May-June 2023 City Press

GET THOSE LAWN CHAIRS AND PICNIC BLANKETS READY!

Scan the QR code to get more information or to check all events at Garland. VisitGarlandTX.com.

Garland’s Sounds of Summer Concert Series is back! For five Fridays this summer, Winters and Audubon Parks will host evenings filled with FREE live music featuring entertainers sure to blow you away with their talent.

Join our presenting partner Veritex Bank and artist sponsor Jimmy Wallace Guitars to make some memories in our Garland parks this summer! Save the dates!

May 5, Winters Park Amphitheater

La Reunion Norteña will bring its Chihuanhuan roots to the Sounds of Summer stage this year with its traditional style on accordion and saxophone.

Shinyribs

May 19, Winters Park Amphitheater

Consisting of nine band members, Shinyribs combines Texas blues, New Orleans R&B funk, horn-driven Memphis soul, country twang, border music, big band swing and roots rock to make an entertaining Southern soul sound.

June 2, Winters Park Amphitheater

Venable is a two-time winner of the East Texas Music Award for “Female Guitarist of the Year” and a three-time ETX Music Award winner for “Blues Band of the Year” and “Album of the Year.”

BAND TOGETHER ON THE

SQUARE CONCERT

SERIES

z 7 p.m. May 12 and 26, June 9 and 23, July 7 and 21 Downtown Garland at 506 Art on Main Street

June 16, Audubon Park

Harmon is an award-winning guitarist, singer and songwriter whose distinctive style continues the lineage of American blues music.

June 30, Audubon Park

Legendary Texas troubadour Ray Wylie Hubbard is a singer-songwriter who acted as a catalyst in the cultural upheaval that led to the peaceful coexistence of Lone Star music enthusiasts who comprised each end of the social and political spectrum of the mythical outlaw era.

Downtown Garland has a diverse musical experience that will go great with your carefree summer vibe. Join us every other Friday evening into July for one of the best concert series of the summer!

La Reunion Norteña

Ally Venable

Zac Harmon

Ray Wylie Hubbard

ASIAN AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Join us from 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 20, as we celebrate the talent, creativity and cultural diversity of Asian Pacific American communities at Garland’s inaugural Asian American Heritage Festival at Winters Park Amphitheater, 1419 Spring Creek Drive. The festival will include cultural performances from locations including Thailand, Laos, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar, India, Japan, Korea and Hawaii. In addition to a Colorful World Nation Parade and lion dance, craft stalls and art performances will display the talent, creativity and skillful hands of Asian Pacific Americans.

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Garland’s second annual Juneteenth Celebration will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 17, in Audubon Park, 342 W. Oates Road. Commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people with a celebration of freedom and unification through community engagement, speakers and live music. There will be food trucks, a children’s activity area and reflection on the day’s historical significance.

Featuring: Nguyễn Hồng Nhung and Don Hồ

City

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 13-plus 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. And the window to participate is opening soon!

The City will accept applications for its boards and commissions from Wednesday, May 31, through Friday, June 30. 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 Thursday, June 1, and runs through May 31, 2025. To qualify for the position, an applicant must reside in Garland and own taxable property.

Applications will be accepted from Monday, May 1, through Wednesday, May 31, 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 Tuesday, July 18, and runs through July 18, 2025. To qualify for the position, an applicant must reside in Garland.

Applications will be accepted from Monday, May 15, through Thursday, June 15, and should include a letter of interest and a resume.

Submit applications to René Dowl, City Secretary, by email to RDowl@ GarlandTX.gov or by U.S. Postal Service to City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., Garland 75040.

City Council Work Sessions

z Live broadcast – 6 p.m.

May 1 and 15 and June 5 and 19

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

CGTV Listings

CITY MEETING SCHEDULE

City Council Regular Meetings

z Live broadcast – 7 p.m.

May 2 and 16 and June 6 and 20

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.

May 8 and 22 and June 12 and 26

z Meetings will be rebroadcast the following Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 9 a.m.

