Garland City Press - July 2022

CITY PRESS

PATRIOTIC

NATIONAL WWII EXHIBIT ON DISPLAY AT CITY HALL JULY-AUGUST 2022 | VOLUME 30, ISSUE 4 | GarlandTX.gov

100 YEARS OF WATER

Help us congratulate Garland Water Utilities for 100 years of clean water in 2022!

Garland funded a stable and self-reliant water system a century ago, making water the resource that would set ours apart from other developing cities.

Garland Water Utilities delivers about 11 billion gallons of drinking water each year. The system includes:

4 6 8 1,100 90,000

elevated storage tanks with a capacity of 7.35 million gallons pump stations ground storage tanks with a capacity of 42 million gallons miles of water mains (large pipes) service connections

Have a question or concern about your water or wastewater services? The Garland Water Utilities Control Center, 972-205-3210, takes calls 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Garland Water Utilities dates to 1922, the year $100,000 in bonds were invested to fund the City’s first water and sewer system.

For 25 years, Garland independently provided drinking water to all its residents by pumping ground water.

The system’s roots can be tracked to a 135-foot high 75,000-gallon underground storage tank located at Fifth Street and Avenue A. Local business leaders helped dig the 2,300-foot well to supply the water.

The City was able to dig new wells to keep up with the demands of its growth, but by 1946 and with pressure on the system compounded by drought, its leaders realized there wasn’t enough groundwater available in the long term.

Man-made lakes would be the answer for all of North Texas.

Garland joined nine other cities as founding members of the North Texas Municipal Water District in 1951. Lavon Lake was completed in March 1954 and Garland was the first city to receive water from the District in 1956.

Garland is one of few cities to provide wastewater services directly to residents.

The city owns and operates two wastewater treatment plants for a system that consists of more than 1,000 miles of pipe and seven lift stations. In 1952 the Rowlett Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant was constructed to service both the City of Garland and the City of Mesquite, and in 1962 the Duck Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant was constructed to keep up with growing demand.

Garland also has a full-service lab that is accredited through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Performing nearly 7,000 tests annually, the lab does testing work for the City itself and other area cities and businesses.

Join us at the City Council session Tuesday, July 19, for a Mayoral Proclamation honoring the Garland Water Utilities Department for 100 years of dedicated service.

Downtown Progress

Construction in Downtown Garland is shifting into Phase 2. As Main Street reopens south of the Downtown Square, State Street will close on the north side of the Square. While the intersection of Main and Fifth is reopening, Fifth Street between Main and State will remain closed to traffic.

Bond Highlights Playground Update

Playground upgrades from the Build Garland 2019 bond program continue.

Peavy Playground

Phase one of the Playground Replacement Program is officially complete, with all playgrounds open to the public. These parks include Hall, Huff, Douglas, Oaks Branch, Dorfman, Ed White, Grissom and Bisby. The Duck Creek playground is open, but construction on the parking lot is still wrapping up.

From the second phase of this project, playgrounds at Peavy and Cullom parks are complete and open. Meadowcreek Branch, Winters Softball Complex, Betsy Ross, Alamo and Independence parks continue to be actively under construction.

Phase three will include Armstrong, Carter, Woodland, Wynne, Spring Creek Greenbelt - Fred E. Harris Section, Watson, Montgomery, Tinsley and Yarborough.

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

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Garland City Press July-August 2022

Streetscape construction is progressing, with finishing touches all that are left for parts of Avenue A and State Street. Please remember to support our Downtown businesses as they remain open throughout construction.

Cullum Playground

Plans are in motion for a new and expanded Garland Senior Activity Center. There will be future opportunities for public engagement and input as the project advances. Programs for seniors are available at Carver Senior Center and Gale Fields Recreation Center.

Splash Pad Update

Three splash pads are also included in the bond program and construction on each is anticipated to start by the end of 2022.

Watson, Embree and Lon Wynne are the three parks the new splash pads will call home.

Inside this Issue

Feature

GARLAND CELEBRATES

JUNETEENTH

On June 19 at Audubon Park, Garland put its own stamp on the celebration of Juneteenth.

The Juneteenth Committee’s vision came to life as dancers, speakers and vendors assembled at the park. Many children played games; a select few were honored as winners of the Juneteenth essay contest. At the request of one committee member, the Buster Brown Band reunited on site, coming from as far away as Colorado to play together for the first time since 2015.

ON THE COVER

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The national World War II traveling exhibit Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy is on display at the City Hall lobby through Monday, Aug. 15.

