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🌱Census: Irving More Diverse Than Ever + Explosion In Arlington

The quickest way to get caught up on the most important things happening today in Irving.

Posted Sat, Jan 1, 2022 at 7:31 pm CT|Updated Sat, Jan 1, 2022 at 7:57 pm CT

Hey, people of Irving! It's me again, Ash DeMello, your host of the Irving Daily.

First, today's weather:

Very cold; breezy in the morning. High: 40 Low: 26.

Here are the top five stories in Irving today:

Firefighters responded to reports of an explosion Friday night. They arrived at the scene in North Arlington to find a townhome under construction on fire. A nearby apartment building was damaged, though there were no injuries reported. Authorities say an investigation regarding the cause of the fire is ongoing. (CBS Dallas / Fort Worth)
The City of Irving announced an adult winter reading challenge with the theme 'Royal Reads.' The challenge runs through the end of February with prizes for those who complete five books. Local libraries will host related events throughout the duration, such as a King Tut Museum Replicas Exhibit and a Royal Tea. Click the link to find out how to register.
Irving has grown more diverse in recent years, the latest census data reveals. The area's Black population increased by 24 percent, and residents of Asian descent nearly doubled. The overall population of the city increased by about 20 percent. (City of Irving)
With the release of Census data, changes are coming to Dallas County election precincts. Get the details at Star Local Media.
Are you looking to improve your garden and reduce landfill waste? Check out City of Irving's upcoming composting classes!

Today in Irving:

Pound Fit Class at Toyota Music Factory - Sweat, sculpt and rock, drumsticks provided! (10:00 AM)
Sunday Funday Doggie Playdate - Is your pawbaby looking for new friends? Head on over to Homegrown Hounds! (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
African Culture Affairs - Star Banquet and Event Center (2722 West Irving Boulevard) is the spot to see African fashions and explore local, African-owned businesses. Tickets start at $10. (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

From my notebook:

Check out the first T-rex foot race of 2022 over at the Perot Museum. Head over to the museum to see if you could outrun the carnivore? (Instagram)
Heads up, readers! Irving libraries open at 1:00 PM today. But you can still access eBooks, audiobooks, movies and more from the library website. Click over to see the options. (Instagram)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Sunday. I'll see you around!

— Ash DeMello