaw said of his uncle, Dr. Speegle. "But he had this vision and he had his medical degree, which he got on the GI bill." Dr. Speegle poured concrete along the property's creekbed himself to help with costs.

"The old facility had gone through several iterations and uses over the years," Mayor Scott LeMay said. "The building was in very poor condition and it was going to continue to decline. So the best option sometimes is to move on. To tear it down. And of course, the goal being to replace it with something better. Something more usable by today's standards."

The history was also reflected in attendees like Michael Walker, who said that on March 17, 1955, he was the first male of more than 3,000 who were born at Garland Clinic & Hospital. And J.P. Reese, who was hired as a janitor in 1957 and worked to become the first African American surgical tech professional at Garland Clinic & Hospital and then at Memorial Hospital of Garland.

"It was dilapidated and really run down. It couldn't have been repaired," said Rhonda Mullen, the former hospital's business manager. "The memories are good. But it was just time for it to come down."

To give input on the project, contact the Office of Neighborhood Vitality at Neighborhoods@GarlandTX.gov, 972-205-2445 or visit GarlandNeighborhoods.org.

The City will host additional opportunities for neighborhood input in the coming months. Suggestions for the property so far have included affordable senior housing or a park — several neighbors brought children and pets to the March 24 "Farewell Party."

You can share your memories or photos with the Garland Landmark Museum by sending an email to Heritage@ GarlandTX.gov.

Neighborhood Vitality

Matching Grant – Letter of Intent Attention all neighborhood groups! The Letter of Intent deadline for the Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant program is Saturday, July 23. Neighborhood groups registered with the Office of Neighborhood Vitality may apply for up to $100,000 in matching funds for neighborhood enhancement projects on public property. Additional assistance is available for voluntary neighborhood groups. Download the program guidelines, forms and more at GarlandNeighborhoods.org. For more details, email Neighborhoods@GarlandTX.gov or call 972-205-2445. May-June 2022 Garland City Press

City Services

Do I Need a Tetanus Shot? Tetanus is caused by bacteria sometimes found in the soil. When the bacteria invade the body through a break in the skin, they produce a poison that can cause serious muscle spasms.

Tetanus infection can lead to serious health problems and even death. In the early 1900s, untreated tetanus infections were fatal most of the time. Today, tetanus is uncommon in the United States. Nearly all cases of tetanus are among people who did not get all the recommended tetanus vaccinations. Being up to date with your tetanus vaccine is the best tool to prevent tetanus. Tetanus vaccines also protect against diphtheria, and some of them contain protection from pertussis (whooping cough) as well. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough (pertussis) combination vaccination for everyone. Babies should be vaccinated when they are 2 months, 4 months and 6 months old, and again after they have their first birthday. A booster dose is needed between 4 and 6 years old.

A tetanus booster (Tdap) is also required for students entering seventh grade. Garland Public Health encourages students to be vaccinated now and avoid the back-to-school rush. Early birds will be rewarded with a Dairy Queen coupon — while supplies last. Pregnant women should get vaccinated with Tdap (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis) during the early part of the third trimester of every pregnancy. And all adults who have never received one should get a shot of Tdap, especially if they are going to be around an infant or young child. This dose should be followed by a booster dose every 10 years, or after five years in the case of a severe or dirty wound or burn. Conveniently located at 206 Carver St., the Garland Public Health Clinic not only provides low-cost immunizations for infants, children and adults, but also accepts most insurance plans. The clinic is open for walk-ins from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Anyone coming for vaccinations should bring previous immunization records with them. Call 972-205-3370 for more information.

WHERE’S MY TRUCK? Do you want to know if the brush and bulky rear-loader truck is in your neighborhood? Is your kiddo a super fan of our Sanitation crew and can’t wait for the trucks to come?

