Día de los Muertos will take place from 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, at the Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St. This lively event celebrates Mexican and Latin American culture and honors loved ones through music, art and dance.
A Catrin/Catrina Contest will celebrate La Catrina, an iconic Día de los Muertos symbol. Adults and children are invited to dress in elaborate costumes that embody the character. Prizes will be awarded for creativity and authenticity.
Music and dance will fill the day, including a tribute to the Queen of Tejano via a special “Dreaming of You - the Selena Experience” performance and traditional Mexican dances by Garland’s México 2000 Ballet Folklórico. Mariachi bands will also perform, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The community is encouranged to bring photos of departed loved ones and contribute them to a community altar. Garland ISD students will also showcase their altars, highlighting personal and cultural stories. The community and student altars will be displayed through Nov. 10.
Garland’s Nov. 2 event will also feature food trucks, Downtown dining and an Artisan Market featuring Día de los Muertos-themed crafts.
Don’t miss this incredible cultural journey at the Granville Arts Center! More event information can be found at VisitGarlandTX.com.
El Día de los Muertos de Garland se llevará a cabo en el Granville Arts Center el 2 de noviembre de 2024, de 2 a 8 p.m. Este evento celebra la cultura mexicana y latinoamericana y honra a los seres queridos a través de la música, el arte y la danza.
Un aspecto destacado es el Concurso de Catrín/Catrina, que celebra a La Catrina, un símbolo icónico del Día de los Muertos. Los concursantes, tanto adultos como niños, se vestirán con elaborados disfraces para personificar al personaje, y se otorgarán premios por creatividad y autenticidad.
La música y el baile llenarán el día, incluido un tributo a la Reina del Tejano a través de una presentación especial “Dreaming of You - the Selena Experience” y bailes tradicionales mexicanos a cargo del Ballet Folklórico México 2000 de Garland. También actuarán mariachis, lo que contribuirá al ambiente festivo.
Se invita a la comunidad a contribuir con fotos de seres queridos fallecidos para los altares comunitarios. Los estudiantes de Garland ISD también exhibirán sus altares, destacando historias personales y culturales. Los altares comunitarios y estudiantiles estarán en exhibición del 25 de octubre al 10 de noviembre.
El evento también ofrecerá camiones de comida, restaurantes en el centro y un Mercado Artesanal con artesanías temáticas del Día de los Muertos. El Día de los Muertos de Garland promete ser una celebración vibrante y memorable de la vida, la cultura y la tradición.
¡No te pierdas este increíble viaje cultural en el Granville Arts Center el 2 de noviembre! Para más información sobre el evento, visita VisitGarlandTX.com.
Bond Update
Featured projects in the 2019 Build Garland bond program
Major quality-of-life projects from the 2019 Build Garland bond program are on the cusp of becoming reality.It’s quite likely you’ll remember 2025 as the Year of the Library in Garland. Look for openings of the renovated Central Library, 625 Austin St., and the new West Garland Library, 3925 W. Walnut St.
Soon to follow will be the debut of one of the biggest projects in the $423.7 million bond program, Holford Recreation & Aquatic Center, 2314 Homestead Place. With all due respect to the pool and traditional recreation center that served the neighborhood for decades, this will be a transformational new facility. Our first multistory recreation center will be accentuated by a lazy river, spray features, shade structures, slides and other amenities.
The following summer, we’ll unveil our biggest aquatics rebuild of all. Demolition has started at Surf & Swim, 440 W. Oates Road (pictured), paving the way for a $25 million improvement at Audubon Park that’s anticipated to open in summer 2026.
And we can’t mention recreation projects without sharing excitement for the new Garland Senior Activity Center. Design is in its final stages, and we’re preparing to bid for construction at 600 W. Avenue A with construction beginning early next year.
There is also much progress in the streets ($122.25 million), storm drainage ($47.35 million) and trails ($7.18 million) projects from the 2019 Build Garland bond program. Bids recently closed on the Montclair storm drainage improvements. And the reconstruction of Holford Road, from the Bush Turnpike to the northern city limit, is more than halfway finished.
The City Council recently awarded a bid for construction on Naaman School Road from Brand Road to just east of State Highway 78. The City and its contractor plan to meet with residents in the near future, and construction will follow in early 2025. The City’s Street Department has also moved into its new building at 530 Tower St., another voter-approved project from the 2019 bond.