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Then there were steps taken to localize the historical significance of an event that took place in 1857, before Garland even existed. Garland’s legacy came to the stage in the form of Ron Jones, former Garland mayor and assistant city manager; Linda Griffin, the Garland Independent School District board’s vice president and longest-serving trustee; and Pastor Leonard Leach, who since 1996 has led Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church, one of the largest congregations in the city. And just offstage, people who helped pave the way were featured in the traveling version of the Garland Landmark Museum’s “A Series of Firsts: Garland’s Black Community Leaders” exhibit.

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08 City Council

City Services

City Council Meeting Schedule

Annual Sewer Pipe Smoke Testing

District 5 Profile

GP&L Summer Energy-Saving Tips School immunizations

05 City News GP&L Electric Rate Adjustment

12 Quality of Life

Water Report Available

Garland leaders knew there was cause for a local event in mid-2021 when Juneteenth was made a federal holiday. But the key to success was in engaging residents for the committee and to craft the event.

“I was so impressed with how many younger people served,” Committee member Gwendolyn Daniels said. “And that the City allowed the citizens to use their own vision to help pull it off.”

Mayor Scott LeMay stressed that the future success of the event was dependent on continued input.

“Tell us how to make it better.”

Fight the Bite

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Library Events Geocaching in Garland

Neighborhoods & Development

What's Being Built There Neighborhoods USA Awards

Events from the Arts Cultural Arts Grant Star-Spangled Spectacular Recreation Center Events

HOA Legal Clinic

Email

Garland@GarlandTX.gov On the Web

GarlandTX.gov MakeYourMarkGarland.com

On Social Media

@GarlandTXGOV

City of Garland, Texas Government #MYMGarland

#GarlandTX

July-August Garland City Press

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2022 Council Elections

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

City Council Work Sessions

Incumbents Bass, Morris and Williams, get new two-year terms

broadcast – 6 p.m. July 6, July 18, • Live Aug. 1 and Aug. 15 the following Tuesday, • Rebroadcast Thursday and Friday – 9 a.m., Wednesday

District 5 residents were asked to do double duty at the polls this cycle and, as a result, Margaret Lucht was sworn in June 28 as the newest member of the Garland City Council.

and Thursday – 7 p.m.

City Council Regular Meetings

broadcast – 7 p.m. July 5, July 19, • Live Aug. 2 and Aug. 16 the following Wednesday • Rebroadcast – 9 a.m., Friday – 7 p.m., Saturday and

Incumbents Jeff Bass, Deborah Morris and B.J. Williams were all reelected.

Together with Lucht, they will serve two-year terms.

Sunday – 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Plan Commission

Council Member Margaret Lucht

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She succeeds Rich Aubin, who had served the maximum three terms allowed by the City Charter.

She again prevailed in a June 18 runoff.

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Lucht was appointed to the Garland Parks & Recreation Board in 2016 and in 2021, the Garland Plan Commission. She is married to Jonas Lucht, has a pottery studio, makes alcohol ink art paintings and loves to cook.

A lifelong resident of District 5, Lucht led four candidates in the May 7 general election, with her total vote count just short of the majority required to be elected.

– 7 p.m. July 11, July 25, Aug. 8 • Meetings and Aug. 22 will be rebroadcast the following • Meetings Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 9 a.m.

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Garland’s newest Council member is a graduate of South Garland High School and has an associate’s degree from Dallas College. She is a certified dental technician and operated Precision Ceramics Dental Laboratory from 200321. She is currently a human resources administrator for a business in District 5.

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

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

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

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

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

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Keep up with the latest public meetings.

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Garland City Press July-August 2022

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Margaret Lucht Council5@GarlandTX.gov

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

Receive public meeting agendas in your inbox.

1

Visit GarlandTX.gov.

2 Click on the “Public Meeting Agendas” link.

3 Click on the blue “Subscribe” button.

4 Select the agendas you want to receive.

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

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

Meetings are broadcast at GarlandTX.gov via livestreaming and on-demand, and on CGTV with several rebroadcasts during the week of the meeting.

CGTV Listings

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

GHFC Applications

City News

The City will accept applications from Tuesday, July 5, through Friday, Aug. 5, for a successor to a current Garland Housing Finance Corp. (GHFC) Board of Directors term that ends Aug. 31.

GHFC is a public nonprofit corporation that carries out state law to finance the cost of residential ownership and development to provide housing. GHFC can acquire mortgages and work with lending institutions to make loans for housing.

