Garland City Press March-April 2024

Spring Creek Forest

Garland’s Spring Creek Forest Preserve has been added to the national Old-Growth Forest Network. The Preserve is only the second Texas entry into the network that celebrates America’s oldest protected and publicly accessible forests.

Spring Creek Forest contains old-growth hardwood bottomland forest and native prairie areas along Spring Creek, a haven of towering trees and unusual wildflowers — such as tiny trout lilies, which bloom from about mid-February through mid-March.

Scientists, conservationists and naturalists have long studied Garland’s forest community and determined it as one of the few remaining old-growth forests in the Blackland Prairie eco-zone of north central Texas.

Preservation Society President David Parrish credited Spring Creek Forest Preserve’s inclusion in the national network to multidecade collaborative efforts of the City, Dallas County, academia, nonprofits and local naturalists to study and protect the forest.

The Old-Growth Forest Network has recognized more than 200 forests in 36 states.

“We’re honored to recognize this forest and the critical partnerships between Dallas County, the City of Garland, The Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest and the many individuals who continue to work hard to protect, care and educate about this special place,” said Nick Sanchez, manager of the national network.

The Preserve consists of three parcels, totaling 100 acres of the larger Spring Creek Greenbelt. Old-growth forest coverage varies from one-third to twothirds of each tract, with the balance in regenerating forest and prairie grass communities.

Artist Anne Weary, who honed her talent at a family residence in what is now the Spring Creek Forest Preserve, dates her own efforts to protect the area to the 1970s. An exhibit featuring the Preserve and other Weary art will open Friday, March 8, at the Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.

50 Years of Sharing Garland History

In 2024, the Garland Landmark Society celebrates its 50th year of operating the Garland Landmark Museum as a free local history museum.

The Garland Landmark Society collects, preserves, exhibits and interprets historical elements of our community’s heritage. Museum exhibits over the years have included railroads, the Bankhead Highway, cultural arts, hat manufacturing, movie houses, ceramics, Black community leaders, Latino heritage and more.

The museum has always been in the Santa Fe Depot, built in 1901, and located for most of its time behind City Hall at Museum Plaza. In 2013, the museum moved to 393 N. Sixth St., in the newly designated Heritage Crossing district.

Since the move, the Garland Landmark Museum has expanded its offerings in a variety of ways, from more days open to the public to new exhibits and history programs to a huge increase in the size of the collection, in both photographs and artifacts.

In 2023, the Landmark Museum had visitors from 32 Texas cities, 16 states and 10 different countries. Public programs expand the museum walls to include popular exhibits across the city, including World War II and NASA exhibits at City Hall with more than 5,700 visitors, geocaching, self-guided programs, interpretive history panels and interactive activities.

Garland Landmark Museum works with Garland Independent School District and other education entities to provide field trip opportunities, both virtual and in-person, that help students understand more about where they live and bring history to life.

Currently featured at the museum is an exhibit interpreting the history of Garland’s health and hospitals. The exhibit covers doctors and pharmacies from the 1800s to the Garland VA Medical Center of today. There are also permanent exhibits on display, with topics including schools, churches, home life, railroads, manufacturing, agriculture and prohibition.

Stay tuned throughout the year for exciting anniversary celebrations, including a Party at the Pullman with live music on Saturday, Sept. 28.

The museum is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Private or group tours are available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Email Heritage@GarlandTX.gov to make arrangements.

Bond Update

Watson Park

Watson Park, 3910 Lawler Road, is the latest beneficiary of significant upgrades from the Build Garland Bond Program.

The last of 26 makeovers in the Playground Replacement Program is now open at Watson Park. The park’s basketball court has been resurfaced and its soccer field improved. And not only has what’s old become new, Watson Park offers amenities it never had before.

A futsal court, a splash pad, a trail, ample parking and restroom facilities have been added to Watson Park — with the splash pad and restrooms to be activated in coming weeks in step with the Parks Department’s schedule for water amenities at parks citywide. The splash pad at Watson Park was designed with an ocean theme, decorated with sharks and other sea creatures.

The upgraded playground area includes a multilevel play structure with two slides and a two-sided climbing wall for bigger kids. Younger children will have fun playing in the adjacent tiny home and riding on the spinning wheel. A new flexible rubber surface cushions the entire playscape area.

A Texas Parks & Wildlife Department grant helped fund improvements at Watson Park.

Libraries

Get ready to see some major progress on the construction of our new and improved libraries!

At Central Library this spring, you’ll be able to see the completion of the library’s framing and the new exterior walls. In addition to various upgrades to the security measures and electrical system, the library will feature a new children’s area, a slide, two new multipurpose rooms with upgraded technology and free access to Wi-Fi and computers. New features outside include a tree-lined promenade, pedestrian lighting and an imaginative nature playground.

Progress is also being made on the new West Garland Library, located adjacent to Hollabaugh Recreation Center, 3925 W. Walnut St. Throughout the spring, our team will be working on the library’s structural steel and roof, the parking lot and the pouring of key pavement areas. The library will feature new computers for adults and teens, study rooms outfitted with video conferencing capabilities and a dedicated space for teens to learn and create.