Now you can check from your phone or computer to see where the rear-loader trucks are. Just go to GarlandTX.gov/TrackMyTruck to find your neighborhood on the map. Look for the green arrows to see the trucks on the move near you. Rear-loader vehicles collect small hand piles under 40 pounds in weight. If you have large piles of brush or large bulky items, they will be collected by a different piece of equipment. Please remember to separate clean brush from bulky items and make sure the piles are not obstructed. If your brush and bulky pile is not collected by 8 p.m. on your collection day, report the issue using the eAssist app or by calling 972-205-3500. 8

Garland City Press May-June 2022

GarlandTX.gov/TrackMyTruck

Summer Nutrition Program Programa de Nutrición de Verano FREE SUMMER MEALS

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday - Friday June 13 through August 5

COMIDA GRATIS

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. lunes - viernes 13 de junio al 5 de agosto

The program offers free, nutritious meals to children ages 1-18 and young adults with disabilities while school is out for the summer. No registration or proof of income is required!

El programa ofrece comidas nutritivas gratuitas para niños de 1 a 18 años y adultos jóvenes con discapacidades cuando la escuela está cerrada mientras no hay escuela durante el verano. No se requiere prueba o comprobante de ingresos!

PICKUP ONLY AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS: SOLO PARA RECOGER EN LOS SIGUIENTES LUGARES: Bradfield Recreation Center, 1146 Castle Drive Fields Recreation Center, 1701 Dairy Road Granger Recreation Center, 1310 W. Avenue F Hollabaugh Recreation Center, 3925 W. Walnut St. Audubon Recreation Center, 342 W. Oates Road Garland has participated in the program for more than 20 years. CitySquare, an advocacy organization that works to fight poverty in the community, will oversee the 2022 program. Garland ha participado en el programa durante más

de 20 años. CitySquare, una organización de defensa que trabaja para combatir la pobreza en la comunidad, supervisará el programa 2022.

If you have questions, contact volunteercoordinator@citysquare.org.

Si tiene preguntas, contacte a volunteercoordinator@citysquare.org.

GRILLING SAFETY

There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. But a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. Follow these tips:

SAFETY

• • •• •

Only use outdoors, well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away. Remove grease or fat buildup. Never leave grill unattended. Make sure gas grill lid is open before lighting.

CHARCOAL GRILLS

• • • •

If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add any flammable liquid to the fire. Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources. Use an extension cord with an electric charcoal starter. When finished, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

PROPANE GRILLS

the gas tank hose for leaks before • Check using it the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, turn off both the gas tank and the grill. If the leak does not stop, call the Fire Department. you smell gas while cooking, • Ifimmediately get away from the grill and call the Fire Department. goes out, turn the grill • Ifandthegasflame off and wait at least 5 minutes before relighting.

Select GP&L's Green Choice Power Plan Garland Power & Light customers can go green by signing up for Green Choice, a power plan that provides 100% renewable energy from Texas wind and solar resources. GP&L’s Green Choice only costs a penny more per kilowatt-hour than GP&L’s regular rate. Both rates are very competitive as compared to plans in the Oncor delivery area (visit gpltexas.org/rates). A minimum 12-month commitment is required for Green Choice.

Enroll in Green Choice at gpltexas.org/GreenChoice or by calling 972-205-2671. May-June 2022 Garland City Press

City Services

SHELTER IN PLACE

Gear up, Garland! With severe weather and tornado season upon us, do you know where or how to seek the best shelter? The Office of Emergency Management urges residents to learn what to do when sheltering in place. Emergencies can arise in seconds, and sometimes that’s all the time people have to react and make decisions. Local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information on what’s happening and what you should do. Be sure to register for the Garland Alert System — if we can’t reach you, we can’t ALERT you! Register for the Garland Alert System at GarlandTX.gov/Alerts.

BEFORE A DISASTER:

a plan for you and your family, including what actions you will take and how you will • Make receive critical warning messages:

Obtain a NOAA Weather Radio with SAME technology (you can program for Dallas County) for immediate, audible indoor warnings.

Utilize multiple trusted sources for weather warnings and emergency information such as phone applications, local media or radio stations.

• Build a kit and keep emergency supplies in your shelter and vehicle. DURING SEVERE WEATHER:

• Continue listening to NOAA Weather Radio and trusted warning sources. • Bring family and pets inside. you hear outdoor warning sirens, seek shelter and additional information. If you have a • Ifstorm or tornado shelter, especially in-ground or a basement, these are the safest options. If not, move to an interior room, closet or bathroom with no windows on the lowest level (put as many walls between you and the outside as possible).