The mission of the Garland Housing Finance Corporation is to provide affordable housing in and around Garland through down payment and closing cost assistance, neighborhood awards, affordable senior and multifamily housing, issuance of bonds and direct ownership within the City. GHFC programs are designed to increase affordable housing opportunities while strengthening Garland.

Additional information for GHFC can be found at GarlandHFC.org. The office is located at 1675 W. Campbell Road.

2021

Water Quality Report

Now Available Online

Every year, the Garland Water Utilities Department publishes updated drinking water test results taken from various points in the city. You can find the results and other important information about your drinking water in this year’s Consumer Confidence Report at GarlandWater.com/ConsumerConfidenceReport.

GarlandWater.com

A resume and letter of interest may be submitted to René Dowl, City Secretary, at RDowl@GarlandTX.gov or to City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., Garland 75040. Applicants will be interviewed by the Garland City Council at its Aug. 16 Work Session.

More information can be found at GarlandHFC.org.

Electric Rate Adjustment The cost of natural gas, which is the largest fuel source for power generation in Texas, has almost tripled since June 2021. To help offset this rapid and considerable global surge in the cost of natural gas, Garland Power & Light is modifying the Recovery Adjustment Factor (RAF) component of its electric rate with a 2 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) increase effective July 1.

This is GP&L’s first rate increase in more than 16 years.

Electric rates in the ERCOT deregulated market have increased by approximately 8 cents per kWh in the past year. GP&L’s increase is significantly less thanks to reserve funds available to help mitigate rate increases and because GP&L has a diverse portfolio of power generation resources, which includes wind and solar in addition to natural gas.

How can I get help with my utility bill or manage my electricity use?

Garland Utility Customer Service to ask about the Garland Customer Assistance • Contact Program, which can help qualified customers with utility bill payments.

Visit GarlandUtilities.org, call 972-205-2671 or email CustServ@GarlandTX.gov. electricity use to save energy and money. For ways to save, see the Summer • Reduce Energy-Saving Tips article on page 9 or visit gpltexas.org.

Participate in GP&L’s EnergySaver Program, which can help residents and businesses • make qualifying energy-efficiency upgrades. Learn about this program on page 11 or at gpltexas.org.

FIGHT THE BITE! Defend Yourself Against Mosquitoes

DRAIN standing water around the house weekly. Mosquitoes lay eggs in places like tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, toys and puddles. Even the amount of water in a bottle cap is enough to breed mosquitoes.

DUSK AND DAWN are when mosquitoes that carry the virus are the most active, so limit outdoor activities or take precautions to prevent mosquito bites.

DEET is an effective ingredient to look for in insect repellents.

Follow label instructions carefully.

DRESS in long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk or in areas where mosquitoes are active.

West Nile Virus disease is rare, but if you have symptoms including high fever, severe headache and stiff neck, contact your health care provider.

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

July-August Garland City Press

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WHAT'S BEING

BUILT THERE?

Neighborhoods & Development

Garland is buzzing with new development.

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Coming soon at the northeast side of Jupiter Road and Marquis Drive is a light industrial logistics facility.

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Coming soon along Town Center Boulevard, just east of Panera Bread, is a new retail/ restaurant building.

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

Under construction along the south side of I-30, west of the Kroger Shopping Center, is a self-storage facility, including retail and office uses.

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Street.GarlandTX.gov

Taking It to the Streets Projects scheduled to begin in July/August

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Buckingham Road, Sam Houston Drive to Shiloh Road Concrete street repair

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Cascade Drive, Cumberland Drive to Dairy Road Street reconstruction

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Hayman Drive, Rowlett Road to Waterhouse Drive Concrete street repair

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Tennyson Circle, Miller Road to north end of the street Street reconstruction

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Texas Department of Transportation Projects

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

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I-30

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Segment 1 of the I-30 expansion project will widen I-30 from Bass Pro Drive to Dalrock Road at a cost of $142 million. It includes frontage roads, bridge and ramp modifications, and reconfiguration of the Dalrock Road interchange.

Construction of the eastbound frontage road continued throughout the spring. Construction of a new Dalrock ramp and the Sapphire Bay bridge are in progress. Retaining walls are under construction, including the walls to be excavated for the future Dalrock to westbound I-30 frontage road connection.

Segment 2 of the project, widening I-30 and adding frontage roads from Dalrock to State Highway 205 in Rockwall, will begin in late 2022. Segment 3 will widen the freeway all the way to the Hunt County line.

