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Memo from the Manager
Looking skyward
It seems worthwhile to mark the passing of a 35-year era with the landing of the final shuttle flight last week. As Atlantis touched down off Florida's Atlantic coast, the reusable fleet of spaceships officially went into the history books as we conclude another chapter in the odyssey of human exploration.
It's easy to remember the exhilaration in 1981 when the first launch sent John Young and Bob Crippen on an historic ride. Likewise, no one can forget that poignant feeling of collective, national loss when remembering the crewmembers of the good ships, Challenger and Columbia.
Though coincidental, it's oddly appropriate that we have a Star Party coming up here in Farmers Branch this week where we can celebrate the mysteries of worlds beyond ours. Everyone's feet will remain on earth at the Farmers Branch Historical Park, but their gaze will be assuredly skyward as they first study the solar event that is our own sun before focusing on distant bodies as nighttime gives way to more celestial viewing. You don't have to have a telescope, just an interest in the stars. Our thanks go to the volunteers from the Texas Astronomical Association that repeatedly give of their time and expertise to help put on these events about six times a year.
As always, this event is free and open to anyone that wants to do what shuttle astronauts have done since 1981 - look into the cosmos and wonder.
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FARMERS BRANCH ~ With two Dallas Business Journal cover stories in the past two weeks, Farmers Branch is asserting itself as a major contender for continued economic development expansion in the second half of 2011. Last Friday's lead DBJ story announced the move of solar panel manufacturer, 1SolTech to a Farmers Branch location, more than quadrupling their previous space and adding 25 jobs to keep up with demand. On July 15, Greenstream was covered by the DBJ on their expansion to Farmers Branch from Austin. The electronics recycler will move into 50,000 square feet and will hire 20 employees by the end of the year. This adds to the Farmers Branch business expansion story in 2011 that has included separate research and development facilities for Essilor of America and Maxim Integrated Products, the formalizing of the deal for Walmart Market and the demolition of the old Chase building on Josey to be followed by construction of a new, state-of-the-art Chase Branch. Earlier in the year, Weir's moved their furniture distribution operation, warehouse, outlet and corporate headquarters into 415,000 square feet on the east side of the City, home interior retailer Wisteria moved into 119,000 square feet on the west side and data center up-and-comer Softlayer has embarked on their second expansion since moving to Farmers Branch last year. Farmers Branch Economic Development Director John Land said the time has never been more right for businesses to discover the myriad advantages of locating in Farmers Branch. "First, can I say 'location' twelve times," Mr. Land said. "We're in the geographical center of the Metroplex at the busiest interstate highway intersection in the country and less than 15 minutes from both DFW International Airport and Dallas Love Field. "However, that's only the beginning," he explained. "Combine location with low tax rate, great incentives and a streamlined approval process, our phone continues to ring off the hook and we're taking multiple meetings every week. Just think what it will be like when the economy improves." For more information on the Economic Development prospects for Farmers Branch, call 972.919.2515.