Fire Stations

As part of the 2019 Build Garland Bond Program, three fire stations are being upgraded to support the safety of Garland’s residents and improve the quality of life of our firefighters.

Construction at Fire Station 6, located on State Highway 190 near Campbell Road, will be completed this year.

Safety and quality-of-life improvements include improved decontamination technology, comfortable living spaces, individual room temperature controls, a fitness room and a landscaped courtyard. This 12,800-square-foot facility will be able to accommodate a captain and eight firefighters. The improved Fire Station 6 will also be outfitted with the latest firefighting technologies, including apparatus bay automation and enhanced firefighter notification.

Design completion for the new Fire Station 1 is close, and the station will move toward construction as the year progresses. The design for Fire Station 7 is just starting.

Learn more at BuildGarland.com

STATE OF THE CITY

City Council

CITY MEETING SCHEDULE

All meetings are held at City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., and broadcast live on CGTV and GarlandTX.tv. Closed captioning is available in English and Spanish for City Council Regular Meetings and Work Sessions and Plan Commission meetings.

City Council Work Sessions

z Live broadcast – 6 p.m. March 4 and 18 and April 1 and 15

z Rebroadcast the following Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 9 a.m., Wednesday and Thursday – 7 p.m.

City Council Regular Meetings

z Live broadcast – 7 p.m. March 5 and 19 and April 2 and 16

z Rebroadcast the following Wednesday – 9 a.m., Friday – 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Plan Commission

z Meetings – 7 p.m. March 11 and 25 and April 8 and 22

z Rebroadcast the following Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 9 a.m.

CGTV Listings

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

Town Hall

Meetings

District 3 Council Member Ed Moore

z 7 p.m. Thursday, March 21

South Garland Library 4845 Broadway Blvd.

For more information, call 214-243-3053 or email Council3@GarlandTX.gov

District 2 Council Member Deborah Morris

z 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18

Granger Annex 1310 W. Avenue F

For more information, call 214-273-4387 or email Council2@GarlandTX.gov

City Council Members

DISTRICT 1

Jeff

Scott

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

DISTRICT 2

Ed Moore Deputy Mayor Pro Tem 214-243-3053 Council3@GarlandTX.gov

DISTRICT 3

B.J. Williams 972-898-7672 Council4@GarlandTX.gov

DISTRICT 4

Margaret Lucht 469-264-3556 Council5@GarlandTX.gov

DISTRICT 5

Carissa Dutton 972-998-8542 Council6@GarlandTX.gov

DISTRICT 6

Dylan Hedrick 469-560-6099 Council7@GarlandTX.gov

DISTRICT 7

Chris Ott 972-987-9149 Council8@GarlandTX.gov

DISTRICT 8

May 4 General Election

The City of Garland will hold a general election on Saturday, May 4, to elect City Council members for Districts 1, 2, 4 and 5 and to consider several proposed amendments to the City Charter.

Thursday, April 4: Last day to register to vote in this election

Monday, April 22: First day of early voting

Tuesday, April 23: Last day to apply for a ballot by mail

Tuesday, April 30: Last day of early voting

Saturday, May 4: Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

City Charter Proposals

Proposition 1: An amendment to redefine “term” to mean in excess of annual consecutive statutory election dates

Prop 2: An amendment to mirror state redistricting law of 10-year intervals

Prop 3: An amendment to add protections against gerrymandering

Prop 4: An amendment to the qualifications of Council members

Prop 5: An amendment to increase the compensation for Mayor and Council members

Prop 6: An amendment to add gender-neutral language consistent with the rest of the charter

Prop 7: An amendment to add a reference to the Deputy Mayor Pro Tem position on Council

Prop 8: An amendment to add a 30-day deadline for the Governor to respond to an election petition from the City before the City Council can fulfill the vacancy by appointment

Prop 9: An amendment to clarify the Council-appointed positions to which the removal procedure applies

Prop 10: An amendment to change the enforcement procedure of improper communication with appointments to be pursuant to the City’s Code of Ethics

Props 11-13: Amendments to change the allowed contract of the City Auditor, City Manager and City Attorney to not exceed five years

Prop 14: An amendment to clarify the circumstances of the Mayor’s appointment to a vacancy on the Plan Commission

Prop 15: An amendment to simplify and clarify the zoning powers of the City to be consistent with City ordinances and state law

Prop 16: An amendment to add the allowance of delegation of certain plat approval pursuant to recent changes in state law

Prop 17: An amendment to remove the specific reference to May and be consistent with any statutorily designated uniform election date

Visit GarlandTX.gov/256/Elections for voting locations, hours of operation and updates. Garland residents now have the convenience of county-wide voting and may vote at any polling location in Dallas County.

State of the City

The connection between Garland Mayor Scott LeMay and the Build Garland Bond Program couldn’t have been more evident than it was Feb. 13 when the Mayor delivered his State of the City Address at The Atrium.

LeMay referred to completed projects and those on the ground as a delivery of a quality-of-life promise that the City made to residents who overwhelmingly supported the $423.7 million bond program. Both the bond and LeMay’s first term as Mayor were approved on the same ballot in May 2019.