• If possible, get something to cover your head and help protect you from flying debris. traveling, being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. The best option is to take shelter • Ifinside a nearby sturdy building — never try to outrun a tornado in your vehicle. If you are unable to make it to a sturdy building to shelter and no other options exist, either lie flat in a low lying area such as a ditch or ravine or get down in your vehicle and cover your head (no place outside is safe from a tornado).

homes and recreational vehicles generally are not safe shelter locations. When • Mobile available, use designated shelter locations at the mobile home or RV park. If not available, consider seeking shelter in a nearby sturdy building or with friends, neighbors or family.

For more information on how you can stay prepared, visit the Garland Office of Emergency Management’s website at GarlandTX.gov/oem. 10

Garland City Press May-June 2022

Prepare for Summer with EnergySaver Summer is just around the corner. Garland Power & Light’s EnergySaver Program could help you save money and energy during those hot months. EnergySaver offers bill credits for qualifying energy-efficiency upgrades, including:

• •

Central A/C, heat pump or window A/C unit Ceiling insulation

• •

Window solar screens or film ENERGY STAR® windows and doors

For complete program requirements, visit gpltexas.org/energysaver. If you have questions, email energyadvisor@gpltexas.org or call 972-205-2929.

FIGHT THE BITE! Defend Yourself Against Mosquitoes

Cynthia Baughman

Laura Dunn

Carol Hsueh

New Directors

The City of Garland recently announced new leadership in three departments. Cynthia Baughman has been promoted to Water Utilities Technology Director. Since 2014, she has been the technology manager in Public Works Operations, overseeing Garland Water Utilities’ strategic technology initiatives. Prior to that, Baughman was in the Information Technology department as network services manager and business relationship manager. Laura Dunn has been promoted to Capital Project Management Director. She has been the strategic projects and capital portfolio manager for the Project Management Office since 2019, playing a key role in implementing the 2019 bond program. Dunn has been a City employee since 2005, previously leading strategic initiatives and programs including multiple phases of Downtown redevelopment. Carol Hsueh has been promoted to Human Relations Operations Director. Since 2019, she has been the senior HR business partner for several city Departments. Counting director and manager-level roles for several private organizations, Hsueh has nearly 25 years of broad experience in all aspects of Human Resources.

DRAIN standing water around the house weekly. Mosquitoes lay eggs in places like tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, toys and puddles. Even the amount of water in a bottle cap is enough to breed mosquitoes. DUSK AND DAWN are when mosquitoes that carry the virus are the most active, so limit outdoor activities or take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. DEET is an effective ingredient to look for in insect repellents. Follow label instructions carefully. DRESS in long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk or in areas where mosquitoes are active. West Nile Virus disease is rare, but if you have symptoms including high fever, severe headache and stiff neck, contact your health care provider.

To report standing water issues, stagnant swimming pools or high mosquito activity, call the Garland Health Department Mosquito Hotline at 972-205-3720.

May-June 2022 Garland City Press

Events at the Library All Garland libraries will be closed Monday, May 30, for Memorial Day.

CENTRAL LIBRARY

SOUTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY

625 Austin St., 972-205-2517

4845 Broadway Blvd., 972-205-3933

NORTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY

WALNUT CREEK BRANCH LIBRARY

3845 N. Garland Ave., 972-205-2804

3319 Edgewood Drive, 972-205-2585

Children/Families

SUMMER STORYTIMES June 13 through July 30

•

CENTRAL LIBRARY Baby Storytime (birth-18 months) 9:15 a.m. Tuesdays

SUMMER FUN FOR EVERYONE

The Nicholson Memorial Library System has summer reading programs for readers of all ages.

Kids, teens and adults can participate in the “Oceans of Possibilities” summer program. In addition to the pleasure you receive from reading a good book, you may also earn prizes! Starting June 11, pick up an activity card at any Garland library. Participants will read a specified number of hours and accomplish a variety of activities to complete each of three levels. Activity cards must be turned in by Saturday, July 30, to redeem prizes.

