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Emergency Management provides disaster Celebrate the seventh anniversary of the Irving Progress continues with the Heritage Park IR PR RM PA S. ECRW VI

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preparedness information and tips for residents Animal Care Campus with a day filled with fun for redevelopment concept; construction update NG T NO ID ST SS , AG TX .

in the event that a natural disaster strikes. the whole family during this year’s Pet Pawlooza. snapshots of the Music Factory and The Delaware. D 88 E AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF IRVING 3 IRVING

CITCITYYOFIRVING.ORG MARCH 2017 / VOL 24 / NO 3 CityofIrving.org A N OFFI C I AL P U BLI C A TION OF T H E CITY O F IR VING

STUDENTS LEARN WATER SAFETY TECHNIQUES

Since its debut in 2012, the Parks and Recreation Department’s SwimSafe program has offered life-saving education to children across Irving. In 2016, the program reached a new milestone by equipping 2,250 second grade students in Irving Independent School District (ISD) with the ability to enjoy the water in a safe, fun manner.

The Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of swimming programs throughout the Irving’s International Flair year; however, three of its programs provide water safety education to Irving ISD students. When scanning Irving’s vast corporate landscape, residents may not These include SwimSafe, SwimSafe Summer Grants Program and the Learn to Swim program. realize how many international flags the city’s many businesses― large In 2016, the SwimSafe Summer Grants Program and small ― represent. offered 280 free lessons to lower income families, while the Learn to Swim program Irving truly presents an international mosaic with to a major international airport, Irving is an attractive provided classes to 3,357 children through the several hundred global companies located within the destination for both domestic and international city’s contracted third-party provider. city. Some of the home countries represented include businesses,” said Shin Takahashi, President and CEO of Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, NEC Corporation of America. “We’ve had a presence in SwimSafe is a partnership between the city China, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Irving for the past 30 years, and in that time we have and Irving ISD. The district offers instructors India, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Puerto Rico, seen many businesses establish operations here, creating and transportation, while the city assists Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, opportunities for growth mutually beneficial to those with training and the use of its facilities and Taiwan and the United Kingdom. businesses and the surrounding communities.” lifeguards. During the eight-class course, students learn safe swimming practices including These international corporations benefit Irving French corporation, ATOS SE (Societas Europaea), a how to avoid trouble, lifejacket rescue and self- tremendously. Not only do they contribute to the city’s global leader in digital services, moved into a new rescue techniques, such as turning and reaching significant corporate tax base — 73 percent of Irving’s 100,000-square-foot office off Interstate Highway 635. for the wall, bouncing back to safety, floating tax base is derived from the corporate community — they The company says it plans to grow to as many as 850 and calling for help. help Irving grow its multi-national roster. employees in the DFW area during the next five years. Home to Atos’ regional U.S. headquarters for digital IT “These swimming programs are vital to our “Our international corporations expand the city’s services, the company says it plans to expand its health young residents,” said Irving Mayor Beth Van opportunity to market across the globe,” said Irving care IT portfolio. Atos also is the worldwide IT partner Duyne. “It is important for our youth to learn the Mayor Beth Van Duyne. “When international companies for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The high-tech life-saving techniques that will keep them safe, locate here following a significant evaluation of Irving, corporation has about 100,000 employees in 72 countries informed and prepared.” they are directly endorsing our city as a great place in worldwide and serves a global client base. which to do business. In turn, those endorsements pique the interest of other international business leaders Irving’s massive corporate landscape provides a interested in establishing a U.S. presence.” progressive, innovative community where like-minded business people share information and benefit from each These corporate representatives also help Irving and the other’s products, services and knowledge. Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce staff in building international relationships. Two of North Texas’ main economic drivers and neighbors to Irving, Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW) and “The international corporations introduce us to others in Dallas Love Field airports, also play integral roles in their countries, as well as assist us in understanding their Irving’s success. DFW is one of the busiest airports in the unique needs,” said Irving City Manager Chris Hillman. world. Its central location provides easy access across “The relationships they help us build truly accelerate the United States and direct flights to most major global The SwimSafe program has evolved throughout progress.” markets. With the expiration of the Wright Amendment, the years and expanded to several elementary Dallas Love Field is one of the main hubs in the southwest schools from 2012 to 2015. In turn, the city works to ensure smooth corporate region and throughout Latin and South America. ● 2012 – 150 fourth graders from Townsell transitions. Once here, businesses find a pro-business Elementary. environment. NEC Corporation of America is a great There are many small international businesses that ● 2013 – 450 fourth graders from Lively, Brown example. Based in Japan, NEC employs nearly 98,000 benefit Irving as well. One of the most ethnically and Townsell elementaries. people worldwide and more than 580 at its U.S. diverse food streets in the region is Belt Line Road in ● 2014 – 600 fourth graders from Lively, Brown, headquarters in Irving. NEC recently announced it would Irving, where people can find cuisine from Peru, China, Townsell and Johnston elementaries. be the exclusive point-of-sale technology provider to Cameroon, Nepal, Mexico, Japan and India. These ● 2015 – 900 fourth graders from Brandenburg, Irving-based corporate neighbor, 7-Eleven Corporation. gems provide culinary delicacies, as well as valuable Johnston, Townsell, Britain, Barton, Davis, According to NEC, while 7-Eleven is a global company, introductions to other cultures from around the world. Townley, Brown, Hanes, Thomas Haley the geographic proximity of the two Irving headquarters While located in the heart of Texas, Irving provides elementaries. played a key role. a mosaic of international flair and serves as home to people and businesses from around the world. For more The city and the school district have big plans “Because of the great support from city leadership, information regarding Irving’s international partners, to teach water safety to more Irving students in access to a large and diverse talent pool and proximity visit CityofIrving.org/International-Business. n the future. All 20 Irving ISD elementary school second grades — nearly 3,000 students — will have the opportunity to learn and participate in the SwimSafe program beginning in 2018.