Meanwhile, a 19-member Bond Study Committee continues to meet on Thursdays toward addressing future needs in a potential 2025 bond. The committee will soon provide its recommendation to the City Council regarding possible projects and programs. Follow the
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Scan the QR code or visit GarlandTX.gov/Survey to take our communication survey about where to find the latest information and events.
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Escanee el código QR o visite GarlandTX.gov/Survey para participar en nuestra encuesta de comunicación sobre dónde encontrar lo más reciente en información y eventos.
City Council
A new comprehensive plan, Garland Forward, is coming soon!
05
City News
Welcome to Team Garland
Spotlight on Garland
Annual Operating Budget
Garland Animal Services Celebrates Live Release Rate
07
Neighborhood &
Development
Neighborhood Summit and Pre-Summit Mixer
Stay Safe Around Electricity 09
City Services
Announcing New ACH and Credit Card Payment Processor for City of Garland Utilities
Sanitation and Landfill Holiday Schedule 11 Quality of Life
Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest
Recreation Center Events
Events at the Library
Events from the Arts
City Council
City Meeting Schedule
All meetings are held at City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., streamed live at GarlandTX.tv and broadcast live on CGTV. 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. Nov. 4 and 18, and Dec. 2 and 9
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. Nov. 4 and 19, and Dec. 3 and 10
z Rebroadcast the following Wednesday – 9 a.m., Friday – 7 p.m.
2. Click the “Meeting Agendas” link. 3. Click the blue “Subscribe” button.
4. Select the agendas you want to receive.
The Council Chamber at Garland City Hall is wheelchair accessible, and ADA parking is available on State Street as well as in the public parking garage behind City Hall. Persons who may need assistive listening devices or interpretation/translation services are asked to contact the City Secretary’s Office at 972-205-2404 as soon as possible prior to the meeting so that we may do all we can to provide appropriate arrangements.
City Council Members
MAYOR
Scott LeMay 972-205-2400 214-794-8904 Mayor@GarlandTX.gov
Ed Moore Mayor Pro Tem 214-243-3053 Council3@GarlandTX.gov
Carissa Dutton 972-998-8542
Council6@GarlandTX.gov
Jeff Bass 469-831-5620 Council1@GarlandTX.gov
B.J.
972-898-7672 Council4@GarlandTX.gov
Dylan Hedrick 469-560-6099 Council7@GarlandTX.gov
Kris Beard 214-418-9461 Council2@GarlandTX.gov
A new comprehensive plan, Garland Forward, is coming soon!
Identifying goals, policies and strategies for the growth and development of our community, this type of plan addresses population changes and ensures that decisions and investments improve the quality of life for Garland residents.
Comprehensive plans often address topics such as:
z Economic development
z Infrastructure and transportation
z Land use
z Neighborhood vitality
z Parks, open space and the environment
z Special districts within the city
z Urban design
To kick off Garland’s process, the City hosted a community presentation, four pop-up events and an initial survey in September and October.
Chris Ott 972-987-9149 Council8@GarlandTX.gov
Opportunity for public input continues with a second survey that is open through Nov. 22. Scan the QR code below or visit GarlandForward.com to help prioritize needs and provide feedback on possible areas of improvement.
Getting involved allows your voice to be heard and also confirms that the plan is representative of our community.
Stay tuned for other opportunities for public input during the 20-month plan creation timeline.
The City of Garland’s first comprehensive plan was developed in the 1960s. The current Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan was adopted in March 2012.
Garland Forward will align with and will incorporate other recently adopted master plans such as the Economic Development Strategic Plan and the Trails & Bikeways Master Plan, as well as other adopted catalyst area and small area plans like the I-30 Corridor Catalyst Arta Plan and Medical District Area Plan.
Annual Operating Budget
The budget is balanced as required by state law and reflects City Council’s policy framework.
It strikes a balance between affordability and the need to fund the City’s top priorities as defined by City Council. The tax rate remains unchanged at 68.97 cents per $100 of valuation.
Budget Priorities for the FY 2024-25 Adopted Budget
• Ensure any new facilities resulting from past bond programs are adequately staffed and funded to operate at expected service levels.
• Maintain a competitive position with compensation and merit increases.
• Enhance infrastructure and maintenance funding to be able to adequately respond to the results of the street and alley condition assessment and other long-term maintenance initiatives.
• Maintain high levels of reserves to respond to anticipated and unforeseen financial challenges.
Fund: Where It Comes From and
The services paid from the General Fund include basic City services such as Police, Fire, Parks, Library, Transportation, Landfill, Health, Animal Care and Code Enforcement.
