There are a number of factors that give me great confidence in Garland's future. A number of forces seem to be converging that all work to our benefit. The economy is down but North Texas still remains among the healthiest areas of the country. Population growth, as a region, will grow at least 50% more by 2030. North Texas, when measured as a whole rather than as the individual parts, is among the most healthy and vibrant areas on the planet. First-tier suburbs are learning how to revive and grow. Growth in exurbs has stopped, which directs more development and investment to the core city and first ring suburbs.
 
Garland is on course to capitalize on these trends. A lot of work remains but, if we focus our energies on the future, expand our thinking and vision, avoid the easy mistakes, and continue to build Garland for Garland, we will succeed.
 
I know those all sound more like grand vistas than probability, but over the next few weeks I will take each point and share the information and data that supports each statement.
 
I will be in the Kansas City area in June for the summer meeting of the First Tier Suburbs Council's Steering Committee, a part of the National League of Cities. The KC area, led by the Mid-American Regional Council, has made some great strides on behalf of first-tier suburbs. They have lessons to teach and we have lessons to teach. The link below is for a video that shows a transit project in Kansas City and the affects of light rail on the growth that ultimately springs alongside. It is hard to imagine such growth for Garland or any other DART community but such growth is the rule in many other urban centers. It doesn't happen overnight though. You have to look beyond what you currently know. Enjoy.
 

Click the graphic to link to the video and then imagine. Click the Full Screen icon in the bottom right.
Source: Arnold Imaging

City of Garland Press Release:

Healthy Living Expo Postponed Garland, Texas – April 30, 2009 – The City of Garland, Garland Independent School District, Baylor Medical Center at Garland and the Garland Chamber of Commerce have decided to postpone the Healthy Living Expo 2009 which was scheduled for Saturday, May 2 at GISD’s Special Events Center.   Garland health officials have recommended against mass gathering events which might increase risk for transmission of the swine flu virus. For that reason, the sponsoring organizations have chosen to postpone the event for a later date to be determined.   When the event is rescheduled, information will be posted at www.GarlandGoesGreen.org.

Reports of swine flu saturate the media. I heard a doctor say a couple nights ago that this flu was not as virulent as the type we see each winter. One news report said over 30,000 people die each year from flu and, in this country, many of us (most?) are vaccinated. Yet there have been deaths from the swine flu that seems to have originated in Mexico.
 
County Health authorities sent information home through the schools Monday as a number of cases have been reported in the Metroplex.
 
Garland Health officials can similarly be expected to be up-to-the-minute with any such outbreak in Garland. Day Care Center have received the following Public Health Order (Apr 27):
 

 
To: Garland Daycares
Subject: Swine Flu Preparedness/Surveillance
 
As a result of the recent probably sine flu cases reported locally by the Dallas County Health Department, the Garland Health Department is issuing a Health Order to all daycares within Garland pertaining to surveillance and prevention of additional flu cases. Therefore, pursuant to Section 22.47 of the City of Garland Code of Ordinances, this letter constitutes a Health Order. All daycares located in the City of Garland shall take the following measures:

1. Daycare directors or operators shall provide a copy of the attached Public Health Information Bulletin to the parents of all children attending daycares until May 11, 2009.
2. Daycare directors or operators shall isolate (to the greatest extent possible) children exhibiting flu-like symptoms, which include, but are not limited to, fever, fatigue, lack of appetite and coughing. Parents of children exhibiting these or other flu-like symptoms shall be contacted immediately to remove their child from daycare.
3. Administrators or workers exhibiting flu-like symptoms shall be sent home immediately.
4. Daycare directors or operators shall notify the Garland Health Department on the same day that a child or employee is sent home with flu-like symptoms.

Thank you for assisting the Garland Health Department in enacting surveillance/preventative measures. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your Environmental Health Specialist at 972-205-3460.
 

 
The following FAQ was prepared with information from the Centers for on Disease Control and Prevention:
 

 

GARLAND HEALTH DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC HEALTH INFORMATION BULLETIN

SWINE INFLUENZA (SWINE FLU)

What is swine flu?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.
 
Are there human infections with swine flu in the U.S.?
In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of swine flu infection in humans and cases have been reported internationally as well. An updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States is kept at: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm.
 
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.
 
Is this swine flu contagious?
CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.
 
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
 
How does swine flu spread?
Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
 
How can someone with the flu infect someone else?
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
 
What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
 
Are there medicines to treat swine flu?
Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid, or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).
 
How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?
People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.
 
What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches their own eyes, mouth, or nose before washing their hands.
 
How long can viruses live outside the body?
We know that some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent handwashing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.
 
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illness like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
 
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often will help protect you from getting germs. Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner. We recommend that when you wash your hands – with soap and warm water- that your wash for 15-20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them at most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands together until the gel is dry. The gel doesn’t need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
 
What should I do if I get sick?
If you become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.
 
If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading illness to others.
 
If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care:

• If children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Not waking up or not interacting
  • Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
  • Fever with a rash
     
• In adults emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting

Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
 
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Provided by:
Garland Health Department
972-205-3460
 

Almost anywhere along the future route of the PGBT (SH-190) Eastern Extension, seen along the route or in pictures like this, progress continues with crews clearing bush, hauling dirt, and excavating the future lanes.
 
The economic importance of this linkage is especially important to north Garland, Sachse, and Rowlett.
 
Dirt has been flying as two shifts each day work to complete the project on time. I've heard neighborhood reports of the tedium of listening to holes being drilled and columns placed for the bridge that will cross Rowlett Ck near Pleasant Valley Rd, a bridge requiring hundreds of such columns. I know there are times that the quietness that follows progress is well appreciated.
 

From NTTA President George Bush Turnpike Eastern Extension Update:

President George Bush Turnpike Eastern Extension Click graphic for large version

 
The Eastern Extension is a portion of the outer loop around Dallas and its suburbs that connects Interstate Highway (IH) 30 to the existing President George Bush Turnpike (PGBT). It is part of the Loop 9/State Highway 190 corridor first envisioned in the 1960s. Construction on the
approximately 9.9-mile corridor began in October 2008. The project is expected to open to traffic in fourth quarter 2011.
 
