Dallas’ Ice Force ready for winter weather

The City of Dallas is prepared to fight winter weather with the help of Ice Force One. Staff from Public Works and Trinity Watershed Management monitor weather and road conditions from Ice Force Command at the Southeast Service Center, and deploy trucks as needed.

The City has 30 trucks retrofitted with sand spreaders stationed at four strategic points throughout Dallas, and the Central Business District. The City can also activate over 30 additional trucks if needed. The sand used may have salt and/or additional de-icing materials as warranted by the road conditions.

The City of Dallas is responsible for keeping major city streets and Trinity River bridges clear and passable. The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for the highways, and the North Texas Tollway Authority is responsible for the toll roads.

The post Dallas’ Ice Force ready for winter weather appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/dallas-ice-force-ready-winter-weather

Top 5 ways to beat the winter blues

Weather in Texas can change with little warning. These simple tips can help keep you and your family safe during below freezing temperatures.

1. Take care of pets and people – don’t stay outside longer than needed, and wear multiple layers as temperatures drop
2. Turn off lawn sprinklers to prevent dangerous ice patches – it’s a code violation to cause ice from sprinklers
3. Residents in the City of Dallas who need relief from the extreme cold are welcome to visit any Park and Recreation or Library facility during normal business hours for temporary relief from the cold. The City of Dallas has 43 recreation centers and 29 libraries located throughout the city.
   • Library locations and hours of operation: dallaslibrary2.org/hours.php
   • Recreation Center locations and hours of operation: www.dallasparks.org/160/Recreation-Centers
4. Bring in or wrap sensitive plants to protect them
5. Set faucets to drip – avoiding pipe damage during freezing temperatures can save costly repairs

The City of Dallas Office of Emergency Management has winter weather tips for your home, office and if you’re traveling. Learn more here –

 

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/top-5-ways-beat-winter-blues

Fireworks, gunfire and DWI – Stay safe this NYE

The City of Dallas and Dallas Police Department have reminders for those celebrating the New Year this weekend.

It is illegal to possess, store, handle and/or use of fireworks in the city limits and officers may write tickets for those violating the law. This offense is punishable by a fine up to $2,000 and officers may seize the opened fireworks.

Also, discharging a firearm in the city limits is not only illegal, it is very dangerous. What goes up, must come down. Every year, across the country, people are hurt or even killed by stray bullets from celebratory gunfire. This offense is punishable by a fine up to $4,000 and up to one year in jail.

The Dallas Police Department will be running a DWI No-Refusal initiative for the New Year’s Day holiday weekend. During this initiative, officers will secure a search warrant for blood samples from all persons arrested for DWI who refuse to voluntarily give a breath and/or blood sample.

On New Year’s Eve, officers will be on patrol looking for violations. Please call 911 to report any of these illegal activities to police. We wish everyone a safe and happy New Year.

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/fireworks-gunfire-dwi-stay-safe-nye

Love Field is ready for winter weather

Dallas Love Field stays prepared for any kind of Texas weather, including winter weather. Part of that preparedness includes being able to keep runways and roads clear of hazardous ice and snow.

Here are five fast facts on Love Field’s winter weather technology:

• Winter weather equipment is inspected monthly for wear and tear all year long
• Deicing trucks can be filled quicker than trailers and hold up to 45 hundred gallons of deicing solution
• Winter weather equipment includes:
  • Snow blowers
  • Two deicing trucks
  • Deicing trailer
  • Four truck-mounted snow brooms
• Refilling stations on each end of the airfield provide faster access to deicing solution
• Airfield maintenance is responsible for keeping airport roads, runways and taxiways safe and clear of ice and snow

The post Love Field is ready for winter weather appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/love-field-ready-winter-weather

City seeking public input at Neighborhood Public Hearings

Public Hearings will be held Jan. 4 to Feb. 13 to get citizen input on the City’s Consolidated Plan Budget for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs.

The event will provide an overview of the Fiscal Year 2018-19 Consolidated Plan Budget for HUD grant funds, solicit input on community needs, and enable citizens to learn about HUD funded programs and connect with City of Dallas departments.

The Consolidated Plan Budget consists of these HUD Grant Funds:

• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
• Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)
• Housing Opportunities for Persons with Aids (HOPWA)
• Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)

Neighborhood Public Hearings will be held at various locations throughout the city.

The complete list of dates and times are below:

English Flyer

Spanish Flyer

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/city-seeking-public-input-neighborhood-public-hearings

City makes recycling Christmas trees simple

Dallas Sanitation Services makes it easy to recycle your Christmas trees after the holiday. Bring your real tree to the McCommas Bluff Landfill or the Northwest Transfer Station through Tuesday, January 6 to be recycled. Please remove all tinsel, ornaments, lights and rope before you drop off your tree. Residents can also put their tree out for their regular brush / bulk pickup.

Call the Dallas Zero Waste Hotline at 214-670-4475 for drop-off times and more information.

McCommas Bluff Landfill – 5100 Youngblood Rd., 75241

Northwest Transfer Station – 9500 Harry Hines Blvd., 75220

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14 North Texas companies recognized by Entrepreneur magazine forgrit, innovation

Dallas-Fort Worth is known as a haven for entrepreneurs and thriving businesses. That was definitely on display when a national magazine highlighted the companies that best exemplify the attributes needed to succeed. Entrepreneur magazine on Tuesday unveiled its annual list of the most entrepreneurial companies in the country and North Texas made a strong showing with 14 winners.
www.entrepreneur.com/360#2017-list

The post 14 North Texas companies recognized by Entrepreneur magazine forgrit, innovation appeared first on Dallas Regional Chamber.

source https://www.dallaschamber.org/blog/14-north-texas-companies-recognized-by-entrepreneur-magazine-forgrit-innovation/

Zagat names DFW as one of the most exciting areas for food

Zagat has ranked the 30 most exciting food cities in America for 2017, and the Dallas-Fort Worth region made the cut. The dining website asked editors across the country to make a case for the city they believe had the biggest year in food by assessing the number of exciting new openings, award recognition and national media attention. Then it asked media food critics to weigh in.
www.zagat.com/b/30-most-exciting-food-cities-in-america-2017

The post Zagat names DFW as one of the most exciting areas for food appeared first on Dallas Regional Chamber.

source https://www.dallaschamber.org/blog/zagat-names-dfw-as-one-of-the-most-exciting-areas-for-food/