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

City Council Members

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

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

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

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

Robert John Smith Deputy Mayor Pro Tem 469-223-4723 Council8@GarlandTX.gov

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

DISTRICT 1

Deborah Morris Mayor Pro Tem 214-273-4387 Council2@GarlandTX.gov

Scott LeMay 972-205-2400

214-794-8904

Apply Now for Boards and Commissions

2023 COUNCIL ELECTIONS

The City of Garland will hold a general election Saturday, May 6, to elect a Mayor and City Council members for Districts 3, 6, 7 and 8. Garland residents have the convenience of countywide voting and can vote at any polling location in Dallas County. Visit DallasCountyVotes.org for a list of polling locations.

The following individuals have filed for a place on the Garland general election ballot (U indicates unopposed). They are listed in ballot order:

Mayor Roel G. Garcla Scott LeMay

District 3 Ed Moore PC Mathew

District 6 Carissa Dutton (U)

District 7 Dylan Hedrick (U)

District 8 Chris Ott (U)

EARLY VOTING IN GARLAND

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, May 1, and Tuesday, May 2, at these Garland locations:

z Dallas College Garland Center, 675 W. Walnut St.

z South Garland Branch Library, 4845 Broadway Blvd.

ELECTION DAY VOTING IN GARLAND

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 6, at these Garland locations:

z Austin Academy, 1125 Beverly Drive

z Big Springs Elementary School, 3301 W. Campbell Road

z Bradfield Recreation Center, 1146 Castle Drive

z Classical Center at Brandenburg Middle School, 626 Nickens Road

z Club Hill Elementary School, 1330 Colonel Drive

z Couch Elementary School, 4349 Waterhouse Blvd.

z Dallas College Garland Center, 675 W. Walnut St.

z Davis Elementary School, 1621 McCallum Drive

z Ethridge Elementary School, 2301 Sam Houston Drive

z Granger Recreation Center, 1310 W. Avenue F

z O. Henry Elementary School, 4100 Tynes Drive

z Hickman Elementary School, 3114 Pinewood Drive

z Houston Middle School, 2232 Sussex Drive

z Lister Elementary School, 3131 Mars Drive

z Lyles Middle School, 4655 S. Country Club Road

z Memorial Pathway Academy, 2825 S. First St.

BOND HIGHLIGHTS

Libraries Update

Progress continues to be made on Garland’s libraries! The Central Library has temporarily shifted operations to the Central Library Express, located just down the street at 713 Austin St., while the library is undergoing renovation.

The Central Library will be back and better than ever with new technologies to include a video production studio and makerspace equipment. The renovated library will feature an exciting new place for children to learn through reading and hands-on play, more collaboration and study areas, and new outdoor programming spaces.

Construction is slated to start by late summer on the new West Garland Branch Library. The existing Walnut Creek Branch Library location will stay open while the new library is under construction.

z North Garland Branch Library, 3845 N. Garland Ave.

z Northlake Elementary School, 1626 Bosque Drive

z Northside Baptist Church, 2510 N. Glenbrook Drive

z O’Banion Middle School, 700 Birchwood Drive

z Price Elementary School, 630 Stroud Lane

z Routh Roach Elementary School, 1811 Mayfield Ave.

z South Garland Branch Library, 4845 Broadway Blvd.

z Southgate Elementary School, 1115 Mayfield Ave.

z Spring Creek Elementary School, 1510 Spring Creek Drive

z SpringPark Sports Club, 3330 SpringPark Way

z Toler Elementary School, 3520 Guthrie Road

z Williams Elementary School, 1821 Old Gate Lane

Parks Update

Don’t let the Texas heat get you down — there are new splash pads opening in Garland that are guaranteed to make the hot summer days extra cool. The first two splash pads — at Embree Park (pictured) and Lon Wynne Park — should be open in the coming weeks. Surf & Swim and Holford Aquatic Facility are closed this season. Stay tuned for the amazing new facilities at those locations.

All 24 new playgrounds funded by the 2019 Bond Program at locations around the city will be open for play by this fall! Each park has its own unique amenities to offer fun and learning to the children and families in the community. There is excitement and adventure from the dinosaurthemed playground at Spring Creek Greenbelt – Fred E. Harris Section to the lion-shaped climbing structure at Dorfman Park.

Additionally, Gatewood Picnic Pavilion is on track to reopen by the end of summer. So there is no shortage of ways for you and your family to stay cool and have a blast in Garland.

