City Spectrum September 2013

RESIDENTIAL
CUSTOMER
PAID
PRSRT STD
ECRWSS
U.S. POSTAGE
IRVING, TX
PERMIT NO. 883
AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF IRVING
September 2013
VOL 20 . NO 9
CITY OF IRVING.ORG
FAST FLUGTAG FACTS
Free family activities
Classic car show
Carnival, Live Music Added to
2013 Irving Main Street Event
The Heritage District will transform into a neighborhood amusement park
with a variety of visual, performing and culinary arts for families to enjoy.
Attractions like the Main Street Marketplace, Family
Fun Zone and Manifolds on Main Street Car Show
have brought upwards of 7,000 people to downtown
Irving for the signature event year after year. This
year, event organizers are taking the festival to the
next level with the addition of a carnival and amped
up entertainment.
Community Carnival
Clearing the way for the weekend activities will be
Wagner’s Carnival. The carnival will be located just
north of Irving Boulevard between Britain Road and
Main Street from 5 to 10 p.m. Sept. 11–13, and from
10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sept. 14. Adding a carnival to the
Irving Main Street Event brings 30 new attractions
to the Heritage District, including a merry-go-round,
tea cups and Ferris wheel. Unlimited ride wristbands
will be available for purchase, and there will be a
special discount on opening night. Free parking will
be available at the TRE Downtown Irving/Heritage
Crossing Station, 201 Rock Island Road, and at the
Heritage Senior Center, 200 S. Jefferson St.
Expanded Entertainment
The soundtrack to this year’s Irving Main Street Event
will feature eight acts delivering an eclectic mix of
music designed to appeal to the masses. Music will be
in the air as multiple bands keep attendees entertained.
Live music performed by R&B band Fingerprints will
kick off this year’s robust entertainment lineup at 6
p.m. Sept. 13. The same night, local teens will take the
spotlight on the Main Stage from 8 to 10 p.m. for the
Battle of the Bands competition. The city’s increased
investment in entertainment brings LC Rocks, a
regional touring band, to the Main Stage at 6:30 p.m.
Sept. 14. For a complete entertainment schedule, visit
irvingevents.org.
Annual Attractions
The following staple attractions that have served as
the foundation of the Irving Main Street Event will be
available from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 14.
uMain Street Marketplace – A range of vendors,
art exhibits and concessions will line Main Street
alongside downtown businesses and restaurants.
uFamily Fun Zone – Enjoy a variety of free family
activities at Heritage Park, located along Main
and Second streets. Attractions include free pony
rides, airbrush tattoos and rock-climbing wall.
uManifolds on Main Street Car Show – Located
along Second and Jefferson streets in the Heritage
District, cars manufactured in 1972 and earlier will
be on display.
The neighborhood festival is free and open to the
public. Local historians and longtime residents
know Irving Main Street Event has its roots in the
community.
“Before there was Irving Main Street Event, there
was the Irving Heritage Festival — that event was
organized by the Irving Heritage Society, the Irving
Downtown Association, and the Irving Preservation
and Redevelopment Board. The festival was geared
toward handmade crafts, children’s activities and
old-fashioned family fun,” Special Events Supervisor
Jacqueline Madden said. “When the city took the
helm of the event in 2007, we really built on the
momentum of the Irving Heritage Festival and every
year we’re happy to bring the community all of the
free attractions that have made the Irving Main Street
Event one of Irving’s most well-attended events.”
Visit irvingevents.org for event schedule, driving
directions and parking locations. n
Irving is one of five cities across the nation
hosting Red Bull Flugtag on Sept. 21 at
Lake Carolyn in Las Colinas. Imagination will
take flight as 35 teams take a giant leap
for prizes (and bragging rights) during this
human-powered flying competition. Teams
will be judged on flight distance, creativity
and showmanship. Complete with celebrity
judges and over-the-top competition, Flugtag
is expected to attract more than 50,000
spectators. Here are a few need-to-know
items for those planning to soar into the
excitement of Flugtag:
uHangars open at 11 a.m.; final flight will
take off at approximately 3:30 p.m.
uFood and beverage vendors will be
on-site
uParking will be available in surrounding
areas; carpooling or public transportation
is encouraged
uAdmission is free
For more Flugtag tips, visit cityofirving.org or
redbullflugtagusa.com. n
Flug tag ju
dg e s
Canal Fest Returns
Get ready for the return of Canal
Fest — this time bigger and
better. Attendees will have a
chance to support the Kraddick
Foundation’s program, Kidd’s
Kids. Preview what is planned
on Page 4.
School Zone Safety
Class is back in session for Irving students and as a
reminder, the use of cellphones while driving in active
Irving school zones is prohibited.
The guidelines for the ban, which are enforced on
school days during active school zone hours, prevent
motorists from engaging in calls by talking, dialing or
listening on a hand-held mobile telephone, and entering
or reading text messages. This includes:
uHand-held
cellphones
digital assistants (PDAs)
uOther electronic communication devices
uPersonal
“We take the safety of children very seriously in the City
of Irving,” Police Chief Larry Boyd said. “The cellphone
ban, combined with reduced speed limits and
assistance from crossing guards, helps maximize the
level for safety of children and others in school zones.”
Signs are posted in every school zone to remind drivers
of the regulation. Those who violate the ordinance
could receive a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a
maximum fine of up to $500. Motorists are able to talk
legally on their
cellphones if they use
hands-free devices.