City closures and schedules for December 25 and January 1

City offices: Closed on December 25 and January 1. Libraries: Closed on December 25 and January 1. Recreation Centers: Closed on December 25 and January 1. Animal Services: Shelter and Administrative offices will be closed on December 25 and January 1. Animal Services staff will respond to emergency calls. All calls will be handled through 311.  3-1-1 Customer Help Line: Customer Service Representatives will be available to take service related urgent calls such as water main breaks, downed trees/limbs, signal lights out/down, animal control, etc. Water Customer Service will be closed. For service requests visit  style="background: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">. Police and Dallas Fire-Rescue: Administrative offices closed. Will operate on a normal schedule. Court & Detention Services: The Municipal Courts Building at 2014 Main will be closed on December 25 and January 1. Payments by mail are accepted with postmark dates honored.  Online payments may be made at www.dallascityhall.com. Full payments and attorney and cash bonds for arrested defendants will be processed 24 hours / 7 days a week (including holidays) at the Dallas Marshal’s Office, 1600 Chestnut St. Sanitation: Administrative offices, McCommas Bluff Landfill and City transfer stations will be closed on December 25 and January 1. There will be no garbage, recycling or brush/bulk trash collections on December 25 or January 1. Monday garbage and recycling will be picked up on Tuesday, December 26 and January 2. Tuesday garbage and recycling will be picked up on Wednesday, December 27 and January 3. If needed, brush/bulk trash collection will resume for third Monday customers.

The post City closures and schedules for December 25 and January 1 appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/city-closures-schedules-december-25-january-1

Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center recognized for sustainable practices

The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD) received national recognition for its Good Neighbor Program, donating unconsumed food to local nonprofits that serve the homeless. Working with Centerplate, the KBHCCD’s food and beverage provider, over seven tons of food has been given to those in need.

“The City of Dallas Convention and Events Services marketing team created the Good Neighbor Program in 2015, as part of our ongoing commitment to sustainable practices and waste reduction,” said John Johnson, Assistant Director of Convention and Event Services.

The Convention Center is one of 16 organization recognized by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for outstanding participation in their Food Recovery Challenge. Over 950 businesses, governments and organizations participated, diverting 740,000 tons of food, and saving up to $37 million in waste disposal fees.

“Food Recovery Challenge award winners serve as role models in their communities and for other organizations,” said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. “Their hard work and effective efforts to divert wasted food from landfills is paying off through social, financial and environmental benefits. I encourage other organizations to replicate the successful food recovery operations of our Challenge winners.”

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/kay-bailey-hutchison-convention-center-recognized-sustainable-practices

Dallas Love Field to purchase new safety technology

During the December 13 Council meeting, the Dallas City Council voted to purchase a new technology to increase aircraft safety at Dallas Love Field.

Department of Aviation Director Mark Duebner and Assistant Director Terry Mitchell proposed the implementation of the Pharovision Wildlife Detection infrared / electro-optical system to detect animals, people and foreign objects within a five-mile radius of aircraft.

The system can automatically determine what the object is, track the object, and alert personnel. ThePharovision “Sentinel” tool also can detect people who have trespassed into the airport, as well as drones that fly into Love Field’s airspace and has future ability to detect runway Foreign Object Debris.

Bird strikes are common at many airports, including Love Field.  Staff reported 180 confirmed bird strikes in 2017, and noted this is likely due to Love Field’s location near Bachman Lake. Modern planes are designed to withstand a collision with a five-pound bird, but encountering a flock of birds can be very dangerous. To put this into perspective, US Airways flight 1549 – the “Miracle on the Hudson” – struck a flock of Canada geese just after takeoff.

Love Field is the first U.S. airport to implement the Pharovision Wildlife Detection system as part of the airport’s Federal Aviation Administration-mandated Wildlife Hazard Management Plan.

The post Dallas Love Field to purchase new safety technology appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/dallas-love-field-purchase-new-safety-technology

City Council recognizes Hurricane Harvey shelter efforts

During the December 13 Council agenda meeting, the Dallas City Council honored and recognized the efforts of City staff and outside agencies that worked together during the Hurricane Harvey shelter operation.

For 37 days following Hurricane Harvey, the City of Dallas became a temporary home for more than 10,000 evacuees. Nearly 4,000 people stayed at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center and other shelters around the City. 113,000 meals were served, more than 30,000 items of clothing were distributed, 5,600 health and medical services were provided and volunteers put in more than 122,000 hours.

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/city-council-recognizes-hurricane-harvey-shelter-efforts

City employees increase efficiency, save City money

Seven City of Dallas employees saved the City time and taxpayer money while adding to their professional toolkits.  The Lean Six Sigma “Green Belt” trainees presented projects designed to save money and work out inefficiencies to Executive Staff.

Collectively, their individual projects lead to $342,762 in savings for the City while improving the tracking of 311 service requests, and raising awareness about the Office of Environmental Quality.

Coached by Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belts Brandon P. Johnson and Joseph Kunnath, the employees received their official green belt certifications after their individual presentations. The City’s newly certified Green Belts are listed below:

• Amanda Webster, Dallas Water Utilities
• Vinoo Kuruvilla, Communication and Information Services
• Alana Jackson, Communications and Information Services
• Lisa Fullerton, Office of Environmental Quality
• Sheila Gray, 311
• Joseph Fielding, Dallas Water Utilities
• Tamara Royal, Equipment and Building Services

Lean Six Sigma is a problem solving and process improvement strategy that combines two powerful methodologies that focus on reducing waste and variation.

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Forbes – The Cities Where A Paycheck Stretches The Furthest 2017 -DFW #10

We often conflate high salaries with prosperity, but that can be deceptive. Someone who lives in New York or San Francisco might make more money than a counterpart in the same profession in Houston or Dallas-Fort Worth, but when the cost of living is factored in, their Southern colleagues may actually come out ahead.
www.forbes.com/sites/joelkotkin/2017/12/07/the-cities-where-a-paycheck-stretches-the-furthest-2017/#1e3ece553673

The post Forbes – The Cities Where A Paycheck Stretches The Furthest 2017 -DFW #10 appeared first on Dallas Regional Chamber.

source https://www.dallaschamber.org/blog/forbes-the-cities-where-a-paycheck-stretches-the-furthest-2017-dfw-10/

Statement regarding second security incident at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center

Today, around 2:58 p.m., the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center received another bomb threat. The Dallas Police Department is on scene and investigating. The building has been evacuated out of precaution. Dallas officers are currently securing the building. More information will be released as it becomes available.