Disability Parking Regulations “We are proud of the outreach initiative The Irving Police Department reminds motorists of parking regulations regarding spearheaded by the Parks and Recreation designated disability parking spaces. The parking spaces may be designated with a sign or Department,” said Irving City Manager Chris marking on the pavement. The regulation includes an area in front of an inclined ramp or Hillman. “In just a few short years, the SwimSafe striped area adjacent to a designated space. State law mandates the fine has a minimum of program has expanded its reach — educating $500 plus court costs. A person may not stop, stand, or park a vehicle in a disability parking students from second to fourth grade. This space without displaying a current, valid disability designation license plate or placard, progressive, early training helps ensure our even if a driver or passenger of the vehicle has a disability. For more information, visit number one priority: student’s safety.” n CityofIrving.org/Municipal-Court or call (972) 721-2451. n IRVING CITY A N OFFI C I AL P U BLI C A TION OF T H E CITY O F IR VING

In the Galleries

Free guided gallery tours are offered at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays.

A Place for All People: Introducing the National Museum of African American History and Culture Through March 26 | Administration/Front Foyer | Free Produced in collaboration with the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the poster exhibition explores African-American history, culture and community, and celebrates the historic opening of the newest Smithsonian museum on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

The Little Mermaid comes to Irving March 23-24. MainStage presents March 17-April 1. See Mermaid Tails, Hear Guitar Wails and Meet the Girls of Dales … Irving Arts Center’s Sensational Spring

Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., is a Smithsonian affiliate Taking the Stage Poster Portraits of Freedom institution that is home to many forms of art and entertainment. To learn Through April 16 | Dupree Lobby | Free more, visit IrvingArtsCenter.com or call (972) 252-7558. This juried student art exhibition draws from the detailed runaway slave advertisements March 2 | JumpstART – Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss March 23-24 | The Little Mermaid aggregated by the Texas Runaway Slave 10 a.m. | Suite 200 | Free 7 p.m. March 23**; 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. March 24 | Project. The compositions on exhibit interpret Green eggs and ham, anyone? Come celebrate the Carpenter Hall | $6-$7.50 the content of advertisements and capture legendary author and illustrator of such classics as Follow the dreams of Arabella, a mermaid who believes notices from a range of mediums including “Horton Hears a Who,” “The Cat in the Hat,” “The Grinch life would be better on two legs. Along with her drawing, painting, lithography and screen- Who Stole Christmas” and “The Lorax.” Explore new crustaceous pals, Arabella goes on a journey of self- printing. Museum-style panels are interspersed stories and fun art projects on the first Thursday of each discovery leading to boatloads of laughs, encounters throughout the exhibition for historical context month during this creative story time that combines art with an evil witch, and of course, a handsome prince! With and for the purpose of narrating the path from and children’s literature. Create a take-home art project, stunning scenery, eye-catching costumes, original songs slavery to freedom in Texas. Artists from Stephen and then browse the galleries as part of this fun morning and current, chart-topping hits, it’s a performance fit for F. Austin State University, Lamar University and activity. a princess, with plenty of audience participation. Texas Christian University are featured.

March 5 | Afro Gospel Fest – Afrodiaspo Foundation **Performance + Sea Princess/Prince Pajama Party 3 p.m. | Carpenter Hall | $21.50-$31.50 For this enchanted evening, little girls and boys may wish Presented by the Afrodiaspo Foundation, benefitting the to dress up in their favorite princess/prince attire or wear Nzolani Orphanage in the Democratic Republic of Congo. their pajamas!