Drivers also may use
cellphones in certain
emergency situations
including conversing
with fire and police,
and health care
entities.
For more
information,
call the Police
Department at
(972) 721-2518. n
Irving police interact with local youth
Kids love on McGruff the Crime Dog
Irving Police Plan Neighborhood
Visits for National Night Out
Officers, city representatives will join various Irving communities on
National Night Out in a concerted effort to support a safe, secure city.
National Night Out will be observed in Texas on
Oct. 1, and communities throughout Irving are
encouraged to organize block parties and events to
show their support for crime-free communities. In
observance of National Night Out, homeowners in
Irving communities are encouraged to turn on their
porch lights. The Irving Police Department is now
accepting requests for an officer or a representative
from the department to make a 15-minute visit to
neighborhood block parties.
know that America is united and dedicated to building
a safer country. Last year, more than 35 National
Night Out events were held in Irving. Police and other
city representatives will attend as many registered
events as their schedules will allow. National Night
Out is for all neighborhoods, and communities do
not have to be part of an existing watch program to
participate. For more information or to register for a
free National Night Out appearance from the Irving
Police Department, visit irvingpd.com. n
The National Night Out program promotes
involvement in local crime- and drug-prevention
activities, strengthens police-community
partnerships, and encourages neighborhood
camaraderie as part of a larger effort to let criminals
Scan the code using a QR
application to enjoy scenes
from last year’s multicommunity
National Night Out event.
Police Launch New Online Crime Watch Program
Through a union of social media, technology and engaged residents, Irving
police hope NextDoor.com will help foster a greater sense of community.
To provide residents with another resource to keep
them informed and connected, the Irving Police
Department now has a page on nextdoor.com — the
private social network for neighborhoods. Irving
police believe nextdoor.com will help facilitate a virtual
neighborhood watch program and foster neighborto-neighbor communications. The program is free for
residents and allows individual neighborhoods to set
up private community websites, accessible only to
residents of that neighborhood.
“The Irving Police Department is continuously looking
for new programs and services that will enhance
our service to the community and ultimately help
us continue our record low crime rate,” said Irving
Police Department Public Information Officer John
Argumaniz. “We believe this service will help keep our
residents informed and involved, because they’re a key
component to keeping Irving a safe place to live.” n
The Irving Police Department wants to
remind motorists of parking regulations
regarding marked disability parking spaces.
Violations can result in fines of up to $515. It
is illegal to park vehicles:
Residents can then share information with one another
or all members of their website. The City of Irving has
been mapped into 51 neighborhoods. Those interested
in joining their neighborhood’s Nextdoor website
can visit nextdoor.com and enter their address. If
the service is available in their area, residents can
immediately sign up. If a website has not been
established for their area, residents are invited to apply
to bring Nextdoor to their neighborhood.
Although the Police Department does not have the
ability to view the neighborhood websites, they can
send messages and information to each website.
Examples of information that may be sent include
crime activity or trends, investigative follow-ups
or updates, descriptions of suspicious people or
vehicles related to crimes in the area, and upcoming
community meetings or events.
P. 2
Disability Parking
Regulations
uIn
Scan the code using a QR
application to hear what
residents think about Irving’s
adoption of the nextdoor.com
crime watch service.
a disability parking space without
displaying the appropriate plate or
placard, even if a driver or passenger of
the vehicle has a disability.
uIn a disability parking space while
displaying an expired plate or placard,
even if a driver or passenger of the
vehicle has a disability.
uIn a disability parking space when neither
the driver nor any passenger has a
disability, even if the vehicle displays the
appropriate plate or placard.
For more information, call the Irving Police
Department at (972) 721-2518. n
september 2013
Big Read Kicks Off Oct. 5 with
Fitzgerald’s Fabulous Festival
Irving residents are invited to experience the glitz
and glamour of the Roaring Twenties during the
city’s eighth annual community read.
The novel selected for Irving’s Big Read 2013 is “The
Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. “The Great
Gatsby” follows a captivating cast of characters
living on Long Island, N.Y., in 1922. The central figure
is the mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby, a man
who seemingly has it all, but his heart is set on an
impossible dream. Beginning Oct. 5, copies of “The
Great Gatsby” and age-appropriate companion titles
will be available at all library locations or may be
downloaded at irvinglibrary.lib.overdrive.com.
Scholars refer to Fitzgerald’s first masterpiece
as the perfect novel with shimmering prose and
a storyline that transcends time. Set during the
Roaring Twenties, a period of artistic renaissance
and industrial modernization, “The Great Gatsby”
offers participating readers a rich mix of ideas to
discuss and the pleasures of reading a great work
of literature. The novel is filled with themes of finding
one’s dreams, breaking free of social class and letting
go of the past. Many fun and innovative
1920s era-inspired events are planned for the
month of October.