We’ll highlight the progress made on parks through the 2019 Bond Program with a Build Garland Day celebration this summer. For updates on these and all 2019 bond projects, visit BuildGarland.com.

City News

Careers

Careers.GarlandTX.gov

Questions?

Connect with the Talent Acquisition team at Talent@GarlandTX.g ov

GARLAND POWER & LIGHT 100TH ANNIVERSARY

We

Garland Power & Light celebrated its 100th anniversary with events for the public, its employees and City officials. At right, five Garland mayors mark the occasion, from left: Current Mayor Scott LeMay, and former Mayors Lori Dodson, James Ratliff, Bob Day and Ron Jones.

VALORIS HEALTHPARK MURAL

The three-story Valoris HealthPark mural is the latest sign of rebirth at Shiloh Road and Walnut Street, where the City has partnered with Garland VA Medical Center and Prevarian Companies to develop a medical district.

The City Council has approved an urban design plan contract with Studio Outside for the Valoris HealthPark Garland Medical District. The urban design plan includes improvements funded by the 2019 bond

program. The master plan will soon wrap up and includes amenities such as streetscapes, trails and a VA wellness park.

The City has also engaged urban design nonprofit Better Block to help facilitate community input and feedback on the urban design plan. In October, the City worked with the Better Block Foundation to reenvision the possibilities for the Clara Barton Boulevard gateway into the district, turning the street into a temporary street park.

WHAT’S BEING BUILT THERE?

1 Coming soon at 4680 N. Shiloh Road is Dutch Bros Coffee.

2 Coming soon at 3318 W. Buckingham Road is a Medical City emergency clinic.

3 Coming soon at 3065 Forest Lane is a multi-tenant contractor’s office building.

Projects scheduled to begin in May/June

A Apollo Road alley, Inverness Drive to Kimberly Drive Alley reconstruction

B Brandywine Place, Trails Parkway to Trailcrest Drive

Residential concrete panel replacement

C Briarcliff Drive, Trailcrest Drive to east end of the street

Residential concrete panel replacement

D Buckingham Road, Shiloh Road to Sam Houston Drive

Arterial concrete panel replacement

E Heather Glen Drive alley, Reinosa Drive to O’Banion Road Alley reconstruction

F Idlewood Drive/Neal Drive alley, Apollo Road to Bancroft Drive Alley reconstruction

G Tanglewood Lane, Cedarcrest Drive to Garland Avenue Street reconstruction

H Trailcrest Drive, Brandywine Place to Briarcliff Drive

Residential concrete panel replacement

I Trailwood Court, Trails Parkway to south end of the street

Residential concrete panel replacement

J Walnut Street, Country Club Road to Mars Drive Arterial concrete panel replacement

Ongoing projects

K Camilla Lane, Stadium Drive to west end of the street Street reconstruction

L Curtis Drive, High Meadow Drive to Susan Drive Street reconstruction

M Cypress Point Drive, Trails Parkway to the south end of the street

Residential concrete panel replacement

N Miller Road, Jupiter Road to west City limit

Arterial concrete panel replacement

O Pebble Beach Drive, Spyglass Lane to Cypress Point Drive

Residential concrete panel replacement

P Pebblecreek Drive alley, Apollo Road to Ridgegate Drive Alley reconstruction

The four-year $1.7 billion 635 East Project to improve Garland’s busiest traffic corridor is on target for 2024 completion. And the project team announced that its goal for all the permanent mainlanes of westbound Interstate 635 through Garland to be built and open by the end of 2023.

Work continues on bridges on the new interstate, new on- and off-ramps, frontage road sections and permanent walls.

Drivers may already have experienced new interstate and frontage road bridges near Garland Avenue, La Prada Drive, Northwest Highway and Shiloh Road. Work is in progress at Kingsley Road and Garland Avenue underpasses.

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

Q Ridgegate Drive alley, Apollo Road to Ridgegate Drive Alley reconstruction

R Trail View Lane, Ozark Trail Lane to Country View Lane

Residential concrete panel replacement

S Wellington Avenue, Interstate 30 service road to Waterhouse Boulevard Street reconstruction

NEIGHBORHOOD VITALITY MATCHING GRANT

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.

The Letter of Intent deadline for the Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant program is Sunday, July 23.