Milestones

• A $160 million toll equity grant from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to the NTTA was approved for right of way (ROW) and other costs on August 23, 2007.
• A three-party agreement among the NTTA, TxDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) was executed in November 2007. In addition, a TxDOT/NTTA two-party agreement was executed, allowing eminent domain proceedings for critical ROW acquisition to begin; property acquisitions are ongoing.
• TxDOT approved a revised schematic on March 7, 2008.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 404 permit was approved April 25, 2008.
• The City of Dallas (Dallas Water Utilities, or DWU) agreement for the Lake Ray Hubbard bridge was approved by the Dallas City Council and NTTA Board of Directors in May 2008.
• A rail-crossing agreement with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) was approved by the DART Board and NTTA Board, also in May 2008.
• FHWA approved the Final Environmental Impact Statement reevaluation on July 1, 2008.
• A groundbreaking for the first construction contract, Section 30, from north of the future Merritt Road to south of Main Street, took place August 21, 2008. Construction began on October 13, 2008.
• A project information meeting was held November 20, 2008, at the Rowlett Community Centre. Hundreds of residents from Rowlett asked questions of the project team.
• All five sections of the extension were under construction in mid-March 2009.

Corridor Updates

• In Section 28, the contractor has completed clearing and grubbing from Firewheel Parkway to just short of the wetlands surrounding Rowlett Creek. The contractor also started roadway excavation and embankment construction near Firewheel Parkway.
• In Section 29, the contractor has completed clearing and grubbing between completed culverts three and four, located where Sections 29 and 30 join, and initiated embankment work at the northbound frontage road near the Liberty Grove crossing.
• In Section 30, the contractor began construction on the bridge over Liberty Grove Road, south of Merritt Road. Utility relocation and construction of various retaining walls are under way.
• In Section 30, a contractor put the finishing touches on the Coyle Farmstead after its relocation to Rowlett’s Pecan Grove Park in January and February 2009.
• The Section 31 contractor held a preconstruction meeting March 3, 2009, and began work in mid-March 2009. A USACE Section 404 permit “kickoff meeting” took place March 16, 2009.

Next Steps

• Continue construction on Sections 28-31

Corridor Details

• Project limits: Extends the PGBT from SH 78 to IH 30
• Project length: Approximately 9.9 miles
• Anticipated project cost: Approximately $1 billion
• Anticipated NTTA cost: Approximately $623 million
• Anticipated opening date (all sections): Fourth quarter 2011

City of Garland Press Release:

Healthy Living Expo 2009:
Healthy You, Healthy Earth: Rx for a Better World

When:   Saturday, May 2, 2009     10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where:   Garland ISD Special Events Center     4999 Naaman Forest Blvd Website:   www.GarlandGoesGreen.org

 
Learn how to improve your personal health and the health of the environment all in one event: Healthy Living Expo 2009 – “Healthy You, Healthy Earth: Rx for a Better World.”
 
The City of Garland, Garland ISD, Baylor Medical Center at Garland and the Garland Chamber of Commerce are working together to offer information about the relationship between personal health and environmental health. The Expo will offer exhibitor booths, free services, demonstrations and entertainment, all focused on helping citizens make positive changes to their daily lives.
 
The first 1,000 attendees will receive a microfiber, reusable shopping bag containing a variety of goodies and information. Radio Disney will rock the Expo with music, prizes and “eco-friendly” competitions for kids and parents.
 
“Healthy You” will provide health screenings and immunizations, plus information on prevention services, stress reduction methods, fitness activities, and much more. Five hundred free cholesterol screenings will be available, on a first come first served basis, beginning at 10 a.m. Immunizations will be administered by the Garland Health Department from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. only, at reduced fees for children and adults. Visit www.garlandgoesgreen.org for proof of residency requirements and other qualifications.
 
Learn about “healthy earth” topics, such as recycling, conservation, energy efficiency, gardening and alternative fuels. Event patrons can recycle a wide range of electronic equipment such as computers, telephones and much more. There is a fee associated with properly disposing of these items: $5 per computer monitor, $10 per television, 15 cents a pound for all other electronics. No household appliances will be accepted.
 
The City of Garland Water Utilities Department will have 1,000 low-flow showerheads to exchange. City of Garland utility customers can bring an old showerhead, a City of Garland utility bill and identification verifying that they are the utility subscriber, and will receive a new low-flow showerhead – FREE! Limit one showerhead per household. Changing out one non-water efficient showerhead for a low-flow showerhead could save your family 500 gallons of water a week.
 
If you have gently used clothing to recycle, bring them to the Expo too! The New Beginning Center will accept clothing donations outside the Special Events Center all day.
 
The event will also feature entertainment that’s both fun and informational. Several exercise classes from the City of Garland Recreation Centers will demonstrate their fitness routines, including Zumba, Yoga, Tai Chi, belly-dancing and Jazzercise.
 
The Eco Show will be featured twice in the afternoon. It is an interactive magic show that teaches about litter prevention, recycling and waste management.
 
Elizabeth Frisch from Nurtured World will speak in the afternoon as well, sharing information about the environmental impact of our day-to-day activities. Ms. Frisch will educate the audience about how to live an environmentally sustainable lifestyle that is financially and personally satisfying, too.
 
Dr. Laurence Smith will help you tackle the stress in your life. He’ll help you understand the little things that add up to big stress and share useful techniques for managing those stressors.
 
For a complete list of exhibitors, health screenings and a stage schedule, go to www.GarlandGoesGreen.org and click on “Healthy Living Expo.”
 

The scene above is not South Garland Rd but is in east Garland, or, more accurately, was.

 
The picture above, which I used in the previous post, was given to me yesterday by a staff member. He was under the impression that it was taken on S Garland Rd and reported to others and me that it was.
 