The City of Garland’s utility departments are comprised of Garland Power & Light, Water and Wastewater Utilities, Stormwater Management and Sanitation.
The Combined Budget includes the General Fund, Debt Service Fund, Utilities Funds, Special Revenue Funds, Enterprise Funds and Grant Funds.
Garland Animal Services Celebrates Live Release Rate
Animal Services celebrated a 99% live release rate in August by hosting a staff and volunteer cookout. Director Art Munoz, left, served hot dogs and burgers while recognizing staff and volunteers for their efforts to benefit the shelter pets and the community.
Welcome to Team Garland
Amber Thompson, most recently the City’s Health Manager, has been named Director of Environmental Compliance.
The position was created as the City of Garland’s Health Department was split into two divisions: Environmental Health and Environmental Compliance. Under Thompson’s leadership, Environmental Compliance will focus on proactive education, inspections, and enforcement for commercial and industrial properties, in addition to responding to complaints.
Thompson has more than 13 years of experience in the health industry, including 11 years working for the cities of Garland and Plano, as well as in the private sector as a health inspector and health supervisor.
Mandy Pippen continues as Director of Environmental Health, which handles the inspections of restaurants, pools, certain violations of noise ordinance and more.
Nancy Tunell has joined the City of Garland’s Downtown Development Office as the Downtown Development Manager.
Tunell began working at the City in the Neighborhood Vitality Department in 2017. Most recently, she served as the City’s Volunteer Coordinator. In that role, Tunell wrote the winning application for the 2024 Governor’s Community Achievement Award, garnering $310,000 in landscaping funds. She also secured the North Central Texas Council of Governments' Solid Waste Implementation Grant for $81,000. In addition, Tunell established the annual Duck Creek Litter Cleanup.
In 2023, Tunell was awarded Part-Time Employee of the Year by the North Region of the Texas Recreation & Park Society.
Vishal Sood has joined the City of Garland as Water/ Wastewater Capital Projects Director.
Sood brings over 20 years of experience in project and construction management. Sood played a key role in the construction management team for the world's largest water reuse project, the Groundwater Replenishment System for indirect potable reuse at the Orange County Water District in California.
Sood's career began in private consulting, serving municipal and government clients. He later transitioned to public service, spending six years with the City of Fort Worth. There, he delivered numerous water/wastewater pipeline and facility projects in collaboration with the developing community. Most recently, Sood served as the Civil Engineer for the City of Rowlett.
Taylor Borer joined the City of Garland as Regulatory Affairs Director. Borer is an experienced legislative professional, logging over 10 years of serving the state.
During her time in the Texas Senate, Borer crafted comprehensive policy reforms, managed negotiations for the multibillion-dollar state budget, and directed and implemented extensive legislative agendas.
Spotlight on Garland
Garland was rated No. 4 in a ranking of The Most Hospitable U.S. Cities to Visit on Holidays, conducted by backyard furniture and gear website Backyard Oasis. The study considered factors such as hotel quality, recreation opportunities, safety and affordability. Data was sourced from platforms such as Numbeo, Google Travel and WalletHub.
For the 11th year in a row, the Garland Fire Department has received a Mission: Lifeline EMS Recognition Award from the American Heart Association. This award is for implementing specific quality improvement measures to treat patients who suffer severe heart attacks.
For its continued mastery of performance standards, the department was recognized with the Gold Award.
“Our paramedics identify someone is experiencing a heart attack, so they move quickly with their treatments, then to the ambulance, and notify the receiving cardiac center that they are coming with a heart attack. This cuts out minutes of time and provides greater chances of survival,” said Garland Fire Chief Mark Lee.
The criteria to achieve the Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold award is based on consistently delivering the right patient to the right hospital in the right amount of time when encountering patients having significant heart attacks.
New for 2024 is the Target: Heart Attack Honor Roll. The Target Heart Attack designation focuses on coordinating care between prehospital agencies and the destination hospital.
Garland’s wastewater treatment plants were nationally recognized for their hard work and commitment to excellence at the recent National Association of Clean Water Agencies conference. These awards recognize clean water utilities that have made outstanding contributions to environmental protection, their communities and the water sector.
The Duck Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant earned a Gold Peak Performance Award for achieving 100% compliance during 2023 with all Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) permit requirements. The Rowlett Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant earned the Silver Peak Performance Award for achieving no more than five permit exceedances during 2023, with all TPDES permit requirements.