Specific to projects completed in 2023, LeMay talked about new playgrounds, splash pads, the Downtown Square, expansion of library services and more. Looking to the future, he pointed to Holford Recreation & Aquatic Center, the Garland Senior Activity Center, Surf & Swim, and the Central and West Garland libraries among projects that will provide even better amenities.

The Mayor also pointed to Garland’s cultural events and achievements, underlined by the state’s official designation of the Bankhead Cultural Arts District last fall. Options for fun for Garland residents will only grow in 2024, he said, announcing that the Independance Day celebration will return to the Downtown Square for the first time since 2008 on July 3 and that a 50th anniversary for the Garland Landmark Museum will be celebrated with a Party at the Pullman in September.

Representatives from 33 City departments were on hand to answer residents’ questions during the open house portion of the event. Our special thanks to Credit Union of Texas for their on-site food truck and to the Austin Academy Jazz Band for the pre-address entertainment.

LeMay capped the program by presenting his Make Your Mark Awards to the board members of the VN United Football Club and the Vietnamese American Community of Greater Dallas for contributions that are making a positive difference in Garland.

HOA Legal Clinic

Homeowner association board members are invited to join us from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23, for the 2024 HOA Legal Clinic. The morning of legal training will be hosted by the cities of Garland, Plano and Rowlett.

This clinic will equip attendees with the tools to manage their HOAs. Session topics will include legislative updates, hot issues and learning the ins and outs of managing an HOA. New this year, we will offer separate tracks: one for mandatory associations and one for voluntary associations.

The clinic will take place at the Plano Event Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway in Plano. The event is free and breakfast is included, but you must register to attend. Register online at GarlandNeighborhoods.org

Reserve Block Party Trailer

It’s time to submit Block Party Trailer reservations for your summer neighborhood events! The Block Party Trailer includes water coolers, tables, traffic cones, folding chairs, ice chests, picnic tables, canopy tents and outdoor games.

Reservations may be made up to six months in advance and only for registered neighborhood groups. Groups are also responsible for applying for appropriate permits. The City of Garland’s Office of Neighborhood Vitality is excited to provide this resource.

Learn more about the guidelines and trailer contents, submit your reservation and more at GarlandNeighborhoods.org.

Welcome to Garland!

z 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 6 Garland City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St.

Whether you are new to Garland or were born and raised here, this is the class to get better acquainted with what makes Garland a great place to live!

Come learn about the different services of City departments, how your taxpayer dollars are being used and how you can get involved. Come dressed in comfortable attire for an outdoor walking tour. Scan the QR code now or register at GarlandNeighborhoods.org

Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant

Applications Due Saturday, March 23

The Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant program enables registered neighborhood groups, both voluntary and mandatory, to apply for funds for physical enhancement projects in publicly accessible spaces. These projects encourage neighbors to work together to create projects unique to their neighborhood while boosting a sense of pride and ownership.

Applications should be submitted to the Office of Neighborhood Vitality by Saturday, March 23. Letter of Intent forms, applications and guidelines can be downloaded at GarlandNeighborhoods.org

Questions? Contact us at Neighborhoods@ GarlandTX.gov or 972-205-2445.

What’s Being Built There?

1 Under construction at the northwest side of North Garland Avenue and Belt Line Road is a development consisting of approximately 120 townhomes.

2 Coming soon at 5026 Zion Road is a multifamily development consisting of 366 units, including 15 townhouse-style units along Zion Road (rendering at left).

3 Coming soon at 5050 N. Garland Ave. is Canadian-based coffee chain Tim Hortons, including a drive-thru.

9 a.m. to noon 1426 Commerce

Sanitation@GarlandTX.gov 972-205-3421

Projects scheduled to begin in March/April

A Cheyenne Trail, Apollo Road to Powderhorn Drive Street rehabilitation

B Fitchburg Avenue, Newburyport Avenue to Milford Avenue Street rehabilitation

C Hawaii Drive, Apollo Road to Bermuda Drive Street rehabilitation

D Innsbrook Drive, Apollo Road to Belt Line Road Street rehabilitation

E Lupine Drive, Rosehill Road to Dandelion Drive Utility improvements/street reconstruction

F Milford Avenue, Fitchburg Avenue to Wellesley Avenue Street rehabilitation

G Miller Road, Kings Road/Lonnecker Drive to Shiloh Road Street rehabilitation

H Spring Meadow Lane, Springpark Way to Cross Timbers Road Street rehabilitation

I Vineyard Trail, Townshed Drive to Lancaster Street Street rehabilitation

J Windmill Lane, Springpark Way to north end of the street Street rehabilitation

Ongoing projects

K Briar Way, Northwest Highway to Brook Meadow Drive Street reconstruction

L Columbine Drive, Rosehill Road to Country Club Road Street reconstruction

M Country View Lane, Trails Court to Trail View Lane Street rehabilitation

N Dandelion Drive, Rosehill Road to Goldenrod Drive Utility improvements/street reconstruction

O Donald Drive/Rilla Drive alley, Keen Drive to Dairy Road Utility improvements/alley paving

P Glynn Drive, Dairy Road to Curtis Drive Street reconstruction

Q Jupiter Road, Forest Lane to the south city limit Street rehabilitation

Composting Class

Composting is super easy ... come learn how!

Garland Sanitation will host the free Composting 101 class from 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays, March 16 and 30, at 1434 Commerce Street.