The Big Read is presented in partnership with Irving
Independent School District, Irving Heritage Society,
Friends of the Public Library, National Scouting
Museum, Irving Black Arts Council, Irving Recreation
centers and other organizations. This year’s kick-off,
set for Oct. 5, begins with two family-friendly festivals
and an evening of dancing, dinner and jazz. See
below for a list of Big Read activities and events. n
Big Read Briefs
Let “The Great Gasby” come to life by participating in the following
Big Read events and activities sponsored by the Irving Public Library.
u
itzgerald’s Fabulous Festival – noon Oct. 5,
F
Central Library, 801 W. Irving Blvd. The monthlong celebration of reading and community kicks
off with food, fun and crafts inspired by the Harlem
Renaissance. Activities include games, face
painting, historic automobiles on display and live
music. Free copies of “The Great Gatsby” by
F. Scott Fitzgerald will be given to attendees.
u Absolutely Fabulous Magic Show and Kickoff – 2:30 p.m. Oct. 5, Valley Ranch Library, 401
Cimarron Trail. Be astonished by a Houdiniinspired magic show featuring James Munton, a
world-renowned magician and entertainer at the
Valley Ranch Library Big Read kick-off event.
u Gatsby Gala at Glory House – 6:30 p.m. Oct. 5,
Glory House Bistro, 109 S. Main St. Debonair
fellows and flirtatious flappers are invited to dress
in their best glad rags and party Big Read style.
Enjoy dinner and dance to jazz performed by the
Jason Davis Band. Tickets available for purchase.
For more information, call (972) 721-4612.
u Diva Dog and the Great Catsby Pet Party – noon to
2 p.m., Oct. 6, Valley Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron
Trail. Dress your dog (or cat, turtle, or even guinea
pig) in their best finery and join us on the patio for
an afternoon of fun. The pet party features a short
parade by the canal, snacks for the pets, games
and activities for all ages. Prizes will be awarded
for best-dressed pet, best dressed owner/pet duo,
best pet trick, and more.
uBedtime Bear Stories with Winnie the Pooh – 6:30
p.m. Oct. 7, East Branch Library, 440 S. Nursery
Road. Kids are invited to put on pajamas and bring
a favorite stuffed toy to hear a bedtime story, and
meet that famous bear who lives in the Hundred
Acre Wood.
uMovie Night: Fitzgerald’s Film – 6:30 p.m. Oct. 8,
Central Library, 801 W. Irving Blvd. Make a date to
CITY OF IRVING . ORG
visit the Central Library’s picture palace and revisit
the roaring ’20s in the Robert Redford and Mia
Farrow classic. (rated PG, 1974)
uGreat Gab Fest – Join in the Great Gab Fest at the
following book clubs. For more information, visit
cityofirving.org/library.
• MidWeek Mysteries – noon Oct. 2, Central
Library, 801 W. Irving Blvd. Bring a sack lunch
and come prepared to talk about popular 1920s
whodunits and cozy crime novels.
• First Look Book Club – 4 p.m. Oct. 2, Valley
Ranch Library, 401 Cimarron Trail. Kids will
discuss “Dave at Night” by Gail Carson Levine.
• Global Friends Reading Circle – 10:30 a.m.
Oct. 12, West Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle
Road. Discuss “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott
Fitzgerald.
uBear Stories with Winnie the Pooh – Meet the
loveable bear from the 1920s A.A. Milne classic
series in person and hear a story about his
adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood during
the following storytimes at the Central Library,
801 W. Irving Blvd. For more information, call
(972) 721-2458.
• Family Storytime, 7 p.m. Oct. 8
• Toddler Storytime, 10:30 a.m. Oct. 9
• Bilingual Storytime, 7:30 p.m. Oct 10
ther programs throughout the month of October
O
include a continuation of the Great Gab Fest, a teen
author visit, Fitzgerald experts, musical and dance
performances, more Winnie the Pooh storytimes and
Gatsby’s Haunted Hall. The Big Read is a program of
the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership
with Arts Midwest. For details, visit neabigread.org.
For a full listing of activities and discussions during
Irving’s Big Read, visit cityofirving.org/library or call
(972) 721-4612. n
Library Event
Calendar
uGatsby’s
Great Card Art Contest – Teens
in grades 6-12 are invited to create 3.5
x 2.5 sized trading cards inspired by the
classic “The Great Gatsby.” The contest
runs through Oct. 7 and winners will
be announced at 7 p.m. at the Oct. 18
event featuring Anna Godbersen, young
adult author of the “Bright Young Things”
series. Entries are accepted at all Irving
Public Library locations. First- through
third-place winners and four honorable
mentions will receive gift cards for
their efforts. For more information, visit
cityofirving.org/library and select “Teen
Scene.”
uMany Voices from the Middle East –
2:30 p.m. Sept. 7, Central Library,
801 W. Irving Blvd. Belly dancing and
puppetry join together in a celebration
of Middle Eastern culture. Enjoy Sandy
Shrout’s puppet show, “The Three
Princes,” and watch dances performed by
Authentic Belly Dancing Entertainment
and Academy. Call (972) 721-2458.
uL as Colinas Symphony Orchestra
Informance – 6:30 p.m. Sept. 10, West
Irving Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road.
From ballet to break dancing, music
and dance are inseparable partners in
the arts. This program highlights music
inspired by the beauty of dance. For more
information, call (972) 721-2691.
uIslamic Art at the Library – The artistic
heritage of the Islamic world is showcased
in this program. Children learn simple
Arabic calligraphy, explore traditional
costumes and enjoy Henna hand painting
at the following locations and times:
• 2:30 p.m. Sept. 14, West Irving
Library, 4444 W. Rochelle Road.
• 2:30 p.m. Sept. 28, Central Library,
801 W. Irving Blvd. For more
information, call (972) 721-4612.
u
hildren’s Author Visit – Diane Gonzales
C
Bertrand, 2010 Tejas Star Book Award
finalist and winner of two Teddy Children’s
Book Awards, stops by in celebration of
Hispanic heritage in literature. Her visit
is funded by Humanities Texas, the state
affiliate of the National Endowment for
the Humanities. Call (972) 721-2458.