The City of Garland’s Public & Media Relations team recently earned national recognition for excellence in video programming.
The National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors recognized Garland with four first-place trophies, one second-place trophy and one third-place trophy at the Operating Budget Under $350,000 competition level.
The awards honor excellence in broadcast, cable, multimedia and electronic programming produced by local government agencies. There were more than 1,000 entries from local governments across the country.
City videos won first place in the Public Service Announcement, Use of Humor, Community Awareness and Arts & Entertainment categories. Garland earned second place in the Overall Excellence category and third place in the Public Education category.
The City of Garland’s Office of Neighborhood Vitality is proud to partner with the City of Plano for the 2024 Neighborhood Summit!
Attend the 2024 Neighborhood Summit to discover why enduring relationships are the foundation for vibrant communities. Neighbors from across the metroplex will gather in Plano to learn about making connections, creating neighborhood stories and exploring the value of storytelling.
What’s happening?
z Meet and interact with neighbors from Plano, Garland and across the metroplex.
z Learn from storytelling experts about the power of stories and how to tell yours.
z Learn about the tools and resources available to you to create great newsletters, social media posts and emails.
z Great giveaways and awesome raffle prizes!
Register to discover your neighborhood’s voice and build community connections. This year’s theme is “Great Communities: Sharing and Celebrating Our Stories.”
neighborhoods take work!
The City of Garland’s Office of Neighborhood Vitality would like to recognize those who make extraordinary efforts to enhance, revitalize or invest in their neighborhoods. Awards include: z Garland Neighborhood of the Year z Neighborhood Publication of the Year
z Who's Who in Garland Neighborhoods z Public Servant Award
be
Great
The winners will
announced at the Thursday, Nov. 7, Pre-Summit Mixer at Smith Spot BBQ, 823 Main St. RSVP for the FREE party at GarlandNeighborhoods.org!
City’s Christmas on the Square, MLK Parade, Keep the Celebration Going Downtown
On Dec. 5, Garland's Christmas on the Square will turn Downtown into a festive wonderland from 5 to 10 p.m. The event will include the lighting of the city's grand Christmas tree as well as live music and a holiday dance party with Grammy-nominated Q The Band. Families can capture memories with Santa and enjoy activities like a snow hill, synthetic ice skating, live reindeer, an obstacle course and a sleigh slide.
Visitors can also savor holiday treats from local eateries, shop for unique gifts from vendors at the Urban Market, and purchase Garland-themed merchandise. The festive decor will remain on display throughout the month for continued photo opportunities, and the Downtown storefronts will compete in a decorating contest where the public can vote for their favorites.
To keep up with all the holiday events, visit GarlandforChristmas.com
Then join us at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, for the 36th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Garland Parade and March. The parade route is from Embree Park to Downtown Garland (route mapped in red above). The celebration, sponsored by the NAACP Garland Unit, continues at the Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St. Visit GarlandTXnaacp.org for details.
Projects scheduled to begin in November/December
A Cedar Creek Drive, White Rock Trail to Tawakoni Lane Utility improvements/street reconstruction
B Country View Lane, Trails Parkway to Trail View Lane Street rehabilitation
C Dairy Road, State Highway 66 to High Meadow Drive Street rehabilitation
D Garland Avenue, Buckingham Road to Belt Line Road Street rehabilitation
E Whiterock Trail, Roan Road to Cedar Creek Drive Street reconstruction
F Wood Drive, Jupiter Road to Shiloh Road Street rehabilitation
Ongoing projects
G Ashville Drive/Atlanta Drive/Mayfield Avenue alleys Utility improvements/alley paving
H Avenue B/Forest Lane, Garland Avenue to Shiloh Road Street rehabilitation
I Caddo Drive, Bachman Boulevard to Cedar Creek Drive Street reconstruction
J Charleston Drive alley, Greensboro Circle to Roanoke Drive Utility improvements/alley paving
K Charleston Drive alley, Jackson Drive to Mobile Drive Utility improvements/alley paving
L Douglas Drive/Lexington Drive alley, Jackson Drive to Saturn Road
Utility improvements/alley paving
M Goldenrod Drive, Rosehill Road to Country Club Drive Steet reconstruction
N Greensboro Circle/Roanoke Drive alley, Greensboro to Charleston Drive alley Utility improvements/alley paving
O Innsbrook Drive, Apollo Road to Belt Line Road Street rehabilitation
P Lexington Drive/Mayfield Avenue alley, Saturn Road to Jackson Drive Utility improvements/alley paving
Q Powderhorn Drive, Innsbrook Drive to Buttermilk Way Street rehabilitation
R Tawakoni Lane, Whiterock Trail to east end of the street Street reconstruction
It’s important to prioritize holiday safety and preparedness while enjoying the festivities. This season brings joy but also risks if precautions aren’t taken. Be mindful of fire hazards from candles, stoves and decorations.