Don’t bag your leaves. Compost them! Compost is one of the best ways to amend your soil. Composting keeps organic waste out of the landfill and returns valuable fertilizer to the earth. As it adds nutrients to the soil, it improves soil structure and increases the ground’s ability to hold water.

Training will include instructions on compost ingredients, the benefits of building healthy soil using compost, how to manage the compost pile and a hands-on demonstration to build a compost pile. Attendees will be eligible for door prize drawings.

Class is open to Garland residents. Class size is limited to 20, so register early. Registration to GarlandSanitation.com or 972-205-3421 is required by Saturday, March 9.

Plant Texas Smart from the Start

March is Texas SmartScape Month. Now is the time to start prepping your yard for those long, hot summer months. Whether this entails a major landscape overhaul or just a few quick fixes, the Texas SmartScape™ program website, TXSmartscape.com, can provide you with tools for success.

Landscaping with native and adapted plants can reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers. Minimizing the use of these chemicals is beneficial to our waterways and local wildlife, as stormwater and irrigation runoff can carry chemicals from residential yards into your neighborhood creeks, streams, ponds, lakes and rivers.

Want to spruce up your yard, reduce the use of chemicals AND save water?

Use native and adapted plants. Texas SmartScape plants can thrive in the wide range of temperature and moisture conditions typical in North Texas. These hardy plants are rarely plagued by major pest problems, thus reducing or even eliminating the need for pesticides. The Texas SmartScape plant search tool allows you to find SmartScape-approved plants that are the right fit for your yard. You can search by different parameters, including plant type, plant shape and size, light requirement, ornamental color, wildlife value, bloom season and landscape use.

Reduce turf grass. Lawns typically require a large amount of supplemental water and more intensive maintenance than other vegetation. You can use the SmartScape design page and SmartScape Pinterest to develop ideas to transform your lawn into a resilient and attractive landscape.

Water efficiently and effectively. Up to 50% of irrigation goes to waste due to evaporation, wind, improper system design or overwatering.

Water early or late in the day. To avoid water loss from evaporation, water your yard between 8 p.m. and 10 a.m. Early morning is best.

Water deeply and infrequently. If you have an irrigation system, consider using a smart irrigation control system or manually set the controller on an as-needed basis.

Install drip irrigation in flower beds and at the roots of shrubs. Almost 95% of drip irrigation water can reach a plant, while traditional automatic sprinklers are much less efficient.

Garland Municipal Court Warrant Resolution Drive

From Monday, March 4, through Friday, March 8, anyone with an active outstanding warrant can appear in person at the clerk’s window to resolve their outstanding warrant(s) and take advantage of the warrant resolution drive incentives.

You can also speak to a judge to resolve your warrant(s) at the Walk-In Docket from 8:30 to 11 a.m. or 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, March 8.

You must appear in person to take advantage of these incentives during the warrant resolution drive:

z The $50 warrant fee will be waived for each outstanding warrant.

z Receive an additional 20% discount off the fine amount on warrants paid in full. This discount applies only to the fine amount, not court costs and/or fees.

Cash, check, credit card, debit card or money order are accepted as payment. If you are unable to pay in full any fine or costs assessed against you, the Court offers alternatives to satisfy the amount you owe.

Brad Neighbor Municipal Court is located at 1791 W. Avenue B. Call 972-205-2330 or visit

GarlandTX.gov/Court

Water System Maintenance

From Monday, March 4, to Monday, April 1, the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) will make its required annual change to the way it disinfects our drinking water. The change will prepare the system for the heat and high demand of the spring and summer months.

NTMWD, our water provider, uses chlorine maintenance, a common practice throughout the nation, to maintain water quality as it travels through the pipes. Garland Water Utilities responds by flushing

main water lines throughout the city. This helps to quickly move the water through our system and helps offset any changes in taste and odor.

During this time, some customers may notice a stronger taste and smell of chlorine. It is important to note that the quality of our drinking water remains safe for all uses, including drinking. Our licensed water technicians take daily water samples from throughout the city to consistently ensure that our water is safe.

For more detailed information, the latest water quality testing results and a map of the flushing sites, visit GarlandWater.com. Visit ntmwd.com/temporary-change-in-disinfectant for more details on our supplier’s process.

Spring Rain Barrel Sale

Are you interested in harvesting free rainwater to supplement your outdoor water supply and to help keep plants hydrated and healthy?

For a limited time, the City of Garland Water Utilities Department is offering an opportunity to purchase rain barrels at a discounted price.

Through a cooperative purchase, the classic black, 50-gallon Ivy Rain Barrel is being offered for $78 each (normal retail price is $129). Quantities are limited and ordering will open Friday, March 1.

The Ivy Rain Barrel comes with everything you need to assemble, collect and use rainwater. Multiple barrels can be purchased and easily daisy chained with no added parts or cost. All components are included with your purchase, even a 6-foot overflow hose!

All orders must be picked up by customers. There will be no home drop-offs. Bring a vehicle large enough to carry your order on pickup days:

z 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 30, and Wednesday, May 1 2343 Forest Lane

For more information, setup instructions and to place an order, go to RainBarrelProgram.org/GarlandTX

Severe Weather Preparedness

Are you ready for severe weather season?