• 2 p.m. Sept. 14, East Branch
Library, 440 S. Nursery Road. Enjoy
refreshments, crafts, and dances
performed by Ballet Folklorico de Dos
Tierras.
• 2:30 p.m. Sept. 15, Central Library,
801 W. Irving Blvd.
Diane Gon
zales Bert
rand
P. 3
City Swim and Water Aerobics Classes
Now Available at North Lake College
Water Aerobics/Wellness Weight Management
Residents can increase flexibility, range of motion
and metabolic rate with the city’s water aerobics
class. This shallow-water class can help eliminate
extra pounds, and knee and back problems. Aquatic
strength training and abdominal work also are
included in all classes.
This class has continuous enrollment, and students
may register at differentstrokesswimschool.com prior
to any class. Classes are held at North Lake Aquatic
Center, 5001 N. MacArthur Blvd. Cost is $29 per
month. The class schedule is as follows:
u 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday
u 7 to 7:55 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday
Deep-Water Dynamics
Deep-water exercise is at the top of the charts for
burning calories. The North Lake Aquatic Center
offers a program intended to improve flexibility,
overall aerobic fitness and cardiovascular endurance.
Minimal swimming skills and water comfort level
are recommended. Classes are held at North Lake
Aquatic Center. Cost is $39 per month. The class
schedule is as follows:
u 9:20 to 10:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday
(Participants can mix and match weekday classes for
$39 per month.)
Aqua Pilates Plus Power Sculpting
Enjoy the benefits of Pilates in the comfort of water.
Participants will elongate muscles and strengthen
their core muscle group. Power walking and sculpting
is the perfect complement to Pilates exercises. This
CANAL FEST COMES BACK
Canal Fest is making a triumphant return to
the Las Colinas Urban District, 200 E. Las
Colinas Blvd., from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 19.
This cultural festival features music, performing
arts, foods representative of various cultures,
as well as amusements and activities for the
entire family including a main stage, fun zone,
sports zone, arts entertainment zone and
food court. Visitors can stop by the Kraddick
Foundation tent to support Kidd’s Kids, a
program based on the premise of making a
difference in the lives of children with special
medical needs. Kidd’s Kids provides chronically
ill and/or physically challenged children (ages
5 to 12) with an all-expenses paid trip to
Walt Disney World. Those who donate to the
Kraddick Foundation at the event will receive a
commemorative Canal Fest gift (while supplies
last). Look for more details in the October
edition of “City Spectrum.” n
Swimming activities
class is recommended for all fitness levels; swimming
skills not necessary. Monthly fee is $24. The class
schedule is as follows:
u 11 to 11:45 a.m. Saturday
Evening Learn to Swim Classes at North Lake
Evening classes will be offered at North Lake Aquatic
Center on Mondays and Wednesdays starting
this month. Attend six 40-minute classes for $50.
Students will be placed according to skill level.
Those unable to pay registration fees can apply for
a scholarship and will be placed in a class as space
becomes available. To register, visit North Lake
Aquatic Center. For more information, call
(972) 264-2774.
Registration Guidelines
1. Classes have limited enrollment.
2. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Early registration is available by using the drop
box at the North Lake Aquatic Center. Checks or
exact change are required, and no receipts will be
issued. The fee is $50 per session, per child.
For more information, call Different Strokes Swim
School at (972) 264-2774 or the North Lake Aquatic
Center at (972) 273-3531. n
Parks and Recreation Briefs
Heritage Senior Center
200 S. Jefferson St., (972) 721-2496
uDiabetes Self Management. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Sept. 4 through Oct. 16. This free, seven-week
course will give participants advice on living with
diabetes. Participants must be age 65 or older,
Medicare eligible and living with the disease. A
completed doctor’s referral letter, available at
Heritage Senior Center, is required prior to the
start date. Registration is required.
uThis
Is Me Challenge. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Sept. 11. Seniors are invited to write about their life
experiences and complete a personal history for
generations to come. Cost is $3. All supplies are
included and light snacks and refreshments will be
served. Registration is required by 5 p.m. Sept. 9.
uSTROKE-Know
The Symptoms. 10:30 a.m.
Sept. 26. Every second counts when a person
experiences a stroke. Learn the symptoms and
how to deal with them. Free.
uAnnual
Ms. Mature Irving Pageant. 7 to 9:30 p.m.
Oct. 4 at Carpenter Performance Hall in the Irving
Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd. See who
takes home the crown at this annual pageant
for Irving seniors. Contestants will be judged on
personality, talent and evening wear. Tickets are
$10 for adults in advance and $12 at the door.
Children 12 and younger are $8 in advance and
$10 at the door. Advance tickets are available
through 5 p.m. Oct. 3. Contact Pat Davenport,
(972) 721-7313, at the Heritage Senior Center for
more details.
P. 4
The class schedule is as follows:
u Session 1: Sept. 9–25 at 5:30, 6:20 and 7:10 p.m.
u Session 2: Oct. 7–23 at 5:30, 6:20 and 7:10 p.m.