Today a friend saw the picture and told me that it was actually on Garvon St in east Garland, another area that recently underwent code sweeps. He said that this is an old picture, that the property had since been completely cleaned, all the junk cars and a trailer (barely visible in the photo) were gone, and that a new fence had been constructed.
 
I apologize to anyone that might have been affected by this misinformation. I hope there was none.
 
I've worked hard to make every word, and picture, posted on this blog factual. Of course, I offer opinions on various issues but those posts are marked and categorized as "Opinion." I can't guarantee every report or catch every typo but a faithful effort is made to be right.
 
This is not the first time I've had to correct something but it is visually the most noticeable. Most corrections are typos and I just change those. I'm sure I miss a lot more than I change. Any changes that alter the facts as presented are marked. The corrected language is struck but still visible. Those instances are very rare but can be found.
 

The Caterpillar, the Crow, and the Farmer

A caterpillar starts to climb a wooden rod and soon encounters straw. He thinks, "I'll have to remember this is here." He climbs further and soon is crossing a smoother material, faded blue denim. He likes how it is easy to climb so he goes on. He's not sure what to do with the leather strip that he finds next. It's too tough to eat so he continues until he finds more fabric, much smoother and thinner than before. This doesn't smell like cotton.
 
The view gets better and better as he climbs so goes further. The next thing he finds is harder to climb and he really has to hold on hard. He comes to a flat disk of felt that is black and dusty. If he is to keep going, he must crawl completely upside down. However, the felt surface is easy to hold so he continues. At the the disk's edge, he crawls into the sun and there is only a mount of the same material left. From the top, he has the best view of all. Later, he'll head down and look for that straw.
 
On a nearby fence, a crow doesn't notice the caterpillar and wouldn't do anything if he did. He just knows he doesn't want to get near that scary man in the field.
 
The farmer is watching from nearby and decides he is quite impressed with how well his new scarecrow is working.
 

 
When viewed piece by piece, the scarecrow is not even noticed. When viewed in gross, the psychological effect is quite different.
 
A lot of citizens have noted the discussion that has been underway about the code sweep on S Garland Ave. Parts of the sweep effort were discussed at Monday's Council Work Session. The rezoning recommendation from the Development Services Committee was shelved for the time being. Then the code sweep was discussed in the context of doing them citywide. For those that live near S Garland Rd or pass through the corridor regularly, they know there are even more issues. When these are all compartmentalized, the concerns toward each segment are limited, the caterpillar view. When taken together, the crow's view, the picture can be alarming.
 

 
I present this allegorical tale to convey perspective. S Garland Rd has numerous small areas like the photo above. [Ed. However, this picture is not from Garland Rd. Please see the next post.] I wasn't told who took it but it is a depressing scene. If your out-of-town cousin and his family were to see this along an entrance into the city, you'd be embarrassed. If a friend sees this across his back fence, you'd be embarrassed. You'd think, I don't want this to be representative of my city, my home. If this was a business next to yours, you'd think it was negatively affecting your livelihood.
 
The Building Inspections Dept, recently tasked with this type of enforcement, was asked by the district Council representative to address these situations. He says he was responding to concerns by residents in the area. It was also one of the greater concerns identified in neighborhood meetings as part of our Neighborhood Vitality process.
 
Meeting today with senior staff members and the Building Dept manager, I am confident that the inspectors have been professional. They feel there is a problem (and we all agree, including the businesses in the area) and they feel their actions have been proper.
 
Within that compartmentalized view, that is all probably correct. I know the businesses were grumbling about suddenly receiving violation notices after nothing being said for years, but they were making the required changes. Many were thankful for the cleanup, especially those that had been doing the best job all along.
 
They became alarmed when they learned there was an effort afoot to extend the Downtown Overlay District standards to S Garland Rd. Within the Downtown area, an automotive-related business can continuing doing business but no new automotive businesses are allowed. If they should go out of business for more than 60 days, the property owner loses that use of his land. In other words, that type of use in Downtown is capped and will probably slowing go away. Ideally, someone will buy the land and another use more directly related to Downtown will replace it. In the Downtown area, those restrictions are justified. The current automotive use is protected as long as the owner stays in business but the pedestrian-friendly environment that will be critical for economic success is protected, too.
 
No way can those conditions be justified on S Garland Rd. It is not a pedestrian environment and alternate developments have not even been contemplated, but are underway Downtown. The Overlay also contained a poison pill: If extended to S Garland Rd and the area were moved under the Overlay umbrella, any of those businesses could have said, "Enough! I'm moving Downtown," busting the cap to pieces.
 
That threat died but was immediately replaced by another one: a recommendation of the Development Services Committee to ask the Plan Commission to consider rezoning the area. As of Monday, that recommendation is on hold for several months because the city is in the process of updating and (hopefully) improving its Development Plan and Codes. So the issue could come roaring back.
 
The staff says they are only doing a code sweep and aren't involved in a rezoning effort. I'm sure that's true. It's all the other things that really gives the businesses the concern. There are too many people presenting and defending it merely as an enforcement action.
 
The crows don't see it that way. And no wonder.
 

The northeast sector of Dallas County is represented by Commissioner Mike Cantrell on the Dallas County Commissioners Court. Commissioner Cantrell is a Garland resident who's name, in my opinion, could be used to define public servant. I've mentioned Commissioner Cantrell a number of times, especially for his leadership shepherding the process that brought together the several parties involved with the eastern extension of the PGB Turnpike (SH-190) that directly led to the construction now underway on all sections from Lavon Ave (SH-78) to I-30. You'll not hear him say anything taking credit for his role but everyone involved will tell you that the credit is his. Beyond that, many of his proactive ideas and initiatives have since been copied in the other county districts and wider. What better definition is there of a public servant?
 
The purpose of this post is to let everyone know that his official website has recently been updated, but I'm using the opportunity to also acknowledge my admiration for his leadership and counsel.
 