The Office of Emergency Management wants you to “Get Ready, Garland!” Severe weather can strike at any time, posing significant risks to communities and individuals. Thunderstorms can produce hazardous conditions such as damaging winds, tornadoes, destructive hail, flooding and flash flooding.

Here are a few essential tips to help you stay safe during severe weather season:

Stay Weather Aware: Pay attention to weather reports and check the forecast regularly. If outdoors when severe weather is expected, listen for the outdoor warning siren tone. Watch the local news, check the local National Weather Service website or listen to NOAA Weather Radio to receive immediate weather warnings.

Sign Up for Notifications: There are multiple ways to receive weather warnings straight to your mobile device. Follow our Office of Emergency Management on social media or email OEM@GarlandTX.gov. Sign up for the Garland Emergency Notification System online at GarlandTX.gov/alerts

Develop a Plan: Establish a household emergency plan that identifies shelter locations in your home, evacuation routes, communication strategies and specific needs such as medical or pet necessities.

Create an Emergency Kit: Severe thunderstorms can sometimes knock out power. Build a kit that includes essential supplies to sustain you and your household for at least 72 hours. Some essential supplies to include are one gallon of water per person per day, nonperishable food items, first aid kit, extra medications, flashlights and batteries, cash and a portable NOAA Weather Radio. Consider taking time to safeguard critical documents and take pictures or videos of your belongings.

More preparedness tips can be found on the Office of Emergency Management website at GarlandTX.gov/OEM.

Stay Safe from Flu, COVID-19 and RSV

It’s not too late to get a flu, COVID-19 and/or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination at the Garland Public Health Clinic! Getting vaccinated directly reduces the risk of getting sick. If you are vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19 and RSV, but get sick anyway, chances are you will get a mild case.

More than one type of flu is circulating. The vaccine protects against at least four strains of circulating virus.

You can also take other actions every day to reduce the chance you’ll get sick. This includes covering your coughs and sneezes (with a tissue), washing your hands often and avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands.

If you get sick, stay home, get tested and seek treatment. There are medicines that can help reduce the severity of illness from flu or COVID-19. These medicines work best when started within days of first getting sick.

HPV Vaccine

Safe, effective and long-lasting protection from HPV, a common virus that can lead to six types of cancers later in life, is available with the HPV vaccine. The vaccine is also available at the Garland Public Health Clinic. The CDC recommends HPV vaccination at ages 11 and 12. Teens and young adults through age 26 who didn’t start or finish the HPV vaccine series also need HPV vaccination.

Trends in Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can have serious health consequences such as chronic pelvic pain, pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, severe pregnancy and newborn complications, and infant death.

Syphilis case numbers are the highest they have been in 70 years. Although the Garland Public Health Clinic does not offer services for STDs, there are services available through Dallas County’s sexual health clinic at 214-819-1819. The clinic also provides pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV and linkage to post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV.

Garland’s Public Health Clinic, 206 Carver St., has vaccines for adults as well as children, including the high-dose flu vaccine for ages 65 and older. Specially trained registered nurses are available to answer your questions or administer your vaccination. Call 972-205-3370 for more information.

2023 Food Safety Award Winners

Class I, Full Food Service

Babe’s Chicken Dinner House, 1456 Belt

Road

Chili’s Grill & Bar, 1775 Northwest Highway

Del Mar Oyster Bar, 1311 Marketplace Drive

Ebeneezer’s Pub & Grub, 1933 Northwest Highway

La Michocana, 2441 W. Walnut St.

Red Robin, 5031 N. Garland Ave.

Rick’s BBQ, 1417 S. Jupiter Road

Texas Roadhouse, 5012 N. George Bush Highway

Class II, Fast Food

Art Bakery, 3112 N. Jupiter Road

Bon Ton Donuts, 1225 Belt Line Road

Burger King, 4940 N. Garland Ave.

Captain D’s, 6327 Broadway Blvd.

Chick-fil-A, 5425 N. George Bush Highway

Chipotle Mexican Grill, 4170 Lavon Drive

Chuck E. Cheese’s, 1340 W. Centerville Road

Dallas Superstore, 3212 N. Jupiter Road

McDonald’s, 119 E. Buckingham Road

Panda Express, 1360 W. Centerville Road

Pizza Hut, 3725 W. Walnut St.

Pizza Patron, 2930 S. First St.

Rainbow Donuts, 2441 W. Walnut St.

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, 5370 N. Garland Ave.

Sam’s Club, 5150 N. Garland Ave.

Surfin’ Chicken, 1801 Marketplace Drive

Taco Bell, 5322 N. Garland Ave.

Taco Bell, 502 S. Garland Ave.

Vaughan’s Donuts, 109 S. First St.

Walmart Neighborhood Market, 101 W. Buckingham Road

Walmart Supercenter, 5302 N. Garland Ave.

Walmart Supercenter, 1801 Marketplace Drive

Whataburger, 725 E. Centerville Road

Wingstop, 2334 W. Buckingham Road

Class III, Sandwich/Ice Cream Store

Belliza Reception/Walnut Theaters, 3310 W. Walnut St.

Bright Star Gourmet Popcorn, 520 Town Center Blvd.

