life is grand fall 2008

Autumn 2008 H www.GPTX.org H 972-237- 8000

Table of Contents

2 Uptown Theater Season Tickets on Sale

3 City Councilwoman Wins Awards

4 Spotlight on City’s Invisible Heroes

5 File Police Reports Online

6 Calendar of Events

7 City Calendar Photo Contest

8 On The Grow

9 Road Construction Update

11 Parks & Rec Autumn ScheduleClasses and events to enrich your life

13 Sports in the Community

14 Aquatics Swim, swim, swim

16 Youth Classes for ages 2 - 12

18 Tweens & Teens Classes for ages 10 - 18

19 Grown Ups Classes for ages 18+

22 Active Adults Classes for ages 50+

28 Parks Map and Matrix

30 Loyd Park Earns Good Sam Designation

32 Autumn Special Events in GP Parks

“Life is Grand!” is produced four times a year and mailed to all Grand Prairie residents. The publication is produced by the award-winning Communications and Parks andRecreation departments of the City of Grand Prairie.City news and Parks and Recreation classes are featured.Design is provided by Stephen M. Adams Creative.Questions: 972-237-8086.

Grand Prairie Named “Best Place to Live”by Money Magazine

In its annual Best Places to Live rankings, Money Magazine has ranked Grand Prairie 96th of 100 best places to live nationwide. The magazine uses a combination of many

factors in determining its list, including growth,population, economic health, home prices, schools, crime, arts and leisure activities.

“It is wonderful to be recognized for what we’ve known for years,” said

Mayor Charles England. “We have the perfect location, great value for your dollar,

fabulous amenities, and a friendly, caring, easy going culture.”

Grand Stats7th largest city in Metroplex

16th largest city in Texas21st fastest growing city in U.S.96th best place to live in U.S.

144th largest city in U.S.

Uptown Theater Season Tickets on SaleThe inaugural season of entertainment at the historic Uptown

Theater, 120 East Main St., opens this winter with nationallyrenowned artists. All performances begin at 8 p.m. Box officeopens at 6 p.m., doors at 7 p.m.

Season Tickets are priced at $150,$200 and $300 each

plus applicable taxes and fees and are available at

www.UptownTheaterGP.com or by calling 972-237-UPTN.

For more information please call 972-237-UPTNor email [email protected].

Dec.19-20,20083 Redneck Tenors Christmas Spec-tac-YULE-ar

Join Billy Bob, Billy Joe, and Billy Billeeas theymix NASCAR with Beethoven, litebeer with Puccini and kick up a little dustwith Ave Maria Dixie! You’ll travel withour three singing cousins from theirmodest beginnings in Paris, Texas, where

they discover that belting out a high C causes barbrawlers to scatter; to their triumphant debut atCarnegie Hall.

Jan.10,2009 • The Songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber

Broadway veterans David Gaschen and Anne Sanders, andopera stars Matthew Lord and Jill Blalock journey through theacclaimed career of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. Award winningpianist Craig Bohmler accompanies these strong performers.

Feb.7,2009 • The Marvelettes

Probably the most pop-oriented of Motown’s major female acts, theMarvelettes recorded Motown’s first

number one single, “Please Mr. Postman” (1961). Other hitsinclude “Playboy,” “Twistin’ Postman,” and “Beechwood 4-5789.”

March 7,2009Joe Willie ‘Pinetop’Perkins and Marquise ‘Big Daddy’Knox presented in conjunction

with the Grammy award winning Blue Shoe Project.

At 95 years old Pinetop Perkins is an award-winning blues legend. He’ll be joined on stage by 17year old Big Daddy Knox, who blew up the St. Louisblues scene at the ripe old age of 15.

April 18,2009 • Asleep at the Wheel

This fundraiser for the Texas Music Project will benefit a Grand Prairiepublic school. Over thelast 36 years, Asleep at theWheel has boldly defiedthe fickle lures of the mainstream by sticking to their distinctly American western swing, alive and kicking.

May 1,2009 • The Spencers - Theatre of Illusion

The Spencers have redefined the art of illusion and are shattering thestereotype of the traditional magician andassistant. They have baffled andentertained millions around the world.They continue to bring new meaning to

the word “magic,” delivering a larger-than-life sense of wonder totheir audience.

2 Autumn 2008 H www.GPTX.org H 972-237- 8000

February 21,2009Concert • Tribute to African American Composers

March 12-15,19-22,2009 (8 performances)Spring Musical Production • “Godspell”

June 25-28, July 2-5,2009 (8 performances)Summer Musical • “Guys & Dolls”

October 8-11,15-18 (8 performances)Community Theatre Production • “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”

Holiday Concert • November 28

December 10-13,17-20 (8 performances)Community Theatre Production • “Miracle on 34th Street”

Annual GPAC Awards Gala • December 12

Uptown Theater – The New Home for the Arts in GPIn addition to the Uptown’s Presenting Series, the Grand Prairie Arts Council will produce its plays and musicals at the Uptown.

Events, dates and venues are subject to change, please check for final details of all scheduled events and to buy your tickets (separate from Uptown Season Tickets) at www.artsgp.com or call 972-642-2787.

GPAC’s July at the Uptown • Summer in the Arts Children’s SeriesJuly 6-11 Children of the Strings Summer Music Camp

July 13-18 Children’s Theatre Production, Missoula Children’s TheatreJuly 20-25 Dance Camp • July 27-Aug 1 Art Camp

Grand Prairie City Councilwoman Ruthe Jackson was surprisedat the Keep Texas Beautiful Annual Conference when she wasawarded the coveted United States President’s Call to Service Award,recognizing her many years of voluntary service to community. Theaward from President Bush was given to only four women in Texas.

Mrs. Jackson also recently received the Texas Commission ofEnvironmental Quality’s Texas Environmental Excellence Award foran Individual. In honoring her, the Commission cited her fourdecades of service to the City of Grand Prairie, during which she hasconsistently championed environmental education and conservation.

Autumn 2008 H www.GPTX.org H 972-237- 8000 3

City Councilwoman Wins National

and State Awards

For the first time since implementing the more rigorous TAKstest in 2003, Grand Prairie Independent School District (GPISD) willhave its first Exemplary campuses. Staff and students at PowellElementary and Moore Elementary schools are very excited withthe initial results indicating they have met the state’s highest criteriafor student achievement.

Not only has GPISD increased its number of Exemplary campuses,Recognized campuses have gone from 8 in 2007 to 11 in 2008. For the first time since 2005, GPISD will have no AcademicallyUnacceptable campuses.

District TAKS results indicate single and double digit increase in 24 of the 25 categories in which GPISD is rated. Some of thelargest increases are in Hispanic Math, Science and Social Studies;African American Math, Science and Social Studies; and LowSocioeconomic Math, Science and Social Studies.

These results bring the district scores to Exemplary and Recognizedranges in 17 of 25 scored areas. The lowest district score is only 13points away from Recognized status, a 17% improvement in one year.

Texas horticulturist Neil Sperry will give aFREE presentation at the Main Library, 901Conover, on “Year Round Color in theLandscape,” at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18.

Neil Sperry’s name has been synonymouswith Texas gardening since 1970. “NeilSperry’s Texas Gardening” is heard Saturday

and Sunday mornings on KRLD Radio, and he has daily andweekend radio programs heard statewide on more than 60 stations.

Neil owns and publishes Neil Sperry’s GARDENS Magazine, anannual Texas Gardening Calendar, and is the author of Neil Sperry’sComplete Guide to Texas Gardening, the 4th best-selling gardeninghardback in American history.

Neil is a native Texan, having grown up in College Station. Bothof his parents were on the faculty of Texas A&M. He attendedTexas A&M, but his degrees in horticulture are from The Ohio StateUniversity.

This FREE program is part of the “What’s Next...For The NextPhase Of Your Life” series, which is aimed at Boomers exploringtheir Library, community and options.

GPISD Test Scores See Big Improvements

District sees improvement in 24 of 25 areasin preliminary TAKS scores

Free Neil Sperry Programat Library

If passed by the City Council on Aug. 12, a new city ordinance will banhandheld cell phone use in school zones.If caught using a handheld cell phone inan activated school zone, police may issuea ticket with fines up to $500.

“Like many cities, Grand Prairie ispassing this ordinance to enhance thesafety of kids in school zones,” said MayorCharles England, who championed theordinance. “Drivers need to have their

attention and hands focused on what’s happening around them in aschool zone. No phone call is worth a life.”

Cell Phones may be Banned in School Zones

Grand Prairie and Cedar Hill Build Joint Fire StationSoon the cities of Cedar Hill

and Grand Prairie will sharemore than a city limit, lake andneighborhood. Breakingground this spring, the citieswill open a joint fire station in2009 to serve both Cedar Hilland Grand Prairie.

Faced with a rapidlygrowing population in GrandPrairie’s lake sector, and thenearest fire station being milesaway, the City of Grand Prairieneeded to get creative with afast and cost effective solution.Accustomed to executing jointresponse agreements in times

of crisis, fire departments often work across city borders. Cedar Hillhad already designed a new fire station to cover much of the samerapidly growing area, which made them about one year closer toreality than Grand Prairie. Rather than duplicating efforts by buildinga Grand Prairie station next door to the Cedar Hill station, the citiesjoined forces.

In February 2008, the Grand Prairie City Council approved a

contract to share costs for a joint fire station with Cedar Hill at anestimated cost of $1.7 million for design and construction. Cedar Hilland Grand Prairie will each contribute one half of all capital costsfor land acquisition, development, planning, construction andequipping the fire station. Grand Prairie will reimburse Cedar Hillfor 25 percent of all facility and personnel costs and 50 percent ofapparatus and loose equipment associated with this stationbeginning in fiscal year 2009. Cedar Hill will staff and operate thestation. The station broke ground in April 2008 and expects to beopen in 2009.


The city’s 9-1-1 emergency dispatch center, usually an unseenoperation, is shining in the spotlight this summer. In an effort toincrease recruitment, the city recently unveiled a MySpace Websitefor Grand Prairie Police Dispatch, www.myspace.com/gptx911.The interactive site presents an inside look at what it takes to be a Grand Prairie dispatcher, featuring photos, video, quotes from

current staff and hiring information. MySpace is one of the mostpopular online social network sites, especially among Generation X and Y.

The city’s 9-1-1 dispatchers work as behind-the-scene heroes,communicating crucial information to Police and Fire who respondto a wide range of emergencies. In 2007, the city’s dispatchersanswered 148,089 9-1-1 calls and 149,361 non-emergency calls.“This job can be stressful,” said Dawn Atkins, Grand Prairiedispatcher, “but very rewarding at the same time.”

Although more than 200 people applied for four dispatcher jobopenings earlier this year, the position isn’t easy to fill.

Dispatchers must be highly motivated and able to handle stress,multitask, communicate clearly, prioritize, make decisions and workas a team. Grand Prairie’s current team of 38 emergencydispatchers does this well, and was recognized this year in LAWand ORDER magazine as having “one of the most efficient dispatchand communication centers in North Texas.”

“The most rewarding part is knowing I am making a differencein the lives of the citizens of Grand Prairie,” Jacqueline Adams,Grand Prairie dispatcher, said.

Spotlight Shines on City’s ‘Invisible Heroes’


Police Department’s New Unit Keeping a Close Eye on Gang Activity

Grand Prairie Police Adds Online Option for Filing Police Reports

Terrorist Attack

Training

Citizens can now file certain types of offensereports from the comfort of their own computerscreens thanks to a new online police reportingsystem on the Grand Prairie Police Web site,www.grandprairiepolice.org.

The online reporting option is for offenses thatoccur within Grand Prairie, such as harassing phonecalls, identity theft, lost property, theft up to $1,500,vandalism to vehicles, vandalism to property and

vehicle burglaries. The main stipulation for reporting anoffense online is that there are no known suspects.

“The online option adds convenience to the processfor citizens, allowing them to submit a police reportimmediately and print a copy for free,” Sgt. Randy Isbell,Criminal Investigations Bureau, said. “It also increasesproductivity on our end, freeing up time for officers tofocus on other important issues.”

One of the ways the Grand Prairie Police Department is cracking down on crime is reactivating itsGang Unit, a specialized force that keeps a close eye on any illegal gang activities.