 
Garland covers a large percentage of the area represented by Commissioner Cantrell, Dallas County's District 2, so citizens should have a basic understanding of the shared interests. Several of our streets are still considered county roads. It is participation by the county that often enables earlier enhancements to those corridors. Council District 1 is particularly impacted. The most recent widening and improvement of Campbell Rd was through county participation. The current widening and improvement of Murphy Rd is through county participation. The future widening of Lavon Ave to the county line is through county participation (and access to federal funds).
 
Garland directly benefits from the operation of Parkland Hospital, from other health services, the county jail, and the list goes on.
 
I invite citizens to visit Commissioner Cantrell's website. There is great advantage to all Garland citizens to know and understand how all these various governments and agencies work together for our residents.
 

Realtors often mention "curb appeal," the attractiveness of a property when the prospective buyer first pulls up in front of the house. They encourage the seller to pay attention to the landscaping, the paint, and everything that says "well-maintained; a wonderful place to live." The seller will get rid of things that cast the property in a negative light but will accent the positive with new paint and new carpet and other improvements that will hold the value and hopefully increase the sales price.
 
The seller is never going to board the windows or level the house. That only depresses the value. Drastically.
 
Yet that is the exact strategy often advocated for our corridors and other areas. Run the "less desirable" business out and maybe someone else will do better on the property. Vacant lots and boarded or empty buildings do nothing except depress the area. There are probably some that think that's okay because then we get to start over. First, government has no ability to take the land and "start over" without paying for it first. Of course, a cynic would acknowledge that depressing the property would make a governmental acquisition cheaper. Maybe so; maybe that wouldn't bother some people.
 
I can find no examples where the latter strategy has been successful. As to the realtors that sell millions of homes each year, there are plenty of success stories. I prefer to follow the successful examples, especially when the score is millions to none.
 
I mentioned at Monday's work session and in an earlier post a Corridor Study by Angelou Economics, March 2002, that was prepared for the city. I mentioned that one of the corridors studied was South First St and I mentioned that the results were probably almost identical to what would have been received for South Garland Ave if it had been included.
 
I wanted to share some of the highlights from the report to better illustrate the strategy that was proposed, a strategy to increase Garland's curb appeal.
 

The following from the Corridor Study is highly abridged:
 
South First Street Corridor
 
Located in the center of Garland, South First Street is one of the city's most heavily trafficked business corridors. A historic strip surrounded by some of Garland's oldest residential neighborhoods, the area reflects the city's growing ethnic diversity. It connects directly to attractions in the downtown area, including the Main Street District, city government offices, performing and cultural arts facilities, and the Downtown DART Station. The street is also a major north-south thoroughfare connecting to SH190, SH78 and I-30. Unfortunately, years of disinvestment have left sections of the corridor in need of revitalization.
 
Given its importance within the city, the redevelopment of the South First Street commercial corridor should be a priority to the city of Garland. The revitalization of the area should address problems along the street while also reflecting the community's desired vision for the district. This process will require three important features: (1) widespread support from city officials, property and business owners, area residents and other local institutions; (2) an organizational structure to oversee redevelopment efforts and raise funds; and (3) a well-defined revitalization plan. The following strategies provide recommendations to build upon these three areas:
 
 
Strategy I: A Vision for South First Street
 
The first step in revitalizing First Street will be for those who live, work and shop along the district to agree on a common vision for the street. Strategies for redeveloping the commercial corridor should reflect this image and work toward agreed-upon goals. With this buy-in and grassroots support from area stakeholders to the process, redevelopment efforts will likely not be successful or sustainable.
 
     Recommendation: Establish a vision for South First Street
 
The first step in establishing a vision for South First Street will be to engage area stakeholders. Many players will be involved in the redevelopment of South First Street. Getting the buy-in of area stakeholders to the process as early as possible is critical to the development of a successful plan. These players should be informed and active throughout the process. ***
 
 
Strategy II: Organizational/Financing Issues
 
Once the community has agreed on a vision for First Street, the most important step in making that vision a reality is to determine the organizational structure and financing mechanism for desired activities and improvements. Given the comprehensive strategy and capital investment required, this effort will first and foremost require the long-term commitment and full support of the City of Garland and local property and business owners. Once this support is secured, an entity will be needed to oversee redevelopment efforts, raise funds, and manage programs while representing the interests of both the public and private sectors. ***
 
     Recommendation 1: Create a (South First Street) Community Development Corporation
 
A Community Development Corporation (CDC) should be created to oversee South First Street's revitalization efforts and other relevant community development initiatives. CDC's are non-profit, community-based organizations typically serving predominantly lower-income neighborhoods. They can be public, quasi-public or private organizations depending on their funding sources, authoritative powers, and community need. Its Board of Directors would represent the interests of local business owners and area residents in devising and implementing the revitalization plan.
 
The main purpose of this CDC would be to act as an advocate within the city of Garland for redevelopment along South First Street and bordering areas. To this end, the CDC would be responsible for the critical task of raising funds for needed improvements and services. As a quasi-public organization, the CDD could receive public money, but it would not have the authority to levy taxes or condemn land. It would, however, have the capacity to negotiate and contract in private with entities for desired development. *** This ability to raise public and private funds and contract with developers while representing community interests makes a CDC a highly effective organizational tool for redevelopment efforts. ***
 
Funds raised through local economic development tools, such as a Public Improvement District, are often channeled through a CDC. Other sources include other city, state and federal grant programs, private sector financing, organizational member fees, foundation grants, and various other funding programs ***.
 
     Recommendation 2: Designate South First Street as a Public Improvement District (PID)
 
For areas such as South First Street in which poorly maintained infrastructure or a lack of investment is hindering business development, the designation of a Public Improvement District (PID) can provide a significant means to raise needed funds. A PID allows the city to levy and collect special assessments on properties with a defined district and may be used to pay for various types of allowable improvements, acquisitions or construction. PID's are an increasingly common tool for redeveloping specific districts. The Downtown Austin Alliance, for example, uses a PID comprised of over 30 city blocks to fund many of its programs and services. ***
 
     Recommendation 3: Identify additional funding sources ***
 
 
Strategy III: Revitalization Plan
 
Once a vision has been established and an organizational structure developed, the specific elements of a revitalization plan for South First Street can be agreed upon and implemented. The first phases of this redevelopment effort will be to "take care of the basics." Another element of this plan will be to strengthen the commercial district through technical assistance for existing merchants and diversification of the business mix. The third aspect of the plan will be to focus on specific redevelopment sites, primarily at the corridor's three major intersections and infill development of vacant and under-utilized parcels.
 