Fire Safety:
z Ensure smoke detectors are operational.
z Keep flammable items away from heat sources.
z Never leave cooking unattended; use timers and handle hot items carefully.
Online Security:
Online shopping is popular during the holidays, and it’s crucial to stay vigilant against scams. Protect your online presence by adjusting privacy settings and turning off location features. Keep your apps and devices updated and use strong passwords with a password manager and two-step verification, which involves a password and an additional code sent to your phone or other device.
z Limit personal information shared online.
z Be cautious of suspicious messages and unknown links.
z Secure your home Wi-Fi.
z Regularly check bank statements and back up files securely.
Travel Safety:
Traveling during the holidays can be exciting, and it's important to prioritize safety. Follow these simple tips to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
z Ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
z Plan your route.
z Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
z Stay informed about weather conditions; adjust your travel plans as needed based on weather updates.
By following these safety measures, you can enjoy your holiday celebrations while minimizing risks. For more information, visit GarlandTX.gov/OEM
Stay Safe Around Electricity
Electricity makes our lives easier in many ways, but it can also be dangerous. Always be cautious around electricity.
Outdoor Electrical Safety:
z Never go near a downed power line. Call Garland Power & Light (972-205-3000 or 833-403-2106) or the police (911) to report a downed line.
z Substations and pad-mounted transformers contain high voltages of electricity. Don’t climb or play around either.
Indoor Electrical Safety:
z Don’t run electrical cords under rugs or furniture.
z Immediately disconnect an appliance if it blows a fuse, emits smoke or sparks. Have the appliance repaired before using it again, or discard it.
z Disconnect appliances by pulling on the plug, not the cord.
z Don’t use an electrical appliance if the ground is wet or damp, or near water.
Visit gpltexas.org/safety for more electrical safety tips.
Save Energy and Money While Keeping Your Home Warm
A home with inadequate attic insulation can lose up to 60% of its heat in the winter. Heat can also be lost through leaks in ducts, windows and doors.
Reduce heat loss by participating in Garland Power & Light’s EnergySaver Wholehouse Weatherization Program. You can earn bill credits for qualifying energy-efficiency upgrades and save money on your utility bill for years to come!
Included in the Wholehouse Weatherization Program are:
z Ceiling insulation (must be at least R-30)
z Energy Star® windows and doors
z Duct replacement or sealing
z Weather-stripping doors, caulking windows and sealing plumbing penetrations
For complete program requirements and applications, visit gplexas.org/energysaver. If you have questions, email energyadvisor@gpltexas.org or call 972-205-2929.
Announcing New ACH and Credit Card Payment Processor for City of Garland Utilities
The City of Garland announced a new partnership with Fiserv, a global leader in payment processing. This new arrangement impacts utility payments processed by phone or through the utility MyMeter web portal.
Fiserv will provide payment processing services for Garland utility customers via the Fiserv BillMatrix platform. This collaboration lowers card or ACH (electronic check) processing fees for residential customers and will ultimately provide an over-the-counter card payment option in the near future. Customers will no longer make card or ACH payments on the Speedpay website.
Utility customers currently registered with MyMeter are not required to create a new account. In order to save payment information, however, a new digital wallet on the Fiserv BillMatrix site will need to be created. Customers who pay via the non-registered guest experience will continue to use their account number and identification code to access the Fiserv BillMatrix payment platform to make a payment.
The following chart outlines the processing fee changes utilizing Fiserv:
Sanitation and Landfill Holiday Schedule
z Thanksgiving: The Recycling Center and Transfer Station, 1426 Commerce St., will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28, and Friday, Nov. 29. Hinton Landfill, 3175 Elm Grove Road, will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28. Thursday trash, recycling, brush and bulky collection routes will move to Friday, Nov. 29. Friday trash, recycling, brush and bulky collection routes will move to Saturday, Nov. 30.
z Christmas: The Recycling Center and Transfer Station will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 25, and Thursday, Dec. 26. The landfill will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 25. Wednesday trash, recycling, brush and bulky collection routes will move to Thursday, Dec. 26. Thursday trash, recycling, brush and bulky collection routes will move to Friday, Dec. 27. Friday trash, recycling, brush and bulky collection routes will move to Saturday, Dec. 28.
z New Year’s: The Recycling Center, Transfer Station and landfill will be closed Wednesday, Jan. 1. Wednesday trash, recycling, brush and bulky collection routes will move to Thursday, Jan. 2. Thursday trash, recycling, brush and bulky collection routes will move to Friday, Jan. 3. Friday trash, recycling, brush and bulky collection routes will move to Saturday, Jan. 4.