Garland City Press July-August 2022

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Carolyn Drive, First Street to Fifth Street Street reconstruction

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

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

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Oates Road, Broadway Boulevard to city limit Concrete street repair

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Ridgewood Drive, Cumberland Drive to First Street Street reconstruction

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

Neighborhoods USA Awards Garland leaders and neighborhoods were recognized on a national level at the Neighborhoods USA annual conference in May.

Mistie Gardner (Winner) - Who’s Who in America’s Neighborhood (Governmental Category)

Travis College Hill Neighborhood (Finalist) Neighborhood of the Year

Margi Bice (Finalist) - Who’s Who in America’s Neighborhoods (Grassroots Category)

Orchard Hills Neighborhood Association (Finalist) – Neighborhood Newsletter Competition

Mistie Gardner, named earlier as Garland’s Public Servant of the Year, is winner of this year’s Who’s Who in America’s Neighborhoods in the Governmental category for her extraordinary efforts and involvement during the COVID-19 crisis as well as during Winter Storm Uri.

Margi Bice, winner of the Who’s Who in Garland Neighborhoods award, was a finalist for the nationwide award for her outstanding leadership and service in her neighborhood, Orchard Hills, and the city at large.

Travis College Hill Neighborhood, Garland’s Neighborhood of the Year, was selected as a finalist for the nationwide award for the projects “The Cactus Chronicles,” an original musical drama focusing on Garland's Hispanic community, and the “Garland Latino Heritage Cookbook.”

The Orchard Hills Neighborhood Quarterly Newsletter, winner of the Garland Neighborhood Newsletter Competition, was a finalist in the nationwide competition for unique and engaging articles centered on celebrating memories and interacting with all neighbors.

Neighborhood Matching Grants – Letters of Intent Neighborhood project? Let us help!

The Neighborhood Vitality Matching Grant program enables registered neighborhood groups, both voluntary and mandatory, to apply for matching 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.

Letters of Intent should be submitted to the Office of Neighborhood Vitality by Saturday, July 23. Forms, applications and guidelines can be downloaded at GarlandNeighborhoods.org.

Questions? Email Neighborhoods@GarlandTX.gov or call 972-205-2445.

Block Party Trailer It's time to submit block party trailer reservations for your summer and fall neighborhood events! 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 by registered neighborhood groups. Groups are responsible for applying for appropriate permits.

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

Duck Creek Litter Cleanup A big thank you to all who came out May 14 to the Duck Creek Litter Cleanup! More than 120 volunteers pulled more than 40 cubic yards of litter out of Duck Creek, including shopping carts, a bowling ball, old doors and countless plastic bottles and bags.

Thank you to Keep Garland Beautiful and participating City of Garland Departments: Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts; Office of Neighborhood Vitality; Stormwater; Sanitation; and Public & Media Relations.

Stay tuned for the next event! If you are interested in sponsoring upcoming litter cleanups, email PARDMaintenance@GarlandTX.gov or call 972-205-3589.

July-August Garland City Press

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Annual Sewer Pipe Smoke Testing The Garland Water Utilities Department is conducting annual leakdetection tests on the sanitary sewer system from July through September and perhaps into October.

This year, smoke testing will take place in areas of farthest west Garland, generally between Yale Drive, Forest Lane, Lawler Drive and the City limit. You can see a map of the specific areas on the “Consumer Alerts” webpage at GarlandWater.com.

The tests are performed by pumping a special nontoxic, nonstaining smoke into the sewer lines, one section at a time, to determine where repairs are needed. If there is a crack or break anywhere in the pipeline, the smoke will rise to the surface and the crew can see the exact location where repairs are needed.

Lawn and Environmental Care Go Hand in Hand One of the most common causes of water pollution is yard waste that has gone down a storm drain to local creeks and lakes.

Follow these tips: If fertilization is necessary, use natural or organic products. These break down slowly.

• • aDorain.not apply fertilizer or pesticides before sidewalks and driveways from any • Sweep excess applied products. lawn clippings on the lawn to • Leave provide free nutrients. grass clippings on sidewalks and • Sweep driveways or blow them back onto lawn.

Do not blow grass clippings into the street; • this is against City ordinance. possible, use nontoxic pesticides or • When natural alternatives such as “good” bugs.

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Garland City Press July-August 2022

When a nutrient such as phosphorus reaches creeks and lakes, it can cause considerable harm. Phosphorus can increase weed and algae growth. Algae can block sunlight that is needed for the natural habitat.

Decomposing grass clippings and leaves consume oxygen. Low oxygen levels can contribute to fish kills.