Phase One: "Take care of the basics" ***
 
     Recommendation 1: Address basic issues affecting the area's appearance and image ***
 
     Recommendation 2: Create an identity for South First Street ***
 
     Recommendation 3: Market and promote South First Street ***
 
Phase Two: Business Development ***
 
     Recommendation 1: Organize the South First Street Merchants Association ***
 
     Recommendation 2: Provide technical assistance through business retention programs ***
 
     Recommendation 3: Diversify the local tenant mix through business attraction ***
 
     Recommendation 4: Develop menu of incentives ***
 
Phase Three: Redevelopment Opportunities ***
 
     Recommendation 1: Focus initial development at key intersections ***
 
     Recommendation 2: Pursue infill development of vacant parcels ***
 

 
I've provided little more than the outline of the strategy. The study is about 110 pages and covers three corridors. As noted, a very similar strategy could be implemented for South Garland Ave and other corridors.
 
The points I want to make are: (1) achieving success in these situations where there has been decades of decline requires a good strategy, (2) there are right ways and wrongs ways to address the challenge, and often being 90% right is not enough, (3) the best advice most often comes from professionals with practical experience rather than amateurs with strong feelings, (4) it takes a community working together, (5) hard work, (6) imagine where we'd be if we'd started in 2002, and (7) its worth it.
 
 
UPDATE: Comments closed to block spam hits.
 

South Garland Avenue received some revitalization in the early 1990's along the railroad and high-power lines and some sidewalks in front of the businesses. Compare this corridor to Forest Lane. The right of way widths are not the same so the comparison is limited but if we want better entrances to the city, is it only up to the businesses? Success requires a vision and a strategy.   The city, not the Council, has instituted a zero-tolerance code enforcement policy toward the businesses on S Garland Ave, or at least certain types of businesses.   There was lengthy discussion at last night's Council Work Session (Item 3a) about the seemingly staff-initiated policy but many of the specifics remain unclear. The throw-the-book-at-'em approach was defended as: "What other choice is there?" Who instituted the policy was not answered. Which businesses are being targeted is unclear. So, read between the lines.   My primary questions have been: What message are we sending our businesses? What messages are we sending to those looking to locate and invest in Garland? Are rules being enforced equally and fairly across the city? Who's next?   The first puff of smoke that might have alerted anyone of this enforcement initiative and its goals was a proposal sent to the Council's Development Services Committee a few months ago proposing to extend the Downtown Overlay District to S Garland Ave, particularly the restrictions on automotive-related businesses that essentially prohibit any new uses.   About the same time, businesses in the area were suddenly being visited by Building Inspectors numerous times per week. Mayor Ron Jones and I attended a meeting of the businesses, where we were told of the intense enforcement and a barrage of violation notices. Some infractions were so minor that several businesses that have flags along their property line (car dealers) reported they received notices that their flags sometimes flew over the sidewalk (but only when the wind was from the west).   Last week a west Garland resident reported to the Mayor and I that he was in one of the businesses when an inspector, with shirttail out and ball cap, entered the business and told the owner that he would have to "clean up the property and that [the inspector] would be back next time with the police."   In late January, the Building Inspection Dept circulated a memo to staff members changing the procedure for processing Certificates of Occupancy, which are required of all businesses, but the memo was only for automotive-related uses (automobile and motorcycle sales, leasing, and service and repair). Applications would require sealed professional drawings of the entire boundary, including driveway locations, public sidewalks and pubic alleys; designated parking places for employees; designated parking places for customers; designated parking places for cars awaiting repair. Sealed professional drawings would also be required showing the office area, repair areas, bathrooms, and all other spaces. Each establishment is to be inspected at least twice per year. No other type of business in Garland is similarly regulated yet there is only one Code of Ordinances.   When I asked City Manager Bill Dollar what was going on, I received this reply:   It is part of an overall Code Sweeps effort that is being conducted by Building Inspection Zoning Inspectors. It is Building Inspection's intent to expand this effort to all Commercial corridors in our City. [Emphasis mine.]     Holy smokes! Is this really what the City plans to do to every business along every commercial corridor?   Obviously a policy has been created that is directed at one type of business. Changes in the rules have been made for that type of business, changes that are not reflected in our Code of Ordinances. Intense enforcement has been directed toward that type of business and in one area, so far.   Note: It is the Council's job to set policy and staff's to implement it and yet, in this case, a policy has been created and unevenly applied without any notice to the Council.   In last night's discussion, several Council members accepted this development without any objection. Some defended the zero-tolerance posture, yet if such tolerance levels were applied to their homes or to their businesses or to their driving, I doubt such precise and exacting policy would long be defended.   Our neighborhood sweeps by the Code Compliance Dept doesn't scrape at your paint, use picks to test your wood and mortar, but observes a list of priorities that cover the basics (initial introduction mentioned here). An educational program preceded that effort; the Council was briefed and asked for input. Educational programs are a normal part of the health inspection process and most other city efforts, of which I'm very proud. This process is different and I do not defend it.   It is obvious from comments that some Council members were aware of this new "policy" and had a hand in it yet none have been forthright enough to say so. That there is intent to serve their voting constituents, I don't doubt. That there is frustration initiating positive change in government and the community, I don't doubt.   Nor do I doubt that the City Charter is being usurped and that the city has been recently divided as to how the rules will be enforced. Nor do I doubt that there is great harm sidestepping the Council and not publicly sharing whatever goals exist here. The expectation by citizens and our Charter of one city, not eight, is being challenged, as I spoke of here.   We do have aesthetic and other problems on S Garland Ave and most corridors to the city center. Beating on the businesses, driving them out of business, rendering the corridors to vacant lots and dust, will not help. That long and illegal process, at the end of the day, doesn't bring about change. What new business owner would not think: "There but for the grace of God, go I. How soon before they think me old and tired and treat me the same?" If you were investing your dollars, is this where you would invest?   As I expressed last night, these corridors are the first impressions of Garland. They are among our best marketing tools. What message do we send when we dress the railroad tracks with grass and trees on berms, and with fashionable light standards, yet on the other side we don't do anything similar. Do we as a city show our concern when we leave the medians as bare, concrete islands instead of landscaping them as we did on Forest Ln?   So, how well has the city met its responsibilities to the corridors? Should we be throwing stones? Those that live in glass houses….   There are ways to improve our corridors. In 2002, the City paid big bucks for a corridor study from Angelou Economics. It was an in-depth analysis of our freeway corridors and S First St. Unfortunately, that Council paid the bill and then prioritized it to the bottom of the stack. I learned of it during our rezoning efforts on S First St.   If we had followed the recommendations, this would already be a different city. We would almost assuredly not be facing property declines as steep as we are now experiencing.   The recommendations for S First St are probably identical to what we would expect to have seen for S Garland Ave:     A redevelopment effort to address the physical and economic conditions of the commercial district should be a priority to the City of Garland. This process will require three important elements: (1) community-wide support from city officials, property and business owners, area residents and other local institutions; (2) an organizational structure to oversee redevelopment efforts and raise funds; and (3) a well-defined plan.   For a revitalized [South Garland Avenue] to be successful, it must reflect community's desired vision of the district and be supported by area residents and business owners. Therefore, the recommended first step is to engage area stakeholders in a visioning process. Because this effort will require a long-term comprehensive approach, AE [Angelou Economics] recommends establishing a community development corporation (CDC) to implement the redevelopment plan and coordinate funding and marketing strategies. Another recommended organizational and financing tool is to designate [South Garland Avenue] as a Public Improvement District (PID). A PID would allow the city to levy a special assessment on properties within the district to pay for various types of improvements, programs, or acquisitions. Because of the organizational requirements for establishing a PID, it is unlikely to occur without the efforts of a CDC. In fact, without an organization such as a CDC in place, the overall revitalization plan for [South Garland Avenue] will be difficult to implement.     No lasting change and no long-term benefit to Garland will be realized by singling out and whipping our businesses. None. There is no model that suggests it and all experience argues against it. We rezoned S First St and we hit them with Code enforcement. Judge for yourself.   We have to grow the value of our city to address our current and future challenges. Doing more to dress up our corridors will go a long way to help meet those challenges but we have to do it in a way that encourages investment and success.   My primary questions remain: What message are we sending our businesses? What messages are we sending to those looking to locate and invest in Garland? Are rules being enforced equally and fairly across the city? Who's next?