“As the Metroplex has seen an increase of gang-related offenses, we are taking extra measures tomonitor any gang activity that crosses into our city,” Grand Prairie Police Deputy Chief Mike Shaw said. As a branch of the city’s Criminal Investigations Bureau, the Gang Unit monitors gang intelligence and

investigates gang-related offenses. The Unit works closely with Grand Prairie’s School Resource Officers as well as Arlington and Mansfield police departments.

To report graffiti, a possible sign of gang activity, call the city’s graffiti removal hotline at 972-237-8599.

Grand Prairie SWAT officers apprehend acivilian role player during a mock terroristattack training exercise at the Trinity RiverAuthority Central Regional Wastewater Plant.Grand Prairie and Mansfield police joinedforces for a seven-hour training operationinvolving more than 80 officers and civilianrole players in May 2008.

Making an IMPACT in Grand PrairieTo date in 2008, Grand Prairie Police working with the IMPACT

Coalition, which exists to reduce underage drug and alcohol use, havegathered some impressive stats:

Underage parties busted - 4Underage drinkers arrested - 106

Sting operations - 12 • Underage DUI arrests - 6

If you are underage in Grand Prairie and drink, you lose:

t Your drivers license up to 1 yeart Fines of $2,000-$10,000t Jail time up to 10 yearst Drivers license surcharge of up to $2,000 per year

For more information on IMPACT, log onto www.dpri.com


Calendar of Events Autumn 2008 (events subject to change)

Aug 14 - 16 7:05 p.m. nightly, Grand Prairie AirHogs vs. Sioux City Explorers, Grand Prairie Stadium, 1600 Lone Star Parkway, 972-504-9383Aug 15 8 p.m., Melissa Etheridge, Nokia Theatre, 214-373-8000 or 972-647-5700Aug 21 6 p.m.-8 p.m., 55-Gallon Rain Water Barrel Class, Public Works Training Center, 317 N. Belt Line, 972-237-8377, to register,

send a $35 check (payable to “City of Grand Prairie”) for supplies to: City of Grand Prairie Public Works, c/o Selena Jackson,P.O. Box 534045, Grand Prairie, Texas 75053. Please arrange for barrel transportation.

Aug 21 8 p.m., Steely Dan, Nokia Theatre, 214-373-8000 or 972-647-5700Aug 21 - Citizens Police Academy, Charles V. England Public Safety Center, 310 W. College St., free, register with Charlene Muse, 972-237-8724 or Nov 13 email Lt. Dennis Clay at [email protected] 25 7 p.m., Planning & Zoning, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8255Aug 25 First day of school (all public schools)Aug 29 7:30 p.m., Teena Marie and Charlie Wilson, Nokia Theatre, 214-373-8000 or 972-647-5700Sept 1 Labor Day, city offices, schools closedSept 2 1 p.m., Movie, Main Library, 901 Conover, 972-237-5700Sept 2 6:30 p.m., City Council, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8035Sept 6 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Doggie Splash at the Splash Factory, 601 E. Grand Prairie Road, $5/pet, 972-263-8174, GrandFunGP.comSept 6 noon-4 p.m., Free tours of historic Copeland Home, 125 SW Dallas St., 972-237-8086Sept 6 Adopt-A-Stream Macrobenthics Training, 972-237-8152, [email protected] 8 7 p.m., Planning & Zoning, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8255Sept 13 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day, Development Center, 201 NW 2nd St., register:

http://www.gptx.org/wq/hhw, 972-237-8055Sept 13 10 a.m.-1 p.m., “Reinvent Yourself” Career Fair, Main Library, 901 Conover Dr., 972-237-5700Sept 13 Adopt-A-Stream Macrobenthics Testing, 972-237-8152, [email protected] 13 9 a.m. – noon, Grandparents Days Carnival, Senior Center, 925 Conover, 972-264-4975.Sept 13 6-9 p.m., Diez y Seis celebration, Bowles Life Center, 2750 Graham, 972-237-7529Sept 16 10 a.m., Lone Star Trail Grand Opening, Tourist Center, 2170 N. Belt Line Road, 972-237-8100, GrandFunGP.comSept 16 6:30 p.m., City Council, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8035Sept 18 7 p.m., Texas horticulturist Neil Sperry, Year Round Color in Landscape, free presentation, Main Library, 901 Conover, 972-237-5700Sept 20 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. America on the Move family fun day to include children activities, class instructor demonstrations, family fun run,

active adults walk, community vendors, YMCA, 4556 S. Carrier Parkway, 972-642-9632Sept 20 Trinity Awareness Day, 972-237-8152, [email protected] 20 7 p.m., Carlos Mencia, Nokia Theatre, 214-373-8000 or 972-647-5700Sept 26 - Quarter Horse racing at Lone Star Park, www.lonestarpark.comNov 29Sept 27 1-5 p.m., Kids’ Fishing Day, Mike Lewis Park, 2600 N. Carrier Pkwy., 972-237-8100Sept 27 7:30 p.m., Glenn Beck, Nokia Theatre, 214-373-8000 or 972-647-5700Sept 29 7 p.m., Planning & Zoning, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8255Oct 1 - 31 Green Meadows Petting Farm, www.greenmeadowsevents.comOct 2 - 4 Tommy Alverson’s Family Gathering Texas Music Festival, Loyd Park, 3401 Ragland Road, 817-467-2104 for a campsite,

TommyAlverson.com for info and tickets.Oct 4 noon-4 p.m., free tours of historic Copeland Home, 125 SW Dallas St. 972-237-8086Oct 4 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day, Landfill, 1102 MacArthur Blvd., register:

http://www.gptx.org/wq/hhw, 972-237-8055Oct 4 Fall Trash Off at the Landfill, 1102 MacArthur Blvd., proof of residence required in the form of a current water bill or driver’s license;

a $1 disposal fee charged per tire and computer, 972-237-4555Oct 7 National Night OutOct 11 8:30 a.m., Pumpkin Run, Lynn Creek Park, 5700 S. Lake Ridge Pkwy., 972-237-8100Oct 13 7 p.m., Planning & Zoning, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8255Oct 13 GPISD, AISD, Mansfield ISD, CHISD student holidayOct 14 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, Main Library, 901 Conover, 972-237-5700Oct 15 - 16 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, Friends Preview Night Main Library, 901 Conover, 972-237-5700Oct 17 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, Main Library, 901 Conover, 972-237-5700Oct 18 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, Main Library, 901 Conover, 972-237-5700Oct 19 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, Main Library, 901 Conover, 972-237-5700Oct 21 6:30 p.m., City Council, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8035Oct 23 - 7-10 p.m. Halloween Nights, QuikTrip Park at Grand Prairie, 1600 Lone Star Parkway, walk-through lighted displays for the not-so-scary Nov 1 but-oh-so-fun Halloween experience, 972-237-8100, www.GrandFunGP.com

Calendar of Events Autumn 2008 (events subject to change)

Oct 24 - 25 Sundown-11 p.m., Forest of Fear haunted hayrides, Loyd Park, 3401 Ragland Rd., 817-467-2104Oct 25 1-6 p.m. Pumpkin Pick and Paint, Kirby Creek Indoor Pool, 3201 Corn Valley Road, $2/swimmer, 972-263-8174, GrandFunGP.comOct 27 7 p.m., Planning & Zoning, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8255Oct 31 5-8 p.m., Trunk or Treat, Bowles Life Center, 2750 Graham, 972-237-7529Nov 1 noon-4 p.m. Free tours of historic Copeland Home, 125 SW Dallas St. 972-237-8086Nov 2 Daylight Saving Time ends, fall backNov 4 6:30 p.m., City Council, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8035Nov 8 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day, Development Center, 201 NW 2nd St., register:

http://www.gptx.org/wq/hhw, 972-237-8055Nov 10 7 p.m., Planning & Zoning, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8255Nov 11 10 a.m., Veteran’s Day Ceremonies at Veteran’s Memorial, 901 Conover, 972-237-8100, GrandFunGP.comNov 18 6:30 p.m., City Council, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8035Nov 21 8 p.m., Celtic Thunder, NOKIA Theatre, 214-373-8000 or 972-647-5700Nov 24 - 28 GPISD, CHISD Thanksgiving holidayNov 26 - 28 AISD, Mansfield ISD Thanksgiving holidayNov 27 - 28 Thanksgiving holiday, city offices closedNov 27 - 6-10 p.m. Prairie Lights, Lynn Creek Park, 5700 Lakeridge Parkway, holiday lighting extravaganza, www.prairielights.orgDec 31Dec 1 7 p.m., Planning & Zoning, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8255Dec 6 noon-4 p.m., Free tours of historic Copeland Home, 125 SW Dallas St., 972-237-8086Dec 6 noon-4 p.m., Winter Wonderland, Lynn Creek Park, 5700 Lake Ridge Pkwy.Dec 6 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day, Development Center, 201 NW 2nd St., register:

http://www.gptx.org/wq/hhw, 972-237-8055Dec 9 6:30 p.m., City Council, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8035Dec 15 7 p.m., Planning & Zoning, City Hall, 317 College St., 972-237-8255Dec 22 -Jan 4 GPISD, AISD, Mansfield ISD, CHISD Christmas holidayDec 24 - 25 Christmas holiday, city offices closed


2009 Calendar Photo Contest Now Open – Historic GP Emphasized in 2009

The incorporated city of Grand Prairie will be 100 years old in 2009 andthe city’s annual photo calendar will celebrate that. We are particularlylooking for photos with historic significance, such as:

t old photos of people, places and events from early and mid-century Grand Prairie

t new photos of historic places in Grand Prairie

Amateur and professional photographers must live in Grand Prairie andthe photos must be taken in and of Grand Prairie to enter the 2009 CityCalendar Photo Contest. Entries accepted through Oct. 1, 2008. A panel ofjudges will select photos most appropriate for the 2009 City Calendar.

Photo must feature Grand Prairie:t History, including old family photos, photos of early and

mid-century places, people and events in Grand Prairie, photos that tell a story about the settling of Grand Prairie, etc.

t New photos of historic places in Grand Prairie

t City services, facilities, programs, employees at work

t City events

t Pretty places in Grand Prairie

t GPISD students, facilities, activities (only one month in calendarmay feature the schools)

Format may be an original print or 300 DPI TIF file on CD or e-mail withyour name, address, phone number to [email protected]. Prints can bereturned if return address is on back of photo.

Photos will be used in city publications. Credit will be attributed incalendar, but may not be possible in other publications and uses. Winningphotos will be published in the calendar. No cash awards will be offered.Entrants must include name, address and phone number with entry.Winners will be notified in November 2008. The city calendar will beprinted in December 2008.

Send entries to:Amy SprinklesCommunications and MarketingCity of Grand PrairieP.O. Box 534045Grand Prairie, Texas [email protected]

For more information, go to http://www.gptx.org/photocontest.

Veterans Day Ceremony


Twenty years ago in 1988, the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system(DART) went to cities around Dallas, including Grand Prairie,asking if they would like to be part of DART. In order to join, citieshad to dedicate 1% of their sales tax revenue to DART. GrandPrairie residents defeated a proposition to dedicate the tax and joinDART. The city charter was revised to require that general revenuecould not be used for transit and that residents had to vote toapprove joining or starting a transit system.

Over the years, the city did inquire about joining DART and atthat time we were told we would have to pay back taxes to 1988,which was not financially possible. This requirement has since beenchanged so we currently would not need to pay the back taxes.

Today all of the city’s maximum sales tax allowed by law iscommitted to other projects.

To join DART, the city would have to free up 1% of sales taxrevenue by completing existing projects, have DART approve usjoining, have Grand Prairie voters approve changing the Citycharter to allow general funds to be used for transit and have votersapprove the 1% sales tax ($16 million per year) to go to DART. Even then, the city would have no guarantees on how muchservice and what type of service the city would get. The city wouldmost likely get some bus service, but it would be years for light railto be extended into Grand Prairie.

Separate from DART, regional discussions have occurredregarding the creation of a regional transit system which GrandPrairie would have the opportunity to join. At the state level,discussions have also occurred to increase the maximum tax rate toallow cities the ability to dedicate tax revenue to transit when theyare currently at the maximum. City officials will continue to keepup with any developments and should the opportunity arise thatwould allow the city to join a transit system, staff would bring itforward through our City Council to residents.

Why don’t we have busservice in Grand Prairie?