The post Statement regarding second security incident at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/statement-regarding-second-security-incident-kay-bailey-hutchison-convention-center

Statement regarding security incident at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center

Just after 4 p.m., the Dallas Police Department dispatch received a call about a bomb threat at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. Out of an abundance of caution, security officers evacuated the building, and police and fire personnel are responding.

Updates will follow.

The post Statement regarding security incident at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/statement-regarding-security-incident-kay-bailey-hutchison-convention-center

Dallas Fire-Rescue earns top Insurance Service Organization rating

Dallas Fire-Rescue joins an elite group of municipalities by receiving a Class 1 Insurance Service Organization (ISO) rating. This is the first Class 1 ISO rating in the department’s history.

The ISO rating system is based on the department’s efficiency in receiving and processing emergency calls, training, equipment and accessibility to a permanent city-wide water supply.

“This is a major accomplishment for the City of Dallas and reflects well on Dallas Fire-Rescue,” said Dallas Fire-Rescue Chief David Coatney. “It took a collaborative effort between Dallas Fire-Rescue Emergency Response and Communications, and the Water Utilities Department which are all critical components of the evaluation.”

In 1999, the department received a Class 2 ISO rating. Since the previous rating, three new stations were built resulting in an increase in the number of emergency personnel and equipment available in the City. In addition, there was an increase in the number of fire hydrants in the City which played a role in the improved rating.

The new ISO rating reflects a reduction in fire severity, loss and has the potential to reduce property insurance.

“I commend Dallas Fire-Rescue for always looking for ways to work more efficiently and effectively. This rating proves their commitment to providing excellent service to the citizens of Dallas,” said City Manager T.C. Broadnax.

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/dallas-fire-rescue-earns-top-insurance-service-organization-rating

Community Courts celebrates success stories

On March 29, 2017, Thomas Moore pled into the South Dallas Drug Court and began residing at Souls Harbor. He started treatment at Turtle Creek Recovery Center for a drug addiction. Mr. Moore has stayed focused on his outpatient sessions, community service hours and goal of remaining sober. He is now giving back to the same community that led him to the Community Courts in the first place.

Mr. Moore is an example of how the City of Dallas Community Courts can not only use the legal system for justice purposes, but also to provide a man with purpose, dignity and to able to use his story as a testimony to others. Upon his graduation from the drug courts he will be a frequent visitor to those that follow to remind that the journey may be tough, but with the assistance of the courts and self-confidence the finish line is much closer.

Ella Francis is one of the original Community Court defendants – she received a citation from the Dallas Police Department for drug paraphernalia. A crack cocaine user for 19 years, her journey with the Courts started 11 years ago, where she completed rehabilitation and her community service hours.

Ms. Francis struggled with sobriety, but believes the courts and the resources the courts connected her with is why she is now 11 years sober, with stable housing and is self-sufficient.

Watch Ms. Francis and Mr. Moore address the City Council on their successes:

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/community-courts-celebrates-success-stories

Code Compliance opens registration for Citizens Code Academy

The City of Dallas Department of Code Compliance Services has opened registration for the next Citizens Code Academy. The Academy is free, and is open to Dallas residents 18 years of age or older. The Academy is a four-week program where attendees will learn about the Department, its staff and initiatives.

The class meets on four consecutive Tuesdays from 6 – 8 p.m. The next Academy will begin on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, and conclude on February 27. Registration is limited to a maximum of 30 students, and is on a first come, first serve basis. For registrants who sign up after the class is full, they will be put on a waitlist for future Citizens Academy classes.

Registration is available online here.

The first Academy class was made up of citizens nominated by the Mayor and City Council. Read more about the first class here.

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/code-compliance-opens-registration-citizens-code-academy

Downtown streets to be closed for BMW Marathon

Friday, December 1

• Akard Street – All southbound lanes closed from Young St to Marilla St all week beginning Friday December 1 at 10 a.m. through Monday December 11 at 7 a.m.
  Alternate route: Use Marilla St southbound from Young St for Friday only

Saturday December 2 from 1 p.m. to Monday December 4 at 7 a.m.

• Young Street – Westbound lanes closed from Field St to Ervay St and eastbound lanes closed from Field St to Akard St
• Akard Street – All lanes closed to through traffic between Wood St and Young St.
  • Access to the Federal Building parking lot will be provided by DPD officer at the Wood / Akard intersection
• Akard Street – All southbound lanes closed from Young St to Marilla St
• City Hall Parking Garage – Entrance and exit from the west on Young St

Monday December 4 through Wednesday December 6

• Young Street – All westbound lanes closed from Ervay St to Field St and eastbound lanes closed from Field St to Akard St
  • Lanes will be provided for through traffic during the peak hours of 7 – 9 a.m. and 4 – 6 p.m.
• Akard Street – All lanes closed to through traffic between Wood St and Young St.
  • Access to the Federal Building parking will be provided by DPD officer from the Wood / Akard intersection
• Akard Street – Southbound lanes closed from Young St to Marilla St
• City Hall Parking Garage – Entrance and exit from the west on Young St

Thursday December 7

• Young Street – All lanes closed from Field St to Ervay St
  • Lanes will be provided for through traffic during peak hours from 7 – 9 a.m. and 4 – 6 p.m.
• Akard Street – All lanes closed to through traffic between Wood St and Young St.
  • Access to the Federal Building parking lot will be provided by DPD officer from the Wood / Akard intersection
• Akard Street – Southbound lanes closed from Young St to Marilla St; all lanes of Akard St closed beginning at 7 p.m.
• Marilla Street – All lanes closed between Young St and Akard St. Through traffic will be available during peak hours at 7 – 9 a.m. and 4 – 6 p.m.

Friday December 8

• Young Street – All lanes closed from Field St to Ervay St
  • Lanes will be provided for through traffic during peak hours at 7 – 9 a.m. and 4 – 6 p.m.
• Akard Street – All lanes closed from Wood St to Marilla St.
  • Access to the Federal Building parking will be provided by DPD officer from the Wood / Akard intersection
• Marilla Street – All lanes closed between Young St and Akard St

 Alternate routes:

• Westbound traffic use Jackson St or Canton St
• Eastbound traffic use Cadiz St or Wood St
• Northbound traffic use Griffin St or Harwood St
• Southbound traffic use South Saint Paul St or Griffin St
• Access to Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas is available from the south via Lamar St or Griffin St

 Parking:

• Metered parking will be prohibited on westbound Young Street between Field St and Ervay St all week, beginning on Saturday December 2 at 1 p.m. through Monday December 11 at 7 a.m.
• Metered parking will be prohibited on eastbound Young Street between Field St and Ervay St beginning Thursday December 7 at 7 p.m. through Monday December 11 at 7 a.m.
• Pioneer Plaza parking lots are closed beginning Thursday December 7 at 4:30 a.m. through Monday December 11 at 7 a.m.