March 11 | Guitar Fest, Irving Symphony Orchestra March 25 | Benedicite, Irving Chorale 7:30 p.m. | Carpenter Hall | $38-$49 7 p.m. | Carpenter Hall | $15 Enjoy the elegance and beauty of the most beloved This major work by Andrew Carter describes the world guitar concerto: Concierto de Aranjuez, by Spanish through the “Book of Common Prayer,” with songs composer Joaquin Rodrigo performed by guitarist Zaira entitled “Green Things,” “Badgers and Hedgehogs,” and Art by Kim Jenkins, SFA Student Meneses. “Butterflies and Moths.” These beautiful compositions were written for adult and children audiences with Annual Exhibition of Irving ISD March 12 | Second Sunday Funday: “The Eyes of Texas” orchestra and will feature the Irving ISD 4th and 5th Student Artwork 1 to 4 p.m. | Suite 200 | Free Grade Honor Choir and Irving Children’s Chorus. March 3-April 23 | Main and Focus Galleries | Free Every second Sunday, the Irving Arts Center hosts Family This annual exhibition showcases the work Funday – a free program that’s fun for the whole family. March 26 | Sean Mitchell and Big City Music Revue, of students in the Irving Independent School Drawing on inspiration from “A Woman OF Two Worlds” Entertainment Series of Irving District. Works by elementary, middle and high and “A Man IN Two Worlds” (on display in the Carpenter 3 p.m. | Carpenter Hall | $26.50 school students are displayed. Lobby), make a work of art that celebrates Texas and Sean Mitchell, an international award-winning singer/ Women’s History Month. songwriter, producer, arranger and speaker, has an established voice in the contemporary Christian, Adult March 17-April 1 | Calendar Girls, MainStage Pop and Country Music genres. 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. | Dupree Theater | $19-$28 When Annie’s husband dies of cancer, she and her best March 31-April 1 | Aurora’s Wedding, Ballet friend Chris, resolve to raise money for a new settee Ensemble of Texas in the local hospital waiting room. They manage to 7:30 p.m. | Carpenter Hall | $25-$30 persuade four fellow Women’s Institute members to Ballet Ensemble of Texas under the direction of Allan pose unclothed with them for an “alternative” calendar Kinzie will present a mixed repertoire program featuring benefiting the Leukemia Research Fund. The news of the “Aurora’s Wedding” set by internationally renowned Art from the 2014 Irving ISD exhibition. women’s brave charitable venture spreads like wildfire, artistic director Anna-Marie Holmes. Also on the and hordes of press soon descend on the small village in program will be Louis Gottschalk’s famous “Tarantella” Cynthia Ann and Quanah Parker: “A the Yorkshire Dales. Inspired by true events, “Calendar choreographed by Lisa Slagle, and a new work Woman OF Two Worlds” and “A Man Girls” is the heartwarming tale of ordinary women who choreographed by Tammie Reinsch titled “generation#.” IN Two Worlds” achieved something extraordinary. Hold on to your March 4-May 21 | Carpenter Lobby | Free knickers! April 1-May 6 | Saturday School Session Four: The This traveling exhibit, organized and toured by Complete Show Schedule: Nature of Landscapes the Texas Lakes Trail Heritage Program, tells the stories of Cynthia Ann and Quanah Parker, two ● 7:30 p.m. | March 17-18, 24-25, 30-31 and April 1 2 to 4 p.m. | Art Lab | $75 (Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening shows) Students ages 6-10 will meet each Saturday to learn important names in U.S. frontier history. Through 40 rarely seen photographs, the dramatic story ● 2:30 p.m. | March 19 and 26 (Sunday matinees) various techniques and styles, working with a variety of mediums, to create works of art that reflect the of these two courageous individuals is brought to March 18 | Robert and Alex McDonald, Las Colinas relationship to the natural world. life. On April 28-May 7, Lyric Stage presents the Symphony Orchestra (LSCO) world-premiere musical “Quanah,” starring Larry 8 p.m. | Carpenter Hall | $16.50-$46.50 Gatlin in conjunction with the exhibition. Brothers Robert and Alex McDonald, on piano, join LCSO. Program highlights to include Piano Concerto No. 2 in Bb Major by Brahms.

Summer of ’17 Camp

Registration Opens March 15 Photo of Quanah sitting in his “Star House” home, circa 1890. Keep cool and feeling groovy with unique summer camp adventures in visual arts, theatre, music, creative writing and more this summer. Gallery Hours Irving Arts Center is pleased to offer 14 unique camps for ages 4 to 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon., Tues., Wed. and Fri.; 16. Led by professional art educators, camps are offered weekly from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thur.; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat.; June 5–Aug. 11. Registration begins March 15. For a complete listing and 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. of camps and to register, visit IrvingArtsCenter.com. n

P. 2 MARCH 2017 IRVING CITY A N OFFI C I AL P U BLI C A TION OF T H E CITY O F IR VING

Emergency Preparedness Guide

An Emergency Preparedness Booklet is available online to assist residents in preparing for potential disasters in North Texas. Download the booklet at CityofIrving.org/Emergency-Management. For more information, call (972) 721-2100.

Learn More Lightning For more information, emergency management Although lightning kills or injures hundreds of people presentations and disaster preparedness public every year, most deaths from lightning can be prevented. education materials are available at CityofIrving.org/ On the average, six people die each year in Texas from Group-Presentations. Additional resources may be found lightning strikes. at Ready.gov and KnoWhat2Do.com. Always seek shelter indoors during a lightning storm. If you must stay outside, keep away from metal objects, Natural Hazards find a ditch or shelter and stay away from hilltops and Natural hazards are severe and extreme weather events open fields. Most importantly, stay away from open water that occur naturally in all parts of the world. The Irving and tall trees — both are great lightning conductors. area is more vulnerable to natural hazards, such as severe storms, flash flooding, tornadoes, earthquakes, extreme Lightning always accompanies thunderstorms, so keep heat and winter weather. Natural hazards become an eye and ear to the sky. If you can hear thunder, you are natural disasters when people’s lives and livelihoods are close enough to be struck by lightning. Even if you can’t destroyed. It is important to know about some of the hear thunder, you may still be at risk. Outdoor Warning System Reminder natural disasters that may affect Irving and how to be Know what to do when the city’s outdoor warning sirens prepared. are activated during inclement weather.