As a reminder, all City of Garland offices, utility customer service, tax office, libraries, recreation centers and Carver Senior Center will also be closed Thursday, Nov. 28, Friday, Nov. 29, Wednesday, Dec. 25, Thursday, Dec. 26, and Wednesday, Jan. 1. This includes the administration office for Sanitation.
THREE TOURS. TWO PURPLE HEARTS. ONE EVICTION NOTICE.
When my landlord found out I had Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), I received an eviction notice.
That’s when I called Garland Fair Housing. The only way to stop housing discrimination is for you to report it.
Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest
Speaker Series
7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, via Zoom Jake Poinsett will discuss winter sparrows in North Texas.
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. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; no drop-off/pickup of volunteers under 18.
9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 Halff Park, 4695 Ranger Drive
9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 14 1770 Holford Road
Guided Nature Walks
Experts lead us through the Preserve.
2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24 1770 Holford Road
9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 1 Halff Park, 4695 Ranger Drive Start Your New Year Right Nature Walk
Bird Walks with Certified Birder Reba Collins
8 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, and Sunday, Dec. 1
Groups are limited to 10 people per walk because too many people scare away the birds. Email rcollins20@verizon. net to reserve a spot. Bring binoculars. Dress for the weather. 1787 Holford Road
14th Annual Christmas is for the Birds 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
Our wonderful (although messy) event for kids preschool through elementary school age. The children smear peanut butter on pinecones, then dip the cone in bird seed and hang the cone on trees at the Preserve. Birds love to pick the pinecones clean. We will be outside at picnic tables, so dress for the weather! 1787 Holford Road
Spring Creek Forest and Park Preserve is a pristine 230-acre old-growth forest and native prairie that runs along Spring Creek in far north Garland. It has both natural and concrete trails, towering trees and unusual wildflowers. The Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest is a volunteer group dedicated to protecting and maintaining the preserve. Note: No motorized vehicles, bicycles or horses are allowed on the natural, dirt trails because they cause extensive damage to this biologically sensitive area.
For more information and updates on events, visit SpringCreekForest.org and the Facebook group page. If you would like to receive the monthly Event Announcements, send your email to Barbara_baynham2005@yahoo.com. For last-minute information on all events, check Facebook or the website SpringCreekForest.org for updates, including dates and locations that may change because of weather or other conditions.
The Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the Garland City Council in support of Garland residents who are 55 and older.
The Commission exists of nine members appointed by the Council and the Mayor. We meet at 9 a.m. on the first Thursday of every month in the Work Session room at City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St. We invite you to join us.
Visit the webpage GarlandTX.gov/2057/Senior-Citizens-AdvisoryCommission, for meeting dates, minutes, agendas and our roster.
There is also a Senior Centers page on the Parks website: GarlandParks. com/2068/Senior-Center. Email regarding senior activities and the Commission can be sent to Play@GarlandTX.gov
Happy holidays and a happy new year to all residents from the Garland Senior Citizens Advisory Commission.
Recreation Center Events
Science Professors Camp
1 to 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, to Wednesday, Nov. 27
Ages 5 to 8, $75 per person
Join Fossil Finders for an adventure into prehistoric times! Explore the ancient lives of creatures that lived before, during and after the dinosaurs.
Audubon Recreation Center 972-205-3991 or ARC@GarlandTX.gov
Soul Line Dancing
7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays
Ages 14 and up, $20 per month
Learn new and old R&B, soul and hip-hop line dances while burning calories. Receive step-by-step instructions that will give you the confidence to take on any dance floor.
Bradfield Recreation Center 972-205-2770 or BRC@GarlandTX.gov
Kids in the Kitchen
Saturdays, Nov. 9 to Dec. 21
Times vary by age
Ages 5 to 14, $65 per person, $60 supply fee
Gain knowledge of different cooking skills appropriate for your child’s age and skill level while learning how to create delicious treats and meals.