The post Downtown streets to be closed for BMW Marathon appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/downtown-streets-closed-bmw-marathon

City Council members host Hurricane Harvey recovery appreciation events

City staff, community organizations and supporters who helped with Hurricane Harvey recovery efforts attended appreciation brunches held in their honor throughout the City.  Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Adam Medrano and Councilmembers Jennifer S. Gates, and Tennell Atkins held appreciation events at the three City recreation centers that served as temporary shelters for evacuees displaced by Hurricane Harvey on Thursday, November 30 and Friday, December 1.

“It’s a way of showing gratitude for our team of workers,” said Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Medrano, who attended the Samuell Grand Recreation Center event. “These are good people who worked tirelessly to help prepare the centers ahead of our guests arriving from Houston and the surrounding areas.”

Other events took place at the Walnut Hill Recreation Center on Thursday and Tommie Allen Recreation Center and were attended by their respective councilmembers, Councilmember Jennifer Gates and Councilmember Tennell Atkins. Councilmember Gates also presented certificates of appreciation to Parks and Recreation Staff, joined by District 13 Park Board Representative Calvert Collins-Bratton.

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source http://www.dallascitynews.net/city-council-members-host-hurricane-harvey-recovery-appreciation-events

Cite and Release begins December 1

On December 1, 2017 the City of Dallas will begin the Cite and Release Program. The city has released ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ to alleviate confusion citizens may have.

Does this decriminalize marijuana in the City of Dallas?

No. Marijuana is still illegal in the City of Dallas and the State of Texas.

Who does this impact?

This will only impact individuals detained:

• With 4 ounces of marijuana or less;
• Who reside in the Dallas County portion of the City of Dallas and are detained in the same area;
• and must have a valid Texas issued ID or Driver License

Is this citation reducing the charge from a Class A or B misdemeanor to a Class C citation?

No. This citation does not reduce the charge to a Class C ticket. The charges are as follows: A Class B misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $2,000 and/or 180 days in jail. A Class A misdemeanor is punishable by a fine up to $4,000 and/or up to one year in jail. This is not a Class C citation or ticket.

If I receive a citation, what court do I need to go to?

Individuals detained for Possession of Marijuana, a Class A or B misdemeanor offense and given the Dallas County Acknowledgement & Acceptance Form will be assigned a court date at the Frank Crowley Courts Building, 133 N Riverfront Blvd., 75207.

What happens if I don’t show up to the court date?

If the individual does not attend their court date, a warrant will be issued for their arrest.

Why is the City of Dallas doing this?

On April 12, 2017, the Council approved the creation and implementation of a cite and release program. Cite and Release will allow officers to rapidly document the offense and return to their patrol duties, protecting the citizens of Dallas.

The post Cite and Release begins December 1 appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/citeandrelease

Streets to be closed during the 50th annual Turkey Trot

The 50^th annual Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot will take place on Thursday November 23. Projected attendance is 40,000 people. Road closures related to this special event will impact traffic around Dallas City Hall and Downtown Dallas.

The following streets will be closed to traffic for event staging:

• Young St. – All lanes closed between Akard St. and Browder St. on Wednesday November 22 at 7 p.m. until Thursday November 23 at 1 p.m.
• Young St. – All lanes closed between Saint Paul St. and Park St. on Wednesday from 7 p.m. until Thursday at 1 p.m.
• Young St. – All lanes closed between Griffin St. and Harwood St. on Thursday from 4 a.m. until 1 p.m.

The following streets will be intermittently closed to traffic on Thanksgiving Day from 8 a.m. until noon, while participants pass through:

• Young/Canton St. – All lanes from Akard St. to Hall St. closed
• Hall St. – All lanes from Canton St. to Main St. closed
• Main St. – All lanes closed from Hall St. to Houston St.
• Market St. – All lanes closed from Main St. to Young St.
• Houston St. – All lanes closed from Main St. to Reunion Boulevard
• Reunion Boulevard West – All westbound lanes closed to Hotel Drive
• Hyatt Regency Dallas Hotel access from Reunion Boulevard East
• Hotel Drive – All northbound lanes closed from Reunion Boulevard to Sports St.; dedicated lane available for Hyatt Regency Dallas Hotel access
• Reunion Boulevard – All eastbound lanes closed to Sports St.
• Sports St. – All northbound lanes closed to North Drive
• Hyatt Regency Dallas Hotel access provided by Dallas Police
• North Drive – All lanes closed
• Hotel St. – All lanes closed from Memorial Drive to Reunion Boulevard East
• Houston St. – All southbound lanes closed from Reunion Boulevard East
• Marsalis Avenue/Houston St. Viaduct – All lanes closed from Houston St. to Colorado Boulevard
• Colorado Boulevard – All lanes closed from North Zang to North Marsalis Avenue
• Blaylock Drive – All lanes closed from Colorado Boulevard to East 5th St.
• East 5th St. – All lanes closed from Blaylock Drive to Beckley Avenue
• Beckley Avenue – All lanes closed from East 5th St. to Zang Boulevard
• Zang Boulevard – All northeast lanes closed from Beckley Avenue to Jefferson St. Viaduct
• Jefferson St. Viaduct – All northeast lanes closed from Zang Boulevard to Market St.
• Market St. – All northbound lanes closed from Jefferson St. Viaduct to Young St.
• Young St. – All lanes closed from Market St. to Marilla St.

Please note parking at meters will be restricted from Wednesday November 22 at 9 a.m. to Thursday November 23 at 5 p.m. for event staging along the following streets:

• Young St. between Akard St. and Harwood St.
• Browder St. and South Ervay St. between Young St. and Marilla St.

Meters along the entire route will be hooded beginning Thursday November 23 at 3 a.m. and will be removed by 2 p.m. that afternoon.

The post Streets to be closed during the 50th annual Turkey Trot appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/streets-closed-50th-annual-turkey-trot

City of Dallas closures and schedules for Thanksgiving and Friday Nov. 24

City offices:
Closed on Thursday November 23 and Friday, November 24.

Libraries:
Closed on Thursday November 23 and Friday November 24.