● Do take cover inside a building on the first floor in an interior room, closet or bathroom that does not have windows.

● Do not call 911, police or fire dispatch for information. If there is inclement weather in the area and the sirens are activated, assume there is the possibility of a tornado and take cover immediately.

Residents Encouraged to Register Siren Testing for iALERT The sirens are tested at 1 p.m. on the first Wednesday The city’s iALERT notification system provides residents of every month, unless the sky is overcast or there is with critical information during emergencies or critical inclement weather in the area. situations. It allows public safety officials to notify some or all of the city’s population about gas leaks, boil water notices, power outages, crime alerts or other high- Stay Prepared for Emergencies priority events. Create a Family Disaster Plan: ● Meet with family members and discuss the types of Earthquakes Residents may specify areas of the city they want to disasters that are most likely to occur. An earthquake is the violent shaking of the earth caused receive information about by adding addresses such as ● Explain what to do in each case. by a sudden movement of rock beneath its surface. their home, schools or daycare centers, nursing homes or ● Designate two places to meet. Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently and without job locations. ● Develop an emergency communication plan. warning. These rumblings occur at any time of the ● Ask an out-of-town relative or friend to be a “family year and at any time of the day or night. Millions of The service is completely customizable. Residents can contact.” earthquakes occur around the world every year, and the select the areas to be notified about and can sign up to ● Discuss what to do if authorities request evacuation. vast majority are minor. Irving’s quakes range from 2.1 to receive up-to-the-minute information, keeping their ● Be familiar with escape routes. 3.6, which are considered minor. families safe during an emergency. ● Plan how to take care of pets. Earthquake Safety Tips The application will contact the communication ● When in a high-rise building, move against an interior devices selected by those who sign up including mobile wall if you are not near a desk or table. Protect Disaster Kit phones, landlines, smartphones, email, SMS and instant The kit should include enough supplies to meet needs for your head and neck with your arms. Do not use the messaging — in the order specified by the user’s account. at least three days. Store supplies in a sturdy, easy-to- elevators. carry, water-resistant container. Keep a smaller kit in the ● When outdoors, move to a clear area away from trees, Residents and businesses with listed telephone numbers car trunk. The disaster supply kit should include: signs, buildings or downed electrical wires and poles. have already been included in the system; however, 1. A three-day supply of water (one gallon per ● When on a sidewalk near buildings, duck into a they are encouraged to use the registration link to add person, per day) and food that will not spoil. doorway to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass, additional ways to be contacted, such as cellphone 2. One change of clothing and footwear per person. plaster and other debris. numbers or email addresses. All information provided 3. One blanket or sleeping bag per person. ● When driving, pull over to the side of the road and will be kept confidential. For more information, visit 4. A first aid kit with prescription medications. stop. Avoid overpasses and power lines. Stay inside CityofIrving.org/iAlert. 5. Emergency tools including a battery-powered your vehicle until the shaking stops. radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries. ● When in a crowded store or other public place, move 6. An extra set of car keys and cash. away from display shelves containing objects that 7. Special items for an infant, elderly or disabled could fall. Do not rush for the exit. family member. ● When in a stadium or theater, stay in your seat, get 8. An extra pair of glasses. below the level of the back of the seat and cover your 9. Those who take medicine will need enough to last head and neck with your arms. at least a week. Keep a copy of prescriptions and dosage information. If a weeklong supply is not possible, keep as much on hand as possible, and Flooding talk to a doctor about what else should be done to ● If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Leave areas prepare. subject to flooding. 10. Auto emergency kits should contain blankets ● Two feet of rushing water can carry away most and warm clothing, booster cables and tools, vehicles, including sport utility vehicles and pickup bottled water, canned fruits and nuts, first aid kit, trucks. flashlight and batteries, traction mats or chains, a ● When there is excessive water in the roadway, play it shovel and emergency prescription medication. smart — turn around, don’t drown.

CITYOFIRVING.ORG P. 3 IRVING CITY A N OFFI C I AL P U BLI C A TION OF T H E CITY O F IR VING

ACTIVITIES, ADOPTIONS, CONTESTS PLANNED FOR 2017 PET PAWLOOZA

Irving’s Dog Park will be transformed into an amusement park for canines during Pet Pawlooza.