• Toddler Storytimes (18-36 months) • 10:15 a.m. Tuesdays Preschool Storytimes (3-5 years) • 9:15 a.m. Thursdays Tiempo de Cuentos en Español* • 10:15 a.m. Thursdays/los jueves

Tiempo de Cuentos para Familias en Español* 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays/los martes

• *Begins the week of June 20.

*Comienza la semana del 20 de junio

NORTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY Baby Storytime (birth-18 months) 10 a.m. Fridays

•

Visit Library.GarlandTX.gov or follow on Facebook for up-to-date programming, current library services, downloadable materials and online resources. 12

Garland City Press May-June 2022

WALNUT CREEK BRANCH LIBRARY Family Storytimes 6:15 p.m. Tuesdays

•

Young Audiences SIDEWALK CHALK OBSTACLE COURSE (CHILDREN OF ALL AGES) June 4 to Aug. 31 North Garland Branch Library Families can complete a sidewalk chalk obstacle course under the library’s covered portico. The obstacle course, made from chalk, duct tape and chalk spray is approximately 72 feet long. Participants who complete the course may visit the Children’s Desk inside the library during open hours for a small prize.

•

MIDDLE GRADE MAKERS (GRADES 4-8)

2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 25 • Walnut Creek Branch Library

Participate in fun, hands-on STEAM activities. Registration required, begins two weeks prior to event date. Project: Miniature Viking Ships.

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WALNUT CREEK BRANCH LIBRARY 2:30 p.m Thursdays June 16: The Creature Teacher Animal Show June 23: Puppeteer Sandy Shrout June 30: Magician James Wand

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NORTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY 2:30 p.m Saturdays SPECIAL PERFORMERS June 18: The Creature Teacher Animal CENTRAL LIBRARY Show 2:30 p.m Mondays June 25: Puppeteer Sandy Shrout June 13: The Creature Teacher Animal Show July 2: Juggler David Slick

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STOP MOTION ANIMATION 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 18 South Garland Branch Library Collaborate on a short, animated stop motion film. Registration is required to attend and begins Saturday, June 4. Call 972-205-3933 to register. Theme: Put the Ocean in Motion

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North Garland Branch Library 3845 N. Garland Ave., 972-205-2804 2:30 to 4 p.m. A Narwhal and Jelly Whaley Super Party! Make jellyfish suncatchers, narwhal horns, Narwhal and Jelly buttons, and narwhal origami. Register to win a Narwhal and Jelly book and puppet set. Visit create-your-own comic and bubble stations. Waffle cookies will be provided.

• Literacy in Motion (18-36 months) • 11:15 a.m. Fridays Zoom into Kindergarten (3-5 years) • 10:15 a.m. Wednesdays

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KICKOFF EVENTS - SATURDAY, JUNE 11

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SOUTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY Baby Storytime (birth-18 months) 10:15 a.m. Fridays

SOUTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY 2:30 p.m Wednesdays June 15: Window to the Wild: Birds of Prey June 22: Puppeteer Sandy Shrout June 29: All About Animals

• Family Storytimes • 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, May 12 and June 9 Central Library Teens can make a difference in their community and earn volunteer hours by joining the Teen Advisory Board. Attend a meeting to apply and discuss future library events, services and materials for teens.

For information about children’s and teen reading programs, call 972-205-2516. For information about the adult reading program, call 972-205-2502.

Central Library 625 Austin St., 972-205-2517 2 p.m. Watch the Moana and Maui dancers from Grace Hula Company perform hula dancing, then take photos with the dancers. Children may also decorate their own Tamatoa crab shell from the “Moana” movie.

June 20: Puppeteer Sandy Shrout June 27: Magician James Wand

Teen Audiences (Ages 13-17)

More information and calendars of special events in the program will be available June 11 at all library locations and online at Library.GarlandTX.gov.

South Garland Branch Library 4845 Broadway Blvd., 972-205-3933 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Find out whether you have what it takes to survive on a deserted island by participating in activities like coconut bowling and a pirate scavenger hunt.

Toddler Storytimes (18-36 months) 11 a.m. Fridays

CREATE AND CONNECT: SAND ART 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 21 North Garland Branch Library Make a personalized piece of sand art featuring their name or favorite saying using colored sand, stickers and glue. Registration is required. Limited to 20 participants. To register, call 972-205-2804 beginning Tuesday, June 7.