Kelcher Entertainment Group, 4999 Naaman Forest Blvd.

Livingway Church - The Vive, 3046 Lavon Drive

Salud Es Riquesa, 2915 Belt Line Road

Starbuck’s Coffee, 2630 Arapaho Road

Class IV, Convenient Store 1 Star Beverage, 510 N. Plano Road

Aldi Food Market, 1518 W. Buckingham Road

Big Lots, 825 W. Centerville Road

Cherry Grocery Store, 3801 W. Walnut St.

Cool Zone Garland, 1012 S. First St.

David’s Cigars, 1456 Belt Line Road

Fastmart, 1921 N. Plano Road

Hello T&T, 3347 W. Walnut St.

Alice Party Supplies, 3161 Broadway Blvd.

Top Food Mart, 1546 Rowlett Road

Class V, Supermarket Tom Thumb, 925 Northwest Highway

UMart, 1805 W. Campbell Road

Class VI, Food Processor Brothers Produce of Dallas, 2600 McCree Road

Class VII, Daycare

Frog Academy of Creekside Village, 720 N. Shiloh Road

Imagination Station, 1966 Arapaho Road

Kinder Care Learning Center, 1321 Northwest Highway

Class VIII, School Carver Elementary, 2800 Wynn Joyce Road

Garland Independent School District Alternative Education Center, 2015 S. Country Club Road

Parsons Pre-K, 2202 Rich Oak Drive

Class IX, Warehouse Country Malt Group, 850 S. Jupiter Road

Class XI, Assisted Living Facility Mayberry Gardens, 3264 N. Garland Ave.

Class XII, Hospitals & Nursing Home Senior Care Beltline, 106 Belt Line Road

Earth Day Celebration

z 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 13

The Atrium, 300 N. Fifth St.

Go Green Garland is excited to announce this year’s Earth Day Celebration will showcase a new format: FREE learning opportunities with “green” experts. Come for one class or stay for all of them — no registration required. There will be NO Recycle Row and no shredding at this event.

Earth Day Celebration Schedule

9 a.m. Doors Open

Visit informational booths with giveaways! Booths will be open the entire event.

9:30 a.m. Solar Installations, Energy Audits and EnergySaver Program

Learn about the City of Garland’s solar installation requirements. Find out how to save energy and money from an energy audit and by participating in Garland Power & Light’s EnergySaver Program. Presented by GP&L’s Energy Advisors.

10 a.m. What Good Are Bugs?

Learn the importance of allowing good bugs to help control the few bad bugs, thus creating a garden environment that requires little or no insecticide. Presented by Master Gardener.

11 a.m. Texas Native and Adapted Plants

Learn about plants that do well in North Central Texas and good horticulture practices that can help ensure gardening success. This presentation includes photos of the Master Gardener’s yard and garden.

Noon Rain Barrel and Water Conservation

Texas Water Development Board Member will talk about the state water plan and how both water conservation and rain water harvesting impacts Texas’ future water resources.

1 p.m. Event Closes

For additional information on the Earth Day Celebration, visit GoGreenGarland.org Follow us: @GoGreenGarland

of Life Recreation Center Events

Duck Creek Spring Break Camp

z 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, March 11-15

Audubon Recreation Center 972-205-3991 or ARC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 8 to 12, $130 per person

An opportunity to develop new skills, find friends with common interests and get active. Three field trips are planned.

Skyhawks STEM Flag Football Camp

z 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, March 11-15

Bradfield Recreation Center 972-205-2770 or BRC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 7 to 11, $135 per person

The combination of physical activity and cognitive thinking provides a comprehensive experience and a solution for science, technology, engineering and math literacy for students.

Tumbling Tournament

z 1:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 30

Fields Recreation Center 972-205-3090 or FRC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 6 and up, $45 per person

A coed tumbling competition open to all levels of experience. The routines will be compulsory for all competitors. Six awards will be given to winners with all receiving participation trophies.

FYI Basketball Spring Break Camp

z 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to noon Friday, March 11-15 Granger Recreation Center 972-205-2771 or GRC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 6 to 17, $165 per person

Focus on shooting, ball-handling, footwork, IQ and overall games. This camp offers complete basketball training designed to challenge and improve players of all skill levels.

Cookie Creations with Mom and Son

z 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 20

Audubon Recreation Center 972-205-3991 or HRC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 6 and up, $75 for mom and son and $25 for additional son

Go on a fun and delicious adventure as you transform a variety of prebaked sugar cookies using royal icing with step-by-step instructions from a cookie-decorating expert. $10 supply fee payable to instructor.

Garland Parks Host The Boardr Series and NXL Paintball Tournament

Garland is set to become the ultimate destination for adrenaline-pumping action as major skateboard and paintball events are scheduled to make use of the City’s parks.

These events promise an unforgettable experience for sports enthusiasts and spectators alike. Additional event information can be found at VisitGarlandTX.com.

The Boardr Series: Friday, March 29, and Saturday, March 30, at Jon Comer Skatepark, 1010 W. Miller Road

Cost: Free to spectators; $50 per contestant, maximum 175 entries

The Boardr Series, a national all-ages skateboarding contest designed to cater to skateboarders of all skill levels, rolls into Garland. Formerly known as GFL Series, The Boardr Series boasts almost 10,000 entries since its inception in 2014.