Reigning Ms. Mature Irving Kay Waters
Lively Pointe Youth Center
909 N. O’Connor Road, (972) 721-8090
uBattle of the Bands. 8 to 10 p.m. Sept. 13 at the
Irving Main Street Event. Listen to Irving’s finest
teen musicians as they compete for the title of
Best Band. Free.
uTeen
Jam. 7 to 11 p.m. Sept. 28. Youth and teens
are invited to enjoy an evening of music, games,
food and fun. Complimentary snacks and soda
will be served. This event is open to all middle and
high school students. Free admission with valid
IPAR card or school ID.
september 2013
Im Hussein
Bits of Sun by Jan Martin McGuire
Irving Arts Center Offers Music, Exhibits, Fun
Irving is home to one of the most vibrant arts scenes in North Texas. The Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur
Blvd., is sure to satisfy this September. For more information, visit irvingartscenter.com or call (972) 252-7558.
Sept. 5 | JumpstART Stories and Art – A is for
Apple – Happy Birthday Johnny Appleseed
10 a.m. l Suite 200 l Free
Irving Public Library joins the Irving Arts Center to
present a lively story time, for ages 2 and older, that
combines art and children’s literature celebrating
Johnny Appleseed’s birthday. Following the story,
children will make an art project to take home. All
supplies provided. Call (972) 252-2787 to register
groups of 10 or more.
Sept. 6–15 | Lyric Stage – The Sound of Music
2:30 and 8 p.m. l Carpenter Hall l $25–$53
This classic tells the story of the Von Trapp family
singers with music by Richard Rogers, lyrics by Oscar
Hammerstein II and a book by Howard Lindsey and
Russell Crouse. The show also features the 40-piece
Lyric Stage orchestra conducted by Jay Dias.
Sept. 13–14 | The Gallery of Artists: Gala
Exhibition Opening Reception
5 to 8 p.m. l Main Gallery l Free
Enjoy the two-day exhibition featuring seven artists.
A portion of the sales proceeds will go to support
wildlife conservation and the arts.
Sept. 14–15 | The Gallery of Artists: Lectures and
Demonstrations
Sept. 14
u10:30 a.m. Sally Maxwell – “What is
scratchboard?”
u12:30 p.m. Jan Martin McGuire – “Tembo Trouble –
A Painting by Jan from Start to Finish”
u1:30 p.m. Robert Louis Caldwell – “First Steps: A
Wildlife Artist Visits Africa”
u2:30 p.m. Roger Martin – “From Clay to Bronze”
Sept. 15
u1:30 p.m. James Gary Hines II – “Walk in the
Shoes of a Nature Photographer”
u2:30 p.m. Dale Weiler – “The Creation of Out on a
Limb”
u3:30 p.m. Debbie Stevens (topic to be determined)
Sept. 21 | Stephen Pride in Concert
7:30 p.m. l Suite 200 l $20 in advance; $25 at the door
Irving Black Arts Council presents the son of famed
country artist Charley Pride. The show includes a mix
of traditional country and contemporary music.
Sept. 24 | Jesse Lynch: Jazz 101
7:30 p.m. l Carpenter Hall l $20; $5 students (I.D.
required)
Accompanied by archival footage of some of
the legendary jazz icons of the last century, the
CITY OF IRVING . ORG
Entertainment Series of Irving presents Jesse Lynch.
The Brooklyn-based pianist-composer-arranger and
his ensemble take a musical journey back through
the history of jazz, swinging their way through some
of the greatest standards ever composed. Jazz 101
tracks this truly American art form from its New
Orleans roots through the bebop era right up to
today’s great contemporary sounds.
Sept. 28
u Gallery Talk: George Mendoza 1 p.m. l Meeting Rooms | Free
Author, athlete and artist George Mendoza will
share his story and answer questions in a lecture
prior to Family Funday. Mendoza’s exhibition,
Colors of the Wind, runs through Nov. 10 in the
Main Gallery. Free.
uFamily Funday
2 to 4 p.m. | Suite 200 | Free
Celebrate Smithsonian Live! Museum Day by
creating an art project inspired by George
Mendoza: Colors of the Wind exhibition in the
Main Gallery. Art supplies will be provided and an
instructor will guide the creative process.
u Im Hussein Jubilee Show
8 p.m. l Carpenter Hall | $45–$85
NGM Entertainment presents the Jubilee Show
celebrating 25 years of comedy staged by the
Ajyal Theatrical Group, featuring Im Hussein. The
review showcases the zaniest of Im Hussein’s
antics and skits. Written by Najee Mondalek.
Included works explore the fascinating life of the
American circus through lithographs, photographs,
banners, memorabilia and historical artifacts.
The Gallery of Artists: Artistic
Expressions of Nature
Sept. 14–15 | Main Gallery
The Gallery of Artists returns to the Irving Arts Center
with lectures, demonstrations and the sale of original
artwork in a variety of media. This award-winning
group of wildlife artists includes Robert Caldwell,
James Gary Hines II, Sally Maxwell, Jan Martin
McGuire and Dale Weiler with guests Roger Martin
and Debbie Stevens.
George Mendoza: Colors of the Wind
Sept. 21–Nov. 10 | Main Gallery
Featuring colorful paintings and textile designs,
George Mendoza has been legally blind since the
age of 15. This exhibition is toured by the Ellen Noël
Art Museum in Odessa, Texas, a sister Smithsonian
Affiliate institution.
Gallery Hours
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and
Friday; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. n
In the Galleries
13th Annual Art Connection
Membership Exhibition
Through Sept. 7 | Main Gallery
This annual, non-juried exhibition features works in
variety of media created by youth and adult members
of the Art Connection program.