Recreation Centers:
Administrative offices and Recreation Centers closed on Thursday November 23 and Friday November 24.

Animal Services:
Shelter and Administrative offices will close Thursday November 23.  Animal Services staff will respond to emergency calls.  All calls will be handled through 311. Both adoption and lost and found centers will be open for normal hours on Friday November 24.

3-1-1 Customer Help Line:
Customer Service Representatives will be available to take service related urgent calls such as water main breaks, downed trees/limbs, signal lights out/down, animal control, etc.  Water Customer Service will be closed. For service requests visit

Police and Dallas Fire-Rescue
Administrative offices closed. Will operate on a normal schedule.

Court & Detention Services:
The Municipal Courts Building at 2014 Main will be closed Thursday November 23 and Friday November 24.  Payments by mail are accepted with postmark dates honored.  Online payments may be made at www.dallascityhall.com. Full payments and attorney and cash bonds for arrested defendants will be processed 24 hours/7days a week (including holidays) at the Dallas Marshal’s Office, 1600 Chestnut St.

Sanitation:
Administrative offices closed on Thursday November 23 and Friday November 24. There will be no garage, recycling or brush/bulk trash collections on Thursday, November 23. Thursday customers should place their garbage and recycling carts out on Wednesday November 22. Garbage and recycling roll carts will be collected as scheduled for Friday customers on Friday, November 24. If needed, brush/bulk trash collection will resume for third Monday customers. Transfer stations and the McCommas Bluff landfill will be open as scheduled.

The post City of Dallas closures and schedules for Thanksgiving and Friday Nov. 24 appeared first on Dallas City News.

source http://www.dallascitynews.net/city-dallas-closures-schedules-thanksgiving-friday-nov-24

Dallas Fire-Rescue tests Priority Dispatch

The Dallas Fire-Rescue Department (DFR) is announcing the implementation of the Medical Priority Dispatch System, known as Priority Dispatch, to better serve the citizens of Dallas in emergency medical situations. The new system, which was approved by City Council earlier this year, follows nationally recognized standards that provide identification of life-threatening situations, determination of critical emergency call information for responders, and call prioritization to send the right resource to the highest medical need request. This gives consistent care and service to every emergency medical request received.  The system is scheduled to be implemented toward the middle of November, and has another significant benefit – a proactive quality improvement program that will serve as an important component towards DFR’s continued assessment, adjustment, and improvements in EMS delivery.

“The system will allow DFR to send the most appropriate EMS resource to handle high-priority calls, while still managing the overall ambulance resource needs throughout the City; ensuring effective response times to the highest priority calls”, said DFR Assistant Chief of the EMS and Communications Bureau, Daniel Salazar, when asked how the new system will best benefit callers.

The department plans to evaluate how the system responds and works with the current DFR response model over the next three to four months.

“Assuming the system works as anticipated, there will be changes made in the way EMS service delivery is provided across the City, primarily in call prioritization and what type of resource (EMS unit, Fire unit, or further processing) each call receives,” said David Coatney, Chief of the Dallas Fire-Rescue Department.

It is important that the citizens of Dallas understand that the new system will not impact how quickly a response is sent to high priority EMS calls; but instead, other types of calls (non-urgent) will require more vetting to determine which type of EMS resource should be dispatched.  Dallas Fire-Rescue will continue to put Service First as the system is implemented and fully expects that it will help in the daily management of incoming calls.

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Dallas Love Field helps make holiday travel easy

Dallas Love Field offers travel and parking tips to help ease the stress of holiday travel.

• Check with your airline for flight departure/arrival status prior to arriving at the airport.
• Arrive at least one and a half to two hours before your flight to allow time for parking, check-in, baggage check, security and any unplanned events, especially during peak hours.
• All parking options at Dallas Love Field are first-come, first-serve.
• On-site parking in Parking Garage A is $17 a day, while on-site parking in Parking Garage B is $13 a day.
• Remote parking is available at Love Connection, located on the northeast corner of Mockingbird Lane and Harry Hines Boulevard. Parking is $6/day and includes a roundtrip shuttle running every 15 to 20 minutes.
• The Cell Phone Lot is closed. Express Parking, located in Garage A, has 60 designated spaces available for up to two hours while waiting for arriving passengers. The first hour is free in Express Parking and in all spots throughout Garage A.
• Drop-off and pick-up for passengers is on the upper level, marked Departures/Arrivals, on the upper roadway of Herb Kelleher Way. The ticketing hall, security checkpoint and baggage claim are on the upper level.
• Passengers using any form of ground transportation, including taxis, for-hire shuttles, transportation network companies and rental car shuttles should proceed to the lower level upon exiting either baggage claim or the terminal.
• Due to limited curb space, dropping off and waiting for arriving passengers on the upper roadway must be done in an efficient manner. Dallas Police will be on-site to control traffic and monitor curb operations.
• Abandoned vehicles or those parked in unauthorized areas will be towed.
• Hide, Lock, and Take. Hide your belongings, Lock your car, and Take your keys.  If you own a truck, be sure to lock or secure the tailgate.
• Additional travel and airport information can be obtained by visiting one of the three information booths in the terminal lobby, baggage claim and concessions village.
• The Route 524 buses connect Love Field and DART’s Inwood/Love Field station. The free shuttle operates every day from approximately 5:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. For schedule and fare information, visit www.DART.org/LoveField.
• Due to the increased volume of vehicles during the holidays, consider alternate plans for getting to and from the airport, such as DART, Ground Transportation (Taxis, Shuttle Services, Transportation Network Companies, etc.) or having someone pick up or drop you off.
• Carry-on items are limited to one small bag and one personal item (i.e., camera, laptop, briefcase, purse, etc.).

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Dallas Animal Services waives adoption fees

Dallas Animal Services (DAS) kennels are nearly full, and with more animals coming in daily, adoption fees are being waived. Animals already spayed or neutered are free to adopt, as well as animals over six years old, and all dogs heavier than 30 pounds. More than 200 animals are available for adoption now, with many more available to be pre-adopted.

“We are reaching out to the community to help us find homes for the many deserving animals waiting to be adopted,” said DAS Director Ed Jamison. “Even if people can’t adopt, we’re asking them to encourage their friends who are looking to add a pet to their family to come visit us. We have more dogs coming in every day and need the support of animal lovers, rescues, and all citizens,” he said.