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HISTORICAL PARK ~ Observation of the largest star in our sky will be coupled with a telescope how-to clinic, family picnic and evening stargazing at a special Star Party, set for July 29 at the Farmers Branch Historical Park. There will be solar observation during the early evening, beginning at 7 p.m. along with volunteers from the Texas Astronomical Society on hand to instruct participants on proper use of telescopes, all during a family picnic. Then at 9 p.m., attention turns to the nighttime sky as telescopes will be trained on celestial objects both near and far. The public is invited and admission is free. Call 972.406.0184. |
Boot camp class caters to those seeking different approach to fitness
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER ~ Summer is in full swing but it is not too late to get in shape at the Farmers Branch Community Recreation Center with a full range of classes, from yoga to aerobics, for people of all ages and fitness levels. Recreation Center officials say the newest class, Sean's Fitness Camp with personal trainer Sean Callahan, offers an exciting and effective way to get fit and stay fit. The co-ed fitness camp is an aerobic style boot camp class that is designed to make the most out the time spent at the gym without using a treadmill, elliptical, or other machines. Instead, participants use ropes, punching bags, medicine balls, and even a tire for a stimulating and vigorous workout. Camp participants will focus on building core strength, speed, endurance, and burning fat. Sean, a personal trainer for five years, has designed the class to be manageable for the fitness beginner, yet challenging for the exercise enthusiast. "We can progress and regress anything to anybody's fitness level," Sean said. "You don't have to be intimidated or worried that your fitness level won't let you take the class because it's designed for all fitness levels." Sean's Fitness Camp is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 to 9:45 a.m., Tuesday evenings from 7:15 to 8 p.m., and Fridays from 2 to 2:45 p.m. Registration is $25 per month for members and $29 for non-members for one class per week or $35 for members and $39 for non-members for all classes. For registration or more information on any Community Recreation Center program, call 972.247.4607. Staff report by Angela DeLeon
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One week left for school supply drive
FARMERS BRANCH ~ Notebook paper and pencils are a particular need for the 3rd Annual School Supply Drive to benefit Bea's Kids, sponsored by the Farmers Branch City Council and City staff.
Through August 5, any school supplies may be dropped off at Farmers Branch City Hall at 13000 William Dodson Parkway, Community Recreation Center at 14050 Heartside Place, Senior Center at 14055 Dennis Lane, Manske Library at 13613 Webb Chapel, Fire Administration at 13333 Hutton and the Justice Center at 3723 Valley View Lane.
All school supplies will be accepted but specific needs are folders with brads in all colors, wide-ruled notebook paper and no. 2 yellow pencils.
Bea's Kids is a Farmers Branch-based organization that provides educational and personal development programs to children from low-income families so they will stay in school and break the cycle of poverty.
For more information, call 972.919.2515.
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City Manager's Rose Contest plans pre-show Garden Party
ROSE GARDENS OF FARMERS BRANCH ~ City Manager Gary D. Greer is on a mission to further the planting of roses all over Farmers Branch. As such, he created the City Manager's Rose Contest in 2011that will gather local amateur rosarians together in celebration at a Garden Party on October 21, the eve of the Annual Fall Rose Show at the Farmers Branch Senior Center.
Any Farmers Branch resident, whether they've grown a rose or not, is eligible to register for the City Manager's Rose Contest before the deadline of October 1. All participants will receive an collectible, engraved vase to exhibit their blossoms as well as a free rose plant to add to their garden. In addition, they will be given a crest to proudly display in support of the Farmers Branch rose program. Call 972.919.2625 or visit www.fbroses.com.
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FBPD plans Citizen Police Academy session for early September
JUSTICE CENTER ~ Designed to give citizens insight into the policies, positions and personnel of local law enforcement, the 22nd session of the Farmers Branch Citizen Police Academy is now accepting applications for classes, set to begin in September.
Established in 1998, the Academy has given hundreds of participants a combination of classroom instruction and "hands on" experience to demonstrate the hows and whys of law enforcement. The Academy meets for three hours on Thursday nights for 11 weeks. For more information, call 972.484.3620 or e-mail Lt. Mike Blum at [email protected].
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Library forum coming August 17
MANSKE LIBRARY ~ An informational meeting for anyone interested in participating in a new Friends of the Library non-profit support group has been planned for Wednesday, August 17 at 7 p.m. at the Library meeting room. The Library is located at 13613 Webb Chapel, at the corner of Webb Chapel and Golfing Green. For more information, call 972.247.2511.
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LBJ Update Meeting set September 8
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER ~ An informational open house, designed to update interested members of the community on the LBJ expansion, will be hosted by project representatives between 5 and 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 8 at the Farmers Branch Community Recreation Center. Officials said there will be information available along with representatives on hand for questions and conversation. More information on the project is available at www.lbjexpress.com.