Pet Pawlooza will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 1 at the Irving Animal Care Campus (IACC), 4140 Valley View Lane. Pet Pawlooza, which celebrates the seventh anniversary of the Irving Animal Care Campus, will be a day Teen volunteers prepare cases for Court night. Teen volunteers gather for a group picture. filled with fun for the whole family. Admission to the Pet Pawlooza is free. To celebrate the Irving Animal Care Campus’ seventh Irving’s Teen Court System Helps Youth Manage anniversary, Irving Animal Services and DFW Humane Society will have $5 adoptions for dogs Citations, Learn Justice System and cats. Since 1992, the City of Irving Teen Court program has allowed young Pet Pawlooza is the pinnacle of pet-friendly offenders an opportunity to give back to the Irving community by making entertainment. Dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes will enjoy an atmosphere that can best be restitution for their municipal court offenses. described as a canine-friendly amusement park. Through service opportunities, educational classes, hours. Approximately two-thirds of the agencies are City The canine-carnival will feature live music from and jury service, eligible teens become accountable for of Irving departments, such as Parks and Recreation, as the Silvertones, demonstrations, pet product their choices by taking responsibility and completing the well as schools and nonprofit agencies that benefit the vendors, fabulous food vendors, games and program. Successful completion results in a dismissal Irving community. More than 8,100 hours of service were fun for dogs, as well as low-cost vaccinations of the violation, keeping it from being reported as a contributed to the City of Irving in 2016 through the and microchipping. Free microchips and rabies conviction on their criminal and/or driving histories. program. vaccinations are available to Irving residents only while supplies last. Free child ID kits will be In addition to the Teen Court program being a legally Additionally, teens and adults may serve as volunteers provided by Kerri Miene State Farm. Donations binding alternative to payment, it allows teen offenders for Teen Court to gain insight on Irving’s justice system. collected on event day will benefit IACC to have a better understanding of the criminal justice Applications are being accepted for the next training animals. system. Currently trending at an approximate 87 percent session on May 13. Trainings usually are held at the completion rate, more than 13,000 cases have been beginning of the academic year and provide information Attending dogs must be on a leash with up- dismissed as a result of successful completion of the necessary to serve as a volunteer in the various staff to-date vaccinations. Complimentary shuttle program’s requirements. positions available. service will be available to transport attendees to Pet Pawlooza from the SanMar Distribution While learning invaluable information about the justice For more information on the program, including Center parking lot, 4701 Northview Drive, as system, teens can make long-lasting connections with the registration, visit CityofIrving.org/427/Teen-Court or call IACC parking is expected to fill up quickly. community service agencies where they complete their the Teen Court office at (972) 721-3601. n

The IACC, located at 4140 Valley View Lane, which is a cooperative partnership between the City of Irving’s Animal Services Department and the DFW Humane Society, is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from Volunteers Needed for Texas Trash-Off 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Adoptions must be Join good Samaritans all across the state in making Texas processed 30 minutes before closing. the cleanest and most beautiful state in the country as part of the Great American Cleanup, the nation’s largest To see a real-time listing of animals available for community improvement program. adoption or to learn more about the IACC, visit

CityofIrving.org/130 and DFWHumane.com. Keep Irving Beautiful invites all residents, businesses For other information, call Animal Services at and civic groups to make a clear and clean difference in (972) 721-2256 or the DFW Humane Society at the community by participating in the 2017 Don’t Mess (972) 721-7788. n with Texas Trash-Off from 9 a.m. to noon April 8 at Trinity View Park, 2298 E. Sixth St. The annual trash-off is Texas’ signature event for the Great American Cleanup.

Part of a national movement, Keep Irving Beautiful is Volunteers will be provided with gloves and litter one of more than 1,200 organizations that will engage grabbers, as well as bags for trash and recycling. In millions of volunteers in improving their communities addition, volunteers will be treated to a free lunch after through litter-abatement events and activities on or the event. around April 8. In Irving, volunteers will focus on Trinity View Park ― part of Campion Trail ― which borders the For more information, email [email protected] or Elm Fork of the Trinity River. Removing litter from Trinity call (972) 721-2175. For individual or group registration, View Park is critical because the adjacent waterway visit CityofIrving.org/KIB and locate the “Don’t Mess with supports the water needs of 9 million people, which Texas Trash-Off/Great American Cleanup” link. Online equates to about 40 percent of all Texans. registration closes April 3. All ages are welcome. n

Time-of-Day Influences Water Conservation BUILDING PERMITS To promote good water use habits, minimize water waste and preserve Irving’s water supply, the city enforces time-of- The City of Irving Inspections Department day irrigation restrictions. These limits make it a violation of city ordinance to water between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from reminds residents to verify that contractors April 1 through Oct. 31. have obtained proper permits for any work being done. Permits and inspections are Although people readily understand water restrictions during drought conditions, it is important to develop good water required whether the work is done by a use habits for the long-term protection of Irving’s water supply. That is the goal of the city’s Water Conservation Plan. contractor or a homeowner. For example, in warmer weather, irrigation water is more susceptible to evaporation during warm, sunny days. As a result, early morning or late evening watering is more effective. Additionally, the cycle-soak method of running sprinklers for Examples of work that requires permits two or three, seven-minute cycles, with one-hour rest periods in between, optimizes irrigation. include: fence replacements and water heater change-outs. For a complete list of required Other Water Conservation Plan features that can minimize water consumption include: permits, visit CityofIrving.org/Inspections or ● Watering no more than twice per week from April call (972) 721-2371. n through October (in warm weather) and only once per month if needed in winter (in cold weather). ● Attaching positive shutoff nozzles when hoses are used for hand watering or car washing. ● Repairing private property leaks. ● Installing water-conserving landscaping including native and adaptive plants. ● Using water-conserving plumbing fixtures at residences and businesses. ● Purchasing water-conserving appliances. ● Registering at WaterMyYard.org for a weekly message about how much to irrigate.