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Adult Programs ESL CONVERSATION CLASSES 6 p.m. Mondays, June 6 to July 25 Central Library 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, May 3 to July 26 South Garland Branch Library Improve general English skills in a casual setting. Practice conversation skills, build vocabulary, learn about American culture and meet a diverse group of people.

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COMPUTER CLASSES AT CENTRAL LIBRARY Participation in library computer classes is free and open to adult Garland residents. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each class. INTRO TO MICROSOFT EXCEL 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 15 INTRO TO MICROSOFT WORD 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 29

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YOGA ON THE PORTICO

10 a.m. Fridays June 10 through July 29 • Central Library Learn the basics of yoga from a professional instructor. Attendees provide their own blanket, towel or yoga mat and are encouraged to exercise within limits of their ability and fitness levels.

Seniors (Ages 55+) TRIBUTE ARTIST SHERRILL DOUGLAS 2 p.m. Thursday, May 19 Central Library Enjoy classic country and rock ’n’ roll hits.

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PIANIST SCOTT WILLIS

2 p.m. Thursday, June 16 • Central Library Instrumental versions of classic and contemporary tunes. Willis’ repertoire includes songs from Billy Joel, The Who, John Legend and Elton John.

@GarlandLibraryTX

Quality of Life

Recycling Center and Transfer Station Tours Are Back! We are offering in-person tours once again at the Transfer Station. Come learn about where your trash and recycling materials go after they leave your curb. Story time on litter prevention and recycling is available for the younger crowd, too.

We also love to visit neighborhood association meetings or block parties. Tours are held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tours may be held outside these hours if staff can be made available.

Visit GarlandTX.gov/3704/Tours.

Get the YUCK out of the DUCK! Garland’s Parks, Neighborhood Vitality, Sanitation and Storm Water departments, in conjunction with Keep Garland Beautiful, have coordinated a volunteer day to clean up Duck Creek Greenbelt. Volunteers are invited to walk through the creek, scale creek beds and walk along trails to get the yuck out of Duck Creek.

Because water collects in low-lying areas, anything that is dropped or blown into a watershed will eventually be deposited into lakes, creeks and streams. Duck Creek is no different, which is why we need your help.

Duck Creek Greenbelt is a truly unique area made up of pristine bottomland hard woods, 5.7 miles of concrete trail, pavilions, picnic areas and even a disc golf course.

Questions?

To volunteer, scan the QR code below or go to registration page at bit.ly/3IUe2Ng.

Email pardmaintenance@GarlandTX.gov, 972-205-3589 or visit GarlandParks.com.

Saturday, May 14

9 a.m. to noon Starting at Lon Wynne Park 3858 S. Glenbrook Drive

: Hours 7:30 p.m. m. to . . to 5 p .m a .m 9 a : s 0 ay .m. 8:3 Tuesd . to 3 p sdays: r .m u a h T 9 ys: s& esday rth Saturda Wedn u o F d& Secon

May-June 2022 Garland City Press

Events from the Arts Granville Arts Center 300 N. Fifth St.

Purchase tickets at GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com, 972-205-2790 or at the door. “WAIT UNTIL DARK” Fridays - Sundays, April 29-May 15, Garland Civic Theatre

GARLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA with Eldred Marshall, pianist 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 13 Garland Symphony Orchestra

VIVA MEXICO! 7 p.m. Saturday, May 28 Mexico 2000 Ballet Folklorico

“42ND STREET” Fridays - Sundays, June 17-26 Garland Summer Musicals

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Plaza Theatre 521 W. State St.

MAKE YOUR MARK LIVE CONCERTS: MICHAEL WALKER 8 p.m. Friday, May 13 Nationally acclaimed smooth jazz guitarist/recording artist, Michael Walker (pictured left)

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PLAZA CLASSIC AND CULT MOVIES - Free and open to the public Presented by City of Garland Cultural Arts Department “HIS GIRL FRIDAY” 7 p.m. Saturday, May 7

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“THE FIFTH ELEMENT” 7 p.m. Saturday, May 14

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“BLADE RUNNER” 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 8

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THROWBACK THURSDAY MOVIES - Free and open to the public Presented by Garland Downtown Business Association “FOOTLOOSE” 7 p.m. Thursday, May 12

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“CLUELESS”

• 7 p.m. Thursday, June 9

More information on these events at GarlandArts.com.