Nearly 3,000 animals came into DAS last month; some days saw more than 100 animals arrive. Adoption fees are being waived at both the main adoption center at 1818 N. Westmoreland Road and the PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center at 16821 N. Coit Road. To see hours for both locations, visit www.dallasanimalservices.org.

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Code Compliance holds first Citizens Code Academy

The City of Dallas Code Compliance Department completed the first Dallas Citizen Code Academy on October 24. The Mayor and City Council members nominated citizens from all areas of the Dallas community to attend the first Academy, which required each participant to attend three 2-hour classes.

Eighteen citizens completed learning modules on a broad range of topics such as common code violations, nuisance abatement, substandard structures, zoning and community partnerships. The training gave citizens a better understanding of Code Compliance’s goals to create clean and safe neighborhoods through proactive enforcement and partnering with local communities in Dallas. In addition, Sanitation Services and 311 shared with the Academy class their departments’ service objectives.

“The Citizen Code Academy gave community leaders the opportunity to share with staff issues we are trying to solve and the city staff the opportunity to share with the community leaders how we can help improve the quality of life in Dallas,” said Phil Sahuc from District 11’s Pagewood Neighborhood Association.

Dallas residents interested in participating in the next Academy should contact Code Compliance Training Manager Macklin Wright at macklin.wright@dallascityhall.com or 214-670-9710.  The next class is scheduled to start in February and will be held on a quarterly basis.

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City warns residents about fraudulent emails

The City of Dallas has learned that some residents may have received a fraudulent email claiming to be a “notice to appear in court.” The email is made to resemble a notice to appear before a judge in Dallas City Municipal Court for traffic violations, but is not from the City of Dallas. Residents who receive this fraudulent email should not click on any links or download any attachments.

Although the City does send warrant notifications via automated email, these notifications will always come from City of Dallas Court and Detention Services or the Marshal’s Office, and will not have attachments. Residents who receive a warrant notification via email indicating that they have an arrest warrant issued by the City of Dallas Municipal Courts should visit Courts.DallasCityHall.com or call (214) 670-0109 to resolve and/or confirm the warrant.

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Dallas Police award Officer and Employee of the year

The Annual Friends of the Dallas Police Awards Banquet was held at the Hyatt Regency on November 6, 2017. Members of the department, both sworn and non-sworn, were honored for their dedication and commitment to the citizens of Dallas and the Dallas Police Department.

A sworn and non-sworn employee are selected as Bureau Employee of the Year from the Office of the Chief of Police and each of the five bureaus: Administrative, Investigations, Patrol, Strategic Deployment, and Support. The Officer of the Year and Non-Sworn Employee of the Year are selected from these bureau award winners.

 The James Taylor Non-Sworn Employee of the Year is Stephanie Mendoza

The James Taylor Non-Sworn Employee of the Year award is given in memory of Chief Helicopter Pilot and Reserve Officer James “Chuck” Taylor, who passed away in 1984 from a helicopter crash. This award recognizes a non-sworn employees of the department for their dedication to the police profession. Stephanie Mendoza is an Office Assistant currently assigned to the Auto Theft Unit. Stephanie Mendoza has served for 3 years.

 

 

 

 

 

 The John T. McCarthy Officer of the Year is Police Officer Joe King

The John T. McCarthy Officer of the Year Award is given in memory of John T. McCarthy, an officer who was murdered while investigating suspicious activity near White Rock Lake in 1981. This award commends an officer who has shown exemplary contributions to law enforcement. The nominees are submitted to the bureau commanders for consideration by supervisors throughout the department. The Officer of the Year is selected by the Chief of Police.  Officer of the year for 2017 is Police Officer Joe King. He is 20 year veteran of the Dallas Police Department. Officer King is currently assigned to the Administrative & Support Services.

 

 

 

Click here to view the award winners for every category.

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City Hall celebrates 7th annual Mayor’s Monster Mash

Hundreds of City of Dallas employees gathered in the City Hall Lobby on Halloween to celebrate the 7^th annual Mayor’s Monster Mash.

This event, first organized by Mayor Mike Rawlings in 2011, is a highlight of the year for City employees, and gets bigger every year. Employees are invited to wear costumes, enjoy snacks and compete in costume contests. In 2013, a group costume category was added, with past winners including:

• 2013 – Toddlers and Tiaras by Community Prosecution
• 2014 – We Are The World by Community Prosecution
• 2015 – Soul Train by Office of Economic Development
• 2016 – Thriller by Office of Economic Development
• 2017 – Soldiers by Fair Housing and Human Rights Office

For 2017, a new Mayor’s Trophy was given to the winning group, to hold until next year’s Monster Mash. The Mascot Dance Off was also new this year, with the Texas Rangers’ Captain, SMU Mustang, Dallas Stars’ Victor E. Green, Half Price Books’ Bookworm, Dallas Mavs Man, State Fair of Texas’ Big Tex and Frisco Roughriders’ Deuce and Daisy. Several department mascots participated, including Dallas Police Department’s McGruff and Dallas Fire-Rescue’s Sparky the Fire Dog, among others.

 

The City would like to thank our employee DJ, James Harris, Dallas Water Utilities’ Central Snappers band, and K104’s Lady Jade for MCing. The City would also like to thank our sponsors:

• Frost Bank
• Ruibal’s Plants of Texas
• Yum! Brands
• Tiff’s Treats
• Cigna
• Albertson’s
• Dr Pepper Snapple Group
• Hypnotic Donuts
• Starbucks
• AT&T
• Robert Bostick Photography
• City of Dallas – Employee Advisory Council

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Employees win scholarships from Employee Advisory Committee

City employees were awarded scholarships from the Hispanic Association of City Employees for Results (HACER). HACER is an employee advisory committee, whose mission is “to provide a network of results oriented Hispanic City Employees ready, willing and able to fill and serve the needs of the community, while providing professional and social networking, support, coaching and mentoring opportunities.” HACER provides assistance wherever it is needed, from elderly City residents with code violations to offering professional development to other employees

HACER also works to give back to their members through the Drusilla Enriquez Memorial Scholarship. A founding member of HACER, and the scholarship is dedicated to Drusilla Enriquez and her leadership in forming the organization. $500 scholarships were awarded to three City employees, who submitted an essay describing their community work and HACER membership activities. These scholarships will go toward professional development and education.