On the Grow

Prime Retail will open a 480,000-square-foot fashion center on GreatSouthwest Parkway and Sara Jane Parkway (north of Interstate 20 andeast of State Highway 360). Anchor stores will include Neiman MarcusLast Call and Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet. Construction is scheduled tobegin in late 2008. Bell Helicopter is adding 72,000 square feet to itsheat treatment plant on SH 360 and I-30. National Tire and Battery isplanning a new 8,000-square-foot store at Camp Wisdom and SH 360.MedVance Institute opened a medical personnel training facility on BeltLine and I-30. Seefried Industrial Properties is building a 277,000-square-foot distribution building on Trinity Boulevard near the TrinityRidge intersection. Baumann Springs is consolidating its manufacturingoperations in Grand Prairie and will add approximately 30,000 squarefeet to its location on Great Southwest Parkway north of Post andPaddock. Office furniture maker Vecta Contract is adding 22,000 squarefeet and new equipment to its operation at Great Southwest Parkwayand Marshall. Construction is underway on a 602,940-square-foot CBRichard Ellis/Calwest distribution center. Duke has completed a206,725-square-foot expansion of a Coca Cola Co. distribution center onShady Grove and Roy Orr. Crow Holdings is planning 305,000 squarefeet of distribution space just off of Trinity Boulevard at Trinity Overlookand Great Southwest Parkway. Crow is also planning 660,000 square feetof distribution space at the Grand Lakes Industrial Park south of I-30 andeast of MacArthur.Logistics Crossing planstwo buildings totaling1.2 million square feetfor distribution at GreatSouthwest and Pioneerparkways. Constructionis underway on an82,841-square-foot distribution center for Jason’s Deli on I-20 southwestof the State Highway 161 interchange.

Come out and honor the men and women who have worked so hard to protect ourcountry and freedoms. The event will begin at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11, at the VeteransMemorial in Grand Prairie, located across the parking lot behind the Senior Citizen Center,925 Conover Drive. There will be a vintage air craft flyover, bagpipes, a 21-gun salute,and the District Rotary Choir. A video compilation of Veterans’ interviews will be showingimmediately following the events in the Senior Center and will be available for purchasefor $10. For more information call 972-237-8100.

Road Construction Update

GPISD New Crosswinds Campus to Open

SH 161 Frontage Roadsfrom I-20 to Spur 303 areopen and frontage roadsfrom 303 to CarrierParkway are scheduled tobe complete by the endof 2008. (Frontage roadswill stop at the railroadtracks north and south onJefferson and Main streets.

The railroad crossings will be completed at a later date.)

Construction of the main lanes from I-30 to SH 183 is scheduled to becomplete by August 2009.

Construction for the frontage roads and main lanes from I-20 to I-30will be awarded by TxDOT in summer 2009 with construction scheduledto be complete by early 2010.

*TxDOT changed traffic flow on the SH 161 northbound frontage roadon Feb. 1 to allow for southbound frontage road construction. This changehas created an inconvenience for motorists and residents. TxDOT plans tohave construction in this area complete in October 2008.

I-30 Construction contracts for ramp relocations on Belt Line andMacArthur will be awarded in early 2009. The off ramps will be movedback and frontage roads will be built. Construction is scheduled to becomplete in late 2009.

I-20 A concept plan is currently in the approval phase at TxDOT forfrontage roads from Carrier to Belt Line eastbound and westbound.

Belt Line BridgeOver Main Street andJefferson The bridgeand embankments arecurrently underconstruction and theentire project isscheduled to becomplete by mid-2009.

Great Southwest Parkway at I-20 Design is underway to add rightand left turn lanes from Sara Jane Parkway to Bardin Road. Constructioncontracts are scheduled to be awarded by TxDOT in October 2008.Lake Ridge Parkway Design is underway to expand Lake Ridge to sixlanes from I-20 to Polo and widen the road from four to six lanes fromPolo to Great Southwest Parkway. Construction is scheduled to begin byMay 2009.

Lake Ridge will also be widened to six lanes from Great SouthwestParkway to Joe Pool Lake at Lynn Creek Marina. Construction is scheduledto begin in January 2009 and complete by late 2009.

Camp Wisdom Road Construction on an extension from RobinsonRoad to Carrier Parkway will begin by late 2008 and is scheduled to becomplete by late 2009.

Mayfield Road Reconstruction has begunfrom SH 360 to Great Southwest Parkway.The new road will include drainageimprovements and two lanes each directionwith a center turn lane. The intersection ofMayfield Road and Great Southwest Parkwaywill be widened and is scheduled to becomplete by late 2009.

January Lane Design work has begun on the extension of January Lanefrom Dallas Avenue to SH 161.

Arkansas Lane Construction has begun to widen Arkansas Lane to afour-lane divided roadway from Fall Drive to Carrier Parkway. The projectis scheduled to be complete in early 2010.

Warrior Trail Construction is underway on Warrior Trail for a four-lanedivided and undivided roadway from Green Vista to Field Crest. Theproject is scheduled to be complete in early 2010.

Crossland and Forum Extension The city is looking into designing afour-lane divided thoroughfare from Robinson Road to Waterwood Drive.

Sara Jane Extension The city is looking into designing a four-laneundivided roadway connecting the current Sara Jane Parkway north toForum Drive. This project will include a bridge over Fish Creek andincludes water, sanitary sewer and drainage improvements.


The Grand Prairie Independent School

District has converted the former Winn Dixie

building on north Carrier into a 39,546-square-

foot high school. The new Cross Winds High

School will open for school August 2008 and

house up to 700 students. Students will attend

morning, afternoon or night classes depending

upon their needs. The high school is designed

for students who are falling behind their grade, failing TAKS, are age

inappropriate for their grade (i.e. a 16 year old in 8th grade), have to work,

or have dropped out and want to come back to school.

“We are committed to all of our students,”said GPISD Superintendent Dr. SusanSimpson. “Everyone learns in a different wayand on different schedules, yet all are entitledto a high quality high school education. Theindividualization Crosswinds students receivewill help to ensure their success andaccelerate their learning enabling them to

graduate and pursue productive post-graduate goals.”

For more information about Crosswinds High School, contact PrincipalCraig Spears at [email protected].


The All New Tangle Ridge

Reopens in September

Buy Farm FreshthroughOctober

AirHogsInaugural

Season a Home Run

Register for Citizens Police AcademyResidents who live or work in Grand Prairie are invited

to sign up and learn more about the Grand Prairie PoliceDepartment at the Citizens Police Academy. The freecourse begins Thursday, August 21 and is conducted oncea week on Thursdays until November 13.

Classes will meet at the Charles V. England Public SafetyCenter at 310 W. College St. Attendees will learn how the

Grand Prairie Police Department works through a series oflectures, demonstrations, tours, hands-on practice and anopportunity to ride along with police officers.

Participants must agree to a background criminal historycheck, be 18 years old or older and not convicted of afelony. To register, call Charlene Muse at 972-237-8724 oremail Lt. Dennis Clay at [email protected].

Tangle Ridge Golf Course, 818 Tangle Ridge

Drive, will reopen for play in September after

having had all the greens transitioned to firm

and fast Champion Bermuda. For tee times

and information, call 972-299-6837.

May-August 2008, Grand Prairie’s new minorleague baseball team, the Grand PrairieAirHogs, has been knocking it out of thefabulous new QuikTrip Ballpark. Check theteam’s Website, www.airhogsbaseball.com, forspecial events during the off season.

Farmers Market continues through October at the City Hall Liberty Bell, Adair and NW 4th St. Fresh fruits and vegetables are on sale Thursdays and Saturdays, from 8 a.m.until sell out, which is usually around 1 p.m.

The Grand Prairie Historic Organization’s Historic Grand Prairie book isnow on sale for $35 cash, check or money order at:

t Giessner Insurance, 2509 S. Carrier Parkway, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Mon-Fri

t Alliance Insurance, 2321 S. Belt Line Road #116,

8:15 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon-Fri

t CALAB Inc, 3803 S. Robinson, the former Winery,

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon-Fri

t 2005 Wellington Dr., call Lynn Motley for availability 972-641-8295

t Tourist Center, 2170 N. Belt Line Road, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Mon-Sat; noon – 5 p.m. Sun

In a beautiful illustrated format, the easy and entertaining read recapsthe city’s history from the 1840s to the 1950s. Lovely as a gift, coffee tablebook or in your private collection, Historic Grand Prairie is a must havefor Grand Prairie old timers and newcomers alike. For more information,call Lynn Motley at 972-641-8295 or [email protected]. The HistoricOrganization’s Website is www.gphistorical.com.

“Historic Grand Prairie” Book Now on Sale

Life is Grand! H Recreation Classes

Autumn 2008 H www.GrandFunGP.com H 972-237- 8100 11

A L L N E W !

Fi n d yo u r f u n h e r eFacilities page 12

Sports in the Community page 13

Aquatics page 14

Youth page 16

Tweens and Teens page 18

Grown Ups page 19

Active Adults page 22

Back 2 Back NRPA Gold Medal Finalist page 26

Parks Map and Matrix page 28

Special Events for Fall page 32

Meet our staff…Happy to help youRick Herold - Director of Parks and [email protected] 972-237-8375

Danny Boykin - Sr. Superintendent of [email protected] 972-237-8084

Tim Shinogle - Manager of Park Planning and [email protected] 972-237-8104

Duane Strawn - Manager of Parks and Lake [email protected] 972-237-8106

Linda Long - Sr. Recreation [email protected] 972-237-8243

Bob McGlothlin - Sr. Superintendent of Lake [email protected] 817-467-2104

Gregg Driggers - GP Memorial Gardens General [email protected] 972-237-3001

Chip Nami - Ruthe Jackson Center General [email protected] 972-237-7501

Elspeth McDonald - Uptown Theater General [email protected] 972-237-8409

Amanda Alms - Aquatics [email protected] 972-263-8174

Parish Lowery - Bowles Life Center [email protected] 972-237-7529

Rosalind Miller - Dalworth Rec. Center [email protected] 972-264-7670

Michael Levy - Charley Taylor Rec. Center [email protected] 972-264-6890

Dan Conoley - Senior Citizen Center [email protected] 972-264-4975

Doug Beich - Special Events [email protected] 972-237-8112

Susan Henson - Horticulturist/[email protected] 972-237-8102

Rod Hayes - [email protected] 972-237-7533

Chris Cato - Marketing [email protected] 972-237-8355

Kelly Eddlemon - Marketing [email protected] 972-237-8339

Beverly Grogan - Lake Parks Special [email protected] 972-237-8329

GaryYakesch - Business Operations [email protected] 972-237-8178

Back 2 Back Gold Medal

Finalist2007-2008

Autumn 2008 H www.GrandFunGP.com12

Administration326 W. Main St. • 972-237-8100

Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

AthleticsBowles Life Center • 2750 Graham St. • 972-237-7533Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Bowles Life Center2750 Graham St. • 972-237-7529

Mon-Thurs 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. (5 a.m. for Grand Plan members)Fri 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. (5 a.m. for Grand Plan members)Sat 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.Sun 1 - 6 p.m.

Charley Taylor Recreation Center601 E. Grand Prairie Road • 972-264-6890

Mon-Thurs 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.Fri 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.Sat 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Sun 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Church Street Nutrition Center503 W. Church St. • 972-262-6673

Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dalworth Recreation Center2012 Spikes St. • 972-264-7670

Mon-Thurs 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.Fri 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.Sat 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sun 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Kirby Creek Indoor Pool3201 Corn Valley Road • 972-263-8174

Mon-Thurs 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.Fri-Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Senior Center925 Conover Dr. • 972-264-4975

Mon & Tues 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.Wed & Fri 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.Thurs 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

ATHLETIC FIELD RENTALRent your own athletic field for $10/hour without lights

and $15/hour with lights. All fees must be paid in full prior to use of the field. Reservations may be made in person

at 2750 Graham St. or by phone at 972-237-7533.

To reserve for: Call on or after:Monday and Tuesday FridayWednesday MondayThursday TuesdayFriday and Saturday WednesdaySunday Thursday

Recreation Facilities

Autumn 2008 H www.GrandFunGP.com 13

Sports in the Community

Grand Prairie Boys Baseball Inc. (GPBBI)Boy’s Baseball has a level of play for everyonefrom the beginner to the competitive athlete.Games are played at Jennifer McFalls West,Charley Taylor and Waggoner Parks dependingon the age division.

Grand Prairie Boys Baseball Fall league sign upswill be on Saturday, August 2, 9, and 16 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at 113 S. Center in downtownGrand Prairie.

Registration Fees: $60 (does not includeuniforms) for all ages 4-14 (boys and girls).