Download the program guidelines, forms and more at GarlandNeighborhoods.org. For more details, email Neighborhoods@ GarlandTX.gov or call 972-205-2445.

HOA LEGAL CLINIC

Rowlett Community Centre, 5300 Main St. in Rowlett

Cost: $15 per person

(breakfast included)

On Saturday, June 10, the cities of Garland, Plano and Rowlett will partner to host the 2023 HOA Legal Clinic. Board members of mandatory homeowners associations are welcome to join us for a morning of training. Topics include governing documents, fundamentals of financial management and more.

Save your spot now. Register at GarlandNeighborhoods.org!

BLOCK PARTY TRAILER

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

The City of Garland’s Office of Neighborhood Vitality is excited to provide this resource to registered neighborhood groups. Reservations may be made no more than six months in advance and only for registered neighborhood groups. Groups are also responsible for applying for appropriate permits.

Learn more about the guidelines and trailer contents. Call 972-205-2445 or submit your reservation and more at GarlandNeighborhoods.org.

GARLAND UMPIRES

Garland Girls Softball Association (GGSA) has been serving Garland youth for more than 60 years. The recently completed 2022 fall recreation season hosted 32 teams from around the area and almost 350 players at our Winters Park Softball Complex.

USA Softball and GGSA is always looking to expand our fastpitch umpire crew. We will train you, mentor you, challenge you and set you up for success. If you have aspirations to umpire at higher levels, this is where you need to start. Plus, you’ll make some money!

For more information about umpiring, email Dennis Smith at garlandumpires@hotmail.com

GP&L GREEN CHOICE PROGRAM

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, which are sustainable and help keep our environment clean.

GP&L’s Green Choice only costs a penny more per kilowatt-hour than GP&L’s regular rate. Both rates are competitive as compared to plans in the Oncor delivery area (visit gpltexas.org/rates to learn more). A minimum 12-month commitment is required for Green Choice.

Enroll in Green Choice at gpltexas.org/GreenChoice or by calling 972-205-2671.

GP&L ENERGYSAVER

Summer is just around the corner, and 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:

z Central A/C, heat pump or window A/C unit

z Ceiling insulation

z Window solar screens or film

z 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.

IT’S STORM SEASON BE WEATHER AWARE

More than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road. The road may have collapsed under that water. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters. If you vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.

Staying Safe During a Flood

z Stay informed. Listen to radio and television, including NOAA Weather Radio if possible. Check the internet and social media for information and register for the Garland Alert System (GarlandTX.gov/alerts) to receive alerts.

z Get to higher ground. If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately.

z Obey evacuation orders. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances.

z Practice electrical safety. Don't go into any room if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. Stay out of water that may have electricity in it.

z Avoid flood waters. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible. Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires or chemicals.

“We don’t take kids.”

“There is a fee for your service animal.”

“We only take people who speak English.”

“I can’t assign you a handicap parking space.”

“We can’t modify the apartment for you.”

The only way to stop housing discrimination is for you to report it.

ADDRESS YOUR VACCINATION NEEDS

New Operating Hours at Garland Public Health Clinic

The Garland Public Health Clinic at 206 Carver St. is a walk-in only vaccine clinic. It provides low-cost immunizations for infants and children through age 18 and also immunizations for adults of all ages.

We have new operating hours! Our doors are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday (closed Wednesdays). Call 972-205-3370 for more information.

Many children in Garland are eligible for free or low-cost vaccinations through the Texas Vaccines for Children Program. The program is funded with federal and state money to provide vaccines to eligible children from birth through age 18. Children who do not have health insurance or who have health insurance that does not cover vaccines qualify, as well as children who are enrolled in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Parents should bring a child’s immunization records with them. Getting children up to date on vaccinations is one of the most important things parents can do to protect their children’s health — and that of classmates and the community.

Children need different vaccines at different ages. For example, kids who are 4 to 6 years old are due for boosters for four vaccines: DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), chickenpox, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and polio. Older children need Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), HPV (human papillomavirus) and MCV/MEN B (meningococcal conjugate) vaccines. College students also need to have current MCV and MEN B vaccinations before enrolling for classes.