6th Annual Transportation Art Contest:
From Rails to Wings: Irving, Texas
Through Sept. 29 | Administration Foyer
The exhibition showcases award-winning entries
by Irving students, ages 6–17 and is organized in
conjunction with the Transportation and Infrastructure
Summit, a national conference hosted by the City of
Irving.
Selections from the Tegge
Circus Archives Collection
Through Sept. 29 | Carpenter Hall and Dupree
Theater lobbies
Windows
to the Sou
l 2008
P. 5
Woodcarving Brings Out Artistic Side of Seniors
Local seniors have taken on woodcarving as a hobby. Although creating the perfect masterpiece can
take a lot of time and skill, these senior sculptors thoroughly enjoy the process as well as the camaraderie.
Each Tuesday at 9 a.m., a group of seniors gathers
at the Heritage Senior Center, 200 S. Jefferson St.,
to chat and carve. There is no instructor — instead,
participants help one another. To begin the creativity,
seniors only need knives, wood and an idea. Becoming
an expert woodcarver just takes stamina, desire and
a stable hand. Woodcarving offers many benefits — in
addition to bringing out the artistic side of participants,
the free sessions at Irving’s Heritage Senior Center
foster a sense of community.
“These folks have become friends over time,”
Recreation Center Supervisor Ann Gillespie said.
“They laugh and joke and reminisce, and at the end of
the day, they can see the progress they’ve made on
their piece, and feel the joy of comradeship.”
Woodcarving is one of the most ancient forms of art.
The rich history of woodcarving includes prehistoric
people creating decorative handles for tools and
The group of woodworkers at the Heritage Senior
Center have varying skill levels from beginner to
advanced. For these senior sculptors, it is not about
making the most beautiful piece — their focus is on
friendship and community. Woodcarving gives these
artists a purpose and a reason to come together.
“We all have good camaraderie, just talking about
lives, and joking, get your mind off of life so you can
forget about it for a while,” senior sculptor Bob Dupree
said. “It’s a lot of fun to be here.”
For more information, visit cityofirving.org/heritage/
index.asp or call (972) 721-2496. n
Woodcarving senior at work
weapons, Egyptians placing carved religious figures in
tombs to protect the dead, as well as modern artists
appreciating intricate carvings such as panels, altars,
and mantels in churches as fine art.
Scan the code using a QR
application to watch a video report
on camaraderie shared among senior
sculptors at Heritage Senior Center.
love on wheels
Love on Wheels, the transport-to-adopt
program, has gained momentum and inspired
more Irving families to become directly
involved as temporary foster caregivers for an
adoptable dog.
Animal Services Officer Brian Taft
Live-Release Rate at Irving Animal Care Campus
Improved Through Innovation, Volunteerism
A goal established by the Irving Animal Services four years ago was to
improve the live-release rate of animals, and the staff has seen success.
The live-release rate is the number of animals that
leave the Irving Animal Care Campus alive — either
with new families or with a responsible and credible
animal rescue agency. The term has become a
household phrase as more animal welfare agencies
— private and public — face the task of responding
to resident and donor demands to save the animals’
lives.
Aspiring to a routine monthly average of 84 percent
in 2013, Irving is setting the standard for municipal
animal control agencies with the number of animal
lives saved. Adopting a multifaceted approach to this
challenge, Irving’s solution begins with volunteers
(see “Love on Wheels”). Teaming up with shelter
partner DFW Humane Society, every volunteer is
certified after attending an orientation program held
at the Irving Animal Care Campus the first Saturday of
each month. From here, volunteers choose where to
focus their talents and time. Many volunteers choose
to participate in off-site adoption events at one of
two Irving PetSmart locations, where cats and dogs
benefit from the added exposure.
July is typically one of the slowest adoption months
for many animal adoption agencies, but not for
Irving — a record 70 cats were adopted as a result
of volunteer efforts at both PetSmart locations.
Some 83 dog adoptions also were completed at the
Irving Animal Care Campus in July, and the month
culminated with 115 rescue transfers for a total
live-release rate of 268 animals through adoption or
rescue. n
The program sends adoptable dogs from
shelters in Texas, including the Irving Animal
Care Campus, to a destination shelter in
Syracuse, N.Y., where they are quickly
adopted by eager families.
Fully vetted dogs from the Irving Animal Care
Campus are matched with newly trained or
experienced foster caregivers for the required
two-week quarantine period out of the shelter
and prior to transport.
From May through August, nearly 60
adoptable Irving dogs have boarded the
transport trailer, affectionately dubbed
the “Love Train” by Irving volunteers, for
the destination shelter and new homes in
Syracuse.
As shelter volunteers inspire staff with
their dedication and passion, Irving Animal
Care Campus staff inspires volunteers to
work alongside each other, all focused
on the mission to provide superior care
to the animals, exceptional service to the
customers, and save more animal lives. n
Love on Wheels beneficiary Charlie, and volunteer Morgan
P. 6
september 2013
Think Green … Be Green
Go Green Online
Become a better steward of the environment — register for eco-friendly
activities at cityofirving.org/begreen or call (972) 721-2355.
The city’s Think Green … Be Green website
is designed to provide an opportunity to discover,
learn and implement suggestions to become better
stewards of the environment. Irving is committed to
being an environmentally sustainable community.
To meet this goal, Irving is focusing on key
environmental issues such as recycling, energy and
water conservation, and alternative transportation.