Season Starts Saturday,Sept.6.

Visit our web site at www.gpbbi.org

Grand Prairie Girls SoftballAssociation(GPGSA)Girl’s Softballprovides a variety ofleagues and levelsfor those wanting toplay and learn thegame of fastpitch

softball. Games are played at Jennifer McFallsEast Park. Girls softball sign-ups were heldSaturdays July 19 – Aug. 9.

Call for late registrations.

Season Starts Sept.15.

Registration Fees:

Blast Ball (3-4) - $25

Under 6 and Under 8 - $65

Under 10, Under 12 and older - $75Fees include uniforms and supplementalinsurance

Visit our web site at www.gpgirlssoftball.comcontact number is 469-767-9107.

Grand Prairie Youth FootballAssociation (GPYFA)Grand Prairie Youth Football Associationprovides a tackle and flag football program forGrand Prairie youth. Also, GPYFA has aCheerleading program that coincides for the fallfootball season. All games are held SaturdaysAug. 23 – Oct. 18 at Parkhill Park.

Registration is on going.

Registration Fees:

Flag Football - $45Tackle Football - $100Cheerleading - $220

For more information on football or cheerleadingplease visit our Web sites at www.gpyfa.net(football) and (cheerleading) or call the hotlineat 972-237-5919.

Grand Prairie Soccer Association (GPSA)Grand Prairie Soccer Association provides soccerleagues for all ages including adults. Games areplayed at the Mountain Creek Soccer Complex.Soccer registration for the fall season runsthrough Aug. 1.

Sign-ups will be held at the GPSA office at 2305 Oak Lane Suite 127, 972-264-4424.

Call to see if late registration is being taken.

Registration Fees:

Under 6 – Under 10 - $80 (Includesuniforms, practice sessions and insurance)

Under 11 – Under 19 - $75 (Includespractice sessions and insurance)

Adults - $70 (includes insurance)

Visit our web site at www.gpsoccer.net

Maverick Rugby ClubWant to learn or play rugby competitively? For adult info contact:

John Kurylas, [email protected], 972-824-8818;

For youth info contact:

Bill Moser, [email protected],214-213-5644

www.MaverickRugby.com.

Grand Prairie Soccer Association (GPSA)

Are you a Grand PrairieParks and Rec

VIP?Join the Grand Fun E-Club and stay on top of all the

excitement in Grand Prairie! Join for FREE and receive:

H Parks and recreation discounts

Special offers H News about new parks, programs and special events

Go to www.GrandFunGP.com/GrandFunClub to join.

We’re looking for…A Few Good Rangers!The Grand Ranger Volunteer Corps is the Parks and

Recreation Department’s right-hand team of

volunteers assisting the city with special events year

round. Everyone is needed – from retired residents

to active day-time workers and college students.

If you want to join the fun and become a

Grand Ranger, contact Beverly Grogan by e-mail at [email protected]. Or call

972-237-8329 with questions. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

Rangers

Aquatics

Kirby Creek Indoor Pool H 972-263 - 8174 H 972-237- 766514

Adult (AD)Just starting out or want to start to training? This class will teach youeverything from floating to efficient strokes at a personalized speed. Smallclasses for individual attention. Course # Days Dates Time6734-6736 T/Th Sessions 1, 4, 5 8 - 8:45 p.m.6982 T/Th Sessions 7 8 - 8:45 p.m.

Private Lessons – (PR) All Ages. One-on-one attention will focus on what the student wants tolearn. Private lessons are for those wanting to learn at a personal pace.

First Splash – (FS) A 30-minute class, this “Mommy/Daddy & Me” program helps youngchildren ages 6 months to 3 years become more comfortable in andaround the water with your help. An adult is required to participate in class. Course # Days Dates Time6733 Sat Session 3 10:15 - 10:45 a.m.6649, 6650 Wed Session 2, 6 6:30 - 7 p.m.6729-6732 T/Th Sessions 1, 4, 5, 7 9 - 9:30 a.m.

Level 0 – (L0) A 30-minute preschool class for young beginners. This introduction to thepool is safe and comfortable for all. This group lesson is without aguardian in the water.Course # Days Dates Time 6737 Sat Session 3 10:15 - 10:45 a.m.6780, 6781 Wed Session 2, 6 6 - 6:30 p.m.6782-6785 T/Th Session 1, 4, 5, 7 9:30 - 10 a.m. 6786-6789 T/Th Session 1, 4, 5, 7 7 - 7:30 p.m.

Level 1 – (L1) A 30-minute water exploration class that teaches the basics of assistedswimming, as well as an orientation to deep water swimming. Studentswill be without a guardian in the water and must be comfortable puttingtheir face in the water. Course # Days Dates Time6876 Sat Session 3 10:15 - 10:45 a.m.6877, 6878 Wed Session 2, 6 6 - 6:30 p.m.6879-6882 T/Th Session 1, 4, 5, 7 9:30 - 10 a.m.6883-6886 T/Th Session 1, 4, 5, 7 7 - 7:30 p.m.

Level 2 – (L2) A 40-minute primary skills class to learn the basic skills necessary to swimunassisted. Students must be comfortable on their own, fully submerged inan area where they can touch. Course # Days Dates Time6887 Sat Session 3 10:50 - 11:30 a.m.6888, 6889 Wed Session 2, 6 6:35 - 7:15 p.m.6890-6893 T/Th Session 1, 4, 5, 7 7 - 7:40 p.m.

Level 3 – (L3) A 40-minute stroke readiness class that builds on coordinating front andback strokes while increasing basic endurance. Swimmers must be able to push off the wall unassisted swimming front crawl and backstroke for10 strokes.Course # Days Dates Time6944 Sat Session 3 11:30 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.6945, 6946 Wed Session 2, 6 6:35 - 7:15 p.m.6947-6950 T/Th Session 1, 4, 5, 7 7:35 - 8:15 p.m.

Level 4 – (L4) A 40-minute class on stroke development of the basic front and back strokeswhile introducing breaststroke, sidestroke, dolphin kick, treading water andfront dives. Students should be able to swim the width of the pool.Course # Days Dates Time6967 Sat Session 3 11:40 a.m. - 12:20 p.m. 6968-6971 Wed Session 1, 4, 5, 7 7:35 - 8:15 p.m.

Level 5/6 – Join SPLASH Recreational SwimmingJoin this fun filled group designed to introduce skills and techniques forswimming as a competitive sport. Practices focus on stroke technique andendurance training to new swimmers, as well as more advanced athletes.Spend this season swimming with us! Fee: $40.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A T/Th 9/4 - 11/20 7 - 7:45 p.m.

Competitive Swim Team – GPA USA SwimmingThe main goal of the age-appropriate Grand Prairie Aquatics (GPA) USACompetitive Year-round Swim Team is to help young athletes have fun asthey benefit from the great sport of swimming. Try today with a freepractice! Fee: $35/month.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A M-F School Year 4:15 - 6 p.m.

Adaptive Swimming – Special Needs SwimmingIntroduce swimming to the young person in your life with special needs.Classes are organized to fit the needs of all participants. Parents orguardians may assist in the water if needed. Fee: $25 season.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A W 9/10 - 11/19 6 - 7 p.m.

American Red Cross Learn To Swim LessonsRegistration is first come first serve, so register early due to limited enrollment in each class. Call or stop by today.

T/ Th Session 1 Wed Session 2 Sat Session 3 T/ Th Session 4 T/ Th Session 5 Wed Session 6 T/Th Session 7

Sept 2 - Sept 25 Sept 10 - Oct 29 Sept 13 - Nov 8 Oct 2 – Oct 28 Nov 4 - Nov 20 Nov 5 - Dec 17 Dec 2 - Dec 18

Aquatic Fitness

Stimulate and tone your muscles while building confidence and self-esteem in the water. Great instructors and coaches are waiting for you today!

ALL POOL PASSPasses can be used for open swim or adult lap swim at Kirby Creek

and all city outdoor pools.

Kirby Pass - $40 for 30 visits Annual Pass - $100Family Pass - $250 (Family of four)

Lap Swim/Water Walking – Kirby Creek IndoorCome in for a great workout or just to relax your muscles in our 25-meterheated indoor pool. Swim, walk or float to tone and strengthen your body.Rehabilitate injured or sore muscles in the water. Come in and check it out.Fee: $2 daily or annual pass.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A M-F ongoing 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.N/A M-Th ongoing 8 - 9 p.m.N/A Sat ongoing 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Arthur-cize – Kirby Creek Indoor – The Wellness Workout The Arthritis Foundation and Kirby Creek offer this year-round wellnessclass with exercises including range-of-motion workouts, musclestrengthening and endurance building activities. This class is fun and greatexercise. Registration is continuous. Fees: $3 single/$5 couple daily or$30 single/$50 couple monthly.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A M-F ongoing 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Wetworks – Kirby Creek Indoor – The Aerobic Workout This unique water exercise works you out aerobically, tones, strengthensand burns fat. It’s fun, good for you and offered year round. The workoutis excellent in promoting cardiovascular fitness. Vernetta Turner and herstaff of expertly trained instructors teach it. Classes are unlimited andregistration is continuous. Fee: $38/single; $34/senior 55+; $59 couples;$34 student.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A M/W/F/S ongoing 9 - 10 a.m.N/A M/T/TH ongoing 6 - 7 p.m.

Pool Parties

Have a Party at the Pool! – Kirby Creek IndoorMake a splash at your next party with a private party rental, with the poolto yourself on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Open swim party rentals,during open swim hours, are available on Saturdays. All guests attending aparty are included in the party count and fee. Reservations are scheduledin person at Kirby Creek on a first come first serve basis and require a fullpayment with completed contract in advance.

Private Party Fee: $150 includes a max of 40 guests; fees increase with additional guests.

Days Date TimeF/Sat ongoing 6:30 - 9 p.m.Sun ongoing 2 - 5 p.m.; 5:30 - 8 p.m.

Open Swim Party Fee: $75 for 3 Tables/Max 40 guests included; $2 each additional guest.Day Date TimeSat ongoing 1 - 3 p.m.; 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Life Guarding

NEW! American Red Cross Lifeguard ClassesInterested in learning about how you can help save lives? Kirby CreekNatatorium has a Lifeguarding, CPR for the Professional Rescuer and FirstAid certifications for you. Successful completion of all course work willaward a 3-year certification. Register for all classes at the Kirby CreekNatatorium. Fee: $150.Prerequisite:t Must be 15 years of age on or before the end of the

scheduled courset Must be able to pass the pre-course testt 300 yard swim as follows:

n 100 yards of front crawl, n 100 yards of breaststroke, n 100 yards of either stroke

t Swim 20 yards using front crawl or breaststroke, surface dive to a depth of 7-10 ft, retrieve a 10-pound object, return to the surface, and swim 20 yards back to the starting point to exit the water without using steps or ladder in 1 minute, 40 seconds

Day Date TimesSat 12/13 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Sun 12/14 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Mon - Thurs 12/15-12/18 4 - 7 p.m.

Last Outdoor Pool WeekendLabor Day Weekend

Aug 30-Sept 1 Sat, Sun, MonOPEN SWIM 1-6 p.m.

Thanksgiving Weekend Hours – Kirby Creek Indoor Come in to swim off all those extra turkey day calories at the heatedindoor pool. Fee: $2/swimmer.Day Date Lap Swim Times/Open Swim TimesFri-Sat 11/27 - 11/28 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.; 1 - 6 p.m.

Aquatics

Kirby Creek Indoor Pool H 972-263 - 8174 H 972-237- 7665 15

Bowles 972-237-7529 H Charley Taylor 972-264-6890 H Dalworth 972-264-767016

Athletics/Fitness

ATTENTION YOUTH COACHESCoaches with expertise needed in many of our youth sport leagues.

Help make a difference in a child’s life. Coaches with kids whoparticipate will receive their registration fee back in the form of a check at the end of the season.

Call 972-237-7533 for information.