Our team is also committed to bringing services to all our neighborhoods and communities. We regularly partner with charitable organizations, places of worship and businesses to provide vaccine pop-up clinics, panels, presentations and more. Contact our team at PublicHealth@ GarlandTX.gov to learn more.

DO BUSINESS WITH THE CITY OF GARLAND

The City of Garland Procurement Department is responsible for the acquisition of goods and services in accordance with local policies as well as state and federal laws. We would like to invite local businesses to participate in the procurement process for City purchases and projects. If you are interested in doing business with the City of Garland, visit the website below for more information.

bit.ly/DoBusinessWithGarland

SPOTLIGHT ON GARLAND

ZOOM SPEAKER SERIES

PRESERVATION SOCIETY FOR SPRING CREEK FOREST

Regional experts speak on issues relevant to Spring Creek Preserve.

z 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 2 – Jerry Alcorn, A World of Pollinators – Alcorn is a beekeeper who has hives in Dallas and Collin counties. He will look at our dependence on pollinators for fruits and vegetables. He’ll also show many simple things individuals can do to improve our environment by learning pollinators’ role as the backbone of our food chain.

WORK SESSIONS

We break into teams, each with a knowledgeable leader, and work on projects such as removing invasive plants, maintaining trails and picking up trash.

z 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 13 – Meet at 1787 Holford Road. Afterward, we will relax at the picnic tables with our own packed lunches.

Work sessions in June, July and August will be led by Dana Wilson at various times, dates and locations due to the heat. Email danawilson59@yahoo.com.

Bring water and bug repellant. Closed-toed shoes are mandatory. Heavy work gloves, long pants and protective eyewear are recommended. If you have them, bring loppers and/or small tree saws. (No power tools.) All participants and the parents of minors must sign our liability waiver. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Garland Animal Services Director Serves on Animal Care Expo Panel

Garland Animal Services Director Art Munoz (pictured) appeared on the main stage at the Humane Society of the United States’ Animal Care Expo in New Orleans. Munoz served on a four-person panel selected from candidates across the country, an honor that recognizes his work and approach to community engagement. The panel drew on his experience in serving a diverse community, his expertise in animal sheltering, and the philosophies and programming he has implemented and continues to expand in Garland.

Mayor Honors Garland Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association

The Garland Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association was recognized for its 30 years of service at the Garland City Council’s March 7 meeting. Mayor Scott LeMay’s proclamation highlighted the association’s volunteerism and dedication to the Garland Police Department and community.

Garland’s Band Together on the Square Program Earns Statewide Award

Garland’s Band Together on the Square Concert Series earned the 2023 Arts & Humanities Programming Achievement Award from the Texas Recreation & Park Society. The award is given to a program that exemplifies commitment and dedication in the field of recreation. Band Together on the Square was selected out of more than 140 entries. Join us for the 2023 season, currently underway!

Garland Earns Distinguished Budget Presentation Award

The City of Garland and Budget & Research Department received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the FY 2022-23 Adopted Operating Budget document. GFOA looks for each entity’s budget document to serve as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide and a communication device. This is Garland’s 35th award out of the 37 years the program has existed.

Rec Center Supervisor Recognized With Award of Honor

Holford Recreation Center Supervisor Heather Lambert received the Presidential Award of Honor at the 2023 Texas Recreation & Park Society Annual State Institute and Expo. Lambert has been an active member of the TRAPS North planning committee for more than 20 years. During this same ceremony, Lambert was inducted to serve a second term as the North Region Director.

SPRING MIGRATION BIRD WALKS

Special for Society Members Only – Spring Migration Bird Walks with Reba Collins, Texas Master Naturalist

z 8 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday, May 6, and Sunday, May 7 – Society members only, meet at 1787 Holford Road

Texas Master Naturalist Reba Collins will lead a discovery of what birds are in Spring Creek Forest in late spring. Reservations are required and limited to 10 members per walk. Email rcollins20@verizon.net to reserve a spot. Bring binoculars and wear weather-appropriate, comfortable walking shoes. To become a member, email barbara_baynham2005@yahoo.com.

For more information, go to springcreekforest.org. To receive monthly event announcements, email barbara_baynham2005@yahoo.com. For last-minute information and updates, including dates and locations that may change because of weather conditions, check our website or Facebook page.