Remember that fertilizers and pesticides are hazardous products. They should not be disposed of in your regular trash.

These products should be taken to the Dallas County Home Chemical Collection Center, 11234 Plano Road.

To report stormwater pollution, call 972-205-2180. For more information, visit GarlandStormwater.org.

This test may also help a resident discover a plumbing problem in the house. Smoke will come up in weak spots (plumbing issues) even if the P-trap is full.

Water from rain events or even naturally occurring ground water can seep into pipes that are broken or cracked, which adds to the flow of water going to the wastewater treatment plant. More flow means increased processing costs. Keeping this water out of our pipelines saves money and prevents unnecessary high flows through the equipment at the plant.

The smoke is created using a mineral oil base that does not cause harm to humans or animals. It won’t leave a residue even if it gets into a house.

It is recommended that residents run the faucet for about 10 seconds to fill the P-trap so smoke does not come into the house.

When the crews plan to work in your neighborhood, a tag with information will be hung on every front door at least three days before the work starts. Rain or high winds can affect test results, so there are times when testing will be postponed. Residents will be notified if defects are found on private property.

If you have any questions about the City’s smoke testing program, call 972-205-3210 or email WaterOps@GarlandTX.gov.

GET READY, GARLAND!

City Services

As the summer heat continues, the Office of Emergency Management encourages you to “Get Ready, Garland!"

Keeping cool often increases electric usage and demand on Texas' power grid. Be sure to follow these tips to ensure you are better prepared for possible power outages: for batteries and other alternative power sources, such as a portable charger or power • Plan bank, to meet your needs.

• Have light sources for every household member. to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by • Talk electricity and for refrigerated medicines. enough nonperishable food and water. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

• Have The refrigerator will keep food cold about four hours. A full freezer will keep a safe

Summer EnergySaving Tips Advice from Garland Power & Light to save energy and money in the hot summer months. are an energy-efficient • Fans way to stay cool. Fans blowing directly on you can make temperatures around you feel up to 4 degrees cooler.

temperature for about 48 hours.

carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every • Install level of your home.

• Never leave light sources burning or turned on when you are asleep or not present.

A list of common light sources to help you prepare your home for an outage: Light Source Fuel/Ignition

Safe for Kids? Pros

Cons

Flashlight

Batteries, crank

Yes

Easy to find and use

Requires batteries/ cranking

Glow Stick

Self-contained chemical reaction

Yes

Easy to use, safe in nearly any condition

Limited light, limited duration, one-time use

Candle

Matches or lighter

Yes

Easy to store, produces heat

Fire hazard, cannot be left unattended, not safe in gas leak

Fuel-Based Lamps

Wick or fuel

No

Can burn a variety of fuels, depending on lamp

May require a fuel that is hard to find

Solar Lamp

Sunlight

Yes

Free, clean, safe May take many hours fuel; may also power to charge, especially in other devices cloudy weather

or replace filters every • Clean month. Dirty filters will make your

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Solar screens on windows can block out 60% to 70% of sunlight and heat.

your thermostat to 78 degrees • Set or higher in the summer.

system work harder and run longer than necessary. around windows and • Leaks doors let cool air escape.

Check for cracked caulking or damaged weatherstripping and replace when necessary.

Each degree cooler can increase your energy use by 6% to 8%.

Visit gpltexas.org/energytips for more energy-saving ideas.

As a reminder, you can always report any power outages to Garland Power & Light by calling 972-205-3000 or texting OUT to 972-205-4000. For more general preparedness tips or to get a list of items to build your emergency kit, visit GarlandTX.gov/OEM and click “Build a Kit.”

Want to support Downtown Garland businesses during construction? Become a Downtown Ambassador today!

Scan this QR code for more information.

Team Downtown is a new concierge services program created to welcome visitors and support Downtown businesses.

Volunteers offer navigation, dining and shopping information, and general Garland knowledge to Downtown visitors.

You can learn more and sign up at GarlandTX.gov/TeamDowntown.

July-August Garland City Press

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City Services

Is Your Child Fully Vaccinated?

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.

Most schools require children to be current on vaccinations before enrolling.

Childhood vaccines protect against serious and potentially life-threatening diseases, including polio, measles, whooping cough and chickenpox.

Unvaccinated children are at increased risk of disease and can spread diseases to others in their classrooms and community — including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated and people with weakened immune systems.