Basketball – Bowles TAAF Jr. NBA/WNBA Division I Winter Competitive LeagueAges 10-14. This outstanding league provides a great way for kids to compete against some of the best teams in the area. Teams may even advance to regional play. Team registrations only. Call 972-237-7533. Fee: $375/team.League Registration: Sept. 1 – Nov. 28Season Starts: Jan. 10Course # Days Dates Time6615 Sat 9/1 - 11/28 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Basketball – Charley Taylor/DalworthTAAF Jr. NBA/WNBA Division II Winter Recreational League Ages 3-12. This outstanding league provides a great way for kids tocontinue their development in basketball and offers an outlet to remainphysically and socially involved in a positive atmosphere. Call 972-237-7533. Fee: $75/player.League Registration: Sept. 1 – Nov. 28Season Starts: Jan. 10Course # Days Dates Time6613 Sat 9/1 - 11/28 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Karate/Tae Kwon Do - Charley Taylor Ages 6+. Learn traditional Tae Kwon Do as an art, a sport and self-defense. You will learn Karate to perfection through all stages of training, white belt through black belt. Emphasis is placed on self-discipline and self-esteem. Taught by 9th degree black belt, Bill Simpson. Fee: $45/month. Course # Days Dates Time5696 T/Th Aug 6:30 - 8 p.m.6570 T/Th Sep 6:30 - 8 p.m.6571 T/Th Oct 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Let’s Get Active – Charley TaylorAges 8-12. This fun-filled 4-weekclass is focused on teaching kidsthat being fit and physically activeis important for everyone. Yourchild will participate in games,sport related activities, as well aslearning about eating right andthe importance of being healthy.Kids will also learn how to makequick and easy snacks that are

fun to make, healthy, and taste great. Fee: $20/child.Course # Days Dates Time6645 W 9/10 - 10/1 6:15 - 7 p.m.6646 W 10/29 - 11/19 6:15 - 7 p.m.

Let’s Get Active Lil’ Tots – Charley TaylorAges 3-5. A repeat of our popular Let’s Get Active class for the toddlersfocuses on physical and social development. Your child will participate ingames, songs and parachute play. Children will be introduced tobasketball, t-ball, soccer! Fee: $20/child.Course # Days Dates Time6573 T/Th 9/9 - 10/2 10:30 a.m.

P.H.A.T. Kidz – DalworthThis is a fitness class designated for children. This will get the kids activeand working out while teaching them the importance of eating right andbeing healthy. Class lasts four weeks. Fee: $25/four weeks.Course # Days Dates Time5743 Thurs Sept 6 - 7 p.m.5744 Thurs Oct 6 - 7 p.m.5745 Thurs Nov 6 - 7 p.m.

Youth - Ages 2-12

Bowles 972-237-7529 H Charley Taylor 972-264-6890 H Dalworth 972-264-7670 17

Soccer Mini Kickers FUTBOL – BowlesAges 3-5. Soccer clinics are now scheduled for the fall season. Soccerclinics will run monthly on Tuesday evenings. Fee: $20.Course # Days Dates Time6622 Tue Aug 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.6621 Tue Sept 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.6620 Tue Oct 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Soccer Mania Class – Charley TaylorAges 3-5. Preschoolers can exercise their soccer skills in game-likesituations. We’ll teach the basics of soccer and good sportsmanship. Parentsare asked to participate in the class with their child. Fee: $30/child. Course # Days Dates Time6634 Th 9/18 - 10/9 5:30 - 6:15 p.m.

Soccer – Pre-K – Charley TaylorAges 3-5. Sign your little one up for fun and challenging outdoor leaguesoccer play! This new league is looking for toddlers ready to use theirsoccer skills. Bring your soccer ball and a friend to your new team! Teamsor individuals may sign up. Games will be played at Mountain CreekSoccer Complex. Spots will not be held until payment is received. Spacesare limited. Deadline for registration is Oct. 5. Fee: $45/child includesjersey and socks.Course # Days Dates Time5961 Sat 10/18 - 11/22 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Tumbling for Fun -DalworthAges 3-5. Tumbling stars willlearn basic tumbling movesbeginning with the log roll,crab walk, forward roll andfront straddle roll. Tumblingis great for developingcoordination skills. Allchildren should wear

comfortable clothing and tennis shoes. Girls should tie back long hair.Class lasts four weeks. Fee: $25.Course # Days Dates Time5721 Tue Sept 6 - 7 p.m.5722 Tue Oct 6 - 7 p.m.5723 Tue Nov 6 - 7 p.m.

Volleyball Youth League – Bowles Life CenterAges 9-16. This outstanding league provides a great way for kids tocontinue their development in volleyball and offers an outlet to remainphysically and socially involved in a positive atmosphere. To register, call972-237-7533. Fee: $45/player.League Registration: July 1 – Aug. 15Season Starts: Sept. 6Course# Days Dates Time6616 Sat 9/6 – 11/1 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Educational

After-School Program –BowlesAges 6-12. Bowles After SchoolProgram picks up from Fannin and Garcia Elementary Schools.The program runs Monday-Friday2:45-6 p.m. Activities include anafter-school snack, homeworkhelp, library and computer time, arts and crafts, game room, and gymgames. Pick up from Garcia and Fannin elementary schools. Fee: $20/week.Course # Days Dates Time6601-6610 M-F begins 8/25 3 - 6 p.m.

After-School Program – Charley TaylorAges 6-12. Looking for a friendly, safe place to send your child afterschool? The Charley Taylor After-School Program is a five-day-a-weekprogram that provides your child with homework time, a snack andrecreation. We pick up from Crockett elementary school and offerorganized games, crafts, movies, computers and more! Payment is dueweekly. Contact 972-264-6890 for details. Fee: $20/week if the kids walk;$30/week if picked up by van. Course # Days Dates TimeN/A M-F begins 8/25 3 - 6 p.m.

After School Program – DalworthAges 5-12. The Dalworth After School Program starts on first day ofschool. Staff will walk children from Daniels Academy to the recreationcenter. Our five-day-a-week program provides your child with homeworktime, a snack, computer time, arts and crafts, game room, and gym gamesand other recreational activities. Contact 972-264-7670. Fee: $20/week if the kids walk; $30/week if picked up by van.Course # Days Date TimeN/A M-F begins 8/25 3 - 6 p.m.

Pre-K Comprehensive Learning CampAges 4-5. ABC, 1-2-3! This four week class makes learning fun in uniqueand creative ways. Our program will include art class designed to stimulatethe mental/creative development of your child. Charley Taylor. Fee: $80/child. Course # Days Dates Time6575 M/W/F Sept 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Youth - Ages 2-12


Athletics/Fitness

Basketball - BowlesTAAF Jr. NBA/WNBADivision I WinterCompetitive League Ages 10-14. A great way for kidsto compete against some of thebest teams in the area. Teamsmay advance to regionals.

Team registrations only. Call 972-237-7533. Fee: $375/team.League Registration: Sept. 1 – Nov. 28 • Season Starts: Jan. 10Course # Days Dates Time6615 Sat 9/1 - 11/28 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Basketball - Charley Taylor/DalworthTAAF Jr. NBA/WNBA Division II Winter Recreational League Ages 3-12. League provides a great way for kids to develop in basketballand offers an outlet to remain physically and socially involved in a positiveatmosphere. Call 972-237-7533. Fee: $75/player.League Registration: Sept. 1 – Nov. 28 Season Starts: Jan. 10Course # Days Dates Time6613 Sat 9/1 - 11/28 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Karate - Tae Kwon Do – Charley Taylor Ages 6+. You will learn traditional Tae Kwon Do to perfection from whitebelt through black belt. Emphasis is placed on self-discipline and self-esteem. Taught by 9th degree black belt, Bill Simpson. Fee: $45/month.Course # Days Dates Time 5696 T/Th Aug 6:30 - 8 p.m.6570 T/Th Sept 6:30 - 8 p.m.6571 T/Th Oct 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Let’s Get Active – Charley TaylorAges 8-12. This fun-filled 4-week class teaches kids that being fit andphysically active is important for everyone. Your child will participate ingames, sport related activities, as well as learning about eating right. Kidswill also learn how to make quick and easy snacks. Fee: $20/child.Course # Days Dates Time6645 W 9/10 - 10/1 6:30 - 7:15 p.m.6646 W 10/29 - 11/19 6:30 - 7:15 p.m.

P.H.A.T. Kidz - DalworthThis is a fitness class for children that will get them active and working outwhile teaching them the importance of eating right and being healthy.Fee: $25/four weeks.Course # Days Dates Time5743 Thurs Sept 6 - 7 p.m.5744 Thurs Oct 6 - 7 p.m.5745 Thurs Nov 6 - 7 p.m.

P.T. for Teens – DalworthThis fitness class teaches teenagers proper weight room etiquette,stretching, and lays the foundation to a healthy, active lifestyle. Studentsmeeting their weight loss goals will be eligible for awards and prizes at theend of the class. Fee: free with membership.Course # Days Dates Time5751 T/Th 9/9 - 11/27 7 - 8 p.m.

Teen Nights – Charley TaylorAges 13-17. Come out and explore a great time at the Rec with somebasketball, a motivational message, and dinner. Open to all teens. MondayNights throughout the fall. See staff to register!!!Course # Days Dates Time6611 Mon Aug - Nov 7 - 9 p.m.

Volleyball Youth League – Bowles Life CenterAges 9-16. This outstanding league provides a great way for kids todevelop volleyball skills and remain physically and socially involved in apositive atmosphere. To register, call 972-237-7533. Fee: $45/player.League Registration: July 1 – Aug. 15 Season Starts: Sept. 6Course # Days Dates Time6616 Sat 9/6 – 11/1 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Tweens and Teens

Ages 6-16 BlazeSports America offers community-based sport, recreation,

physical activity and healthy lifestyle programs for children with physical disabilities.

At BlazeSports Grand Prairie, we invite children and adults alike to participate in our developing program.

Children will be able to participate in AdaptedTennis, Golf, Basketball, Swimming and Volleyball throughout the year.Adults are welcome to participate as coaches and volunteers.

BLAZE – Open Play BasketballLocation: Charley Taylor Recreation Center. FREECourse # Days Dates TimeN/A Sat ongoing 1 - 2 p.m.

BLAZE – Wheelchair TennisLocation: Charley Taylor Recreation Center. FreeCourse # Days Dates TimeN/A Sat ongoing 2 - 3 p.m.

BLAZE/GPA Adaptive SwimmingLocation: Kirby Creek Natatorium. Fee: $25 for a 10-week session. Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Wed 10/10 - 11/19 6 - 7 p.m.


Grown Ups -18 years +Athletics/Fitness

Basketball – Dalworth/Six Feet Under Men’s League For players no taller than six feet this weekly league will have hoopsswishing with three pointers. Call to register 972-237-7533. Fee: $350/team.Registration: Aug. 4 – Sept. 23 Season Starts: Oct. 4Course # Days Dates Time6623 Mon 10/6 - 12/15 7 - 9 p.m.

Basketball – Dalworth/35 and Older Men’s League For players 35 years old and older this weekly league will show theyoungster you’ve still got it. To register call 972-237-7533. Fee: $350/team.Registration: Aug. 4 – Sept. 23 Season Starts: Oct. 5Course # Days Dates Time6625 Sun 10/5 - 12/14 2 - 5 p.m.

Basketball – Dalworth/Wednesday Night Hoop TimeAge 16+. It’s show time on Wednesday night at Dalworth RecreationCenter. Tennis shoes gripping, nets popping, some serious defense andoffense. Fee: membership required.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Wed ongoing 8 - 10 p.m.

Basketball – Dalworth/Saturday Morning HoopersAges 16+. Need a little action in your Saturday? We offer full-courtbasketball and pick-up games. Get in on the action with great exercise,great price and convenient location. Fee: membership required.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Sat ongoing noon – 2 p.m.

Basketball – Bowles “King of the Court” Men’s Competitive League HOOP-MANIA! Bring your friends, family and co-workers for loads of competition and fun. To register call 972-237-7533. Fee: $350/team.Registration: Aug. 4 – Sept. 23 Season Starts: Oct. 5Course # Days Dates Time6626 Sun 10/5 - 12/14 1 - 5 p.m.

Basketball – BowlesAdult Women’s Basketball Women join us in this new league that will show off your all-around game. Call 972-237-7533 to register. Fee: $350/team.Registration: Aug. 4 – Sept. 23 Season Starts: Oct. 9Course # Days6624 Thurs Date Times 10/9 - 12/18 7 - 9 p.m.

Bridal Boot Camp - DalworthAge 18+. Are you getting ready to say “I DO?” Do you want to fit intoyour ideal wedding dress? Come join our Bridal Boot Campworkout/fitness class, which is devoted to getting you into a workoutroutine that will prepare you for the big day. Fee: $35/month.Course # Days Dates Time5741, 5742 T/Th 9/9 - 11/27 8 - 9 p.m.