Fields Recreation Center 972-205-3090 or FRC@GarlandTX.gov
Wrestling
Tuesdays and Thursdays, Nov. 5-26
Times vary by age
Ages 5 to 16, $75 per person
Learn fundamental wrestling techniques that help promote physical fitness, discipline and sportsmanship.
Granger Recreation Center 972-205-2771 or GRC@GarlandTX.gov
Guitar and Drum Class
11 a.m. to noon, Mondays and Wednesdays, Nov. 4-27
Ages 7 to 17, $150 per person
Beginner-friendly guitar and drum classes! Learn guitar basics like tuning, chords and reading music. For drums, master rhythms and coordination. Bring your acoustic guitar and tuner.
Hollabaugh Recreation Center 972-205-2721 or HHRC@GarlandTX.gov
Seniors
Carver Casino Trips
8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, to WinStar 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, to Choctaw
Ages 55 and up, $20 per person
Enjoy a day of slot machines and table games. Transportation provided. Lunch is on your own at one of the many restaurants on site.
Carver Senior Center 972-205-3305 or CarverSrCtr@GarlandTX.gov
Trip to Virginia Beach
Sept. 27 to Oct. 5, 2025
Ages 55 and up, $1,275 per person
double occupancy
Travel to Virginia Beach, Colonial Williamsburg and Historic Norfolk. Highlights include the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a narrated Norfolk Naval Base Cruise and a tour of the Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin.
Senior Activity Center 972-205-2769 or SAC@GarlandTX.gov
Events at the Library
Garland Library Online Offers Tool to Research Holiday Purchases
Making a major holiday purchase? Garland Library users can research important purchases with the online version of the popular resource Consumer Reports.
Consumer Reports is part of the Garland Library Online. Distributed in magazine format since 1936, Consumer Reports is a nonprofit organization dedicated to independent product testing, investigative journalism and consumer advocacy.
The online version provides the same trusted ratings, reviews and recommendations on appliances, items for babies and children, cars, electronics, fitness equipment, food, home and garden tools, and more.
Library cardholders can access the resource through the public computers at any Garland Library location, or remotely on any internet-connected device. All that is required is a valid Garland Library card and PIN.
To access Consumer Reports, visit Library.GarlandTX.gov Click on Online Resources, then the Do It Yourself Resources subject area, and select Consumer Reports.
Nanowrimo Write-In After Hours
6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1
Aspiring novelists are invited to kick off National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) with a write-in program! Silence your inner editor and get words on the page to finally write the novel you’ve always dreamed about. Participants can bring their own laptops or devices, borrow one from the library kiosk while supplies last, or write with pen and paper. Prizes will be awarded. Ages 18 and older.
Central Library Express
DIY Recycled Book Diorama
2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9
Create and build a diorama scene that is cozy, creepy, colorful or whatever you can dream up! Supplies will be provided and snacks will be served while supplies last. Registration is required and begins one week prior to the event. Register at 972-205-3934. Ages 10 to 17.
South Garland Library
Puzzle Race
2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16
On your mark, get set, puzzle! Teams of two to six people will race to complete the same 300-piece puzzle. All ages welcome, but each team must have at least one adult. Registration is required and begins one week prior to the event. Register at 972-205-2804.
North Garland Library
Holiday Maker Fest
2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16
Make holiday ornaments and decorations with us! There will be three stations set up with tools, resources and instructions to make one item per station. Registration is required and begins one week prior to the event. Register at 972-205-2587.
Walnut Creek Library
Gardening Craft Class: Pumpkins with Pizzazz
4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16
Learn how to create a beautiful fall centerpiece for yourself or to give as a gift! Receive step-by-step instructions on how to create succulent pumpkins from master gardener Roseann Ferguson. Registration is required and begins one week prior to the event. Register at 972-205-2533.
Central Library Express
The Land of Oz Escape Room
10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23
Try your luck at completing our newest escape room by solving puzzles and riddles before time runs out. Teams of two to eight people will have 15 minutes to save Oz. Children ages 10 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required and begins one week prior to the event. Register at 972-205-3934. South Garland Library
Events from the Arts
“Blithe Spirit”
Fridays-Sundays, Oct. 25 to Nov. 10
Set in a 1930s haunted English manor, a writer suffering from writer's block hosts a séance and accidentally summons the spirit of his deceased first wife. The ghost attempts to disrupt his current marriage, leading to hilarious mischief and mayhem. A fun, spooky romp. Presented by Garland Civic Theatre. Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
“Singles”
6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7
A free Throwback Thursday movie presented by Garland Downtown Business Association. Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
Brent Buemi, Clarinetist
7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15
Embark on a musical journey with the Garland Symphony Orchestra's 46th consecutive season, titled “Music: A Matter of Life and Death.” This season delves into the profound exploration of the human experience, as reflected in the compositions of great masters. Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
“Willy Wonka Jr.”