Children need vaccines at different ages. 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. Preteens and teens need Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), HPV (human papillomavirus and MCV/MEN B (meningococcal conjugate) vaccines. College students need to have current MCV and MEN B vaccinations before enrolling.

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

The Garland Public Health Clinic at 206 Carver St. provides low-cost immunizations for infants and children through age 18 and immunizations for adults of all ages.

Pneumococcal vaccines are one of the most important vaccines for adults.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends it as an option for pneumococcal disease prevention in adults age 19 years or older who have not previously received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.

The Garland Public Health Clinic accepts walk-ins for immunization from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Parents should bring a child’s immunization records with them.

Call 972-205-3370 for more information.

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Garland City Press July-August 2022

Take the Guesswork Out of Summertime Lawn Irrigation Garland Water Utilities reminds residents to practice efficient watering practices for healthy lawns. From April through October, the City Water Conservation Plan calls for limiting landscape watering with sprinklers or irrigation systems to no more than two days per week. Less than twice per week is usually adequate. The plan also prohibits lawn irrigation watering from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

DRAINAGE CHANNELS Please remember: City Ordinances require …

Each property owner shall keep the drainage channels and/ or drainage and floodway easements traversing or adjacent to his property clean and free of debris, silt and any other substance which may impede the flow of storm waters or result in unsanitary conditions. This includes all necessary mowing, weeding, litter pickup and other normal property owner responsibilities.

GarlandStormwater.org

Looking for customized watering advice? Garland residents can sign up at WaterMyYard.org to receive weekly texts or emails with expert advice on when to water and when to wait based on local weather data.

EARN UTILITY BILL CREDITS WITH ENERGYSAVER Garland Power & Light’s EnergySaver Program provides utility bill credits for qualifying energy efficiency upgrades.

New air conditioning may qualify for a bill credit of up to $800, depending on efficiency and type of unit. Home weatherization upgrades, such as ENERGY STAR® windows and doors, window solar screens or film, and ceiling insulation can also help conserve energy and earn you credits.

To view complete program requirements and print applications, visit gpltexas.org/energysaver.

If you have questions, email energyadvisor@gpltexas.org or call 972-205-2929.

July-August Garland City Press

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Events at the Library All Garland libraries will be closed Monday, July 4, for Independence Day.

CENTRAL LIBRARY

SOUTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY

625 Austin St., 972-205-2517

4845 Broadway Blvd., 972-205-3933

NORTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY

WALNUT CREEK BRANCH LIBRARY 3319 Edgewood Drive, 972-205-2585

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

Pick up Off the Shelf, a new listing of programs at each library branch or visit Library.GarlandTX.gov.

Young Audiences LITTLE ART EXPLORERS (AGES 0-5) 4 p.m. Saturday, July 9 South Garland Branch Library Supports early child development by integrating activities that build motor skills, increase vocabulary, improve symbol recognition, and encourage emotional awareness. Focuses on the process of making art rather than the end product. Project: Painting with ice cube watercolors.

• Children/Families

SUMMER STORYTIMES Through July 29

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

• Toddler Storytimes (18-36 months) • 10:15 a.m. Tuesdays Preschool Storytimes (3-5 years) • 9:15 a.m. Thursdays Tiempo de Cuentos Preescolar en Español • 10:15 a.m. Thursdays/los jueves Tiempo de Cuentos para Familias en Español • 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays/los martes NORTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY Baby Storytime (birth-18 months) 10 a.m. Fridays

• Toddler Storytimes (18-36 months) • 11 a.m. Fridays Family Storytimes • 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays

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

• Literacy in Motion (18-36 months) • 11:15 a.m. Fridays Zoom into Kindergarten (3-5 years) • 10:15 a.m. Wednesdays WALNUT CREEK BRANCH LIBRARY Family Storytimes 6:15 p.m. Tuesdays

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SPECIAL PERFORMERS GARLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Introducing kids to different instruments in an engaging and fun way.

10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 13 North Garland Branch Library 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 19 Central Library 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 20 Walnut Creek Branch Library 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 26 South Garland Branch Library

• • • •

CENTRAL LIBRARY 2:30 p.m. Mondays July 11: Brett Roberts’ Bubble Show July 18: The Ramazinis Clown Duo July 25: Grace Hula Dancers

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SOUTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays July 13: The Creature Teacher Animal Show July 20: The Ramazinis Clown Duo July 27: Grace Hula Dancers

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WALNUT CREEK BRANCH LIBRARY 2:30 p.m. Thursdays July 14: Brett Roberts’ Bubble Show July 21: The Ramazinis Clown Duo July 28: Grace Hula Dancers

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NORTH GARLAND BRANCH LIBRARY 2:30 p.m. Saturdays July 2: Juggler David Slick July 16: The Ramazinis Clown Duo July 23: Magician James Wand July 30: Grace Hula Dancers

•

Garland City Press July-August 2022

UNDER THE SEA FAMILY LITERACY PARTY 2:30 p.m. Saturday, July 16 Walnut Creek Branch Library Children and families discover ocean-themed books and activities, listen to a story about oceans, sing songs and do ocean-related activities like folding angelfish origami, playing I Spy a Fish and going on a treasure hunt.