Body Works - Bowles This combination class of abs, buns and cardio kickboxing focuses ontightening all areas of the body. Tone abs, gluts, legs and lower back usingweights and body resistance. Strengthen the upper body by learning jabs,hooks, uppercuts. Abs and Buns will be taught on Mondays, Wednesdaysand Fridays. Cardio Kickboxing will be taught Tuesdays and Thursdays.Registration is ongoing. Fee: $25/class or $40/both classes.Course # Days Dates Time 6038 M/W/F Aug 9 - 10 a.m.

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.T/Th Aug 10 - 11 a.m.

6039 M/W/F Sept 9 -10 a.m.6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

T/Th Sept 10 - 11 a.m.6587 M/W/F Oct 9 - 10 a.m.

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.T/Th Oct 10 - 11 a.m.


Grown Ups -18 years +

20

Boot Camp – Bowles “You can feel the pain of change or you can feel the pain of staying thesame!” Boot Camp is a total body work out good for all ages. This totalfitness workout is effective and guarantees results. You will lose fat andbuild lean muscle. Personal training is also available upon request. Fee: $7/class or $80/month. Course # Days Dates Time 6057 M/W/F Aug 5:30 - 6:30 a.m.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.7 - 8 p.m.

Sat 10 - 11 a.m.6058 M/W/F Sept 5:30 - 6:30 a.m.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.7 - 8 p.m.

Sat 10 - 11 a.m.6059 M/W/F Oct 5:30 - 6:30 a.m.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.7 - 8 p.m.

Sat 10 - 11 a.m.

Clogging – Bowles This class will introduce you to traditional clogging steps andcontemporary footwork. Fee: $40/month. Course # Days Dates Time 6063 Sun Aug 2 - 5 p.m. 6588 Sun Sept 2 - 5 p.m. 6589 Sun Oct 2 - 5 p.m.

Fitness Assessment/Equipment Orientation – Bowles Ongoing by appointment for customers 18 years old and older. Fee: $10.

Fit Spot Fitness – DalworthAge 14+. This is a fitness class that uses “circuit spots” with variousexercises on them with the purpose of getting you toned and in shape.Class is taught by our resident Personal Trainer and is a new and fun wayto get your workout on. Fee: $5/class; $35/month.Course # Days Dates Time5752 M/W/F ongoing 1 - 2 p.m.

Personal Training – BowlesYour very own personal trainer is available at the Bowles Life Center dailyduring operating hours. Call 972-237-7529 to schedule your workout.

Softball/Men’s D – Mike Lewis ParkThis competitive league will play from 6:30 – 9:15 p.m. Monday throughFriday. Call 972-237-7533 to register your team. Fee: $315/team for 8 games.Fall Registration: July 28-Sept. 15Fall Season Starts: Week of Sept. 22Course # Days Dates Time 6627 M-F see above 6:30 - 9:15 p.m.

Softball/Men’s E – Mike Lewis ParkRecreational league for friends and co-workers. Call 972-237-7533 toregister your team. Fee: $315/team for 8 games.Fall Registration: July 28-Sept. 15Fall Season Starts: Week of Sept. 22Course # Days Dates Time 6628 M-F see above 6:30 - 9:15 p.m.

Softball/Mixed D – Mike Lewis ParkThis competitive league for co-ed teams will play at Mike Lewis Park 6:30 – 9:15 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Call 972-237-7533 toregister your team. Fee: $315/team for 8 games.Fall Registration: July 28-Sept. 15Fall Season Starts: Week of Sept. 22Course # Days Dates Time 6629 T/TH/F see above 6:30 - 9:15 p.m.

Softball/Women – Mike Lewis Park Women, join us in this new league that will show off your all-aroundgame. Call 972-237-7533 to register. Fee: $315/team for 8 gamesFall Registration: July 28-Sept. 15Fall Season Starts: Week of Sept. 22Course # Days Dates Times 6630 Wed see above 6:30 - 9:15 p.m.

New League Coming this FallSoftball 250’ Leagues – Mike Lewis ParkMen’s and women’s leagues. Come join us in this hit of a league that willbe tons of fun. Recreational teams of friends, co-workers play for funscheduled from 6:30 – 9:15 p.m. Call 972-237-7533 to register your team.Fee: $315/team for 8 games.Fall Registration: July 28-Sept. 15Fall Season Starts: Week of Sept. 22Course # Days Dates Times 6632 M-F see above 6:30 - 9:15 p.m.

Play League Softball at Mike Lewis ParkPlay League Softball at Mike Lewis Park

Grown Ups -18 years +


Spinning – BowlesSpinning is a group exercise workout performed on a stationary bike. This class is an excellent cardio workout to great music! Fee: $35/month or $4/class.Course # Days Dates Time5834 M-F Aug noon - 1 p.m.6596 M-F Sept noon - 1 p.m.6597 M-F Oct noon - 1 p.m.

Volleyball Coed 6x’s – Bowles Adult Coed Bump, Set & Spike. Take the power volleyball challenge andspike your way into competition! Bring your best team to compete in thisleague. Each team must have at least three females. Call 972-237-7533 toregister. Fee: $150/team for 8 matches.League Registration: Sept. 1 – Oct. 7Season Starts: Oct. 14Course # Days Dates Time6633 Tues see above 7 - 9 p.m.

Weight Room – Charley TaylorCome out and enjoy the perfect workout setting at the Charley TaylorWeight Room. A perfect place to come at the end of a long day’s work.Weight Room Membership is $7 per month, $35 for six months or $60 per year. September Special! – Buy a yearly weight room membership and get a 2ndfor a family member at half price!!! See staff for details!Business Hours:Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.Friday 9 a.m.- 6 p.m.Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Sunday 1 - 5 p.m.

Weight Room – DalworthCome out and enjoy the perfect workout setting at the Dalworth WeightRoom. A perfect place to come at the end of a long day’s work. WeightRoom Membership is $7 per month, $35 for six months or $60 per year. Business Hours:Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.Sunday CLOSED

Yoga – Bowles Enjoy the benefits of yoga and Pilates in this class for an overallmind/body fitness experience. Yoga will teach proper body alignment,breathing and muscle control. Fee: $7/class or $35/month.Course # Days Dates Time 6077 M/W/F Aug 11 a.m. - noon

T/Th Aug 6 - 7 p.m.6078 M/W/F Sept 11 a.m. - noon

T/Th Sept 6 - 7 p.m.6079 M/W/F Oct 11 a.m. - noon

T/Th Oct 6 - 7 p.m.

Educational

Dog ObedienceFor the show dog or pet. With 20 years of experience, instructor ValerieFaire will teach you how to improve your dog’s manners and help youcontrol your pet. Classes run for seven weeks. Dogs must be current on allvaccinations and at least four months old. Beginners Class Fee: $70.Intermediate Class Fee: $60. For location and to register call 972-988-1338.Course # Days Dates Time N/A Tues 8/26 - 10/7 7 - 8 p.m.N/A Tues 10/14 - 11/25 7 - 8 p.m.

Toastmasters Club #6332 – Charley Taylor Improve leadership and communication skills with the Grand Prairie Club #6332. You will develop your communication skills in a friendly andhelpful atmosphere. Visitors are welcome at no charge. A must forimproving public speaking! Fee: $23 in April and Sept.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Tues ongoing 7:30 - 9 p.m.

Games

NBA 2K8/Madden Tournament (XBOX 360) – DalworthAges: All. Think you got game on the sticks? Do you feel like you can’t bestopped with the controller in your hands? Then come on down for videogame tournaments on our brand new XBOX 360 and 50" flat screentelevision. Top two finishers will receive $20 and $10 dollar gift cards oftheir choice. Bring your “A” Game or do everyone a favor and stay athome. For more information, call Marshawn Wilks at 972-264-7670. Fee: $5. Course # Days Dates Time5754 T/Th 9/9 - 11/27 TBD

Ping Pong League – DalworthAges: All. Are you a power or finesse player? Do you prefer smashing theball or spinning it? Whatever your game may be, bring it to our ping pongleague. Each match will be best of 7 up to 21 points (win by 2). Everygame will be played on our brand new, “state of the art” ping pong table.For more information, call Marshawn Wilks, 972-264-7670. Fee: $20. Course # Day Dates TimeN/A W 9/4 - 10/30 7 - 9 p.m.

Texas Hold’Em Poker/Beginner – DalworthAges 18+. Would you like to play, but have no idea where to start? Well this is where you need to be! This class will cover the basics of Poker: how to play, what to do, when to do it, why you do it. The class will have you winning tournaments in no time. Call at least 2 weeks in advance to participate in the class. FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Mon ongoing 8 - 9 p.m.

Senior Center 972-264-4975 H Bowles 972-237-7529 H Dalworth 972-264-767022

Active Adults - 50+ yearsFitness

Fitness Membership – BowlesStay fit after 62 for only $8 a year!A Senior Pass Plan includes access to the Bowles Life Center fitness/weight room which includes recumbent bikes, treadmills, ellipticals, spin bikes, dumbbells, and weight machines. The Bowles Life Center also offers an indoor jogging track. Business Hours:Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.Friday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.Sunday 1 - 6 p.m.

Health Screenings – Senior CenterCome get your blood pressure, iron, glucose, and overall health checkedby trained nurses. FREE!Course # Days TimeN/A every 3rd Mon 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Light & Lively Exercise – Senior CenterThis exercise class focuses on improving your muscle tone, cardiovascularsystem, endurance and balance. Exercise at your own pace. Free! Course # Days Dates TimeN/A M/W/F weekly 9 - 10 a.m.

*second Mon. 10 a.m., potluck 11 a.m.*no class third Fri.

Seniorcize – Bowles Low impact aerobics specifically for Seniors. A general movement classwhere participants keep one foot on the floor at all times (no jumping).Patterns and sequencing are designed for basic movements only. Free with Bowles Life Center membership.Course # Days Dates Time5823 M/W/F Aug 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.5824 M/W/F Sept 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.5825 M/W/F Oct 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Weight Room – Charley Taylor/DalworthEnjoy the perfect workout setting at the Charley Taylor or Dalworth Weight Rooms. A perfect place to come at the end of a long day’s work.Weight Room Membership is $35 for six months and $60 per year. Business Hours:Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Sunday 1 - 5 p.m.

Yoga with Love – Senior CenterShirley Love, certified Yoga instructor, has practiced, trained, and taughtYoga for over 20 years. Yoga has been proven to improve flexibility inmuscles and joints, release tension and stress, and strengthen the body andimmune system. Fee: $3 per class!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Tue weekly 9 - 10 a.m.

Creative Arts

Ceramics – Senior CenterLet your creativity shine through in ceramics. No matter what your skilllevel is, you are sure to discover your creative side in this class. Fee: $5/month. Course # Days Dates Time3665 Wed weekly 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Creative Jewelry – Senior CenterDesign and make your very own jewelry. Share ideas and designs withfellow classmates. Once you get started you'll be hooked! Come to the firstclass to find out what supplies are needed. FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Fri weekly 1 - 3 p.m.

Crocheting Class – Senior CenterLearn the quick and easy styles of crochet. Supply your own yarn andneedles. Crocheting builds strength in your hands and fingers and helpsregain eye-hand coordination. FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Mon weekly 1 - 3 p.m.

Oil Painting – Senior CenterPainting brings pictures in your mind to canvas. Instructor Mattie Kenney will teach you the basics or help refine your style. $10/class.Course # Days3699 FriDates Timeweekly 9 a.m. - noon

Quilting Golden Threads – Senior CenterSit around the frame, quilt as a group and socialize. Participants help quilteach other’s quilts. Great for strengthening your hands and fingers. FREE! Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Tue weekly 1 - 3 p.m.

Stained Glass – Senior CenterLearn the basics of glass cutting, layout and pattern design. Make lampshades, windows, or anything else you can imagine. $10/month.Course # Days Dates Time3727 Tue weekly 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Senior Center 972-264-4975 H Bowles 972-237-7529 H Dalworth 972-264-7670 23

Active Adults - 50+ yearsWoodcarving – Senior CenterLearn how to whittle, carve, chisel and make impressive pieces of art thatwill awe your family and friends. FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Tue weekly 7 - 8 p.m.

Dancing

Ballroom Dance Lessons –Senior CenterFree lessons (lessons are free with $5 admission for the Thursday Night Dance) everyThursday night before the weekly dance is offered 6-7 p.m.Course # DaysN/A ThDates Timeweekly 6 - 7 p.m.