Judges evaluate tricks and runs based on difficulty, style, use of the course and trick selection. Notably, The Boardr Series played a pivotal role in bringing back vert contests to a national and international level, collaborating with skateboarding legend Tony Hawk.

Lonestar Paintball Tournament: Friday, April 26, through Sunday, April 28, at Audubon Park, 720 W. Oates Road Cost: Divisional (amateur) fields are open for free viewing; Grandstand or VIP tickets available for purchase at the main stage

Get ready for fast-paced paintball action as the National Xball League (NXL) tournament descends upon Garland. Watch the best paintball teams from around the world battle it out over three days of intense competition.

The NXL is renowned as the premier tournament paintball circuit across North America and Europe. Featuring top competitors globally, the NXL embraces inclusivity and welcomes enthusiasts of all backgrounds to join the excitement. The event includes a large trade show where leading names in paintball showcase their latest products.

Big Art Day

Join us at the Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St., from 2 to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 6, for Big Art Day presented by the City of Garland and Garland Cultural Arts

ART CAR EXHIBIT

It’s back and bigger than before with brand new cars you must see to believe. Get ready to view automotive attractions on display for a car show beyond your wildest imaginations. Cartists from around the state and beyond will display their funky art pieces on four wheels.

NADO NADO! ART MARKET

Introducing Garland’s first-ever anime art market and more! Explore artwork and handmade goods from local artists and anime artists, representing a variety of disciplines including painting, photography, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, wood and metalwork. If you’re an anime fanatic, you won’t want to miss this.

ART WALK

Embark on an Art Walk through Downtown Garland, where a diverse array of 12 talented artists and musicians awaits within various businesses across the district.

GISD MAKE & TAKE

The beloved Make & Take is back! Artists of all ages will enjoy a variety of art and craft activities hosted by Garland ISD Fine Arts.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Get into the groove with a drum circle to kick off the day and end the night with music by DECADES while viewing the projected light show cast upon the Granville Arts Center building!

Seniors in the Know

From the Garland Senior Citizens Advisory Commission:

If you live in Dallas County and are 60 years old or older, you may be eligible for resources through the Dallas Area Agency on Aging’s Community Council, ccadvance.org. Its Access & Assistance Department provides services at no charge and coordinates services with other agencies.

The Dallas Area Agency on Aging offers free support services for family caregivers taking care of a loved one age 60 or older and for grandparents age 55 or older who are raising grandchildren. Call Mario Rivera at 214-871-5065, ext. 303, for program specifics.

Downtown Square Events

Eclipse Party

z 11 a.m. Monday, April 8

April 8 marks the first total solar eclipse in Garland in almost 150 years. Join us for a presentation from Garland ISD Planetarium Director Charlie Ruiz, a DJ, activities, games and of course, the eclipse! Many Downtown restaurants will offer eclipse-themed specials.

Weekly Workouts

z 11 a.m. Mondays, 10 a.m. Wednesdays and 9:30 a.m. Fridays, starting March 4

Fitness leaders from 3Q Fitness, Into the Well Collective and Wholy Formed Yoga Studio will lead different types of workouts for free on the lawn. No experience or equipment necessary, just bring your A-game and a bottle of water!

Masterclasses

z Noon Wednesday, March 13

Bring a lunch to the Square and learn the basics of gardening with Vanessa McCool and Shana Carter from Roach Feed & Seed. Take home a seasonal seedling and some seeds for your garden. Use the QR code to register.

Events at the Library

Note: During renovations at the Central Library, locations for several events will vary. For a complete list of upcoming library events, check out the library’s seasonal publication, Off the Shelf: Library.GarlandTX.gov/3939/Off-The-Shelf-Newsletter or visit the library online at Library.GarlandTX.gov.

Ramadan Celebration

z 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 2

North Garland Library

Make Ramadan crafts, try popular Ramadan treats and learn more about this holiday. Space is limited and a free ticket is required. Tickets will be available 30 minutes before the event.

Game Nights

z 6 p.m. Thursdays, March 7 and April 4

Central Library Express

Adults play games and socialize. The library will provide playing cards, various board games and puzzles. Patrons are also welcome to bring their own games! Space is limited.

Book Club

z 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, March 21 and April 18

South Garland Library

March 21: “Daughters of Nantucket” by Julie Gerstenblatt

April 18: “The Housekeepers” by Alex Hay

Eclipse Pre-Parties

z 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 14

Walnut Creek Branch Library

Join us for a solar eclipse pre-party on National Pi Day! We’ll have pie, slime and a fun time. Registration is required for each session and begins Feb. 29.

Surveyor Program

z 2 p.m. Saturday, March 23

South Garland Library

Do you know who guides and helps plan construction, mapmaking and even mining projects? Surveyors! Come to this family event, see what surveyors do and play with all the cool tools they use!

Star Wars Key Chain

z 3 p.m. Saturday, April 27

Walnut Creek Branch Library

Our Middle Grade Makers group will create a Star Wars perler bead keychain while enjoying an out-of-this-world snack! Space is limited and a free ticket is required. Tickets will be available 30 minutes before event.