For more information on the city’s Water Conservation Plan or tips for conserving, visit CityofIrving.org/ WaterUtilities. n

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Library Briefs SPRING BREAK AT March 4 | North Texas Teen Book Festival 2017 THE LIBRARY 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas, 500 W. Las Colinas Blvd. This Spring Break, young people are invited to Debut authors join industry icons for an all-day teen have a wild time at live animal shows, become literary event of epic proportions. More than 80 budding inventors, meet an author and more authors, including Chris Grabenstein (“Escape from Mr. from March 13-17. Event highlights include: Lemoncello’s Library”), Jason Reynolds (“All American Boys”), Veronica Roth (“Divergent” trilogy), Sara Shepard March 13 | Barnyard Petting Zoo Alice in Wonderland Tea Party (“Pretty Little Liars” series), Maggie Stiefvater (The Raven 3 p.m. | West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Cycle series) and R.L. Stine (“Goosebumps”) will participate March 18 | Alice in Wonderland Tea Party Road in panel discussions, publisher events and book signings. 2 p.m. | Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail Kids of all ages can pet barnyard animals outside, Pick up wristbands for select signing lines at 8 a.m. and Follow Alice down the rabbit hole, where crafts and and make fun and easy animal crafts indoors. publisher events at 10 a.m. at the convention center box surprises await, in this celebration of Lewis Carroll’s classic office. For more information, visit NTTBF.org or call tale for the whole family. March 14 | Spring Break Camp Out (972) 721-4612. Funded through a grant from the Institute 6 to 8 p.m. | East Branch Library, 440 S. Nursery of Museum and Library Services and the Texas State March 24 | Friday Night Library Road Library and Archives Commission. Supported by the Irving 7 to 10 p.m. | South Irving Library, 601 Schulze Drive Camp out at the library – read by flashlight, watch a movie, create crafts and eat s’mores. Public Library and the Friends of the Irving Public Library. Join a special celebration of “Charlotte’s Web” in honor of National Pig Day. The festivities include a pig-themed March 15 | Tinker Time March 6 | Dr. Seuss Celebration story walk, crafts for all ages, a piglet petting zoo and an 3 p.m. | South Irving Library, 601 Schulze Drive 4:30 p.m. | East Branch Library, 440 S. Nursery Road outdoor showing of the animated version of “Charlotte’s Display your talent for invention with LittleBits Meet the Lorax from Dr. Seuss’ famous story, play games, Web.” It will be a “terrific” time for all. A Friday Night and MaKey MaKey Kits. create Lorax themed crafts and plant a seed. Library/Lit’s Alive joint event. March 15 | Youth Grades 2-6, Writing Workshop with Author Polly Holyoke 2 p.m. | Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail Young writers will learn to build vivid worlds and AquaStars Program Spring Dates captivating characters with help from the creator of the “Neptune Project” series. Registration The City of Irving’s AquaStars program allows children with special needs, required. Call (972) 721-4669. along with their families and guardians, to safely enjoy access to a premier city swimming facility. The program is custom-designed for children with March 16 | Tie-Dye T-Shirts for Teens special needs ages 18 and younger. Participants must be accompanied by an 2 p.m. | West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle adult or guardian. On a monthly basis, AquaStars provides children with an Road opportunity to sidestep crowds and experience the excitement of play in Teens can make a groovy fashion statement. one of the city’s aquatic facilities. Supplies provided.

Spring dates are March 12, April 9 and May 14 at the Heritage Aquatic Center, 200 S. Jefferson St. Participants pay For more information, call the Library Events $1 per visit. The safety of AquaStars guests is paramount to program organizers. The Heritage Aquatic Center pool Hotline at (972) 721-4612. For additional Spring features a special needs accessible ramp, chair lift and water chair. The city will provide the appropriate lifeguard and Break events, visit CityofIrving.org/Library. n staffing ratios, as well as access to waterproof wheelchairs. For more information about AquaStars, call (972) 721-7311 during normal business hours. Visit CityofIrving.org/814 for more information on all Irving special needs programs. n