Garland City Press May-June 2022

Quality of Life

Check your PlayGuide at GarlandParks.com for more listings at each recreation center.

Recreation Center

Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest SPEAKER SERIES (VIRTUAL VIA ZOOM) 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 3 Jeremy Jordan will present the results of the fish survey he conducted in Spring Creek.

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MONTHLY WORK SESSIONS 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 7 1787 Holford Road Includes “Bring Your Own Picnic” 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, June 11 1770 Holford Road Break into teams, each with a knowledgeable leader, and work on projects such as removing invasive plants, picking up trash, and maintaining trails. It will make you feel like a new person to get out in the middle of nature and help the Preserve.

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Spring Wildflowers with Naturalist Carol Clark 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday, May 22 1787 Holford Road

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Adventure Walk with Naturalist David Parrish 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday, June 26 1787 Holford Road

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The 2022 City Nature Challenge The four-day international event, City Nature Challenge, will take place April 29 through May 2. The challenge uses iNaturalist.org to record and analyze nature observations from all over the world. Come to the Preserve on your own any time during the four days and take photos of plants, insects, mushrooms and more – it’s up to you. Upload the photos to iNaturalist for identification and to record the diversity we have at the Preserve. In advance, go to iNaturalist.org to download the app to officially report observations. See what has already been recorded under the project name “Spring Creek Forest Preserve Garland, TX.” To receive monthly event announcements, email barbara_baynham2005@yahoo.com.

Visit us on Facebook or at springcreekforest.org. Dates and locations may change because of weather or other conditions.

events

DUCK CREEK ADVENTURE CAMP

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GRANGER SUMMER CAMP

a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through • 8Fridays, June 13-Aug. 5

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, June 13-Aug. 5 Ages 8 to 12, $95 per week Audubon Recreation Center 342 W. Oates Road Discover and participate in local group adventures including rapelling, archery, rock climbing, disc golf and outdoor cooking. New field trips each week. 972-205-3991 or ARC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 6 to 12, $95 per week Granger Recreation Center 1310 W. Avenue F Beat summertime boredom with days packed with exciting group games, sports, arts and crafts projects, and a field trip. 972-205-2771 or GRC@GarlandTX.gov

LEGO® FULL DAY CAMP

HERO VS. VILLAIN SCIENCE

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5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays, May 2-23 Ages 8 to 13, $45 per person Bradfield Recreation Center 1146 Castle Drive Explore science in a fun way while creating characters and telling a story; learn about wind power, electricity and basic engineering through hands-on activities; and arts and crafts. 972-205-2770 or BRC@GarlandTX.gov

U CAN PAINT

12:30-3:30 p.m. Friday, June 17 • Seniors, $20 supply fee, $17 registration Fields Recreation Center 1701 Dairy Road Learn color mixing, brush strokes and time-saving techniques with the guidance of a credited instructor. 972-205-3090 or FRC@GarlandTX.gov

a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through • 9Friday, June 13-17

Ages 7 to 12, $199 per person Holford Recreation Center 2314 Homestead Place An all-day adventure of problem solving using and developing real-life engineering skills. 972-205-2772 or HRC@GarlandTX.gov

SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMP

to 8:45 p.m. Mondays through • 5Thursdays, June 13-Aug. 4

Ages 6 to 16, $90 per week Hollabaugh Recreation Center 3925 W. Walnut St. Learn about basic etiquette, journaling and self-expression while building leadership qualities, attention to detail and social skills. 972-205-2721 or HHRC@GarlandTX.gov

MEMORIAL DAY EVENT

11 a.m. Monday, May 30 • Free Fields Recreation Center 1701 Dairy Road The Noon Exchange Club of Garland invites veterans to a “One Nation Under God” program. Lunch will be provided to veterans and their spouses with RSVP by Wednesday, May 25. RSVP to SandraNeely46@gmail.com

@PlayGarland May-June 2022 Garland City Press

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Garland City Press is an award-winning production produced, funded by the City of Garland. It 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.