Hula – Senior CenterDon’t lei around. Join us to learn the basics of the ancient Hawaiian dance,Hula. FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Th weekly 12:30 - 2 p.m.

Line Dance Beginning – Senior CenterIf you love to dance but do not have a partner, this class is for you. Linedancing is a great form of exercise. Instructors Ann and Barbara can teachanyone to dance and they make it fun too! FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Fri weekly 10 a.m. - noon

3rd Friday of month meets at 8:30a.m.

Line Dance Intermediate – Senior CenterIn this class you will learn all the dances for the next Jamboree. Greatexercise and fun too! Catch a piece of the excitement! FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Wed weekly 1 - 3:30 p.m.

Line Dance Advanced – Senior CenterAfter the beginning and intermediate classes, you are ready for the nextstep. Learn complex steps and perform around the community. FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Th weekly 10 a.m. - noon

Thursday Night Dance – Senior CenterDancing, a live band and the best food in town…come on out to ourThursday Night Dances. Don’t worry if you don’t have a partner, you’resure to find one at the dance. A delicious dinner provided. Fee: $5.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Th weekly 7 - 10 p.m.

Halloween Dance and Costume Contest – Senior CenterJoin us for another fun night of dancing, live music, and the best food intown! Wear your costume and enter our costume contest to win someawesome prizes! Fee: $7.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Th 10/30 7 - 10 p.m.

Educational

Bible Research Q&A – Senior CenterResearch, analyze and discuss questions about the world’s all time bestselling book…the Bible. Fee: FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Wed weekly 10 - 11 a.m.

Computer Class – Senior CenterLearn the basics of the personal computer. We will teach you Windows,Microsoft Office, Internet and Email. FREE.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Fri weekly 11 a.m. - noon

Defensive Driving – Senior CenterInstructor Johnny Price makes defensive driving entertaining! Learn toimprove your driving skills and be aware of other drivers. This course canbe used for a discount on car insurance. However, it does not meet therequirements for removing a ticket. $10/class.Course # Days Dates Time3678 T/W Call 1 - 5 p.m.N/A Sat Call 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Dynamic Elite Toastmasters – Senior CenterBe a better public speaker and gain confidence in your communicationskills. Dynamic Elite Toastmasters is open to all. FREE! Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Fri weekly noon - 2 p.m.

Every Friday except 3rd Friday of each month

German Class – Senior CenterLearn the basics of conversational German. Easy and fun to learn. Taughtby Ron Engle. FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Tue weekly 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Recipe Class – Senior CenterJoin Zelda as she teaches you a delicious new recipe every month! $1/class.Course # Days3726 MonDates TimeTBD 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.


Active Adults - 50+ yearsScrapbooking! – Senior CenterWant a way to make those memories even more special? Turn that oldphoto album into a conversation piece! Make keepsakes for family andfriends! Let us teach you the basics, from layout and design to colors andthemes. Fee: $5/class.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Mon TBA 11 a.m.

Spanish Beginners – Senior CenterLearn the basics of Spanish, from vocabulary to grammar, from the ground up! FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Mon weekly 2 - 3 p.m.

Spanish Intermediate – Senior CenterAs you advance from beginners, learn more complex aspects of theSpanish language. FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Fri weekly 1 - 2 p.m.

Games

Billiards – Open Play at the Senior CenterOpen almost all business hours.

Billiards 9 Ball Tournament – Senior CenterParticipate in a monthly tournament to see who is the best pool player.Playing in the tournament is fun and will bring out your competitive spirit.Winner receives a traveling trophy. FREE.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A last Fri monthly 8 - 10 a.m.

Bingo – Senior CenterB-I-N-G-O! Come win great prizes at this event! FREE.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Wed TBA 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Blackjack – Senior CenterCompete against other players to see who has the most chips at the end ofthe night. Prizes are awarded to the top three players. We will keep trackof winners and will have winner's tournaments throughout the year.Refreshments will be served. $3/player.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Mon alternate weeks 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Bridge – Senior CenterEveryone is invited to play bridge – a fun and stimulating card game.FREE.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A T/F weekly 1 - 4 p.m.

Ping Pong – Senior CenterA great way to improve your balance, agility, hand eye coordination andreflexes! FREE.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Fri weekly 2:30 - 4 p.m.

Shuffleboard – Senior CenterOpen almost all business hours.

Shuffleboard League – Senior CenterIn this fun competition we draw for partners before every game.Individuals with the best accumulated record will get prizes! Refreshmentsare served. $3/player.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Tue weekly 5 - 9 p.m.

Texas Hold’em – Senior CenterAll levels of players are welcome. Prizes for top three players. We will keep track of winners and have a winner’s tournament during the year. Refreshments are served for all players. $3/player.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Mon alternate weeks 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Texas Hold’em – Senior CenterLearn the intricacies of this world-wide craze! If you’re not comfortableplaying on Monday nights, or if you want to brush up on your skills, playon Thursdays for FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Th weekly 1 - 3 p.m.

Special Events

Grandparents Day Carnival – Senior CenterCelebrate a day with your grandchildren by attending this annual event!Games, prizes, and a fun atmosphere will be provided, so bring thosesmiles! FREE!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Sat 9/13 9 a.m. - noon

Senior Awareness Week – Senior CenterJoin us for a fun week of FREE activities for seniors while getting usefuland beneficial information! Featured activities include a Health and Artsand Crafts Fair on Oct. 8, FREE dance on Oct. 9, and Social on Oct. 10!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Mon-Fri 10/6 - 10/10 TBA


Active Adults - 50+ years

25

AARP Luncheon – Senior CenterThe American Association for Retired Persons helps retirees enjoy theirretirement, build stronger communities and increase knowledge onpolitical issues. Covered dish lunch and special entertainment provided.Fee: $2 AARP membership.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Fri 3rd Fridays 11 a.m.

Birthday/New Member Party – Senior CenterCelebrate your birthday with your friends! Each month we honor ourbirthday guys and gals and new members. Birthday and new members canpick up a complimentary ticket at the office. Other members are invited toattend with advance reservations. Fee: $5/person.Course # Days Dates Time3657 varies monthly 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Golden Age Club – Senior CenterThis club gathers for good food, entertainment and to socialize. All meetings are covered dish and a special program is provided. Fee: $2 + GA membership.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A first Wed monthly 11 a.m.

Movie Fridays – Senior CenterCome enjoy a FREE movie every other Friday at the Senior Center! Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Every other Fri weekly 2 p.m.

Nintendo Wii Training – Senior CenterBowling, golf, tennis, and baseball indoors? Yes it can be done! Join thestaff as they show you the newest trend in video game software that willget you on your feet and moving!Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Every other Fri weekly 2 p.m.

Senior Store – Senior CenterAt the senior store you’ll find only the finest hand-made crafts. Veryaffordable, you’re sure to find that perfect gift! Anyone can shop at thesenior store, but you must be a member of the Senior Center to become avendor in the store.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A Mon-Fri ongoing 1 - 3 p.m.

Travel

Throughout the year we take dozens of day trips to local attractions,restaurants, theatres, casinos, etc. Three or four times a year we takeovernight trips to exciting places like Branson, Missouri. Below are just afew of the regular trips that we take.

Dinner Out – Senior CenterEnjoy a dinner out at a local area restaurant with your friends. Join us once a month for a great night of food and fun! We take a bus, so you can ride with all of yourfriends! Fee: varies.Course # Days Dates Time3680 varies monthly 4:30 - 8 p.m.

Lunch Bunch – Senior CenterThis new program has been popular from the start! Join our group ofactive seniors as they board the bus and visit different upscale restaurantsin the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Fee: varies.Course # Days Dates Time3697 varies monthly 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Mystery Trip – Senior CenterHave a sense of adventure? Every so often we plan a trip that is acomplete mystery. We won’t even give you hint! A popular classic, thesetrips are always sure to surprise and wow you. Fee: varies.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A varies varies varies

Friday Tea Room Trips – DalworthJoin us on the 1st Friday of every month to go to lunch at a different tearoom in DFW. Transportation provided. Each person pays for their meal($10-$15). Sign up by the 27th of each month for the next trip. Dalworth50+ Membership Required.Course # Days Dates TimeN/A 1st Fri monthly 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Church Street Sr. Center503 W. Church St. • 972 262-6673 • Se habla español

The Church Street Sr. Center invites you to join in the fun 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday - Friday. Participate in dancing, exercising,

outings, health screenings, parties and quilting. A hot, delicious lunch is served daily. Lunch for anyone 60 or older is a suggested donation

of 75 cents. Lunch for anyone younger than 60 is $3.82. Please call the center before 11 a.m. to make reservations for lunch.

Transportation is also provided for anyone who is 60 or older and does not have a way to get to the center.

Please call the center for more details. Hope to see you soon!

26 Senior Center 972-264-4975 H Bowles 972-237-7529 H Dalworth 972-264-7670

Grand Prairie Parks – Boards and CommissionsParks and Recreation BoardThe Parks and Recreation Board is an advisory board to the CityCouncil on parks, recreation and related developments. Citizens areencouraged to attend and provide valuable input.

Meetings are the 4th Wednesday of the month at City Hall BriefingRoom at 6:30 p.m.

t Steve Chutchian, Chairmant Joe Arredondo t Greg Giessnert Shawn Connor t Gloria Holbertt Patrick Greenwade t Christina Kangt Tony Lawrence t BJ Nichols

Commission on AgingThe Commission on Aging is an advisory committee that makesrecommendations to the City Council regarding the senior population in Grand Prairie. Citizens are encouraged to attend and provide valuable input.

Meetings are the 2nd Wednesday each month at 11 a.m. and locationvaries to garner additional input. Please call 972-237-8100 for monthlylocations.

t Alta Brown t Greg Wiggins t Harold Willis t William Krugt Roxcie McCuller t Ouida Smith

Your Parks & Recreation Department and You

NRPA – Healthy Lifestyles. Livable Communities. For 40 years, the National Recreation and Park Association has advocated the importance of thriving, local park systems, the opportunity for all Americans to lead healthy, active lifestyles, and the preservation ofgreat community places. As a city park and recreation department, we are proud to be a member of the NRPA. Go online to nrpa.org tosee what the NRPA is doing to fight obesity in America, and promote healthy living.

TRAPS The Texas Recreation and Park Society is a non-profit professional and educational organization founded more than 65 years ago to advance the profession of parks, recreation, and leisure services in Texas. As a state affiliate member of theNational Recreation and Park Association, the Society also maintains professional affiliate relationships with several stateuniversities, athletic and civic organizations, recreational entities, state agencies, and commercial vendors who provide services or programs related to parks, recreation, and leisure service management. We are a proud member and supporter of TRAPSand their efforts to make a difference in peoples’ lives through recreation.

TAAF The City of Grand Prairie is one of more than 140 organizations that are members of Texas Amateur Athletic Federation. TAAF is anonprofit organization that promotes, organizes and conducts amateur athletics in our state and allows amateur athletes to compete in similarleagues across Texas under the same rules and regulations. To find more about the TAAF organization, visit taaf.com.

Two years in a row, your Grand Prairie Parks and Recreation Department is an National Recreation and Parks Association(NRPA) Gold Medal Finalist! In our population category (100,000 - 250,000) only three other cities in the nation are a part of this esteemed group. Evaluated on several different aspects like master planning, new developments and environmentalstewardship, the NRPA Gold Medal is the highest award that a parks and recreation department can receive. We are working every day to “Create a Grand Lifestyle” for the citizens of Grand Prairie! For more information about NRPA and the Gold Medal Award visit www.nrpa.org/awards.

Back 2 Back NRPA Gold Medal Finalist!

Autumn 2008 H www.GrandFunGP.com H 972-237- 8100 27

27 holes t Fast, affordable play t Largest Putting Green in Texas t 1/2 acre putting surfaceDriving Range with 8 target greens t Water features weave throughout t Tifdwarf greens, 419 Bermuda fairways

Junior Tees t Perfect Tournament Pavilion t Great deals on Golf Shop merchandiseEddlemon’s BBQ @ the Turn t World Class Practice Facility

Great rates, great conditions t GRAND service

Annual Passes Now AvailableOpen 7 days a week, sunup to sundown t Cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express

Reserve tee times up to seven days in advance for Mon-Fri. t Sat-Sun tee times taken as early as prior MondaySoft Spikes t Dress Code

3202 S.E. 14th Street • Grand Prairie,Texas 75052 • 972 263-0661www.prairielakesgolf.com

Tangle Ridge Reopens in September

Not All Munis are Created Equal!