 
UPDATE: Comments closed to block spam hits.
 

From the Garland City Press: Three Vie for Mayor’s Seat Three Garland residents are running to be Mayor of Garland, while four Garland City Council members will be unopposed in the May 9, 2009 Municipal Election.   Incumbent Mayor Ronald E. Jones will run for his second term. Also running are Dino Quintanilla and Christopher Ott.   Unopposed are: Preston Edwards, District 3; Barbara Chick, District 6; Rick Williams, District 7; and Darren Lathen, District 8.   Eastfield College is hosting a forum for candidates running for Garland Mayor. Don Baynham, Associate Vice President for Outreach and Advancement at Eastfield College, will moderate the forum. The forum is scheduled for Thursday, April 16 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chamber of Garland City Hall, 200 North Fifth Street.   The forum will also be broadcast live on CGTV, the City’s government access cable channel. CGTV is available on Time Warner Cable channel 16, on Verizon FIOS TV channel 44 and is streamed live on the City’s website at www.ci.garland.tx.us.

I was unable to attend the Mayoral Forum tonight at City Hall because of a prior commitment. I will be watching the session on CGTV. If you didn't get to attend the forum, you can do the same. The direct link is here.
 

Construction of the Eastern Extension of the President George Bush Turnpike from Lavon Ave to IH-30 is moving ahead rapidly, as seen here east of Firewheel Pkwy (Lowes is to the left and Dicks Sporting Goods can be seen to the right). The bed for a future access ramp can be seen just above the drainage ditch.

 
Progress on the President George Bush Turnpike (SH-190) Eastern Extension is moving ahead. Crews are digging the access beneath the Firewheel Pkwy bridge that was originally built as part of the advance work done for the Firewheel Town Center. All sections through Garland, Sachse, and Rowlett between Lavon Ave and IH-30 have work underway.
 
The turnpike will soon see other changes. The toll booths so common to most toll roads will disappear.
 

 
The North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) is converting its existing system to all-electronic toll collection (all-ETC). The conversion will improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, enhance safety and improve air quality.
 
The first toll road to be converted is the President George Bush Turnpike (Bush Turnpike). Beginning July 1, 2009, cash will no longer be accepted on the Bush Turnpike. Customers who do not have TollTags will be mailed invoices for travel on the Bush Turnpike. In addition, new corridors under construction will feature all-ETC. For more information about all-ETC, visit www.ntta.org and click on the all-ETC link located on the home page.
 
NTTA staff will answer questions about the conversion during three upcoming open house meetings.
 
     All-ETC Conversion Open House Schedule
 
     April 27, 2009
     Gladys Harrington Library
     1501 18th Street
     Plano, Texas 75074
 
     April 28, 2009
     Timberglen Branch Library
     18505 Midway Road
     Dallas, Texas 75287
 
     April 30, 2009
     Valley Ranch Library
     401 Cimarron Trail
     Irving, Texas 75060
 
More information about the meetings can be found on the NTTA Web site listed above. Comments may be submitted via e-mail to projects@ntta.org or mailed to NTTA Communications Department, P.O. Box 260729, Plano, Texas 75026.
 

A good friend's granddaughter and Lupinus texensis give us a double lesson in the blessings of spring.