THINK GREEN … BE GREEN Parks and Recreation Briefs Register for the following classes and events at March 13-17 | Spring Break Camp of fun, music and open gym. Food and beverages will CityofIrving.org/BeGreen. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Children in grades K-5 | $95 be served. This camp offers a variety of activities in a fun and safe March 7 | Plants Behaving Badly environment including arts and crafts, gym games, field Mustang Park Recreation Center 6 to 7:30 p.m. | Valley Ranch Library, 401 trips and more. Campers are asked to bring a sack lunch 2223 Kinwest Parkway, (972) 556-1334 Cimarron Trail each day, but are provided with morning and afternoon ● March 24 | Middle School Series: Bubble Soccer Find out what plant killed Lincoln’s mother and snacks. Register at a recreation center or online at 6 to 9 p.m. | Ages 10-14 | $15 per child what plant would be a good diet if it weren’t so CityofIrving.org/IrvingRec. Space is limited. Don’t miss out! Bubble soccer is back. Bring friends addictive. Learn to identify some of those pesky and enjoy this fun activity, along with pizza and video weeds that appear in yards. Cimarron Park Recreation Center games, too. 201 Red River Trail, (972) 910-0702 ● April 5-May 13 | Preschool Soccer League March 16 | Veggie Gardening from the Ground Up ● March 10 | Cops and Bobbers Ages 3-6 | $80 per child 6 to 8 p.m. | South Irving Library, 601 Schulze 8 a.m. to noon | Bird’s Fort Trail, 5756 Riverside Drive Each child will be assigned a team and a coach Drive, Room No. 1 | Free who emphasizes basic fundamentals and good Being able to grow and eat fruits and vegetables Join Irving Police for this fun, catch and release event sportsmanship. Practice is on Wednesday evenings, can offer an opportunity to save money, reduce designed to teach children the different skills needed and games are on Saturday mornings. Registration is the amount of pesticides consumed, increase to fish. A limited number of poles will be available for through March 31. Participants receive a team T-shirt, physical activity and engage the whole family. loan; or bring one. Register by March 9. soccer ball and trophy. Call for more details. Learn what it takes to have a bountiful vegetable ● March 25 | Indoor Community Flea Market garden, including soil fertility, seeds, proper 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Booth price $15; Booth, table and two Northwest Park Recreation Center plant selection and planting for Texas weather. chairs price $20 2800 Cheyenne St., (972) 721-2529 Clean out the house, and sell gently used items. Set up ● March 3 | Spring Fling March 18 | Irrigation Basics: A Greener Yard will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday night and 6 a.m. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. | Children ages 7-13 | $5 with Less Water Saturday morning. No food or drinks may be sold. Call Enjoy an evening full of dancing, games and fun. 9 a.m. to noon | Valley View Municipal Complex, for more details. Refreshments will be served. Registration is required. 333 Valley View Lane Learn about the basic concepts of indoor water Heritage Senior Center Senter Park Recreation Center conservation. Students also will learn about basic 200 S. Jefferson St., (972) 721-2496 900 S. Senter Road, (972) 721-2641 drip irrigation design and installation, choosing ● March 17 | St. Patrick’s Day Party ● March 3 | Full House Youth Night the right components, watering techniques and 10 to 11:15 a.m. | $3 6:30 to 9 p.m. | Children ages 8-12 | $8 system maintenance for landscaping. Enjoy a morning of fun and entertainment celebrating Join the fun with activities including Daytona USA, shamrocks, leprechauns and of course, St. Patrick. Arctic Blast, Just Dance, Inflatable Slam Dunk, an March 25 | Urban Homesteading with Marcy Entertainment provided by The School of Irish Music obstacle course and video games. Food will be 9 a.m. to noon | Location provided at registration and a special guest appearance by the reigning Ms. available for purchase. Registration is required. Residents will learn more about the urban Mature Irving, Ms. Marilyn Wolford. Registration homesteading movement by visiting a local urban deadline is 5 p.m. March 14. homestead “work in progress.” The workshop ● March 25 | Trash to Treasure Sale will include a conversation about vegetable 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. | $15 each space; $25 for two gardening, chickens, native plantscaping to Turn unwanted items into cash or discover a new encourage biodiversity and urban ecosystems. treasure at this outdoor rummage sale. Registration Space is limited. Deadline to register is March 17 deadline is March 14. Free admission for shoppers. or until full.

Lively Pointe Youth Center April 6 | Seed Saving for Water Efficiency 909 N. O’Connor Road, (972) 721-8090 6 to 8 p.m. | South Irving Library, 601 Schulze ● March 11 | Teen Jam: March Madness Jam Drive, Room No. 1 7 to 11 p.m. | Middle and high school students | Free Many native or adapted perennial plants and with valid IPAR or school ID wildflowers can be propagated by seed relatively Teens can bring a team and play 3-on-3 basketball. April 8 | Citywide Egg Hunt easily. Learn the basic challenges and rewards of Compete with friends to see who will be named 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. | Heritage Park, 217 Main Street seed saving including seed selection, harvesting Irving’s best. Complimentary food and beverages will The Irving Parks and Recreation Department and Family strategies, germination and or dormancy be served. ER+Urgent Care present the annual egg hunt. The city requirements, as well as planting times and ● March 25 | Teen Jam: Game Face Jam will hide more than 20,000 eggs filled with candy or toys techniques for successful reproduction of some 7 to 11 p.m. | Middle and high school students | Free for children 10 and younger. The event will feature craft favorite water-efficient plants. with valid IPAR or school ID activities, a petting zoo and an appearance by the Easter Teens, put on a game face and show off video gaming Bunny. Bring a camera for photo opportunities. For hunt skills on the Xbox One or PS4. Enjoy a tournament full times, visit IrvingEvents.org.

CITYOFIRVING.ORG P. 5 IRVING CITY A N OFFI C I AL P U BLI C A TION OF T H E CITY O F IR VING

CITY SNAPSHOTS

From entertainment and history to outdoor activities and educational programs ― Irving’s got it all! Take a peek at community engagement throughout the city at Facebook.com/TheCityofIrving or Instagram/TheCityofIrving. n

Artist rendering of Pioneer Plaza fountain feature. Artist rendering of Library Promenade with food trucks. Heritage Park Redevelopment Proposal Concept Irving looks to the past while embracing the future for new generations.