SUMMER READING ADVENTURE

From June 2 to July 29, Garland libraries are introducing a brand-new Summer Reading Adventure! Participants set their own reading goals and turn in completed goal sheets for a chance to win a grand prize.

Infants through sixth grade may pick a free book for every completed goal sheet. Adults and teens in seventh through 12th grade can turn in completed goal sheets for entries into a grand prize drawing. Limit of five entries per person for each drawing.

There will be one grand prize drawing for infants through pre-K, one for kindergarten through sixth grade, four for seventh through 12th grade, and four for adults ages 18 and older.

Summer Reading

Adventure Kickoff Events

z 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 2

South Garland Branch Library

It’s a beautiful day in the South Garland neighborhood! Join us after-hours to celebrate the start of the Summer Reading Adventure with games, activities, and a storybook walk inspired by the iconic Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood television series.

z 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 3

Walnut Creek Branch Library

Families can enjoy an outdoor carnival consisting of games, face painting, refreshments and more! Kona Ice will be available for kids while supplies last.

z 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 3

Winters Park, 1419 Spring Creek Drive

Come participate in activities and games for all ages including face painting, bubbles, and balloon art! During our Summer KickOff Party, we will be accepting donations of sunscreen, sunburn alleviators (such as aloe vera), anti-itch creams, and insect repellent. All items will be donated to a local Garland nonprofit organization.

z 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 4

Central Library Express

Family-friendly games, bubbles and Kona Ice for kids while supplies last.

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, at Library.GarlandTX.gov.

Early Literacy (Ages 0-5)

LITTLE ART EXPLORERS

z 2:30 p.m. Saturdays, June 3 and July 1

Summer Reading Adventure Interactive Labs

The fun will continue all summer long with interactive labs for kids ages 6 through 12. Registration is required for each session. Each library will host two sessions on the specified dates: one at 2:30 p.m. and one at 3:30 p.m. Call your preferred library to register for each session.

Central Library Express

z June 5 – Mad Science: STEM concepts

z June 13 – Cara Mía (Spanish Language): Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico. Solamente en Español.

z June 19 – High Touch High Tech: Light Fever©

North Garland Branch Library

z June 9 – Cara Mía (Spanish Language): Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico. Solamente en Español.

z June 17 – Mad Science: STEM concepts

South Garland Branch Library

z June 14 – Mad Science: STEM concepts

z June 24 – Cara Mía (Spanish Language): Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico. Solamente en Español.

z June 28 – Frontiers of Flight Museum Program: Weather, It Matters!

Walnut Creek Branch Library

z June 8 – Mad Science: STEM concepts

z June 22 – High Touch High Tech Program: Light Fever©

z June 28 – Cara Mía (Spanish Language): Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico. Solamente en Español.

South Garland Branch Library

Little Art Explorers supports early child development by integrating activities that build motor skills, increase vocabulary, improve symbol recognition and encourage emotional awareness. Attendees focus on the process of making art rather than the end product. June theme: Suncatchers. July theme: Paint and Transportation

LITERACY GYM

z 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 20

Central Library Express

Play fun, active games focused on gaining literacy skills needed for lifelong readers. Each attendee will receive a literacy take-home gift. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to the event. Limited seating available.

SPIN ART PAINT PARTY

z 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 20

North Garland Branch Library

Mix your own paint to create an original piece of art using a spinning top. Be prepared to get messy! Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to event.

Families

WOVEN WALL HANGING COMMUNITY PROJECT

z During open hours throughout May

Walnut Creek Branch Library

During May, patrons of all ages may help weave a wall hanging that will be displayed in June and July. A loom will be set up in the library and materials and instructions will be provided. To allow as many people as possible to take part, staff ask that participants weave one row per day.

FAMILY FUN TIME

z 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays, June 7 and 21

South Garland Branch Library

An afternoon of STEAM-related activities. No registration is required. June 7 theme: Gardening. June 21 theme: “The Three Little Pigs.”

BUBBLE BASH

z 2:30 p.m. Monday, June 26

Central Library Express

Come have fun with bubbles, big and small! Groove to music and develop early science concepts while participating in sensory play. Limited seating available.