•

SIDEWALK CHALK OBSTACLE COURSE

Through Aug. 31 • North Garland Branch Library

Families can complete a sidewalk chalk obstacle course under the library’s covered portico. The obstacle course, made from chalk, duct tape and chalk spray, is approximately 72 feet long. Participants who complete the course may visit the Children’s Desk inside the library during open hours for a small prize.

END OF SUMMER BOOKTACULAR BASH 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 30 Central Library Children and families can celebrate the end of the Summer Reading Program with treats, games and outdoor activities.

•

Teen Audiences (Ages 13-17) TEEN AFTER HOURS 6:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 16 South Garland Branch Library Break into teams to play the “Are You Smarter than a Librarian?” test of trivia knowledge. Registration to 972-205-3934 required and begins Saturday, July 2.

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

• •

COMPUTER CLASSES AT CENTRAL LIBRARY Participation in library computer classes is free and open to adult Garland residents. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each class.

GOOGLE DOCS FOR BEGINNERS 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 13 GOOGLE SHEETS FOR BEGINNERS 2 p.m. Wednesday July 27

• •

Seniors (Ages 55+) JUGGLER DAVID SLICK 2 p.m. Thursday, July 21 Central Library Guiness World Record holder David Slick incorporates comedy, magic, unicycling, card tricks and balance stunts into his performances.

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DALLAS ZOO ANIMAL ADVENTURES 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 18 Central Library Meet mammals, reptiles and birds from the Dallas Zoo.

•

@GarlandLibraryTX

Quality of Life

Garland Labor Day Parade Entries

The Noon Exchange Club of Garland will host the 76th annual Garland Labor Day Parade at 9 a.m. Monday, Sept. 5, in Downtown. The parade features bands, cheerleaders and drill teams from all seven Garland Independent School District high schools and groups from the elementary and middle schools in the district.

Applications for parade entries are due Tuesday, Aug 30.

Visit NoonExchangeClubofGarland.org to register and more information.

If you have further questions, email noonexchangeclubofgarland@yahoo.com.

The parade will run north from Central Park on Glenbrook Avenue to Austin Street, and then right to Sixth Street. The route will bypass the Downtown Square due to construction.

Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest AN EVENING WITH MOTHS 8:30 p.m. to midnight Saturday, July 23 1770 Holford Road A National Moth Week event to celebrate the beauty, life cycles and habitats of moths with special guest Sam Kieschnick, a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department urban wildlife biologist. Light-sheets will be set up to attract moths that live in the Preserve. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and help with identification. Bring a magnifying glass if you have one.

•

GEOCACHING IN GARLAND

Geocaching inspires and enables adventure, exploration and community through a unique combination of outdoor recreation and location-based technology.

There are millions of players and more than 3 million geocaches in more than 190 countries. When searching for local caches, you get to explore Garland’s historic downtown, many of Garland’s parks, the Spring Creek Preserve and other historically significant locations across the city.

Participants use the Geocaching® app and GPS-enabled devices to hide and seek containers, called "geocaches" or "caches," at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world.

A typical cache is a small waterproof container containing a logbook and sometimes a pen or pencil. Caches can be extremely creative and tricky, often hidden in plain sight.

After finding the cache, the geocacher signs the log with their code name and dates it. After signing the log, the cache is placed back exactly where the person found it. Larger containers such as plastic storage containers or ammunition boxes can also contain items for trading, such as toys or trinkets, usually of more sentimental worth than financial.

Coming to Garland in September is the new Garland History GeoTour, a family friendly experience that will take you on a history filled adventure around the city.

Collect enough points and you will be rewarded with a giant 3" challenge coin to start (or add to) your geocoin collection! Keep watching for more information about the GeoTour and the opening day parties!

MONTHLY WORK SESSIONS 8 to 10 a.m. Saturdays, July 9 and Aug. 6 1770 Holford Road Break into teams, each with a knowledgeable leader, and work on projects such as removing invasive plants, picking up trash and maintaining trails.