Your library card unlocks unlimited, all-you-can-watch streaming access

Your library card gives you unlimited, all-you-can-watch streaming access through our new service, Kanopy.

Kanopy offers instant 24/7 access to a wide selection of comedies, documentaries, classic cinema and family-friendly videos. Special collections on Kanopy include British cinema and TV, staff and patron picks, and a wide range of diverse popular films and documentaries. Kanopy Kids offers more than 2,000 titles and beloved characters like Paddington Bear, Madeline, Sesame Street and PBS Kids.

With Kanopy, users can enjoy films on all their favorite devices — from desktop computers to mobile devices and smart TVs, including Apple TV, Roku and Android TV.

For more information on Kanopy, call 972-205-2533 or visit Library.GarlandTX.gov

Gallery Walk

z 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 8

The March Night at the Museum program is a free gallery walk around Downtown Garland.

Guests will check in at the Garland Landmark Museum, 393 N. Sixth St., for an exclusive showing of a David Bates original sculpture. Bates is a nationally acclaimed artist who grew up in Garland and attended Garland High School. Best known for his paintings on canvas or panel, Bates is also prolific in sculpture and works on paper. More than 40 museums across the country have work by Bates in their permanent collections.

The gallery shows will continue at Ninth Street Gallery, owned by Michelle Noah, and Epiphany Gallery, owned by Leslie Montena. Attendees can also experience a pop-up gallery at Graceful Laundress featuring work by Garland artists Julie Chi Tran, Stephanie Chayrez and Mikayla Magee.

Finally, Anne Weary will celebrate her exhibit opening at the Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St. Weary honed her art by drawing the beautiful nature that surrounded her at the family’s summer residence in Garland, now the Spring Creek Forest Preserve. Now Weary is a professional artist, having graduated from the oldest art school in the United States, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Her entire life is a perpetual love affair with the trees and creatures of her forest.

Events from the Arts

“FOLLIES”

z Fridays through Sundays, March 8-24

Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St. In “Follies”, the time is 1971, and theatrical impresario Dimitri Weissmann hosts a reunion of ex-”Follies” performers in his crumbling theater, setting the stage for a parade of brilliant pastiche numbers.

Presented by Garland Civic Theatre

VANDOLIERS

z 8 p.m. Saturday, March 9

Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.

Vandoliers are a uniquely Texas band, distilling the Lone Star State’s vast and diverse musical identity into a raucous, breakneck vibe that’s all their own.

Presented by Garland Cultural Arts

BEATLEGRAS

z 8 p.m. Friday, March 15

Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St. You’ll be taken on a Magical Mystery Tour as you enjoy the genius of The Beatles without imitating them note for note.

Presented by Garland Cultural Arts

KRISTIN PERRY, OBOIST

z 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 15

Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.

Mozart — Symphony No. 1 in Eb Major

J.C. Bach — Symphony in E Major, Op. 18, No. 5

Handel — Oboe Concerto No. 3 in G Minor Haydn — Symphony No. 104 in D Major (“London”)

Presented by Garland Symphony Orchestra

“FARCE OF NATURE”

z Fridays through Sundays, April 12-21

Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.

The nonstop hilarity of this Southern-fried farce highlights one day in the life of the Wilburn family of Mayhew, Arkansas.

Presented by Company of Rowlett Performers

JOSHUA BROWN, VIOLINIST

z 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 19

Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.

Spohr — Overture to Faust

Vaughan Williams — The Lark Ascending

The 16th Annual Great Movie Scores Quiz

Presented by Garland Symphony Orchestra

“THE FLATS: CRADLE OF A COMMUNITY” MUSICAL DRAMA

z 3 p.m. Sunday, April 14

The Atrium, 300 N. Fifth St.

With an original score and nine original songs, “The Flats” focuses on the freestanding community, with its own stores, homes, churches and a school, that existed in the area where the Granville Arts Center and the City government complex now sit.

Presented by Friends of Garland’s Historic Magic 11th Street

RUTHIE FOSTER

z 8 p.m. Friday, March 29

Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.

Four-time Grammy-nominated singersongwriter Ruthie Foster blends gospel, blues, jazz, folk and soul in powerfully transfiguring performances.

Presented by Garland Cultural Arts

Speaker Series

Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest

Nature Walks

z 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 5, and Tuesday, April 2

Via Zoom

Tina Rust, who mapped the Spring Creek Preserve walking trails, will discuss using GPS to create complicated maps on March 5. Master Naturalist Stephanie Varnum will discuss native orchids of Texas on April 2.

Work Sessions

z 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 9

1787 Holford Road

z 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, April 13

Halff Park, 4695 Ranger Drive March 9 is the annual “Death to Privet” event, targeted to remove one of our pernicious invasive plants. The April event is aimed toward clearing spring growth from the Ranger Trail. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

z 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, March 24

1787 Holford Road

z 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, April 28

1770 Holford Road

The March 24 event will feature a hands-on session on how to map trails using GPS. Bring a camera April 28 for a guide to nature photography.

For more information or updates, visit springcreekforest. org or the organization’s Facebook page. To receive monthly event announcements, email barbara_ baynham2005@yahoo.com.

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Garland, Texas 75046-9002

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