Young Audiences (Ages 6-12)

STEAM CLUB

z 2:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 8 and 22

South Garland Branch Library

Explore science, technology, engineering, art and math. Children ages 6 to 10 will discover and create through fun activities and challenges. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each event. June 8 theme: Bottle Race Car Derby. June 22 theme: Juggling.

ART CLUB

z 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays, June 14 and 28

Central Library Express

A short story and a related activity that uses different art media such as paints, markers and crayons. Limited seating available. June 14 theme: Tape Art. June 28 theme: Summer Rain Art.

PAINT PARTY

z 2:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 15 and 29

Walnut Creek Branch Library

Children will learn painting techniques and create their own masterpieces. June 15 theme: Positivity Paintings. June 29 theme: Fireworks Paintings. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to event dates.

HAT MAKING WITH THE RAD HATTER

z 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 24

North Garland Branch Library

Create unique wearable art from paper bags and recycled materials with our special guest, the Rad Hatter. No registration required.

LOU HUFF PARK PUBLIC MEETING

The City of Garland is making improvements to Lou Huff Park. Come and share your ideas with us at 6 p.m. May 18 at the Gale Fields Recreation Center, 1701 Dairy Road.

RECREATION CENTER EVENTS

Tai Chi

z 10 to 10:50 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 2 to 30

Ages 35 and up, $34 per person

Fields Recreation Center

972-205-3090 or HHRC@GarlandTX.gov

Music Discovery Piano

z 4:30 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, May 3-24

Ages 7 to 11, $65 per person

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

Yoga

z 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays, May 3-31

Ages 16 and up, $49 per person

Granger Recreation Center

972-205-2771 or GRC@GarlandTX.gov

Duck Creek Adventure Camp

z 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday each week starting June 5

Ages 8 to 12, $125 per person

Audubon Recreation Center

972-205-3991 or ARC@GarlandTX.gov

Fields Summer Camp

z 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday each week starting June 5

Ages 6 to 12, $100 per person

Fields Recreation Center

972-205-3090 or FRC@GarlandTX.gov

Skyhawks Flag Football

z 8 to 11 a.m. Monday to Thursday, June 5 to 8

Ages 6 to 12, $149 per person

Bill Cody Field

972-205-3991 or HRC@GarlandTX.gov

Construction is ongoing at Holford and Hollabaugh Recreation Centers; some classes have been moved.

EVENTS FROM THE ARTS

PLAZA CLASSIC MOVIE SERIES

“FIRST MAN”

z 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 3

“WAR ROOM”

z 2 p.m. Sunday, May 14

“THE RIGHT STUFF”

z 7 p.m. Thursday, May 25

“APOLLO 13”

z 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 7

GARLAND

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

z 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 12 Albert Cano Smit, piano Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.

“THE MUSIC MAN”

z Fridays through Sundays, June 16-25

Presented by Garland Summer Musicals Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.

“THE WATERBOY”

z 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 21

THROWBACK

THURSDAY MOVIE SERIES

Presented by Downtown Garland Business Association

“NACHO LIBRE”

z 7 p.m. Thursday, May 4

“GREASE”

z 7 p.m. Thursday, June 8

“SNAPSHOTS”

z Fridays through Sundays, April 28 to May 14

Presented by Garland Civic Theatre Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.

“OLIVER!”

z Fridays through Sundays, June 2-11

Presented by Company of Rowlett Performers Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.

All movies are FREE to view at Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.

Visit GarlandArts.com

2023 GRADUATION SEASON TRAFFIC ALERT

Graduation season is here and Garland ISD’s Curtis Culwell Center will host graduations

May 11 through June

4. The Garland Police Department wants motorists to be aware of potential traffic congestion and alternate routes in the area of the intersection of North Garland Avenue and the Bush Turnpike during these events.

Connect with Us!

Garland eAssist

Report issues, get information and submit questions online or through an app on your smartphone. Visit GarlandTX.gov and click on the eAssist button or download Garland eAssist from your app store.

Garland City Press Briefs

This weekly enewsletter is sent each Sunday evening and contains reminders and updates about City-sponsored events and activities. Register on the City’s website. Look for the Enews link.

Social Media

The City is active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Nextdoor. Check these out by visiting GarlandTX.gov and see what interests you most!

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: Ray Leszcynski,