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For more information, go to springcreekforest.org.

To receive monthly event announcements, email barbara_baynham2005@yahoo.com.

For last-minute information on all events, check our Facebook or website for updates.

July-August Garland City Press

13

Garland Cultural Arts Commission 2022-23 Grant

The Garland Cultural Arts Commission announces its 2022-23 Grant Program for local arts groups, historic preservation organizations and other artistic entities.

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

Purchase tickets at GarlandArtsBoxOffice.com, 972-205-2790 or at the door.

Garland Summer Musicals presents “LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL” Fridays-Sundays, July 22-31

•

Based on the adored movie, the award-winning “Legally Blonde: The Musical” follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams.

Plaza Theatre 521 W. State St.

PLAZA CLASSIC AND CULT MOVIES - Free and open to the public Presented by City of Garland Cultural Arts Department “SHARKNADO” 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 13

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“ARSENIC AND OLD LACE” 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13

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“THE BIG LEBOWSKI” 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13

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THROWBACK THURSDAY MOVIES - Free and open to the public Presented by Garland Downtown Business Association “DIRTY DANCING” 7 p.m. Thursday, July 14

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“THE BREAKFAST CLUB” 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 18

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More information on these events at GarlandArts.com.

14

Garland City Press July-August 2022

Applications will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, Aug. 1 through Sept. 15, at the Granville Arts Center Box Office, 300 N. Fifth St. Completed applications are due no later than 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16, at the Granville Arts Center. Interviews will take place Thursday, Sept. 22, at the Granville Arts Center.

Grant money will not be awarded to any group failing to submit the completed application by the deadline.

For more information, call 972-205-2780.

STAR-SPANGLED SPECTACULAR Sunday, JULY 3 4 to 9:15 p.m.

Firewheel Town Center

Quality of Life

Bring the entire family out for an evening of family fun to celebrate our nation’s independence at Firewheel Town Center, 245 Cedar Sage Drive, from 4 to 9:15 p.m.

Sunday, July 3.

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

This event is FREE and open to the public.

Recreation Center

events

ZINE MAKING 101 CAMP

FYI SUMMER CAMP

July 25-27 Ages 8 to 16, $45 per person Audubon Recreation Center 342 W. Oates Road Create a self-published mini maga-“zine” using several methods of making and binding books on a budget, including different prompts and projects.

972-205-3991 or ARC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 6 to 17, $115 per person Granger Recreation Center 1310 W. Avenue F Get in-depth instruction designed to improve all aspects of your basketball game including the fundamentals of dribbling, passing and shooting.

972-205-2771 or GRC@GarlandTX.gov

a.m. to noon • 10:30 Monday through Wednesday,

a.m. to noon • 9Tuesday through Friday, July 5-8

ADVENTURES IN ART CAMP

to 11:45 a.m.

• 9Tuesday through Friday, July 5-8

DJ SCHOOL

to 6:30 p.m.

• 5:30 Thursdays, July 7-28

Ages 5 to 13, $65 per person Holford Recreation Center 2314 Homestead Place Learn perspective drawing with charcoals and oil pastels, create land and seascapes, animals and still life with vibrant watercolors and acrylics. $66 supply fee.

972-205-2772 or HRC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 8 to 13, $45 per person Bradfield Recreation Center 1146 Castle Drive Discover the different elements of a DJ’s job, including sound engineer, producer, music director, radio personality, tech director, theater artist and TV host.

972-205-2770 or BRC@GarlandTX.gov

VISION JOURNAL

1 to 2:15 p.m. Saturday, July 9 • Ages 7 to 18, $10 per person

TOTAL BODY PROJECT

to 8 p.m.

• 7Mondays and Wednesdays, July 6-27

Hollabaugh Recreation Center 3925 W. Walnut St. With the help of Erin, a "kidpreneur," and her mom, learn how to create a vision board and journal to help you reach your goals.

972-205-2721 or HHRC@GarlandTX.gov

Ages 12 and up, $45 per pverson Fields Recreation Center 1701 Dairy Road This multiple-stage circuit teaches you interval training techniques that minimize rest between sets to maximize your results.

972-205-3090 or FRC@GarlandTX.gov

Register now!

Visit PlayGarland.com or call your local recreation center for more events.

@PlayGarland

July-August Garland City Press

15

Garland City Press City of Garland P. O. Box 469002 Garland, Texas 75046-9002

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