Information about these topics, as well as a
listing of eco-classes, activities
and events, can be found at
cityofirving.org/begreen. n
Aquaponics for the Urban Gardner
Aquaponics is a closed-loop nutrient recycling
system. Simply put, it is a combination of traditional
aquaculture (raising aquatic animals) and hydroponics
(growing plants without soil). Using this method can
dramatically increase the levels of production in a
smaller space. Even better, the produce and fish are
of the highest quality. Aquaponics also is a method of
growing edible plants and fish in a single system that is
extremely well-suited for the urban environment. Join
speaker Adam Cohen, owner of Green Phoenix Farms,
as he explains how aquaponics is very water efficient,
using less than 10 percent of the water necessary for a
comparable soil garden.
Creating Positive Spaces for Home and Work
People are becoming more conscious of how their
environment affects everything. Call it creating a
positive space or feng shui, but having an environment
free from clutter and organized can help reduce
stress and produce a climate of relaxation and high
productivity. Other aspects contributing to creating a
positive space that will be discussed in this class are
lighting, furnishings in our surroundings, color, and
placement of furnishings.
Thursday, Sept. 12 | 6 to 7:30 p.m.
West Irving Library
4444 W. Rochelle Road
Household Hazardous Waste Collection
Solid Waste Services will offer a household hazardous
waste collection opportunity next month.
Items accepted include pool chemicals, cleaners,
craft and hobby supplies, lawn and garden
chemicals, automotive fluids, and fluorescent light
bulbs. Vouchers for the household hazardous waste
collection opportunity are required and can be
requested through Solid Waste Services by calling
(972) 721-8059. As a reminder, automobile tires,
lead-acid batteries, used motor oil, oil filters, and
latex paint are accepted as part of normal trash
collection services in Irving. For more information, visit
cityofirving.org/solid-waste-services.
Water Conservation In and Around the Home
Join Barry Allen, Water Utilities Department, as he
discusses basic water conservation techniques that
will reduce everyday water use. Participants also will
learn how to identify outdated water wasting fixtures
and how to retrofit older fixtures with new ones as well
as learn proper irrigation techniques, while maintaining
a vibrant landscape with minimal water usage.
Saturday, Sept. 14 | 9 a.m. to noon
Valley View Municipal Complex
333 Valley View Lane
Annual Trinity Trash
Bash Seeks Volunteers
Keep Irving Beautiful invites the community to attend
the 22nd Annual Trinity Trash Bash from 9 a.m. to
noon Sept. 28 at T.W. Richardson Grove Park, 333 E.
Interstate Highway 635 (LBJ), at the northeast corner
of Valley View and I-635.
This year’s Trash Bash once again is being held on
National Public Lands Day, and will be one of many
events occurring across the country that day. The
nation’s largest single-day volunteer event for public
lands raises awareness of environmental issues like
litter, and encourages everyone to lend a hand to
make a difference in their community.
There are no age or number restrictions for the
cleanup, so volunteers of all ages are invited to
participate. KIB will provide supplies such as litter
pickers, trash and recycle bags and gloves. Lunch will
be provided after the cleanup, as well as music and
prize drawings.
To register, visit rockthegreen.org. For more
information, call Keep Irving Beautiful at
(972) 721-2175. n
Scan the code using a QR
application to watch ICTN’s
video report on last year’s
Trinity Trash Bash.
CITY OF IRVING . ORG
Thursday, Oct. 10 | 6 to 7:30 p.m.
West Irving Library
4444 W. Rochelle Road
Saturday, Oct. 26 | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
3000 Rock Island Road
GREEN BUSINESS
COUNCIL MEETING
Business leaders are invited to join the Green
Business Council for its next meeting at
11 a.m. Sept. 20 at Glory House Bistro,
109 S. Main St. The Irving Chamber of
Commerce with support from the City
of Irving and numerous local businesses
are educating local organizations and
businesses on ways to go “green” by
providing information about energy and
water conservation, recycling and waste
reduction and eco-purchasing. The Green
Business Council offers presentations,
mentoring opportunities, classes, and more
to help businesses find practical solutions
to environmental challenges. For more
information, visit irvingchamber.com/com_
green.html or call (214) 217-8484. n
Easy Ways to Keep Neighborhoods Clean, Vibrant
Code Enforcement is constantly working with
property owners to enhance quality of life in Irving
through education and enforcement of code
regulations. Here are some ways residents can help
keep Irving a clean, attractive and a safe place to live:
uPlace trash at curb the morning of collection, but
never earlier than 6 p.m. the night before. Trash
set out for a minimal amount of time will prevent
the scattering of litter by stray animals or urban
wildlife.
uStagnant water can become a breeding ground for
mosquitoes. Empty flower pots and other items
capable of holding water.
uKeep grass mowed at a height of less than 10
inches to help prevent the occurrence of rodents
and snakes.
uParking on the grass causes ruts in the ground
and promotes the standing of water and allows
for grass to reach illegal heights. Do not park on
the grass as it is not allowable by ordinance and
creates a negative image for neighborhoods.
uNatural stain on wood fences is more effective
than paint. Stain ensures a longer lasting finish, is
more aesthetically pleasing and requires little to no
maintenance.
uEdging grass along curbs, sidewalks and
driveways creates a well-manicured curb appeal
for homes and businesses.
uUnless in use, toys and barbecue grills must be
stored inside or in back yards.