The scholarship recipients:

Irene Arista, Dallas Fire-Rescue

Brenda Allen, Mayor’s Office

John Lemon, Transportation

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Dallas CFO named Dallas Business Journal 2017 Emerging Leader

The City of Dallas Chief Financial Officer, Elizabeth Reich, was awarded CFO of the Year in the ‘Emerging Leader’ category by the Dallas Business Journal. Reich was honored in a ceremony at the Reunion Hyatt Regency.

“I am proud to lead a dedicated finance team in managing taxpayer dollars wisely, and providing the service the public expects and deserves.” said Reich, “I appreciate working with the Mayor, City Council, and City Manager to tell the story of our strong Dallas economy and all that we are doing to improve the community.”
During the ceremony, Reich was commended for her work on the Dallas Police and Fire Pension, construction of the Dallas 365 Plan, and implementation of the first balanced biennial budget proposal for the City of Dallas.

Dallas City Councilman Adam McGough originally nominated Reich for the honor. Of Reich, he said, “Elizabeth is a hard worker, a dedicated public servant, and a person of strong character.” He continued, “We do not recognize our public servants enough, and I was proud to nominate Reich for this well-deserved honor, and I am thankful to the Dallas Business Journal for their recognition.”

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7 Halloween safety tips and treats from Dallas Police

Halloween is right around the corner! The Dallas Police Department wants to help your kids have a safe Halloween with a few safety tips:

• Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
• Plan a trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets.
• Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
• Choose bright costumes, and have children carry flashlights or glow sticks so they are easily visible. (Hint – Try adding reflective tape to costumes and candy bags!)
• Always walk younger children to the door to receive treats.
• Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
• Teach children to say “NO!” in a loud voice if someone tries to get them to go somewhere, accept anything other than a treat, or leave with them.

Check out the full list of tips on their blog.

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Forbes 2017 Best Places for Business and Careers – Dallas #10

Our ranking compares the business climates of the 200 largest metro areas by population in the U.S. We rated them on 14 metrics related to job growth, costs (business and living), income growth, quality of life and the education of the labor force.
www.forbes.com/pictures/59ea146e31358e542c040475/best-places-10-dallas-tex/#776764245b64

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source https://www.dallaschamber.org/blog/forbes-2017-best-places-for-business-and-careers-dallas-10/

Dallas Police Officer recognized for saving infant’s life

At the State Fair of Texas on Sunday, October 08, Dallas Police Officer Ilse Casas, was flagged down by a patron regarding a medical emergency. Upon arrival, Officer Casas observed a frantic mother with an unresponsive infant in her arms. The officer took immediate action and instinctively grabbed the infant. While checking the infant’s vital signs, Officer Casas quickly recognized the infant was not breathing, pale, and unresponsive. She then placed the infant on the ground in a grassy area and immediately performed CPR until a medical unit could arrive.

An American Medical Response unit assessed the infant and determined the child was faintly breathing, and had regained a pulse. The infant was quickly transported to Children’s Hospital and was released shortly thereafter in good condition.

The paramedics stated that had it not been for the quick thinking and heroic actions taken by Officer Casas, the outcome could have been significantly more tragic. Officer Casas’ actions are an example of how Dallas Police officers go above and beyond to serve the citizens of Dallas.  Officer Casas was recognized and presented with a Life Saving Award in a ceremony at Fair Park.

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Skyline High School students work together to beautify the city

Three Skyline High School students are promoting community pride by sponsoring a team for the City of Dallas Operation: Beautification program on Saturday, October 28.

Anayeli Espinosa, Lizbeth Espiricueta, and Michelle Echevarria are leading a group for the biannual citywide cleanup event.

These young adult leaders are heavily involved in giving back to their community. They are members of the City of Dallas Neighborhood Plus Target Area Advisory Committee, Skyline Student Senate and are active participants in the Advisory Committee supporting door to door canvasing and crime watch event planning.

“We want to be leaders of action and show our classmates they can make a difference in the places that we live and work”, says Anayleli Espinosa.

The sophomores and junior are looking for volunteers to join their team and help pick up litter in the Chariot and Rothington multi-family community. High school students can receive community service hours for volunteering the day of the event by emailing mandywatkins.vista@gmail.com.

Operation: Beautification is open to anyone wanting to participate in the city of Dallas. Volunteers interested in participating can register by calling 311 or emailing Dallas311@dallascityhall.com.

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Dallas Love Field celebrates 100 years of service

On October 19, 2017 Dallas Love Field will celebrate 100 years of love.

Named after Lt. Moss Love, Dallas Love Field was established on October 19, 1917 as an Army flight-training base. Airmail service in the state of Texas began at Love Field in 1926, followed by scheduled passenger service in 1927.

Throughout its one hundred years, Love Field has recorded one of the richest histories of any airport on the globe. Love Field has commemorated 100 years of service with a yearlong celebration filled with activities, exhibits and events starting in 2016.

To learn more about the ongoing Centennial events, visit www.LoveFieldCentennial.com.

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Dallas Park and Recreation to host Pumpkins on the Plaza

The City of Dallas’ Park and Recreation Department will host “Pumpkins on the Plaza,” at City Hall, 4 – 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 21.

This free event will feature:

• Costume contests for both kids and pets
• Pumpkin patch with pumpkin painting
• Inflatables
• Games
• Floating pumpkin art display
• Music and entertainment
• Food trucks

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Inc 5000 – The Top 10 Business Hubs for Fast Growing Companies in2017 – Dallas #8

No one says you need to start up in your home town. From coast to coast, here are the 10 U.S. cities nurturing the most fast-growing private companies of 2017.
www.inc.com/kaitlyn-wang/ss/2017-inc5000-top-ten-cities-for-businesses.html

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source https://www.dallaschamber.org/blog/inc-5000-the-top-10-business-hubs-for-fast-growing-companies-in2017-dallas-8/

Dallas Public Library wins Innovations Award

The Dallas Public Library’s GED Testing and Workforce Development Project has been recognized for its innovation as a tool for Dallas adults to earn their GED by the Urban Libraries Council. Having a GED allows Dallas residents to hold better jobs and earn high wages. In some parts of Dallas, nearly 50 percent of adults over the age of 25 have less than a high school education.

Dallas Public Library’s GED Testing and Workforce Development Project was created to address the needs of the nearly 28 percent of Dallas County adults with less than a high-school education. Dallas Public Library opened the first GED testing center in a public library in Texas and has since become the leader among Dallas area certified testing centers. In 2016, the library administered the most exams (870) with the most graduates (131) and highest pass rate (79 percent). The Library also offers scholarships for qualifying learners.