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In the Banner |
Celestial Satellite
This striking photo of the moon is intended as an illustration of the astronomical bodies on display at the Enhanced Star Party, set for Friday, July 29 at the Historical Park. Scroll down for more. |
File Photo |
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This Week
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July 29
STAR PARTY - 7 pm @ Historical Park
- How-To Clinic, telescope viewing
- 972.406.0184
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August 1
SENIOR CENTER DANCE - 7 pm @ Senior Center
- "Southern Pride"
- 972.241.8636
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August 2 CITY COUNCIL MEETING
- 6 pm @ City Hall - 13000 Wm Dodson Pwky - 972.247.3131
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All meetings & events subject to change. Call 972.247.3131
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City Staff
Mini-Profile
Rachael Loftus
Position:
Assistant to the City Manager
Department:
Administration
Years with the City:
3 yrs contract/ 1 yr full time
Background:
Received my bachelors in Political Science from OU, and a Masters in Public Administration from UTD. Began my career with Farmers Branch in the Marketing Department, and have created most of the promotional materials used by the City. Now, I am working directly with the City Manager, and utilizing my degree to the maximum!
Personal:
I play on an outdoor women's soccer team, love mid-century modern furniture and decor (stop by my office if you don't believe it) and am marrying my wonderful fiance, Mike, at the end of September.
What Does She Like Most About Working for Farmers Branch:
I grew up in Farmers Branch, so it's really great to be able to serve my hometown. Not to mention, I get to work with the best of the best. The staff here is amazing! |
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Weekly Report
LANE CLOSURES
MAIN LANES, FRONTAGE ROADS and CROSS STREETS
Eastbound
Right frontage lane from east of Josey to
Webb Chapel
Until August 13 / 24 hrs
Right frontage lane from east of Midway to
west of Welch
Jul 26 - Aug 2 / 9 to 3
Right shoulder of EB I-635 between Midway and Welch
Jul 25 - 30 / 9 am to 3 pm
Left main lane of EB I-635 from east of Midway to east of Coit
Til Jul 29 / 8 pm to 6 am
Right frontage lane of EB I-635 from west of Welch to west of Inwood
Until August 30 / 24 hrs
Westbound
Right turn lane of WB I-635 frontage before Webb Chapel Rd
Jul 25 - 30 / 9 am to 3 pm
Left frontage lane of WB I-635 just east and west of Welch Rd
Jul 25 - 30 / 9 am to 3 pm
Left frontage lane of WB I-635 just east and west of Midway
Jul 25 - 30 / 9 am to 3 pm
Right frontage turn lane of WB I-635 from west of Marsh to Webb Chapel
Until August 13 / 24 hrs
Left lane of WB I-635 from east of Midway to east of Coit
Til July 29 / 8 pm to 6 am
Northbound
Right shoulder of NB I-635 cross street at Rosser Road
Til July 29 / 7 am to 7 pm
Southbound
Right lane of cross street SB Valley View Lane @ EB LBJ
Jul 25 - 30 / 9 am to 3 pm
HOV LANE CLOSURES
Effective Jun 17
Eastbound
Beginning east of Luna Road and extending to just east of Hillcrest
Westbound
Beginning east of Hillcrest Rd and extending just east of Josey Lane
www.lbjexpress.com
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About the City of Farmers Branch
Located on the northwest border of the City of Dallas, Farmers Branch is a vibrant and vital community with a residential population of 28,800 but a daytime population of 66,000. The City's 28 parks and lush greenbelts feature nationally-acclaimed, award-winning soccer fields, football facilities as well as baseball and softball complexes. The Farmers Branch Historical Park allows residents to step back in time and the John F. Burke Nature Preserve offers the opportunity to experience a real, 104-acre wilderness in the middle of one of the busiest metro areas of the world. The City's location in the geographical center of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, only 15 minutes away from both DFW International Airport and Dallas Love Field, make Farmers Branch an ideal location for residents and for business. For more information about Farmers Branch, visit www.farmersbranch.info or call 972.919.2515. |
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