High grass and weeds
uPortable
basketball goals may not be stored in the
area between the sidewalk and curb.
uWhen widening driveways, materials used must
be the same as the original driveway. Permits are
required.
uPermits are required when replacing water
heaters, roofs and fences.
uInoperable and wrecked vehicles need to be
stored inside garages.
uAddress numbers are required to be displayed on
the front of the house. Make sure they are visible
so that emergency services can quickly respond
to emergency calls for service.
For more information, contact Code Enforcement at
(972) 721-4829. n
P. 7
Budget update
The Irving City Council is slated to vote on
the proposed FY 2013–14 budget Sept. 19.
Budget highlights include no tax rate or
fee increases to residents, funding for
all city services and capital budgeted for
infrastructure improvements.
While city revenues have not returned to the
pre-recession levels, Irving’s budget team is
reporting signs of recovery.
uProperty
Transportation Summit event?
Transportation Summit Success
A weeklong summit brought subject matter experts and leaders from
across the globe to Irving to discuss transportation issues and solutions.
The City of Irving, joined by a collection of sponsors
and national co-hosts, presented the 16th Annual
Transportation & Infrastructure Summit and 6th Annual
Global High-Speed Rail Forum, Aug. 6–9 at the Omni
Mandalay Hotel, Las Colinas.
This year’s event featured influential transportation and
infrastructure policy experts, including local, state and
federal elected leaders as well as industry experts. The
assortment of attendees allowed for quality networking
and time to share cutting-edge ideas about the future
of our country’s transportation and infrastructure
network.
Throughout the event, participants were able to
attend a variety of sessions to gain knowledge of the
most current transportation policy advancements as
well as personal interaction with some of the most
prestigious and influential transportation officials
throughout the nation. Transportation authorities
and state transportation leaders interacted with city
officials and regional leaders on projects affecting their
communities.
Several awards were presented during the summit.
The Excellence in Transit Transportation Award went
to Councilman John Danish in recognition of his
commitment to transportation issues. Councilwoman
Rose Cannaday presented the award to Danish and
Mayor Pro Tem Gerald Farris presented an award to
the bicycle ride attendees. Other members of the Irving
City Council who participated in the Transportation
Summit included Mayor Beth Van Duyne, Brad
Lamorgese and Tom Spink. n
Scan the code using a QR
application to watch ICTN’s
video report from the 16th
Annual Transportation &
Infrastructure Summit.
Area Students Invited to Participate in
Disabilities Awareness Poster Contest
“One of the favorite activities for Irving’s Advisory
Committee on Disabilities is judging the entries
in the annual Disability Poster Contest,” said
Committee Chair Marcia Pulich. “The posters are
drawn by fourth-graders from the Irving Independent
School District, private schools and home schools.
Committee members are always amazed at the
quality of the artwork and astounded by the
awareness and depth of understanding portrayed
P. 8
For FY 2013–14, the total capital program
is $82.85 million. This funding supports
development of the convention center hotel
and entertainment venue; reconstruction
and expansion of major thoroughfares;
improvements to city parks and facilities; and
other significant infrastructure upgrades.
Public input was used to shape the budget.
Residents are encouraged to review the
budget at cityofirving.org. n
Town Hall Meetings
The Irving City Council will host two interactive Town
Hall Meetings for residents and businesses. Those
who cannot attend the meetings in person will have
the option to listen and ask questions via telephone.
The meetings will be held at 6:30 p.m. on the
following dates:
uOct.
City leaders with 2012 winners
by these young students about disability issues. They
truly get it.”
Winners will receive signed certificates from Mayor
Beth Van Duyne and be recognized at the Oct. 3
City Council meeting. All posters will be displayed
at Baylor Medical Center in Irving during October.
Download contest rules at cityofirving.org or call
(972) 721-2501 for more information. n
“City Spectrum” is published by the City of Irving Communications Department to keep residents informed.
This award-winning publication is distributed monthly to more than 93,000 Irving households.
Derrick Thompson / Editor
Heather Taylor / Design Supervisor
Tammy Hanson / Editorial Coordinator
Irving’s AAA bond rating was affirmed
this year by Standard & Poor’s as well as
Moody’s Investors Services. The top rating
is attributed to Irving’s large corporate tax
base, strong financial management policies,
formal investment and reserve policies and
strong general fund reserves. Maintaining
AAA ratings saves the city an estimated
$840,000 in interest each year.
Input Opportunities
Irving fourth-graders have a chance for public display
of their art when they enter the Irving Advisory
Committee on Disabilities’ annual poster contest.
Participants can showcase artistic talents as they
express how a person with disabilities can use his or
her abilities in the community.
Students in public, private or home school are invited
to participate. The deadline for entries is 4 p.m. Sept.
14. Artwork must be created in watercolor, pencil,
pastels or crayon.
values have increased 4.4
percent from $17.3 billion to $18.074
billion
uOffice rentals are on the rise, and vacancy
rates are lower than what other North
Texas business centers are reporting
uSales tax revenues are up 11 percent for
FY 2012–13
7 at Lively Pointe Youth Center,
909 N. O’Connor Road
uOct. 15 at Cimarron Recreation Center,
201 Red River Trail
For more information, call (972) 721-2533.
Hazard Mitigation Online Survey
Dallas County and the City of Irving are coordinating
updates to the Hazard Mitigation Action Plan. A key
component of the planning process is public input.
Residents are invited to submit comments on hazards
facing the Irving community and provide input on
the types of activities that should be considered to
reduce future impacts.
Input for the Hazard Mitigation Action Plan is now
being accepted at cityofirving.org.
Interact with Irving Online
september 2013