Heritage Park celebrated its 30th change, the site around it would be enhanced to mimic a birthday in July 2016, and now the windmill’s radial fan blades. The area would be renamed City of Irving Capital Improvement ‘Pioneer Plaza,’ and would include native grasses Program (CIP) and the Parks and around the site and low vertical monuments that would Attendees at Frost Fest enjoyed a rare snow day, in spite of the Recreation departments are pay homage to influential families from Irving’s early sunny and mild weather. This inaugural event included ice skating, tube sledding, ice carving demonstrations and fun activities. looking to breathe new life into communities. the historic park. The proposed plan would replace the wooden gazebo, City staff has met with the community and advisory which has surpassed its lifespan, with a larger, steel boards several times during the past year for feedback on gazebo, and set it back toward the center of the park possible changes to the park. While a number of changes directly behind a proposed fountain feature and entry have been incorporated into the new concept design, plaza. The original library building would be moved closer Irving City Council will make the final decision on the to the corner of Main and Third streets. It would feature project’s development. an elevated wooden deck in the back with tables for seating. The deck would sit under large shade trees and Heritage Park sits predominately on one side of a city serve as a small stage for musical acts, weddings and a block, and the possible redevelopment design would rest area. It also would anchor a garden terrace. Adjacent bridge the two sides. At one time, the sides were to the terrace, food truck parking spaces would offer divided by an alleyway, as well as several buildings and dining for special events, as well as park visitors. The Music Factory’s 8,000-seat amphitheater is taking shape. When completed, the 250,0000-square-foot entertainment adjacent commercial properties. In 2011 and 2016, the complex will offer an array of restaurants and leisure activities. city purchased the land and demolished the remaining The city’s original water tower currently stands nearly a structures. third shorter than it did in its prime. The landmark would be restored to its original height atop the restroom and The park, which houses some of the city’s most mechanical building to increase its visibility and serve as a prominent historic landmarks, has expanded to cover a monument for the garden terrace. continuous city block with Second Street to the north, Third Street to the south, and Main and Hastings streets Other park amenities would include additional parking, to the east and west. Four of the structures on the open greenspace, pedestrian lighting, benches, Wi-Fi property would be repositioned to a different location and increased visibility from all four sides of the park for within the park — with the exception of Caster Cabin added security. — and new structures and amenities would be built or added onto existing structures. Pending council’s adoption of the proposed redevelopment plan, the project would likely be Irving’s Concert Series 4 Kids kicks off April 27 with Latin The caboose and train depot would be relocated to sit constructed in phases after funding has been approved. GRAMMY Award winner Mister G. His catchy, bilingual lyrics will parallel with Hastings Street. The caboose would rest on have families singing along. Learn more at IrvingEvents.org. its current train tracks, surrounded by a low ornamental In the near future, residents may see activity in the area fence and lighting for additional protection. A paving with the planting of five additional mature trees from an stone walk would be installed along Hasting Street to offsite road improvement project. Minor concrete curb resemble train tracks heading into the horizon. The park improvements also may take place around the perimeter also would include an outdoor amphitheater, as well as a of the park. n historic building, which would help cement the location as a historic and recreational destination. For more information, watch the ICTN video on the potential park improvements at Caster Cabin currently backs up to Second and Main YouTube.com/TheCityofIrving. streets. While the cabin’s location is not envisioned to

The Delaware is a residential development of 40 new homes in the Heritage Crossing District. The homes will be built within walking distance of the Centennial Park. Learn more at goo.gl/T1Ypib. Vintage Trail Market Day, Historic Downtown Irving

Vintage Trail Market Day, hosted by Irving Vintage Trail shops, will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 1 at the corner of Main Street and Irving Boulevard in historic Downtown Irving. The market will offer one-of-a-kind products such as original art, handmade crafts, vintage and antique treasures, and edibles from locally owned businesses. While downtown, visit Irving Vintage Trail Shops and the many other area shops and restaurants. Other activities include a vintage car show, photos, music and special sales and give-a-ways. This market day has fun activities for the whole family. Vendors and sponsors are needed to make this day a success. Females 10 years and older can receive realistic self-defense tactics and techniques at a free, four-day program hosted by the Irving Police Department. Learn more at CityofIrving.org/RAD. For more information, email [email protected] or visit Irving Vintage Trail Shops on Facebook. n

Reminder to Practice Safety During Daylight Saving Time

Residents are reminded to advance clocks one hour for Daylight Saving Time on March 12. As part of the Irving Fire Department’s “Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery”

Mild winter weather allowed crews to repair the North Campion campaign, it is recommended that residents also replace Trail in Sam Houston Park ahead of schedule. Weather permitting, smoke detector batteries when changing clocks. n this section of the trail damaged by flooding will reopen in March.

“City Spectrum” is published by the City of Irving Communications Department to keep residents informed of city news, events and information. For additional information, visit CityofIrving.org. P. 6 MARCH 2017