DALLAS — A former graffiti tagger will join renowned artist and illustrator Lamberto Alvarez at the first District 1 Graffiti Wipeout Conference from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 27, at Hector P. Garcia Middle School Cafeteria, 700 E. Eighth St. in North Oak Cliff.

“The juxtaposition of guests is meant to highlight the event’s message of encouraging youth to redirect their creative energy from illegal vandalism to valid artistic expression,” said Councilmember Delia D. Jasso. Parents, children, and educators are invited to participate in the conference which will feature panelists from the Graffiti Abatement Team, Dallas Police Gang Unit, Community Prosecutor Team, and other special guests.

Workshops will include:

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• Tagging vs. gang signs
• Penalties to parents and minors
• Reporting Graffiti and owners’ responsibilities
• Anti-graffiti curriculum for schools
• Youth mentoring/recreational programs

“The goal of the conference is to provide parents and children a forum to discuss actions and consequences related to graffiti’s illegal activity, safety, environmental responsibility, and civic responsibility,” Jasso said. “We want to inform the public about the legalities and fines associated with graffiti vandalism."

Jasso will also announce creation of a City of Dallas Graffiti Tip Line and provide residents with the special phone number. The Tip Line will allow residents and business owners to anonymously report graffiti vandals because when graffiti is allowed to take over a neighborhood, it often triggers other crimes. Through future community partnerships it is hoped that rewards will eventually be offered to those who help arrest and convict graffiti vandals.

An anti-graffiti coloring book and curriculum has also been developed and will be available to attendees to help children understand the hazards related to graffiti. In addition, a local recording artist will showcase his music based on an original hip-hop song with an anti-graffiti message. School age attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a mural project design contest in the afternoon.

Event sponsors include Atmos Energy, Walmart, Jack in the Box, Time Warner Cable, Dallas Independent School District, Clear Channel Outdoor, and TXU Energy. “Our sponsors clearly understand that tackling problems like graffiti are essential to creating safe, clean, sustainable and prosperous communities,” Jasso said.