7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Nov. 21-22
Join Willy Wonka, the oompa loompas, golden ticket winners and their parents in this scrumdidilyumptious musical where five children are selected to tour Wonka's chocolate factory and win a lifetime supply of chocolate! Presented by Breitling Performing Arts. Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
“Little Women: The Musical” Fridays-Sundays, Dec. 6-22
Based on Louisa May Alcott's life, the story follows the adventures of sisters Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy March. Enjoy a night filled with laughter, tears and a lifting of the spirit. Perfect for quality family time during the holidays. Presented by Garland Civic Theatre. Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
GarlandforChristmas.com
“Tuna Christmas”
7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22
7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23
2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24
The town of Tuna, Texas’, annual Christmas Yard Display Contest is threatened with turmoil from a mysterious holiday phantom. Presented by Garland Civic Theatre.
Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
Small Business Saturday
11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30
Kick off your holiday shopping by checking in at the Visitor Center, 501 W. State St., where you can enjoy warm drinks, pick up a bag of holiday goodies and receive a special promotion from one of our local businesses!
Stroll through Downtown as you shop and enjoy fun photo ops, including pictures with Santa and a gift-wrapping station!
Downtown Garland
Holiday Storefront Contest
Nov. 30 to Dec. 18
Businessowners will use their creativity to bring the holiday spirit to our “Colorful Christmas” theme. Displays will be open for voting from Nov. 30 to Dec. 18. Support your favorite displays by voting on Facebook @DowntownGarlandDistrict or by scanning QR codes posted in the Square.
Downtown Garland
“Elvis Christmas Spectacular”
3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1
Get ready to rock around the Christmas tree with the Elvis Christmas Spectacular! Stardom Entertainment is thrilled to present this unforgettable show featuring Moses Snow and David Allen. These acclaimed Elvis Presley tribute artists will have you feeling the electrifying spirit of “the king” himself.
Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
Christmas Tree Forest
Throughout December
Step into a winter wonderland and immerse yourself in the magic of our Christmas Tree Forest! Decorated by Garland ISD classes, each tree tells its own holiday story, bringing the season’s spirit to life.
Fifth Street at Avenue A
“The Nutcracker”
Fridays through Sundays Dec. 6-15
Dallas Ballet Company presents Tchaikovsky's masterpiece, featuring worldrenowned guest artists and company members.
Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
“White Christmas”
Fridays through Sundays, Dec. 6-15
Singers Bob Wallace and Phil Davis join sister act Betty and Judy Haynes to perform a Christmas show in rural Vermont. They plan a yuletide miracle of a show, a fun-filled musical extravaganza that will save their World War II commander from financial difficulties. Presented by the Company of Rowlett Performers.
Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
“Ernest Saves Christmas”
6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12
A free Throwback Thursday movie presented by the Garland Downtown Business Association.
Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
Urban Market
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
Urban Market features local vendors specializing in farm-fresh foods, as well as vintage, repurposed, upcycled and handcrafted holiday goods.
Downtown Garland
Holiday Sip N’ Stroll
3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
The Garland Downtown Business Association’s fourth annual Holiday Sip N’ Stroll. Visit participating Downtown businesses to shop and sip tasty seasonal beverages. Hot cocoa, anyone?
Downtown Garland
Carols on the Square
7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18
Enjoy a traditional carol sing-along led by a brass band composed of volunteers from Garland ISD high schools and adult players. Free cookies and cider, compliments of Rodgers Baptist Church.
Downtown Garland
“Elf Jr.”
7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
This Christmas classic tells the story of Buddy, who was raised by Santa and his elves at the North Pole. Buddy travels to New York City, determined to help his family and New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. Presented by Breitling Performing Arts.
Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
Holiday Concert with Federico De Michelis, Bass-Baritone
7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Featuring the Garland Symphony Orchestra’s traditional carol sing-along! Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
“Gary Morris: Christmas in Garland”
8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Gary will perform many of his biggest hits on acoustic guitar — for a special, intimate experience with voice and song — as well as a special selection of songs to celebrate the season. Presented by Garland Cultural Arts.
Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
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