“By offering GED testing in our Central Library and full scholarships in partnership with Atmos Energy, we have lowered barriers for adults seeking to change their lives. The testing center allows the library to walk with adults through their GED journey and beyond to pursuing better jobs or higher education,” said Jo Giudice, Director of Libraries.

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West Nile Alert: DCHHS reports 26th human case of West Nile Virus

Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) is reporting the 26th human case of West Nile Virus infection in Dallas County for the year 2017. The case is a resident of the 75248 zip code of Dallas. The patient was diagnosed with West Nile neuroinvasive disease. For medical confidentiality and personal privacy reasons, DCHHS does not provide additional identifying information.
“Our mosquito surveillance program and the county and municipal abatement teams are taking appropriate actions to ensure the safety of our residents. However, it is important for residents to take the necessary precautions,” said Zachary Thompson, DCHHS director.

The best way to avoid exposure to West Nile Virus is to avoid mosquito bites. Residents should use the 4Ds to reduce their risk:
• DEET All Day, Every Day: Whenever you’re outside, use insect repellents that contain DEET or other EPA approved repellents and follow instructions.
• Dress: Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside.
• Drain: Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace.
• Dusk & Dawn: Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

“Since there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatments for WNV infection, residents should adhere to preventive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Christopher Perkins, DCHHS medical director/health authority.

For more information on mosquito prevention, go to: /> For information on previously reported cases and zip codes impacted by WNV go to:

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West Nile Alert: DCHHS reports 25th human case of West Nile Virus

Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) is reporting the 25th human case of West Nile Virus infection in Dallas County for the year 2017. The case is a resident of the 75248 zip code of Dallas. The patient was diagnosed with West Nile neuroinvasive disease. For medical confidentiality and personal privacy reasons, DCHHS does not provide additional identifying information.
“Our mosquito surveillance program and the county and municipal abatement teams are taking appropriate actions to ensure the safety of our residents. However, it is important for residents to take the necessary precautions,” said Zachary Thompson, DCHHS director.

The best way to avoid exposure to West Nile Virus is to avoid mosquito bites. Residents should use the 4Ds to reduce their risk:
• DEET All Day, Every Day: Whenever you’re outside, use insect repellents that contain DEET or other EPA approved repellents and follow instructions.
• Dress: Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside.
• Drain: Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace.
• Dusk & Dawn: Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
“Since there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatments for WNV infection, residents should adhere to preventive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Christopher Perkins, DCHHS medical director/health authority.

For more information on mosquito prevention, go to: /> For information on previously reported cases and zip codes impacted by WNV go to:

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Dallas Mavs help City employees with Hurricane Maria relief efforts

J.J. Barea with Sr. Corporal Carlos Alicea his daughter and niece.

On September 20, 2017, Hurricane Maria passed through the Caribbean as a category 5, just two weeks after Hurricane Irma, also a category 5 storm. These storms ravaged the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands. The hurricanes left many people homeless, without power or drinking water. Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban quickly jumped into action, lending his plane to Maverick player and Puerto Rico native J.J. Barea and crew to fly in necessary supplies during the crisis.

The Mavericks’ plane has since made multiple humanitarian trips to Puerto Rico. That outreach helped ease the minds of City employees, including Dallas police officers who are from Puerto Rico. They traveled to the island and helped unload the much-needed food, water, and medicine.  Some of the employees were able to bring family members back to the U.S. while the island rebuilds.

Sr. Corporal Carlos Cruz and Sr. Corporal Ivan Saldaña with Saldaña’s brother.

“I’m extremely grateful to them for letting me help my island and letting me bring my daughter home” said Sr. Corporal Carlos Alicea, whose daughter attends school in Puerto Rico. Communication lines are still out over most of the island, which has made it very difficult for him and others to find out if their loved ones were okay.

Sr. Corporal Ivan Saldaña was eager to help back home.

“It’s hard as a first responder to not be able to help your own family,” said Saldaña who was met by his brother, a Puerto Rican state trooper, at the airport.  City of Dallas Public Information Officer Monica Cordova was on the second flight to Puerto Rico. “It was an honor to be able to help in any way,” she said. “We are all very grateful to Mark Cuban and his great staff.”

 

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Dallas Public Library kicks off third annual Backpack Challenge

The Dallas Public Library is asking residents of the metro Dallas area to collect supplies and backpacks for the third annual Backpack Challenge and Giveaway. Backpacks and supplies can be dropped off at any Dallas Public Library location by Wednesday, November 15. The winter supply and backpack collection raises awareness of the issues facing those experiencing homelessness in Dallas for National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, November 11-19. Backpacks will be distributed to library visitors experiencing homelessness starting at 10 am on Wednesday, November 22 at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 1515 Young St., 75201.

In 2016, the Dallas Public Library collected and distributed over 250 backpacks to library visitors experiencing homelessness. This year, the library hopes to increase its impact with a goal to collect and distribute 500 backpacks. Metro Dallas residents are asked to work with their families, coworkers and friends to fill gender neutral backpacks with the following materials:

• Gloves
• Winter hat
• Rain poncho
• Warm socks
• Scarf
• Wool or fleece blanket
• Travel-sized toiletries: soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, mouthwash, toothpaste, deodorant, feminine hygiene products
• Deck of cards
• Plastic water bottle
• Personal note of encouragement

“Winter is a difficult and even dangerous time for our neighbors experiencing homelessness,” said Dallas Public Library Adult Services Administrator Heather Lowe. “The Backpack Challenge and Giveaway is an opportunity for the library and metro Dallas residents to help keep their homeless neighbors warm this winter. It also allows the library a chance to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with our neighbors and remind them we care.”

For those looking to volunteer with the event, there will be opportunities to help library staff sort and pack materials as well as write notes of encouragement. For those wishing to donate monetarily, donations can be made to the Friends of the Dallas Public Library using the phrase “Backpack Challenge.”

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#IAmBigTex Photo Contest

Do you have the best Big Tex impression?

Were looking for the best photo or video impression of Big Tex for our 2017 #IAmBigTex contest. The winner will receive a family four pack to the State Fair of Texas.

To enter the contest follow these simple instructions:

1. Dress up as Big Tex
2. Snap a photo or video of your costume
3. Post it to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #IAmBigTex

Deadline to enter is Friday, October 13, 2017 at 11:59 a.m. CDT.

Photos or videos must be set to ‘Public’ so the entry is searchable by the Public Information Office. Photos and videos may also be emailed to pio@dallascityhall.com to be considered. 

Official Contest Rules 2017

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