 
There are certain seasonal markers that thrill me. Like the Trout Lilies. They are a sure sign that Spring has arrived in Garland.
 
Still, there's nothing quite equal to the first bluebonnets each year. That's a thrill that seems as strong today as when I was a child. As I got older and traveled more, in various years, I was able to watch bluebonnets in the Rio Grande Valley seemingly march north as the weeks warmed the higher latitudes.
 
I've seen some grand displays of bluebonnets this year but haven't found the time to take any pictures — at least not any that satisfied me (unfortunately, I didn't take the photo above). I saw a ton of bluebonnets yesterday along Centerville Dr near Homer Johnson Stadium but didn't have time to stop. There's still a little time to take your own pictures. Maybe I'll see you there.
 

City of Garland News Release:

Volunteers Needed for Healthy Living Expo

Garland, Texas – Volunteers are the backbone of any important undertaking. The same is true for the Healthy Living Expo on Saturday, May 2, 2009 at the Garland ISD Special Events Center.

 
The event theme is “Healthy You, Healthy Earth: Rx for a Better World.” The City of Garland, Garland ISD, Baylor Medical Center at Garland and the Garland Chamber of Commerce will join forces to demonstrate how caring for both ourselves and the earth creates a healthy lifestyle, and has a positive impact on the world around us. The Expo will offer exhibitor booths, free services, demonstrations and entertainment, all focused on helping citizens make positive changes to their daily lives.
 
Volunteer opportunities are available for adults and older teens. Duties will include exhibitor check in, guest and exhibitor relations, arts and crafts, and other interactive activities. Some exhibitors will need volunteer manpower to help accept donation and recycling drop-offs.
 
Anyone interested in volunteering can download a volunteer application at www.GarlandGoesGreen.org or contact Shelley Franklin at 972-205-3285 or sfrankli@ci.garland.tx.us.
 

Press Release from the Governor's Office:

 

Governor Perry speaking today in support of a bill that asserts Texas state rights under the federal Tenth Amendment. Standing to right of Gov Perry is Rep Angie Chen Button, who represents the western half of District 1. She and Rep Joe Driver, who represents the eastern half, are both co-authors of the bill.

 
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today joined state Rep. Brandon Creighton and sponsors of House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 50 in support of states' rights under the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
 
"I believe that our federal government has become oppressive in its size, its intrusion into the lives of our citizens, and its interference with the affairs of our state," Gov. Perry said. "That is why I am here today to express my unwavering support for efforts all across our country to reaffirm the states' rights affirmed by the Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. I believe that returning to the letter and spirit of the U.S. Constitution and its essential 10th Amendment will free our state from undue regulations, and ultimately strengthen our Union."
 
A number of recent federal proposals are not within the scope of the federal government’s constitutionally designated powers and impede the states’ right to govern themselves. HCR 50 affirms that Texas claims sovereignty under the 10th Amendment over all powers not otherwise granted to the federal government.
 
It also designates that all compulsory federal legislation that requires states to comply under threat of civil or criminal penalties, or that requires states to pass legislation or lose federal funding, be prohibited or repealed.
 
HCR 50 is authored by Representatives Brandon Creighton, Leo Berman, Bryan Hughes, Dan Gattis and Ryan Guillen.
 
To view the full text of the resolution, please visit: www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HC00050I.htm.
 

I've not posted a news release from other than the city but it seemed this would be helpful information to many Garland residents:

American Legion New Release:

American Legion Post to Help Garland Community

INDIANAPOLIS (April 7, 2009) – Wartime veterans of Garland have a new outlet through which to serve the community. The American Legion, the nation’s largest veteran’s organization, is inviting all wartime era veterans in the area to join them in starting a new American Legion post to provide service to the community and veterans of Garland.
 
Officers and staff members of the Indianapolis-based American Legion National Headquarters and Austin-based State Headquarters will be in town to kick off this community and veteran service campaign. According to American Legion by-laws, at least 15 veterans are required to form a post
 
We invite all wartime veterans in this area to attend the new post’s formative meetings at the North Garland Branch Library at 3845 N. Garland Avenue (at Apollo Road). Membership and Veteran Information Staff will be available at that location on Thursday, April 16, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, April 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
 
A Texas American Legion Service Officer will also be available for all area veterans with claims or other veteran-related questions on Thursday, April 16, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the North Garland Branch Library.
 
Additionally, the first Garland American Legion Post meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 29, at 6 p.m. at the Central Library at 625 Austin Street in downtown Garland.
 
In keeping with the almost 90-year tradition of The American Legion, the newly formed Garland American Legion Post will focus on community service and assistance to veterans. The scope and nature of the post’s community service will be determined by its members and inputs from local civic and community officials.
 

City of Garland Press Release:

City of Garland to Host
Home Buyer and Sustaining Home Ownership Classes

Garland, Texas – In recognition of Fair Housing Month (April) and CDBG Week (April 12-18), the City of Garland, along with The Lending Partners, will sponsor a Home Buyer Education Class and Sustaining Home Ownership Workshop on Saturday, April 18, 2009 from 9 a.m. to noon. The event will be held at the City of Garland Unified Learning Center (COG-ULC), which is located at 232 Carver Drive in east Garland.
 
Interested homebuyers and persons who want to get ready for homeownership will have the opportunity to learn about the home purchase process and hear from loan professionals regarding this timely and important topic. Information about City programs and services, along with mortgage and real estate services, will be available in a Resource Room.
 
"In light of recent news about homeownership, we want to make sure prospective homebuyers are fully aware of the responsibilities of homeownership and learn about City and community programs that can benefit prospective homebuyers," said Priscilla Wilson, Senior Managing Director of Human Resources.
 
The event is sponsored by the City of Garland, with speakers from The Lending Partners. "The event is a collaboration between various entities to connect members of the community with resources, services and various City programs," said Jose Alvarado, Fair Housing Manager for the City of Garland.
 