Brand-new Champion Bermuda Greens!Call 972-299-6837 for your tee time!

Lone Star TrailGet out on Grand Prairie’s

newest trail this fall! The 3.3 milelong Lone Star Trail will open

on Sept. 16 with a Grand OpeningCeremony at 10 am.

The trail starts by the Grand PrairieTourist Information Center,

2170 N. Belt Line Road, goes southalong Belt Line Road, turns eastalong the Trinity River, and thenturns back north to connect withthe city of Irving. At each end ofthe center striped trail are twodistinct trailheads that include

parking, trail signage and rest stops.

For more information about the Lone Star Trail, visit

GrandFunGP.com.

Loyd Park Earns Good Sam Designation

Autumn 2008 H www.GrandFunGP.com H 972-237- 8100

This summer Loyd Park received the prestigious Good SamClub Park designation by meeting specific standard of servicerequirements for appearance, visual appeal and cleanliness.

Camping and RV parks across the nation are inspected annuallyby Good Sam representatives and secret inspectors to help the parks staycurrent with industry trends and the needs of RV’ers.

Loyd Park is a great lake getaway close to home with:

t 221 Campsites for tents or RV’s

t 8 Camping cabins

t Clubhouse for gatherings

t Water and 30 amp hookups

t Fishing pier

t Boat ramps and dock

t Hike/bike trails

t Beach

t Group and individual pavilions and more!

3401 Ragland Rd, Grand Prairie. Call 817-467-2104 to book your stay

or visit www.LoydPark.com.

Camp in Comfort at Loyd ParkExperience the outdoors with the luxuries of home! Stay at a Loyd Park

cabin fully stocked with kitchen utensils, appliances, sheets, towels, andsatellite TV. All you need to bring is your food. Call 817-467-2104 to bookyour stay, or go to www.LoydPark.com for more information.

Business Meetings/Events at the Lake!Plan your event at the Loyd Park Club House. Enjoy great scenery and amenities like:

t 42 inch TV with satellitet Kitchen with oven, stove, microwave refrigerator

and ice makert Conference tablest Restroomst And an outside deck

The club house accommodates up to 40 people. Call 817-467-2104 for reservations.

30

Make your camping reservations now for the 11th Annual TommyAlverson Family Gathering music festival coming

to Loyd Park in October. Three days of music, fun and family.Call 817-467-2104 today!

31Autumn 2008 H www.GrandFunGP.com H 972-237- 8100

Ruthe Jackson CenterGrand Prairie’s Premier Meeting and Event Facility

A Great Place For Banquets n Training Seminars n DinnersWeddings n Receptions n AnniversariesTrade Shows n Reunions n Workshops

Special Events n And More!

Call today for current rates and availability.

(972) 237-75003113 S. Carrier Pkwy • Grand Prairie, TX 75052www.ruthejacksoncenter.comA City of Grand Prairie Facility

(972) 237-30013001 S. Belt Line Rd. n Grand Prairie, Texas 75052

www.grandprairiememorialgardens.com

isit Grand Prairie Memorial Gardens for your immediate and pre-planning needs. Conveniently located near I-20 in Grand Prairie, our 22-acre public cemetery offers:

n Beautiful Gardens n Mausoleumn Reflection Pond

Knowledgeable memorial advisers are available to fully explain all of your options at Grand Prairie Memorial Gardens.

V

972-262- 4479 •1002 Lone Star Parkwaywww.AllianceSkateParks.com

Alliance Skate Park

Season Tickets now on sale. See page 2 for details.

Monday – Friday 3 –10 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m. –10 p.m. H Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Lessons H Skate Camps H Concerts H ContestsLock-ins H And More!


Special Events for FallLast Outdoor Pool Weekend

Labor Day WeekendAug 30 - Sept 1 Sat, Sun, Mon

OPEN SWIM 1-6 pm Doggie Splash 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6 Splash Factory, 601 E. Grand Prairie RoadTired of your typical dog park? Then comeget wet and wild with your pet as we turnthe Splash Factory into a doggie water park.This facility offers the perfect height for anysize dog. Your dog will beg you to stay. Cost $5 per pet. 972-263-8174.

Grandparents Day Carnival9 a.m. – noon Saturday, Sept. 13 • Senior Center, 925 ConoverCelebrate a day with your grandchildren by attending this annual event!Games, prizes, and a fun atmosphere will be provided, so bring thosesmiles! FREE! For information, call 972-264-4975.

Diez y Seis6-9 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 13 • Bowles LifeCenter, 2750 GrahamThe community is invited to the 3rd AnnualDiez y Seis celebration at Bowles. Theevent features live entertainment, games,snacks and a grito contest. Hosted byBowles Life Center and the city’sNeighborhood Revitalization Division, theevent is FREE. 972-237-7529.

Lone Star Trail Grand Opening10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16Grand Prairie Tourist Information Center • 2170 N. Belt Line RoadHelp us celebrate the completion of Grand Prairie’s section of the LoneStar Trail. This trail starts by the Grand Prairie Tourist Center, goes southalong Belt Line Road, turns east along the Trinity River, then turns backnorth to connect with the city of Irving. This is part of the Trinity Trail thatwhen completed will connect Ft. Worth and Dallas with a continuousconcrete trail. Visit GrandFunGP.com for more info.

Kid’s Fishing Day1 – 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 27Mike Lewis Park, 2600 N. Carrier Pkwy.Children 16 years old and under areinvited to fish free, with no licenserequired. Prizes will be awarded inseveral categories. Bring your own tackleand bait. A limited number of loaner rodsand reels will be available on a first-comebasis. No advance registration required. Adults may help the youngsters,but should not fish themselves. For more information call 972-237-8100.

Tommy Alverson’s Family GatheringTexas Music at the Lake! Oct. 2-4 • Loyd Park 3401 Ragland RoadTommy Alverson’sFamily Gathering has anew home at Loyd Parkon Lake Joe Pool. Enjoya weekend lineup fullof Texas music artistsorganized by Tommy

Alverson himself! Camp at the lake or come in for the day. For parkinformation call 817-467-2104 or visit GrandFunGP.com. For ticket info call817-627-7336 or visit TommyAlverson.com.

Gardening ClassesThese FREE classes are 6-7 p.m. Thursday nightsat Charley Taylor Recreation Center. The last class includes a plant exchange and door prizes are drawn at each class. To register or for information, call 972-264-6890 or email [email protected].

Sept. 11 - Fall Veggie Gardens Are Fun Fall gardens require less water and fertilizer, but most important less weeding (less work) and fertilizer. Learn how to grow your own organic and unusual vegetables.

Sept. 18 - Everlasting Landscapes Learn how to use perennial plants to make your landscape pop! Native and adaptive perennials require less water, fertilizers andpesticides and the results are amazing!

Sept. 25 - Fall Landscape Maintenance In this class learn how to prepare your landscape for the fall andwinter months. Timing is critical for landscape maintenance, and youwill learn how to jump start your landscape for spring!

Oct. 2 - Right Tree, Right Place Take the mystery out of selecting and planting the right tree. Learnhow to select the correct tree for your yard. Location, selection,maintenance and planting will be covered.

Oct. 9 - Proper Pruning This class will take the mystery out of when and how to prune treescorrectly. Pruning the wrong way can kill trees. Trees are an asset youcan not afford to lose.

Oct. 16 - Organic Pest Control Is Organic Better? Take the mystery out of organic pest and diseasecontrol in the landscape while improving our environment.


Special Events for FallSenior Awareness WeekMon-Fri, Oct. 6-10 • Senior Center, 925 Conover Join us for a fun week of free activities for seniors, including a Health Fairon Oct. 8 and a Dance on Oct. 9. For information, call 972-264-4975.

22nd Annual Joe Pool Pumpkin Run8:30 am start, Saturday, Oct. 11Lynn Creek Park, 5700 S. Lake Ridge Pkwy. A 10 K Run, 5 K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Fun Run will take place at thispopular event conducted by the Grand Prairie Rotary Club Pumpkindecorating, a pancake breakfast, entertainment, and more. For moreinformation call 972-237-8100.

Halloween Nights7-10 p.m. Oct. 23 – Nov. 1QuikTrip Park at Grand Prairie • 1600 Lone Star ParkwayFrom the folks who bring you Prairie Lights, Halloween Nights lights upQuikTrip Park with lighted displays and fun activities for the BewitchingSeason. A walk-through display for all ages, the lights dazzle and play for a not-so-scary but-oh-so-fun experience. www.GrandFunGP.com.

Forest of FearSundown – 11 p.m., Friday-Saturday, Oct. 24-25 Loyd Park, 3401 Ragland Rd.Haunted hayrides take visitors though the campsites featuring ghoulishdecorations and scary characters that come out of dark trails. Parkentrance fee is $10 per vehicle. For more information call 871-467-2104.

Pool Pumpkin Pick and Paint1-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 • Kirby Creek, 3201 Corn Valley Road Come join us at the heatedindoor pool. Swim with allthe pumpkinsand pick out your favorite.After hunting down just theright one, you can decorate it forHalloween. Come in at 1p.m. and stay to swim all day. 972-263-8174. Fee: $2/swimmer.

Trunk or Treat5-8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 31 • Bowles Life Center, 2750 GrahamCome on over to the Bowles Life Center for the 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat!Decorate your car and hand out candy from the trunk of your car or bringyour children to enjoy the fun. The event includes parking lot Trunk orTreating, a haunted house, a best costume contest and carnival games.FREE! 972-237-7529.

Veterans Day Celebration10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11 • Veterans’ Memorial • 901 ConoverHonoring all veterans, our Veterans’ Day Celebration will feature a vintageaircraft flyover, bag pipers, 21 gun salute and the District Rotary Choir.Interviews with Grand Prairie veterans taped during the past years havebeen complied into a DVD and we will show excerpts in the Senior Centerafter the ceremony. Copies of the DVD will be available for $10 per copy.Military memorabilia will be available for purchase. Enjoy an All AmericanLunch of hot dogs and lemonade after the ceremony. 972-237-8100.

Prairie Lights6-10 p.m. Nov. 27-Dec. 31 • Lynn Creek Park • 5700 Lake Ridge ParkwayLight up your holidays at Prairie Lights, Nov. 27-Dec. 31, 2008, GrandPrairie’s drive-through holiday lighting extravaganza. With three millionlights displayed along two miles of roadway weaving along the shore ofLake Joe Pool, Prairie Lights is the one must see event of the season.Guests love the mid-way out-of-car experience in Holiday Village, opennightly, featuring concessions, photos with Santa and Holiday MagicTheater, a light show set to music during which it actually snows! And new this year to Holiday Village, a walk-through wonderland of lightsenchants all. www.prairielights.org.

PRESORTED STANDARDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDGRAND PRAIRIE, TX

PERMIT NO. 178

LIFE IS GRAND!City of Grand PrairieP. O. Box 534045Grand Prairie,TX 75053-4045

Residential CustomerGrand Prairie,Texas

The Last Word

Spending a large portion of their budget onfuel is becoming a thing of the past for the Cityof Grand Prairie’s Housing and NeighborhoodServices Department (HNS). HNS Director BillHills led the city’s conservation efforts byreplacing six staff vehicles with Toyota PriusHybrids, which are twice as efficient as thecity’s previously used vehicles.

“These are great little cars,” said Hills. “Wesave lots of money in gasoline and the hybrid

is better for the environment.”

Housing Enforcement Officers travel 75-100miles daily and needed something more practicaland fuel-efficient. The vehicles that thedepartment previously used, such as the FordTaurus, consumed an average of $85 per weekat $4 per gallon, whereas the Prius cuts that inhalf requiring only about $35 a week. Thissaves about $2,370 per car per year, or a$14,220 total among the six cars.

Grand Prairie Goes Green to Save Green

Move to aHealthierLifestyle

America on the Move and theGrand Prairie YMCA are partnering tocreate and sustain healthy lifestyles.From 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, come on out to the YMCA, 4556 S. Carrier Parkway, for a familyfun event that includes a stagefeaturing demonstrations from classinstructors, children’s activities, afamily fun run, an active older adultswalk and community vendors. Comejoin us for a day that will make fitnessfun! For information, call LindaLankford, 972-642-9632.

life is grand fall 2008

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