The event will provide residents an opportunity to hear from experienced speakers on topics such as: Home selection; budgeting for homeownership; financing process; role of the lender and realtor; property taxes; homeowners insurance; role of the title company; and strategies to sustain homeownership and avoid foreclosure. Lenders and realtors will also be available to speak to class participants individually.
 
April 2009 is designated as Fair Housing Month, and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Week is April 12-18, 2009. The CDBG provides resources for a wide variety of community development activities that principally benefit low- and moderate-income persons, including the elderly and children.
 
Locally, the Garland Fair Housing Ordinance makes it illegal to discriminate against a person, in the sale and rental of housing, based on race, color, sex, religion, handicap, familial status, age or national origin. It is the policy of the City of Garland, through fair, orderly and lawful procedures, to promote the opportunity for each person to obtain housing without discrimination of any of the protected classes.
 
Sponsors and Partners include: Garland Fair Housing Office; Garland Housing Agency; Garland Neighborhood Services; Garland Planning Department – Grants Management; Garland Human Resources Department; and The Lending Partners.
 
For more information, please call the Garland Fair Housing Office at 972-205-3300.

In total, arrests and reported incidents for March are high, certainly the highest we've seen over the last six months and over the last couple years. Those numbers are somewhat deceiving though. In most categories, crime was down. The exceptions were vehicle burglaries and thefts. Vehicle burglaries were on the high side of the typical range we often see.
 
Thefts once again led all other reported crimes. Unlike most other categories that are primarily reported incidents, almost half of the thefts are arrests for shoplifting. We hope to see low figures in the data so we know crime is minimal, but, ironically, high numbers in thefts can also show that violators are being caught and arrested. Spread the word that shoplifting and other crimes are being enforced in Garland and explain the future consequences that these bad choices will have on careers and futures.
 
Young people represent a high percentage of shoplifting, vehicle burglary, and other theft cases. That stolen $25 or $150 item can easily cost them hundreds of thousands of dollars over their lives in lost review and lower employment levels. Lost community prestige is unmeasurable. We as a community need to convey to our children and to other youth that investing in their future means making the choices that will pay dividends, not cost them year after year.
 
At the neighborhood level, we see more intrusions this last month than what we had been seeing. Those incidents can be counted on two or three hands but, for those families affected, it can be traumatic. As always, be aware and protect your property by locking doors, keeping garage doors closed, locking cars, and using other techniques that discourage trespassers. Double and quadruple your protection by watching your neighbors property and knowing your neighbors so they will care about yours.
 
Contact your Neighborhood Police Officer if you would like to have someone speak at a neighborhood meeting to learn more ways that you can protect yourself, your family, and your property.
 
If you want to review the areas that have reported incidents over the last month, download the complete report here for address-by-address information that includes your neighborhood.
 

 
The Library of Congress burned twice and destroyed all of the collections both times. When Congress anticipated restarting the third time, Thomas Jefferson offered to sell his personal collection of thousands and thousands of books to the Library. There was resistance because Jefferson's books covered a wide range of subjects and arts. Many did not think all those appropriate or necessary for a Congressional library.
 
It was finally agreed to buy Jefferson's library as the foundation for the newest Library of Congress. A subsequent fire destroyed three-quarters of that collection. The books that were saved are now housed in a special room and shelves. Protected with glass on the front and back, the shelves form a circular spiral with a slip opening on one side.
 
The photograph above was taken on the recent trip to Washington DC that I've mentioned. During our tour of the Library of Congress, we were told at one point that photographs were not permitted at two locations. I learned that there were actually many more locations where photos are not allowed, including here. This photo is a ten second exposure. Within seconds a security guard was present telling me that I couldn't take any shots or they'd confiscate my camera. I certainly did not intend to break any rules and now feel fortunate to have by happenstance captured this scene. The reason for no photographs is the deleterious affects of the bright light from flashes. This was taken without a flash (hence the long exposure) so my conscience is clear.
 
But now you have no such excuses. You know.
 

City of Garland Press Release:

Healthy Living Expo 2009:
Health and Environment Come Together

Garland, Texas – Learn how to improve your personal health and the health of the environment all in one event: Healthy Living Expo 2009 – "Healthy You, Healthy Earth: Rx for a Better World."

 
The City of Garland, Garland ISD, Baylor Medical Center at Garland and the Garland Chamber of Commerce will join forces on Saturday, May 2, 2009, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the GISD Special Events Center, to look at how caring for both ourselves and the earth creates a healthy lifestyle, and has a positive impact on the world around us. The Expo will offer exhibitor booths, free services, demonstrations and entertainment, all focused on helping citizens make positive changes to their daily lives.
 
The first 1,000 attendees will receive a microfiber, reusable shopping bag containing a variety of goodies and information. Radio Disney will rock the Expo with music, prizes and "eco-friendly" competitions for kids and parents.
 
"Healthy You:" will provide health screenings and immunizations, plus information on prevention services, stress reduction methods, fitness activities, and much more. Five hundred free cholesterol screenings will be available, on a first come first served basis, beginning at 10 a.m. Immunizations will be administered by the Garland Health Department from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. only, at reduced fees for children and adults. Visit www.garlandgoesgreen.org for proof of residency requirements and other qualifications.
 
Learn about "healthy earth" topics, such as recycling, conservation, energy efficiency, gardening and alternative fuels. Event patrons can recycle a wide range of electronic equipment such as computers, telephones and much more. There is a fee associated with properly disposing of these items: $5 per computer monitor, $10 per television, 15 cents a pound for all other electronics. No household appliances will be accepted.
 
The City of Garland Water Utilities Department will have 1,000 low-flow showerheads to exchange. City of Garland utility customers can bring an old showerhead, a City of Garland utility bill and identification verifying that they are the utility subscriber, and will receive a new low-flow showerhead – FREE! Limit one showerhead per household. Changing out one non-water efficient showerhead for a low-flow showerhead could save your family 500 gallons of water a week.
 
Exhibitor and volunteer opportunities are still available. To download applications and more information, go to www.garlandgoesgreen.org or www.garlandchamber.com.